Former AFR Correspondent Reflects on Japanese Media's Fear of Holding Power Accountable

Michael Smith, the former North Asia correspondent for the Australian Financial Review (AFR), has shared his insights on the challenges faced by the Japanese media in holding the government and corporate leaders accountable. In his reflections, Smith highlights several factors that contribute to a culture of self-censorship and limited press freedom in Japan.

Despite being a country with press freedom, Japan ranks 68th out of 180 countries in the World Press Freedom Index, the lowest among the G7 nations. Smith cites restricted access to information, political pressure, and a mistrust of the media by the corporate world as key obstacles preventing journalists from effectively examining those in power.

During his time in Japan, Smith experienced firsthand the limitations placed on the media. He recounts instances where his questions were vetted before press conferences and the difficulties he encountered in securing interviews with government officials and corporate leaders. These experiences emphasize the challenges journalists face in obtaining the necessary information to hold authorities and businesses accountable.

Why this matters: The reflections of Michael Smith shed light on the state of press freedom and the media's role in ensuring transparency and accountability in Japan. As a major global economy and a key player in international affairs, the limitations faced by the Japanese media have broader implications for democracy and the public's right to information.

Smith's observations suggest that a combination of factors, including the ruling Liberal Democratic Party's control over access to information through Kisha clubs, a culture of self-censorship among journalists, and the weight of traditions and economic interests, hinder Japanese journalists from fully exercising their watchdog function. As Japan continues to confront various societal and political challenges, the need for a more independent and assertive media becomes increasingly evident.

Key Takeaways

• Michael Smith, ex-AFR correspondent, shares insights on Japan's media challenges.
• Japan ranks 68th in World Press Freedom Index, lowest among G7 nations.
• Restricted access, political pressure, and corporate mistrust hinder media accountability.
• Journalists face vetted questions, difficulty securing interviews with officials and leaders.
• Factors like LDP control, self-censorship, and economic interests limit media's watchdog role.