News

The Japanese government's decision to incorporate the Science Council of Japan (SCJ) has sparked concerns about academic freedom, despite efforts to strengthen state oversight. While the council will gain the benefits of being a special corporation, the government's involvement raises questions about potential limitations on the SCJ's independence.

The Japanese government is considering new regulations to combat AI-related human rights violations through naming and shaming, aiming to strike a balance between promoting innovation and mitigating risks. The proposed legislation will grant the government authority to investigate and disclose AI services that promote discrimination or infringe on human rights, with the goal of encouraging responsible AI development.

The ruling coalition and opposition Nippon Ishin agreed on education and social welfare policies, including free senior high school education and lower social insurance premiums, to ensure passage of the fiscal 2025 budget. This agreement, reached after a meeting between policy chiefs, requires revisions to the budget to cover the costs of these policies before its passage by the end of March.

Seven & i Holdings Co., the parent company of convenience store chain Seven-Eleven Japan Co., is facing an uncertain future after a failed management buyout attempt. The company's predicament has drawn the attention of influential business leaders, who believe that Seven & i must take decisive action to enhance its corporate value and avoid a potential takeover by Canadian rival Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc.

A small humanoid robot named Robohon is being tested as a copilot for elderly drivers in Japan, with the aim of reducing traffic violations and accidents. The project, led by Nagoya University and Sharp Corp., leverages the "passenger effect" and Robohon's unwavering dedication to driver safety to improve road safety for senior citizens.