Privacy and data protection in Japan

Abstract

Japanese culture is marked by an emphasis on harmony and groupism which is pervasive throughout the society. The needs of society take precedence over the interests of the individual, thus protection of individual rights is not as strong in Japan as in the West. In recent years, however, the government's increased use of personal information processed by computers has raised legitimate concerns over the possible infringement of individual privacy rights. In 1988, in response to international pressures, Japan passed the Act for Protection of Computer Processed Personal Data held by Administrative Organs. This Act acknowledges the threat posed by government databases to the individual's right of privacy. Its express purpose is to balance the interests of the individual against the efficient administration of the government. Although this Act is an excellent beginning, the need for improvement is recognized.