Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has long campaigned for a revision of the country's Constitution.

Abe announce his plan in 2014, about one year after his re-election. The main target was Article 9, which limits Japanese military activities to self-defense.

His comments immediatly triggered opposition within Japan and from its neighbours. Unable to muster enough public support, Abe opted instead to re-interpret the constitution. In July 2014, the cabinet approved a limited re-interpretation to allow the armed forces to help close allies if they come under attack.

Abe also proposed legislation that allows the military greater scope to act. It was passed into law in September and put into effect in March. The government is accelerating its efforts to formally revise the constitution.