By SHUN SUZUKI/ Staff Writer
July 23, 2025 at 15:37 JST
Masaaki Taira, digital transformation minister, on July 22 (The Asahi Shimbun)
Japan is seeking to crack down on foreign interference in national elections through the spread of false information, which has been made easier through the internet and artificial intelligence.
Masaaki Taira, digital transformation minister, said at a news conference on July 22 that he is considering legislation aimed at stopping nefarious attempts to manipulate public opinion.
On July 15, Taira had mentioned receiving reports of interference occurring in the lead-up to the Upper House election, which was held on July 20.
“The advancement of the internet and generative AI has made elections vulnerable to interference from foreign entities,” Taira said on July 22. “New laws may be necessary. We must study examples from other countries and organize the key issues.”
Taira pointed to Australia, which has established systems to prevent foreign entities from interfering in its elections.
“Our country also needs to take measures against such vulnerabilities," he said. "We must move the discussions forward as quickly as possible.”
Kazuhiko Aoki, deputy chief Cabinet secretary, also said at a news conference on July 16 that there are examples of operations aimed at influencing public opinion and spreading false information in other countries.
"We must recognize that our country is also a target and enhance our defenses against these activities,” Aoki said.
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