An NHK poll conducted from March 10 through 12 showed that support for the Abe cabinet dropped to 51%, down 7 points from last month, while nonsupport rose by 8 points to 31%.

Asked whether they were worried about North Korea’s recent moves, including ballistic missile launches, 48% of respondents said they were very worried and 37% were somewhat worried, while 7% said they were not very worried and 2% were not worried at all. When asked what the GOJ should focus on in dealing with North Korea, 46% cited stronger pressure from the international community, 29% said Japan’s enhanced defense capabilities, and 15% chose dialogue with North Korea.

Concerning the bill to criminalize conspiracy to commit terrorism, 45% supported it, 11% opposed it, and 32% were undecided.