51.5% Support Japan’s Resumption of Commercial Whaling

In 1982, the International Whaling Commission (IWC) took a decisive step to end commercial whaling to protect whale populations. However, in 2019, Japan controversially withdrew from the IWC and resumed commercial whaling in Japan. This move has sparked significant debate, raising questions about conservation, cultural identity, and international law.

Key Points

• 70.98% of respondents strongly oppose Japan’s practice of “research whaling”
• 56.04% of respondents are somewhat concerned about the launch of large whaling vessels like the Kangei Maru
• 63% support Japan’s argument that whaling is part of their cultural identity

Perception of Japan’s Whaling Practices

A Survey on commercial whaling in Japan conducted via Real Research found that 66.98% of respondents were aware of the IWC’s prohibition on commercial whaling. Despite this awareness, public opinion remains split on Japan’s resumption of commercial whaling. 51.5% of respondents agree with Japan’s decision to resume commercial whaling, suggesting that Japan’s cultural and economic arguments have resonated with a substantial portion of the public.

Concerns About Target Species and Large Vessels

Japan’s commercial whaling targets species like Minke whales, Bryde’s whales, Bowhead whales, and, more recently, fin whales. The survey revealed that 51.58% of respondents agree with the expansion of target species, reflecting a nuanced view on species-specific whaling within commercial whaling in Japan.

Moreover, 56.04% of respondents are somewhat concerned about Japan’s launch of large whaling vessels like the Kangei Maru, with 38.72% very concerned about the potential environmental impact and international repercussions of expanding commercial whaling in Japan.

Public Support for Conservation Efforts

The survey also highlighted strong support for conservation efforts, as seen in the reaction to the arrest of Paul Watson, the founder of Sea Shepherd. 73.34% of respondents support Watson’s actions against Japan’s whaling activities, showing a significant endorsement of direct action to protect whale populations from the impacts of commercial whaling in Japan.

Conclusion

Japan’s resumption of commercial whaling has reignited global debate over the practice, with public opinion sharply divided. While Japan defends its actions as part of its cultural identity and economic necessity, a significant portion of the global community remains deeply concerned about the environmental and ethical implications of commercial whaling in Japan. The findings from this Survey on commercial whaling in Japan suggest that the issue is far from settled, and the international community continues to grapple with balancing cultural practices with conservation efforts. As Japan advances its whaling operations, the world watches closely, with the future of commercial whaling in Japan hanging in the balance.