Japan expands state secrets law classification powers

Japan expands state secrets law classification powers

In February 2026, Japan’s government approved revisions to its State Secrecy Law that broaden the scope of information eligible for classification by government ministries and agencies. The changes affect categories related to national defense, foreign affairs, counterterrorism, and cybersecurity.

Under the revised framework, ministries are granted expanded authority to designate and extend the classification period of sensitive information, with oversight mechanisms remaining internal to the executive branch. Government officials stated that the revisions are intended to strengthen national security protections amid evolving regional security challenges.

Opposition lawmakers and civil society groups raised concerns that the expanded powers could limit press freedom and public access to government information. Critics cited the lack of independent review bodies and potential penalties for unauthorized disclosure as areas of concern.

The State Secrecy Law was originally enacted in 2013 and has been amended several times since. The latest revisions did not alter existing maximum penalties but expanded the range of materials subject to long-term classification. The government stated that implementation guidelines would be issued later in 2026.