ABSTRACT
Japan ranked a record low 72nd in the World Press Freedom Index published by Reporters Without Borders in 2016. The negative evaluation of governmental policy on media including new bills restricting press freedom has led to this low ranking. Fundamentally, freedom of expression should be guaranteed in principle, with few exceptions, but the exceptions are increasing at the expense of the principle. As a result, journalists are finding it increasingly difficult to perform their watchdog role and facilitate the public’s right to know. Moreover, legal and political developments are endangering freedom of expression.
