Oct. 28, 2022
A group of religious researchers in Japan has called on authorities to exercise their right to ask questions to bring about a swift investigation into the religious group previously known as the Unification Church.
Twenty-five researchers, including Professor Emeritus Shimazono Susumu of the University of Tokyo and Professor Sakurai Yoshihide of Hokkaido University, issued a statement.
At a news conference on Friday, Shimazono said the government is tasked with a difficult job and that the group is presenting their views as researchers.
The researcher group said that the solicitation of huge donations that force followers and others into bankruptcy goes against the public welfare.
They urged authorities to quickly investigate by exercising their right to ask questions. They also called for a fair examination by a panel of experts.
In addition, they sought financial relief for victims who have suffered from allegedly shady marketing practices and the solicitation of large donations. They also called for support for the children of the church's followers.
Shimazono said the ex-Unification Church's practices deviate from those of religious institutions and can be called unreasonable.
On legal procedures for a disbandment order, he said authorities should proceed after fully considering accuracy, discretion, fairness and transparency.
Source: https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20221028_36/
