Key Facts
• July 2, 2025: Second hearing held at Saitama District Court.
• Plaintiff: Japan Kurdish Cultural Association, based in Kawaguchi, Saitama.
• Defendant: A man residing in Kanagawa, accused of organizing demonstrations.
• Allegations: At least 9 demonstrations since September 2023 near the association’s office.
• Claims: Demonstrations caused defamation, hate speech, and daily life disruptions for Kurds.
• Demands: Ban on demonstrations and ¥5.5 million in damages.
• Impacts: Increased hate speech online, office relocation difficulties, and social isolation.
• Additional issues: Kurdish children facing bullying and fear of public outings due to surveillance.
• Defendant’s stance: Demonstrations were lawful, not hate speech, and protected by free speech.
• November 2024: Court issued a provisional order banning demonstrations within 600 meters of the office.
Summary
The Japan Kurdish Cultural Association has filed a lawsuit against a Kanagawa resident, alleging that anti-Kurdish demonstrations near their office caused significant harm, including defamation, hate speech, and disruptions to daily life. The plaintiffs demand a ban on such demonstrations and ¥5.5 million in damages. They argue that the protests have led to increased online hate speech, social isolation, and difficulties in relocating their office. Additionally, Kurdish children have faced bullying, and community members fear public outings due to surveillance. The defendant claims the demonstrations were lawful and protected under free speech. In November 2024, the court issued a provisional order banning demonstrations within 600 meters of the association’s office. The case highlights ongoing tensions surrounding hate speech and minority rights in Japan.
