Editorial: Political independence of Japan’s science council must be preserved

A Science Council of Japan general assembly discusses the report compiled by an expert panel to the Cabinet Office, in Minato Ward, Tokyo, on Dec. 22, 2024. (Mainichi/Yoshimi Nakamura)

In today’s society, science wields profound influence over nearly every aspect of life. For that reason, the growing mistrust between politicians and scientists is a pressing issue. Recent deliberations surrounding the Science Council of Japan (SCJ) highlight the need for a more collaborative relationship between the two spheres.

An expert panel to the Cabinet Office has finalized its report on the future of the SCJ, a special organization representing Japanese scientists. The council, established under the same office, operates with around 1 billion yen (about $6.35 million) in annual public funding. However, its independence and governance have come under scrutiny since 2020, when then Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga refused to appoint six new members recommended by the council. This sparked outrage from the SCJ, which criticized the move as political interference in academic freedom.

The panel’s report proposes transforming the SCJ into an independent legal entity, severing its direct ties with the government. Additionally, it recommends abandoning the current system in which the prime minister appoints council members. These changes partially reflect the SCJ’s demands for greater autonomy.

At the same time, the report introduces new mechanisms for government oversight. The government will continue to provide financial support, but it will also establish positions such as auditors to review the council’s financial status and a review committee to evaluate its activities. Both roles will be appointed by the prime minister. The rationale behind this decision is that public funds are involved, necessitating some level of government accountability. However, concerns have been raised within the SCJ that such oversight could jeopardize its independence.

The government plans to submit related legislation to next year’s ordinary Diet session, using the report as a foundation. It is essential for the government to work closely with the SCJ to ensure the new framework does not lead to undue political interference. Careful attention to the details of the legislation will be key.

The root cause of this conflict, it is worth noting, lies with the government. The refusal to appoint six candidates in 2020 remains inadequately explained, raising questions about accountability.

A healthy democracy requires the government to engage sincerely with criticism, even when it is uncomfortable. Transforming the SCJ into a body perceived as a government mouthpiece would only erode public trust further.

As the SCJ marks its 75th anniversary this year, it too must embrace self-reform. The world is grappling with complex challenges such as climate change, infectious diseases and artificial intelligence. The SCJ must demonstrate its relevance by contributing solutions to these global issues.

The ideal relationship between the government and the SCJ is one where the council provides advice and recommendations from a long-term, human-centric perspective, and the government incorporates these insights into policymaking. Now is the time for both sides to pool their wisdom and work toward building a constructive partnership.

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