TOKYO - The Japanese government has outlined plans to introduce new legislation requiring individuals and organizations acting on behalf of foreign governments to disclose their activities, as part of efforts to strengthen Japan's intelligence capabilities and prevent improper foreign interference.
The government held its second meeting of an expert panel on intelligence reform on October 26, presenting specific proposals for a new legal framework aimed at increasing transparency over foreign influence operations.
During the meeting, experts pointed out that Japan currently lacks legislation regulating covert activities carried out by individuals or organizations that conceal their connections to foreign governments while attempting to shape domestic public opinion.
The discussions highlighted the growing use of influence operations around the world, including coordinated efforts to manipulate public opinion and interfere in domestic affairs.
To address these concerns, the government proposed introducing a foreign agent registration system that would require consultants and other representatives working in the interests of foreign governments to disclose their activities and relationships.
The proposed framework is intended to make foreign-backed influence operations more transparent and establish legal measures to counter activities conducted without disclosure of foreign government involvement.
The government plans to refine the proposals based on discussions within the expert panel and aims to submit related legislation to the ordinary session of the Diet as early as 2027.
Source: TBS
