Overview

• The Agency for Cultural Affairs published nonbinding guidance that defines liquidators’ authorities and lays out methods to pursue donation-related compensation during the dissolution of designated religious corporations.
• Liquidators are urged to set extended claim periods and to manage what could be lengthy proceedings in good faith so no claimant is left out.
• Concrete steps include checking donation records to contact former members, opening consultation desks, and holding explanatory meetings to solicit claims.
• The guidance addresses asset preservation and accountability, noting potential civil liability for concealing assets and the option to seek bankruptcy if available funds are insufficient.
• The Family Federation is the only organization currently designated and is appealing a March dissolution order; procedures guided by the new framework would begin only if the Tokyo High Court upholds that decision, and the group has publicly objected over privacy and authority concerns.