Japan's Challenges, Capabilities, and Preparedness in Cyberspace

Japan released its first significant document focused on cyber security in 2006, issued by its Information Security Policy Council. In the “National Security Strategy,” “cyberspace” is one of the main foci and recognized as the “global-domain of information network” and the increasing threats from cyberattacks at different levels are vital to secure national security. To maximize the benefits streaming out of cyberspace and to recognize significant risks toward national security, Japan’s cyber security strategy prioritizes “ensuring a free, fair and secure cyberspace for peace and stability of the international community and national security”. Japan’s Cabinet Office indicates that cyber threats pose a serious challenge for society, rather than a narrower technical threat isolated within the cyber domain. Japan adopts the policy of “Proactive Contribution to Peace” in recognition of a strategic approach based on international collaboration to facilitate national and international stability.