Question from a reader:
I want to know the difference between what is allowed and what is not before an election. I’ve heard that talking with family and friends is not allowed, but is it illegal to consult or learn about the election from my parents? Also, I’m curious about how people used to get information before the internet existed.

What You
Should Know Before the Election: The Line Between Legal and Illegal

As the election approaches, the atmosphere in the city becomes lively. Posters go up, street speeches are held, and opportunities to see candidates increase. However, amidst this election atmosphere, it is crucial for us citizens to clearly understand what we can and cannot do before the election. Especially when we hear that “talking with family and friends is not allowed,” it can make us a bit anxious. Today, I would like to discuss this topic from a legal perspective.

What You Should Not Do Before the Election

First, let’s touch on the “things you should not do” before the election. There are several key points to consider. 1. Interfering with election campaigns During the election period, actions that defame other candidates or interfere with election campaigns are prohibited by law. This includes loudly disrupting those who are campaigning or engaging in obstructive behavior. 2. Coercing votes Forcing friends or family to vote for a specific candidate may violate the law. Voting is a personal freedom, and the decision of who to vote for is left to the individual’s judgment. 3. Restrictions on specific activities during the election period Particularly under the Public Office Election Act, there are laws that restrict certain activities during the election period. For example, if you want to run election advertisements, you may need to obtain permission in advance.

What About Conversations with Family and Friends?

This is a point of concern, isn’t it? Conversations with family and friends are generally free. For instance, asking, “Who are you voting for?” is not illegal. However, you should avoid forcing support for a specific candidate or criticizing other candidates during the campaign. Additionally, consulting with or learning about the election from your parents is generally not a problem. Discussing elections is, in fact, an important part of democracy. Personally, I often talk with my parents during election season. Hearing their opinions helps me organize my own thoughts.

How Did People Get Information in the Past?

Today, we can instantly access information through smartphones and the internet, but how did people gather information in the past? I would like to share an interesting story here. My grandfather was part of the generation that experienced elections in post-war Japan. According to him, newspapers and radio were the main sources of information at that time. He mentioned that it was common to read the newspaper every morning and discuss political topics with family. Information about local candidates was often spread through neighborhood gossip and conversations with friends. Moreover, I believe that people in the past may have valued personal connections more than we do today. By meeting and talking in person, they could verify the accuracy and reliability of information. In today’s age, while social media and online information are widespread, we may need to reassess their credibility.

What Can We Do Before the Election?

So, what can we do before the election? It is important to obtain accurate information and to have a solid understanding of our own views. 1. Research candidates and party policies It is crucial to gather information from candidates’ and parties’ official websites and reliable news sources. Investigate from the perspective of “What policies does this person advocate?” 2. Share opinions Talking with family and friends is important. Listening to each other’s opinions can broaden your perspective. However, be sure to respect others and aim for fair discussions. 3. Confirm voting methods It is also essential to check the polling place and voting methods in your area in advance. Neglecting this can lead to panic on voting day.

Conclusion

Elections are a vital event that forms the foundation of democracy. How we obtain information and how we act within this context is extremely important. Hearing that “conversations with family and friends are not allowed” can be unsettling, but fundamentally, it is important to value communication while holding onto your own views. Understanding how people in the past gathered information can provide hints on how we should handle information today. Participating in elections is both a right and a duty as citizens. Let’s prepare well and cherish our vote.