Reasons Behind Japan's Whaling Practices

Japan's whaling is driven by multiple factors: Cultural/historical – centuries-old tradition, whale meat as delicacy. Economic – revenue from meat, oil, leather; employment in coastal communities. Scientific research – conducted under IWC to study populations and biology (contested by conservationists). Political – Japan defends legality under IWC, balancing conservation with cultural/economic interests, causing diplomatic tensions. The practice remains highly controversial.