Editorial: Japan gov't must reflect on illegal reduction of welfare benefits, make amends
The Japanese Supreme Court ruled June 27 that the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's decision to reduce welfare payments between 2013 and 2015 was illegal. The ministry had cut "living assistance" -- funds for daily expenses such as food and utilities -- by up to 10%, significantly impacting recipients' lives.
The welfare system is a crucial lifeline that guarantees a minimum standard of living for people. The latest judicial decision harshly criticizes the state for disregarding this principle.
The key issue was the validity of the government's method for calculating the reduced payment amounts. The welfare ministry based its decision on prolonged deflation and used price fluctuation rates as a benchmark. However, the declining prices of TVs, computers and other items that are infrequently purchased were used to calculate the rates. Welfare recipients argued that the reductions did not reflect their actual living conditions and were excessive.
The court ruled that reducing the standard amount of living assistance solely based on price fluctuation rates constituted an abuse of discretion. There was no precedent of payment adjustments based solely on price changes, and the welfare ministry's decision did not involve consultation with experts. The ministry must take this ruling seriously.
As of April 2013, more than 2 million people were on welfare. The decision to reduce people's benefits affected even those who did not join in the lawsuit, and the government must promptly compensate them for the unjust reductions.
It cannot be overlooked that this measure was implemented amid a growing backlash online and elsewhere against welfare recipients. The ruling Liberal Democratic Party pledged a 10% reduction in benefit levels in principle in its 2012 House of Representatives election manifesto, and the cuts were executed under the second administration of then Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
The ministry's approach appears to have been predetermined and forceful. It cannot be denied that they lacked the self-awareness expected of a governmental body tasked with protecting people's lives. A thorough examination of the decision-making process is essential.
Welfare payments are not "handouts" for those in need but the foundation for a society where all people can live with a sense of security. Anyone can lose their foundation of livelihood due to illness or accidents.
It is said that only 20-30% of eligible individuals actually utilize the welfare benefit system, indicating that the safety net is not functioning sufficiently.
There is also a social stigma surrounding welfare, making recipients feel ashamed. The government's aggressive reductions may have exacerbated prejudices against those on welfare.
The Japanese government must deeply reflect and create an environment where those who need the welfare system can use it with peace of mind.
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