Japan Plans to Dissolve Unification Church Over Allegations

Japan is set to formally dissolve the Unification Church, also known as the 'Moonies,' amid accusations of financial exploitation and child neglect following the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in 2022. Authorities are expected to strip the church of its legal recognition and tax-exempt status, branding it a harmful entity. The church has faced accusations of pressuring followers into making life-altering donations, with estimates suggesting they have contributed hundreds of millions of dollars over the years. Nearly 200 former members are seeking a total of 5.7 billion yen ($38.5 million) in damages. Despite the dissolution, the church may continue its religious practices, but experts predict a significant decline in its influence and membership. This would mark only the third instance in Japan's history of dissolving a religious group, following the disbandment of the Aum Shinrikyo cult.