Key Takeaways:

• The Japanese court has ordered the dissolution of the Unification Church, known as the "Moonies," following investigations linked to the assassination of former PM Shinzo Abe.
• The court ruling revokes the church's legal status and involves liquidation of its assets due to claims of manipulative fundraising practices.
• Investigations revealed deep ties between the church and Japan's ruling party, prompting significant political repercussions, including ministerial resignations.

A court in Japan has issued a significant order for the dissolution of the Unification Church, also referred to as the "Moonies," in light of an investigation following the 2022 assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. The Tokyo District Court's decision requires the influential religious group, which has operated in Japan since the 1960s, to liquidate its assets and strip its tax-exempt status, based on claims that it coerced followers into making substantial financial sacrifices and donations.

This ruling came after the Japanese Education Ministry requested the church's disbandment, citing evidence of manipulative fundraising and recruitment tactics that severely impacted followers and their families. Insights into the church's operations revealed that many members were pressured into giving large sums, driven by fears surrounding their spiritual well-being. Reports indicate that at least 200 individuals have come forward claiming to be victims of financial exploitation by the church, demanding approximately 5.7 billion yen (around $38.5 million) in compensation.

The investigation into Abe's assassination spotlighted *the deep connections* between the church and members of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). It raised concerns within the party that 179 out of 379 lawmakers had ties with the church, sparking a series of resignations among party officials. The assassin had reportedly felt a personal grievance against Abe, which he attributed to the former leader's association with the church, claiming it had financially devastated his family.

The Unification Church has announced its intention to appeal the ruling, describing it as a threat to religious freedom and the rights of its followers. The church's spokesperson declared the court's decision a regrettable legal interpretation and vowed to fight the ruling. Established by the late Reverend Sun Myung Moon, the group has long faced scrutiny over its methods and influence, with past allegations of using deceptive tactics for recruitment and financial solicitation.

The court's decision marks a significant moment in Japan, underscoring the challenges faced by religious organizations amid evolving public sentiments and the ever-watchful eye of the government.

For further reading, refer to SCMP and Channel News Asia.