Japan's Academics Demand Independence

May 09, 2025 | News On Japan

TOKYO - Scholars affiliated with the Science Council of Japan formed a symbolic human chain in front of the National Diet building on May 8th, calling for revisions to the government’s proposed reform bill targeting the council’s structure, as deliberations enter their final phase in the Diet.

The demonstration took place in the afternoon, drawing university professors associated with the Science Council as well as concerned citizens. Participants linked arms to highlight their opposition to the legislation, which they argue threatens the council’s autonomy.

During a subsequent rally held near the Diet, Seigo Hirowatari, professor emeritus at the University of Tokyo, addressed lawmakers and warned that the current bill, which would newly establish a government-appointed auditor role, risks compromising the council’s independence through excessive government oversight. Hirowatari and others stressed that in order for the council to serve as a meaningful voice to the government, its independence must be guaranteed, insisting that revisions to the bill are necessary.

The Science Council of Japan (日本学術会議, Nihon Gakujutsu Kaigi) is a national organization that represents the Japanese scientific community. Established in 1949, it operates under the jurisdiction of the Prime Minister but is intended to maintain independence and autonomy in its activities. Its main mission is to promote and advance science in Japan, offer advice to the government on scientific matters, and advocate for the application of science in society and public policy.

The council is composed of leading scholars across a wide range of disciplines, including natural sciences, humanities, and social sciences. Its members are nominated by existing members and appointed by the Prime Minister, a process that has occasionally sparked controversy over issues of political interference and academic freedom.

One of the council's roles is to submit recommendations and proposals to the government on important topics such as energy policy, disaster prevention, environmental protection, bioethics, and artificial intelligence. It also works internationally, cooperating with other scientific bodies worldwide.

In recent years, the Science Council of Japan has attracted public attention due to a political controversy in 2020, when then-Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga rejected the appointment of six scholars nominated for council membership, citing no detailed reasons. The incident raised widespread concern over academic independence and government pressure on scholarly activities, sparking debates that are still ongoing.

Source: TBS

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