Japan's broadcasting license system and media regulation

Professor Kenta Yamada of Senshu University discusses the unique legal and structural characteristics of broadcasting in Japan. Unlike digital platforms such as YouTube or Netflix, traditional broadcasting requires state-issued licenses to utilize specific radio frequency bands, which are managed as public goods.

Yamada highlights that Japan's licensing system is distinct because the government, specifically the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, manages the process through internal reviews rather than through an independent administrative body. This structure grants the government significant influence over the media landscape, including the theoretical power to revoke licenses if content is deemed to violate the Broadcasting Act.

The Japanese broadcasting system is composed of a dual structure of public broadcasting via NHK and commercial broadcasting. The number of local stations in each prefecture is also regulated through administrative authority and coordination with local economic sectors.