Latest posts by Keiko Tanaka from November, 2012
Japan's Live Streaming Platform to Host Cross Party Talks
Japan's popular live streaming platform Nico Nico Douga will host cross party talks on November 29, 2012. Niwango, the company that runs Nico Nico Douga invited the presidents of 14 different political parties. At the venue, nicofarre [ja], LED monitors which surrounds 360 degrees will show real-time comments made by online viewers. The...
Photos From Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant
A freelance photographer Takashi Ozaki published photos from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant. The plant was the scene of a nuclear disaster following the Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami on March 11, 2011. More photos are available on fotgazet.com [ja], an online magazine by Japan Visual Journalists Association.
Are Japan's Upcoming Elections Unconstitutional?
Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda dissolved the lower house of the Japanese parliament on November 16, 2012 and set general elections for December 16, 2012. However, according to a group of lawyers, the value of one vote varies in constituencies and because of this vote value disparity, these planned elections are actually unconstitutional.
Police Raid Video Blogger's Home in Japan
Japan's police raided the house of a video blogger who films anti-nuclear protests, for evidence of charges against a violent protester. Every Friday, anti-nuclear activists gather in front of the Japanese Prime Minister’s Office in Tokyo and various places in Japan to carry out protests. While mainstream media rarely covers these anti-nuclear protests, videos from citizen media are crucial to tell the story.
Japan's New Copyright Law Creates Confusion
Japan’s revised copyright law was partially enforced on October 1, and now penalizes the act of illegal downloading and DVD ripping for personal use. If arrested, one will be sentenced for up to 2 years in jail or fined 2 million yen, which is approximately US$ 25,680. But Japan's Internet users are confused by the new law.
Mending Japan and China Relations
Following anti-Japan protests in China, official ties between Japan and China are still at an impasse as of late October. While both governments are struggling to improve relations, some success has been seen among civil society. We take a look at some initiatives in this post.
Senkaku Dispute Widens Gulf Between Japan and China
Ever since the Japanese government purchased and nationalized three of the disputed Senkaku Islands a year ago, there have been widespread anti-Japan demonstrations in China. Among the hundreds of thousands of protesting across China, some have even resorted to violence. We take a look at some reactions from Japan to the protests and the widening gulf between both countries.
