The article discusses the strong confidence the Japanese public has in their new prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, and her government’s opportunity to strengthen Japan’s approach to hybrid threats, such as disinformation and foreign interference. With approval ratings between 71 and 82 percent, Takaichi is expected to lead decisively, influenced by notable political figures like Shinzo Abe and Margaret Thatcher.
Japan has started enhancing its response to hybrid threats by implementing a structure for coordinating the detection and response to disinformation, rolled out under former prime minister Shigeru Ishiba. This resembles Australia’s integration of national agencies to combat such threats, including their Electoral Integrity Assurance Taskforce and Counter Foreign Interference Coordination Centre.
Disinformation is a particularly pressing concern during elections, with rising instances of misleading and fabricated content noted in upcoming campaigns. Takaichi emphasizes the need for a comprehensive legal framework to address foreign espionage and is advocating for a new national intelligence bureau and signals intelligence agency to counter foreign manipulation and protect Japan’s security.
Australia’s experience offers a practical model for Japan, featuring a coordinated National Intelligence Community and modern legal tools that aid in addressing hybrid threats. Takaichi’s administration has an opportunity to reshape Japan’s intelligence architecture by incorporating lessons from Australia’s successes and challenges, ultimately enhancing Japan’s resilience and security in a climate of heightened geopolitical competition.
