May 19, 2026 Publication of the "4th Report on the Future Vision of Broadcasting and Broadcasting Systems in the Digital Age" (hereinafter referred to as the "4th Report") and the Results of the Opinion Solicitation

　The Study Group on Broadcasting Systems in the Digital Age, chaired by MITOMO Hitoshi, Professor at the Graduate School of Asia-Pacific Studies, Waseda University (hereinafter referred to as the "Study Group"), formulated a draft 4th Report. The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) solicited opinions on the draft 4th Report from Friday, April 3, 2026, to Thursday, April 23, 2026, and received 148 opinions.
　Based on the results of the opinion solicitation, the draft 4th Report was finalized.

Note: The published materials are in Japanese only.

1. Overview

　Since November 2021, the MIC has convened Study Group meetings to discuss the future vision of broadcasting and broadcasting systems from a mid- to long-term perspective. In light of the spread of broadband and the diversification of devices, such as smartphones, these discussions address the rapid proliferation of digitization across societies. To date, the Study Group has published three Reports.

　Since April 2025, we have repeatedly discussed issues such as the financial foundations of local broadcasters, securing local information, the appropriate approach to the online distribution of broadcast programs, and the role of broadcasting within the broader information landscape, including the Internet.

　Recently, the Study Group presented the draft 4th Report on the same theme. We solicited opinions on the report from Friday, April 3, 2026, to Thursday, April 23, 2026, and received 148 opinions.

　Based on the results of the opinion solicitation, the draft 4th Report was finalized.

2. How to Obtain Materials

　The published materials are posted in the “Public Comments” section of e-Gov (https://www.e-gov.go.jp )