Japan revises public safety strategy ahead of G7 Hiroshima summit

The Japanese government has revised its public safety strategy for the first time in nine years, focusing on stronger measures to prevent terrorism and protect VIPs.

The new strategy, approved by the Cabinet on Tuesday, notes that more than 80 percent of the public appreciate the high level of safety in Japan.

But it says the country does face various challenges, including grave threats to the foundations of democracy. The fatal shooting of former Prime Minister Abe Shinzo is cited as an example.

The strategy says that over the next five years, government-wide efforts will be made in the field of crime prevention in order to further gain public trust.

Specifically, the National Police Agency will join prefectural police forces in gathering and analyzing information, to better provide security for dignitaries.

The public and private sectors will work together on anti-terrorism measures in the run-up to the Group of Seven summit in Hiroshima next year and the 2025 World Expo in Osaka.

The government also intends to beef up its capacity to use drones to counter acts of terrorism.

To deal with the increasing threat posed by ransomware and other cyberattacks, the government plans to improve its ability to identify hackers. It will also strengthen cooperation with other countries to carry out joint investigations.

Source: https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20221220_09/