Japan’s lower house has approved a bill aimed at preventing the Unification Church, a controversial religious sect, from moving assets amid concerns that the group may attempt to hide funds overseas.
The bill, passed by the House of Representatives, is designed to ensure sufficient financial support for those who have fallen victim to the group’s activities, including aggressive donation solicitations. The Unification Church has faced criticism for encouraging followers to make large donations in exchange for “spiritual sales” and has recently come under increased scrutiny. The bill will now be sent to the upper house for consideration.