Science Council of Japan transitions to special corporation, focus on operation independent of government

On the 1st, the Science Council of Japan, which is positioned as the organization representing Japanese scientists, will transition from a ``special national institution'' to a special corporation. While the group retains its "right to make recommendations" to the government regarding science and technology policy, new evaluation committees and auditors appointed by the prime minister from outside the membership will be established, and activities and finances will be subject to audits.

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The Science Council has previously complained of concerns about ensuring independence, and the focus is on whether it will be able to operate independently under the new system.

The transition to a special corporation was triggered by then-Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga's refusal to appoint six members of the Science Council in 2020, sparking debate over the nature of the organization. The new law was enacted in June last year.

The new law makes the Science Council "the representative body for Japan's scientists both internally and externally," and increases its membership from 210 to 250. Appointments by the prime minister will no longer be made, and candidates selected by a selection committee made up of members will be elected at the general meeting. The system is such that an ``advisory committee'' made up of outside experts can provide opinions on the selection policy.

By becoming a special corporation, securing operating costs will also become an issue. Although there is a provision stating that ``the government may subsidize the amount it deems necessary,'' there is a possibility that it will be forced to obtain external funds such as donations, and there is a risk that its financial base will be weakened.

The Science Council approved a resolution calling for amendments to the bill with a majority vote, but the amendment was not implemented.

The Science Council will hold a general meeting on the 1st to elect a new president.