Question from a reader:
Every time there is a national election, there are lawsuits regarding the disparity in votes. I am concerned that correcting this disparity will lead to an increase in urban representatives and a decrease in rural representatives. If that happens, wouldn’t it result in more policies favoring urban areas, making it harder for rural voices to be heard
in national politics? Are those who are trying to correct the vote disparity considering the resulting inequalities between urban and rural areas? Is there any consideration for resolving that inequality?

Vote Disparity and Rural Voices

The issue of vote disparity in national elections is a topic that arises every time because it is a crucial matter that relates to the very foundation of our democracy. Recently, when I discussed this issue with a friend, he said, “Correcting the vote disparity is important, but what if that leads to rural voices being ignored?” Those words have stuck with me.

What is Vote Disparity?

First, let me explain a bit about vote disparity. Vote disparity refers to the inequality in the value of votes that arises from the differing number of voters in each electoral district. For example, if in one electoral district, a small number of votes can secure a win, while in another district, the same number of votes can secure a win for many candidates, it is clear that the votes in the former district carry more weight. The movement to correct this disparity is in line with the principles of democracy and must be taken into account.

Urban and Rural Inequality

However, your concern is very important. If we correct the vote disparity, there is a risk that the number of urban representatives will increase while rural representatives will decrease. This raises the concern that policies favoring urban areas will increase, making it harder for rural voices to be heard in national politics—a concern shared by many. In fact, having grown up in a rural area, I keenly feel how difficult it is for those voices to be heard. For example, in my hometown, the outflow of young people has become a significant issue. I worry that if the number of rural representatives decreases, interest in addressing this problem will also wane.

Legal Perspective

From a legal standpoint, it is undeniable that correcting vote disparity is necessary. Article 14 of the Constitution states, “All citizens are equal under the law,” and we must adhere to this principle. However, the possibility that this could exacerbate inequalities between rural and urban areas is a very complex issue. In fact, if the composition of the legislature changes, the priorities of policies will also change. This is a matter that directly affects our lives. For instance, the postponement of policies aimed at revitalizing rural areas is a significant concern for those living in those regions. So, how can we resolve this inequality?

How to Deliver Rural Voices

In my opinion, while advancing the correction of vote disparity, it is essential to establish a system that effectively reflects rural voices in national politics. Specifically, this could involve creating laws that strengthen the authority of rural representatives or frameworks that prioritize policies aimed at rural revitalization. Additionally, reviewing the electoral system itself is one approach. Strengthening proportional representation and increasing the share for rural areas could help prevent rural opinions from being overlooked. Furthermore, I believe it is necessary to create mechanisms that directly deliver rural voices to national politics. For example, establishing a system where rural representatives regularly come to the Diet to express their opinions could at least provide an opportunity for rural issues to be addressed in national politics.

Conclusion

Correcting vote disparity is an essential effort to protect democracy. However, we must consider the resulting inequalities between urban and rural areas. This complex issue requires a review of systems and mechanisms to ensure that rural voices are effectively reflected in national politics. I feel it is very important for each of us to consider how we can engage with this issue and raise our voices in the future of national politics. While contemplating these matters, I want to continue valuing the voices of this region.