Internet freedom remains robust in Japan. There are few obstacles to internet access, no blocks on websites, and the legal framework provides strong protections for various forms of expression.

• Internet service provider Docomo experienced an 11-hour mobile-service disruption in January 2025 because of a distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attack (A1 and C8).1
• In December 2024, a new ordinance aimed at fostering fair competition among technology companies took effect. The measure prohibits companies that operate app stores, operating systems, browsers, and search engines with at least 40 million Japanese users from favoring their own products over those of competitors (A5).2
• The government passed the Active Cyber Defense Bill in April 2025, empowering law enforcement greater latitude to stop cyberattacks by criminal groups and foreign-backed actors, and to collect information from telecommunications providers for investigations. The law has some safeguards in place, such as rules for handling sensitive data (C5 and C6).3

Japan is a multiparty parliamentary democracy. The ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has governed almost continuously since 1955. Political rights and civil liberties are generally well respected. Outstanding challenges include ethnic and gender-based discrimination and claims of improperly close relations between government and the business sector.

This report has been abridged for Freedom on the Net 2025 due to ongoing budget constraints. Please consider making a donation to support future editions of this vital resource.

For additional background information, see last year’s full report.