Key facts
- Japan is considering requiring lobbyists for foreign governments to register.
- The move aims to prevent political interference and combat espionage.
- Legislation is planned for submission to parliament next year.
- The proposed law targets acts interfering in Japanese politics and society on behalf of foreign actors, including disinformation spread.
Japan is considering legislation to require individuals lobbying on behalf of foreign governments to register as foreign agents. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to bolster the government's intelligence capabilities and prevent foreign interference in its political and economic affairs. The proposed measures aim to combat espionage and the spread of disinformation, particularly through social media. The ruling Liberal Democratic Party's intelligence panel has recommended such a law, which is expected to be part of broader "spy prevention-related bills" to be submitted to parliament next year. An expert panel is anticipated to be formed in August to deliberate on the specifics of the legislation.