Article: JAPAN: OPPONENTS OF DEATH PENALTY SEEK HELP FROM ABROAD.

By Catherine Makino

TOKYO, Mar. 12, 2008 (IPS/GIN) -- Abolitionist lawmakers in Japan are appealing to the international community to pressure their government to end the rising number of death sentences and hangings.

The international appeals are particularly vital because support for their stand at home appears to be dwindling.

"We need the international community to draw attention to our country and wake up our citizens," said Nobuto Hosaka, a member of the lower house of parliament (Diet).

Hosaka added that Japanese people should "be made aware their country is disregarding human rights."

"Death sentences have rapidly ...

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