Japan on Friday enacted a controversial new law prohibiting desecration of its national flag, a key right-wing agenda pushed by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. Opponents say it’s an attempt to intimidate the public and silence criticism of her government.

The law punishes publicly damaging or defacing the national flag, known as “hinomaru,” including livestreaming of the scene in ways that would offend the feelings of others.

Opponents say the ambiguous law only intimidates people from using the flag in art, protests or other forms of expression, and could violate constitutional freedom of speech.

Japan has a law to punish vandalizing foreign national flags, mainly those displayed at diplomatic facilities, to avoid international disputes. Takaichi says Japan’s lack of a law criminalizing disrespectful handling of its own national flag is “wrong.”

Today, the flag is widely seen at athletic events, government offices and international events. At Imperial Palace events, well-wishers wave small versions of the flag to cheer their beloved emperor and his family.

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