Japan

World Press Freedom Rank: Japan 71/180

The government has minimal direct control over the media outlets since most are privately owned and financed through advertising/subscription revenue; however, the Government has indirect control over media. Japanese Broadcasting Organization NHK is a public corporation primarily funded by license fees except for NHK overseas, which the government funds. However, the prime minister appointed the NHK board of governors, and its budget is approved by the Diet (the national legislature of Japan).

In summary, the major criticism regarding government influence in Japan revolves around the traditional Reporters Club System (Kisha Club) and the government’s ties to that system which is a huge problem. Additionally, five corporate groups, Yomiuri Shimbun, The Asahi Shimbun, Mainichi Shimbun, Sankei Shimbun, and The Nikkei, dominate newspaper ownership resulting in a corporate monopoly.

Media Bias Fact Check: Japan