2003 JAPAN LAW: IRAQ MILITARY DISPATCH LAW
Keywords: Iraq, Self Defense Forces, Terrorism
Copyright 2004. All rights reserved Attorney Roderick H. Seeman
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In July, 2003 the government passed the Iraq Reconstruction Assistance Law as a measure valid for four years. The law permits the dispatch of  Japanese Self Defense Forces to Iraq to non-combat areas to engage in humanitarian and reconstruction efforts as wells provide “logistic support” for US and British forces. This is the first time for the SDF to support US forces in an area where war has not yet ended. Japan will not use force in this reconstruction effort. The SDF can only use their weapons in self defense to protect themselves, colleagues or people under their supervision. The Prime Minister must receive the approval of the Diet within 20 days after such activities are initiated.
Upon the passage of the law, the Secretary General of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party stated that party hoped to pass a permanent law spelling out the role of Self Defense Forces in post-conflict reconstruction efforts so that temporary special measures laws would no longer be necessary every time it gets involved in such endeavors. In fact in late July, a new office was established for the purpose of studying such a permanent law even where they are sent on missions not authorized by the United Nations.