Japanese Court Disbands Unification Church in Wake of Abe Killing
Briefly

A Tokyo court has ordered the disbandment of the Japanese branch of the Unification Church, a decision influenced by the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. This drastic measure follows a series of accusations that the church financially exploited its members, compelling them to make donations that resulted in significant financial ruin for many. The education ministry’s request for disbandment was based on testimonies from approximately 1,550 former members, collectively claiming losses of around $140 million. This ruling reflects growing scrutiny of the church's operations and legal status in Japan.
A Tokyo court has ordered the Japanese branch of the Unification Church to disband due to illegal practices harming its members financially and violating laws.
The ruling followed revelations that the church financially pressured its members to donate, leading to significant damages claimed by around 1,550 former members.
The church, founded by Rev. Sun Myung Moon, faced scrutiny after the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, which highlighted its detrimental effects on families.
This court decision signifies a severe response to the church's practices, marking an unusual legal action against a religious organization in Japan.
Read at www.nytimes.com
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