Japan's Supreme Court Rules Forced Sterilization Unconstitutional, Orders Compensation
The decision ends decades-long legal battles and mandates the government to pay damages to victims of the defunct eugenics law.
- The court ruled that the 20-year statute of limitations does not apply to forced sterilization claims.
- Around 25,000 people were sterilized under the eugenics law, 16,500 without consent.
- The government has acknowledged the violation and previously offered a lump-sum payment to victims.
- Many victims continue to seek higher compensation and justice for the severe impact on their lives.
- The ruling is seen as a step towards addressing the historical injustices faced by people with disabilities.