Political System
Japan adopted its Constitution in 1947, based on three fundamental principles: sovereignty of the people, respect for fundamental human rights, and the renunciation of war. The Constitution also provides for the separation of the three branches of government: the legislative branch (the National Diet), the executive branch (the Cabinet), and the judicial branch (the courts). Discussions on constitutional amendment have also continued in relation to Japan’s role in the international community.
The National Diet is the highest organ of state power and is responsible for enacting laws. It consists of two houses: the House of Representatives and the House of Councillors.
The House of Representatives nominates the Prime Minister and approves the national budget. The House of Councillors deliberates on bills passed by the House of Representatives, and laws are enacted through the legislative process.
The Prime Minister forms the Cabinet and is responsible to the National Diet in the exercise of executive power. The Prime Minister also has the authority to appoint and dismiss Ministers of State. The Emperor is the symbol of the State and of the unity of the people.