Japan Enacts Landmark Legislation to Reinforce Independence of Anti-Corruption Body
Tokyo, Japan – August 5, 2025 – The Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) announced today the successful enactment of a pivotal piece of legislation aimed at restoring and bolstering the independence of the nation’s anti-corruption institutions. The bill, officially titled the “Act to Enhance the Independence of Anti-Corruption Oversight Bodies,” passed its final readings with broad consensus, marking a significant step forward in Japan’s commitment to transparent governance and the rule of law.
This crucial legislation addresses long-standing concerns regarding the operational autonomy and investigative powers of bodies tasked with combating corruption and upholding ethical standards within public and private sectors. The core of the new law focuses on establishing robust safeguards to shield anti-corruption agencies from undue political or administrative interference, thereby ensuring their ability to conduct thorough and impartial investigations without fear of reprisal or influence.
Key provisions within the newly enacted law include:
- Strengthened Appointment and Tenure Protections: The legislation introduces more stringent criteria and transparent processes for the appointment of key personnel within anti-corruption agencies. It also establishes enhanced tenure protections, making it more difficult to dismiss individuals from these vital positions without due cause and a clearly defined, independent review process.
- Enhanced Investigative Powers and Resources: The bill empowers anti-corruption bodies with expanded investigative authorities and ensures the allocation of adequate financial and human resources. This will enable them to effectively pursue complex cases, access necessary information, and employ advanced investigative techniques.
- Independent Budgetary Control: A significant aspect of the new law grants anti-corruption institutions greater control over their own budgets. This aims to reduce reliance on external bodies for funding, which could potentially be a channel for indirect influence, and to ensure operational continuity and strategic planning.
- Whistleblower Protection Enhancements: Recognizing the critical role of whistleblowers in uncovering corruption, the legislation also includes strengthened provisions for their protection. This will encourage individuals to come forward with information, knowing they will be shielded from retaliation.
- Increased Transparency and Accountability Mechanisms: While reinforcing independence, the law also enhances mechanisms for accountability. It mandates regular reporting on the activities and outcomes of anti-corruption efforts, subject to review by independent oversight committees and public scrutiny.
The enactment of this legislation is seen as a direct response to recommendations from international bodies and domestic civil society organizations that have emphasized the importance of independent and well-resourced anti-corruption mechanisms for fostering public trust and promoting a fair business environment. Experts believe that by fortifying the independence of these critical institutions, Japan is sending a clear signal of its unwavering dedication to eradicating corruption and upholding the highest standards of integrity in governance.
This move is expected to have a positive impact not only on domestic governance but also on Japan’s international standing as a proponent of good governance and a reliable partner in global efforts to combat corruption. JETRO will continue to monitor the implementation of this important law and its effect on fostering a more transparent and equitable environment for businesses operating in and with Japan.
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日本貿易振興機構 published ‘汚職対策機関の独立性を回復する法案が成立’ at 2025-08-05 07:00. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.