GGR Issue Briefings / Working Papers
I am a Yangon Citizen Living in Tokyo: Interview with Journalist Yuki Kitazumi
Abstract*This article was written based on the interview conducted on March 11, 2024.
Testimony for Resilience: Perspectives of a Karenni Youth on Oppression, Humanitarian Aid, and Diaspora Activism
Abstract* This paper was written based on an interview conducted on March 14, 2024.
Generational Resistance for Democracy: Three Generations’ Resistance Against the Military Junta in Myanmar
Abstract*The paper was written based on an interview conducted on March 11, 2024.
Beyond Borders: The Noto Peninsula Earthquake and the Hongkonger Community’s Response
AbstractThe Noto Peninsula Earthquake in Ishikawa Prefecture not only raised sympathy from Hongkongers residing in Japan but also served as a significant test for their longstanding tradition of engaging in charity campaigns. In response to the disaster, the Japan Hongkongers Association promptly initiated a donation campaign to support the affected communities. To maximize outreach and impact, the association promoted the campaign both locally and internationally, employing various strategies, including effective use of social media. Along with the online campaign, some Hongkongers volunteered directly in the affected areas, providing physical and emotional support. The incident has not only heightened awareness and preparedness for future emergencies among the Hongkonger community in Japan but has also tightened their local and global bonds with the Japanese community. These efforts demonstrate solidarity and resilience among the Hongkong diaspora with a deepened sense of community, which will resonate well in the future.
An Analysis of Counter-Narratives to Disinformation about the COVID Vaccine
AbstractThere are growing concerns that one of the contributing factors to the spread of vaccine hesitancy is the dissemination of misinformation on the internet, where unsubstantiated information exchanges take place among individuals often referred to as “naturalists" on social media platforms. To explore potential solutions to the concerns, this paper analyzes the personas targeted by the entities that disseminate disinformation. Subsequently, it examines effective countermeasures for disseminating counter-narratives against disinformation and highlights the concerns and societal considerations in implementing these strategies.
Being Connected from Myanmar: “We Are Still Here”
Abstract*This paper was written based on an interview conducted on March 8, 2024.
Challenges in Measures against Digital Influence Operations: Why can’t the EU/US deal with the methods used by China, Russia, and Iran?
AbstractThe digital influence operation measures being undertaken in the EU and the US focus on dealing with disinformation, which in turn includes dealing with foreign interference and major social media platforms. However, the main aim of the CRI (China, Russia, and Iran) operation is to widen the polarization and distrust that already exist within their counterparts, and the use of disinformation and major social media platforms is only one of the ways to do so. The effectiveness of EU and US measures is limited in scope because the CRI can use other options to circumvent them. Since the attacker's goal is to divide the target country and spread distrust, it is essential for the defender to have an overarching understanding of the domestic situation in order to conduct research and to cope with the influence operation. However, surveys and research often involve case studies, and the overall picture is rarely examined, so effective findings are scarce. Current countermeasures, which are symptomatic treatments lacking a holistic picture, tend to fall into alarmism that issues indiscriminate warnings, and as a result, may deepen polarization and distrust. It is important to prioritize the understanding and sharing of the big picture in countermeasures against digital influence operations.
Reflections of a Myanmar Activist: Navigating Struggles and Fostering Resilience in Japan for the Homeland
Abstract*The paper was written based on an interview conducted on March 1, 2024.
Hong Kong Activism from the Perspective of Journalism and Cultural Ideas
Abstract*This paper was written based on an interview conducted on February 27, 2024.
Freedom of Party Formation through the Constitutions of Thailand
AbstractThe freedom of party formation is fundamental to democratic values but is often overlooked in Thailand. Contrary to its intended purpose of safeguarding rights and freedoms, the Thai constitution inadvertently impedes these very principles. By imposing stringent requirements for party formation and facilitating easier dissolution, the constitution not only imposes burdens on political parties but also restricts the freedom to establish them. Such constraints significantly undermine Thai citizens’ political participation and representation. Furthermore, the ease of party dissolution manipulates Thailand’s political context, and is often used as a strategic chess piece in the broader political game. This dynamic further complicates the political landscape in Thailand and highlights the need for constitutional reform to truly reflect the voice of the people.
Other Publications
The Current State of National Security and Digital Platform Regulation [in Japanese]
AbstractIn April, 2024, an article titled "The Current State of National Security and Digital Platform Regulation," authored by Professor Maiko Ichihara of the Graduate School of Law, was published in Horitsu Jiho. In this article, Professor Ichihara analyzes how national security threats are triggered on digital platforms and examines digital platform regulations for ensuring security, using the United States as a case study. Professor Ichihara points out that each digital platform is formed based on the attention economy model, wherein emotionally charged content is placed in prominent locations, making it easier for emotional disinformation to spread and for populist politicians to mobilize the masses. She also mentions that with the advent of social media, the impact of digital platforms on international politics has dramatically increased, and explains the threats of influence operations conducted through digital platforms. Furthermore, although it is difficult to assess the appropriateness of temporary regulations, she emphasizes the necessity of unified regulations, including for U.S. platform providers, to stabilize security and international relations.
An Analysis of the Current State of China’s Strategic Nuclear Force Buildup Using Satellite Imagery [in Japanese]
AbstractOn March 4, 2024, a paper co-authored by Professor Nobumasa Akiyama of the Graduate School of Law with others, titled "An Analysis of the Current State of China's Strategic Nuclear Force Buildup Using Satellite Imagery," was published in the Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology Open Laboratory for Emergence Strategies (ROLES) of the University of Tokyo. In this paper, they analyze the construction status of intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) bases being developed by China in its interior regions, elucidate the progress of these developments, and examine their impact on the global military balance. First, they utilized satellite imagery to analyze the silo construction status in Hami, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. While the analysis did not reveal whether ICBMs were loaded into the silos, it suggested that the development of silo-launch models similar to those of Russia could be inferred. Furthermore, they discussed the potential changes in China's nuclear strategy, suggesting that by the mid-2030s, China might aim for nuclear superiority or at least the establishment of maximum deterrence. Finally, they considered the nuclear posture of China and the military balance between the U.S. and China through five scenarios, emphasizing the importance of establishing arms control measures that institutionalize mutual deterrence even at the regional level.
Law and International Relations as a Liberal Arts [in Japanese]
AbstractOn February 20, 2024, Law and International Relations as Liberal Arts: Bridges to New Fields of Scholarship, edited by Hitotsubashi Lecture Series on Law and International Relations Editorial Committee, was published. Many researchers belonging to GGR wrote chapters of this book. This series is designed to provide an overview of the field for those interested in law and international relations. While covering the latest research findings and topics in each field, the series also serves to demonstrate the research strength of Hitotsubashi University's Graduate School of Law and the Faculty of Law, as well as to contribute to society. Through this series, readers can acquire basic knowledge of law and international relations necessary for living in today's society.
Analyzing Chinese State Media’s Presence on Spanish-speaking YouTube
AbstractOn February 16, 2024, Freedom House published an article authored by Sascha Hannig Nuñez, a doctoral student in the Graduate School of Law, entitled "Analyzing Chinese State Media’s Presence on Spanish-speaking YouTube." In this paper, Ms. Hannig examines the presence, reach, narratives, and strategies of the Chinese Media Group's (CMG) Spanish-language programs on YouTube, using methodologies including content analysis, based on over 14,000 online videos published since 2016, amid the global expansion of Chinese state media. Through a comparative study of videos released by China Global Television Network (CGTN), Xinhua enespañol, and Hola China, she concludes that their reach and influence are limited. She also notes various strategies such as narrowing down themes, targeting specific audiences, and amplifying narratives of other governments. However, she points out a common emphasis on producing a large amount of content to attract viewers' interest, increase followers, and subtly assert political perspectives.
“Hong Kong as an Ambiguous ‘Border'” [in Japanese]
AbstractOn February 15, 2024, an article authored by Professor Maiko Ichihara of the Graduate School of Law, "Hong Kong as an Ambiguous 'Border'" was published in the Shinano Mainichi Shimbun. In this article, Professor Ichihara discusses the legal and political challenges facing Hong Kong due to its unique status, using the example of the extradition of pro-democracy activists. She mentions that even after the handover of Hong Kong, Hong Kong residents, who enjoy easy access to the outside world, have been resisting the increased repression by the Hong Kong government under the influence of the Chinese Communist Party, with the 2019 anti-government protests being a symbolic example. She also points out that to suppress the growing anti-government voices, the Chinese Communist Party has expanded the spread of disinformation overseas. Furthermore, Professor Ichihara expresses concern about the Hong Kong government's preparation to enact a new national security law, highlighting the Chinese Communist Party's efforts to expand its influence overseas through Hong Kong's ambiguous border.
China’s YouTube Propaganda in Latin America
AbstractOn February 13, 2024, Sascha Hannig Nuñez, a doctoral student in the Graduate School of Law, authored an article, "China’s YouTube Propaganda in Latin America," published in The Diplomat. In this article, Ms. Hannig stated that Chinese state media share common objectives and aim to shape public opinion along Beijing's perspective under the guidance of President Xi Jinping. She pointed out that Spanish-language channels operated by the China Media Group, including China Global Television Network (CGTN), Xinhua enespañol, and Hola China, adopt different strategies, limiting their influence on viewers. However, she noted that videos on specific topics attract more attention; for example, those addressing cultural issues or regional crises tend to receive higher viewer engagement.
“Influence Operations” are Threat to Democratic States [in Japanese]
AbstractOn January 21, 2024, an article of Professor Maiko Ichihara of the Graduate School of Law, "'Influence Operations' are Threat to Democratic States," was published in the Yomiuri Shimbun. In this article, Professor Ichihara explains that the term "influence operations" may seem irrelevant to daily life, but it is a serious threat. For example, she mentions how China has been trying to influence Japan by spreading disinformation about Japan through various methods, such as calling the treated water from the Fukushima nuclear power plant "nuclear-contaminated water" and imposing a total embargo on Japanese seafood. She also points out that influence operations are also directed at elections, which are the foundation of democracy, and that Russia's intervention in the U.S. presidential election and China's intervention in Taiwan's presidential election are also carried out using disinformation. In response to the growing threat of influence operations, we must first understand the harmful effects of the attention economy, reduce the influence of disinformation through reliable traditional media, and ensure that the general public is aware of the need to protect democracy from being undermined and to protect democracy supported by true freedom. Professor Ichihara emphasizes that these measures are extremely effective in countering influence operations by authoritarian states.
The Dangers of TikTok, a Pending Debate in Latin America [in Spanish]
AbstractOn February 14, 2024, La Tercera published an article authored by Ms. Sascha Hannig Nuñez, a doctoral student in the Graduate School of Law, entitled “The Dangers of TikTok, a Pending Debate in Latin America.” In this article, Ms. Hannig discusses that while India, the United States, New Zealand, and dozens of other countries have restricted the use of TikTok in their countries, TikTok has become very popular in Latin America. The problems it could pose to Latin American societies in the future and the measures that will be required to combat them are analyzed in this article. She first cites three main reasons for the worldwide restrictions on TikTok usage: the Chinese Communist Party's establishment of legal frameworks to utilize TikTok as a defense mechanism; doubts about whether the company adequately manages the content promoted or restricted on TikTok; and concerns regarding the number of underage users on TikTok. In conclusion, Ms. Hannig notes that discussions about regulating TikTok in Latin America are currently limited. However, she emphasizes the need for comprehensive discussions that take into account data protection and the geopolitical shifts each country faces.
China’s YouTube Propaganda in Latin America
AbstractOn February 13, 2024, Sascha Hannig Nuñez, a doctoral student in the Graduate School of Law, authored an article, "China’s YouTube Propaganda in Latin America," which was published in The Diplomat. In this article, Hannig stated that Chinese state media share common objectives and aim to shape public opinion along Beijing's perspective under the guidance of President Xi Jinping. She pointed out that Spanish-language channels operated by the China Media Group, including China Global Television Network (CGTN), Xinhua enespañol, and Hola China (CCTV), adopt different strategies, and their influence on viewers is limited. However, she noted that videos on specific topics attract more attention; for example, those addressing cultural issues or regional crises tend to receive higher viewer engagement.
“TikTok’s Impact on Security and the Current State of TikTok Regulations: Cases of the United States and Europe” [in Japanese]
AbstractOn February 1, 2024, Ms. Sascha Hannig Nuñez, a doctoral student in the Graduate School of Law, and Professor Maiko Ichihara of the Graduate School of Law co-authored an article, “TikTok's Impact on Security and the Current State of TikTok Regulations: Cases of the United States and Europe,” which was published in the Journal of Law and Information System. In this paper, Ms. Hannig and Professor Ichihara first discussed the role of media and social media platforms in shaping the narrative orchestrated by the Chinese government. They then examined the concerns raised by TikTok from four perspectives: national security concerns, input biases in algorithms and AI, dissemination of misinformation particularly among youth, and democratic considerations. Subsequently, they analyzed the regulations imposed on TikTok in Europe and the United States and concluded by providing recommendations for future actions to be taken in Japan. They emphasized the importance of measures that protect national security and children's rights while eliminating arbitrariness. They highlighted the necessity of conducting analyses of social media platforms, considering the influence of Chinese domestic laws, and implementing legal frameworks to protect privacy rights.