Japan
- Boundary Delimitation
- Direct Democracy
- Electoral Management
- Electoral Systems
- Legislative Framework
- Media and Elections
- Parties and Candidates
- Vote Counting
- Voter Education
- Voting Operations
- Voter Registration
Boundary Delimitation
BD01 Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
a. Yes
Comments: Combination of a. and b. (Parallel System)
Source: Constitution, article 47. Electoral Code, articles 13 and 14.
Last updated: Mon, 25 Aug 2003 14:16:22 GMT
BD02 The authority responsible for final approval of the constituency boundaries is:
a. The legislature (national/subnational)
Source: Constitution, chapter 4.
Last updated: Mon, 30 Jun 2003 13:05:55 GMT
BD03 On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
a. "Equality" of population
b. Respecting natural barriers
d. Conformity with local jurisdiction boundaries
Source: Electoral Code, article 15 (paragraph 7). Enforcement Ordinance on Electoral Code, chapter 2.
Last updated: Mon, 30 Jun 2003 13:08:31 GMT
BD04 If population is a criterion, which population figure is used?
a. Total population
Comments: a) The figure is taken from the national census which is done every 10 years.
Last updated: Mon, 25 Aug 2003 14:18:56 GMT
BD05 The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:
a. Legislature (specify chamber)
Comments: The Boundary Commission advices the legislature.
Source: Constitution, article 47.
Last updated: Mon, 25 Aug 2003 14:19:26 GMT
BD06 What statistical or other reasons trigger the redrawing of electoral constituency boundaries?
d. Changes in distribution of total population
g. Changes in administrative boundaries
j. National census
k. Boundaries redrawn every____period of years
Comments: k) Boundaries redrawn every 10 years.
Source: Electoral Code, article 15 (paragraph 7). Enforcement Ordinance on Electoral Code, chapter 2.
Last updated: Mon, 30 Jun 2003 13:22:39 GMT
Direct Democracy
DD01 Please provide information about the person completing the questionnaire.
a. Name and Title: Hanna Berheim
b. Job Title: Research Assistant
c. Organisation: International IDEA
Last updated: 2006-12-25 13:02:09 UTC
DD02 Which forms of direct democracy, if any, are currently possible at the national level?
Please check the glossary for the definition of the following terms:
a. Mandatory referendum
Comments: C:ChIX:96 "Amendments to this Constitution shall be initiated by the Diet, through a concurring vote of two-thirds or more of all the members of each House and shall thereupon be submitted to the people for ratification, which shall require the affirmative vote of a majority of all votes cast thereon, at a special referendum or at such election as the Diet shall specify."
Source: The Constitution of Japan, art. 96
Last updated: 2006-12-25 13:00:32 UTC
DD03 What is the legal basis for mandatory referendums at the national level?
a. Constitutional
Comments: C:ChIX:96 "Amendments to this Constitution shall be initiated by the Diet, through a concurring vote of two-thirds or more of all the members of each House and shall thereupon be submitted to the people for ratification, which shall require the affirmative vote of a majority of all votes cast thereon, at a special referendum or at such election as the Diet shall specify."
Source: The Constitution of Japan, art. 96
Last updated: 2006-12-25 13:00:32 UTC
DD04 What is the legal basis for optional referendums at the national level?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-12-25 13:01:06 UTC
DD05 What is the legal basis for citizens' initiatives at the national level?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-12-25 13:01:06 UTC
DD06 What is the legal basis for agenda initiatives at the national level?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-12-25 13:01:06 UTC
DD07 What is the legal basis for recalls at the national level?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-12-25 13:01:06 UTC
DD08 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for mandatory referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
a. Constitutional
Comments: Amendment of the Constitution is initiated by the Diet, concurring vote of two-thirds or more of all members of each house. It shall then be submitted to the people for ratification through special referendum
Source: The Constitution of Japan, art. 96
Last updated: 2007-01-07 15:32:04 UTC
DD09 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for optional referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2007-01-07 15:32:04 UTC
DD10 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for citizens' initiatives at the national level?
Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2007-01-07 15:32:04 UTC
DD11 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for agenda initiatives at the national level?
Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2007-01-07 15:32:04 UTC
DD12 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for recalls at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2007-01-07 15:32:04 UTC
DD124 If free media access is provided, what are the criteria for allocating broadcast time / printing space?
Last updated: 2006-12-25 13:00:32 UTC
DD126 What restrictions or controls, if any, are there on media coverage of the campaign and/or issue during the relevant period?
Last updated: 2006-12-25 13:00:32 UTC
DD13 When were direct democracy mechanisms first introduced into the legal framework at the national level?
Date (yyyy)
Last updated: 2006-12-25 13:00:32 UTC
DD14 When was an administrative framework for direct democracy mechanisms first introduced at the national level? Date (yyyy)
Last updated: 2006-12-25 13:00:32 UTC
DD17 Are mandatory referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2007-01-07 16:00:10 UTC
DD18 Are optional referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2007-01-07 16:00:10 UTC
DD19 Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
a. Yes, in all regions/states/provinces
Source: Local Authority law, article 74 (1-4) Local Authority law, article 13 (1-3) Local Authority law, article 244-4 (1-6)
Last updated: 2007-01-07 16:00:10 UTC
DD20 Are agenda initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2006-12-25 13:07:27 UTC
DD21 Are recalls currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
a. Yes, in all regions/states/provinces
Source: Local Authority law, article 74 (1-4) Local Authority law, article 13 (1-3) Local Authority law, article 244-4 (1-6)
Last updated: 2007-01-07 16:00:10 UTC
DD22 Are mandatory referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2007-01-07 16:00:10 UTC
DD23 Are optional referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2007-01-07 16:00:10 UTC
DD24 Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
a. Yes, in all municipalities/districts/communes
Source: Local Authority law, article 74 (1-4) Local Authority law, article 13 (1-3) Local Authority law, article 244-4 (1-6)
Last updated: 2007-01-07 16:00:10 UTC
DD25 Are agenda initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2006-12-25 13:07:27 UTC
DD26 Are recalls currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
a. Yes, in all municipalities/districts/communes
Source: Local Authority law, article 74 (1-4) Local Authority law, article 13 (1-3) Local Authority law, article 244-4 (1-6)
Last updated: 2007-01-07 16:00:10 UTC
DD27 What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are mandatory at the national level?
a. Constitutional amendments
Comments: C:ChIX:96 "Amendments to this Constitution shall be initiated by the Diet, through a concurring vote of two-thirds or more of all the members of each House and shall thereupon be submitted to the people for ratification, which shall require the affirmative vote of a majority of all votes cast thereon, at a special referendum or at such election as the Diet shall specify."
Source: Consitution of Japan, art. 96
Last updated: 2006-12-25 13:07:27 UTC
DD28 What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are optional at the national level?
k. None
Source: Constitution of Japan
Last updated: 2006-12-25 13:07:27 UTC
DD29 Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of referendums at the national level?
b. Adoption of international treaties
c. Transfer of authority to international bodies
d. National sovereignty, national self-determination
e. Conflict between constitutional organs
f. Devolution
g. Civil service
h. Taxes and public expenditure commitments
i. Other public policy issues
j. Other (specify)
Comments: j) Only constitutional amendments can be subject of referendums. C:ChIX:96 "Amendments to this Constitution shall be initiated by the Diet, through a concurring vote of two-thirds or more of all the members of each House and shall thereupon be submitted to the people for ratification, which shall require the affirmative vote of a majority of all votes cast thereon, at a special referendum or at such election as the Diet shall specify."
Source: Constitution of Japan, art. 96
Last updated: 2007-01-07 16:00:10 UTC
DD31 Who can initiate a referendum at the national level?
d. Legislative majority
Last updated: 2007-01-07 16:00:10 UTC
DD38 What, if any, are the quorum requirements for a mandatory referendum to be valid? Please specify numbers/percentages.
Last updated: 2006-12-25 13:00:32 UTC
DD39 What, if any, are the quorum requirements for a optional referendum to be valid? Please specify numbers/percentages.
Last updated: 2006-12-25 13:00:32 UTC
DD40 What are the requirements for mandatory referendums to pass?
a. Simple majority (>50%)
Source: The Constitution of Japan, art. 96
Last updated: 2007-01-07 16:00:10 UTC
DD43 When is the outcome of a mandatory referendum binding?
a. Always
Comments: If amendment has been ratified by people via referendum it shall be promulgated by emperor in the name of people.
Source: The Constitution of Japan, art. 96
Last updated: 2007-01-07 16:00:10 UTC
DD44 When is the outcome of an optional referendum binding?
d. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-12-25 13:02:09 UTC
DD45 Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the citizens' initiative process at the national level?
d. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-12-25 13:02:09 UTC
DD46 Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the agenda initiative process at the national level?
d. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-12-25 13:02:09 UTC
DD47 Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of a citizens' initiative at the national level?
l. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-12-25 13:02:09 UTC
DD48 Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of an agenda initiative at the national level?
l. Not applicable
Last updated: 2007-01-07 16:00:10 UTC
DD49 Who may propose the registration of a citizens' initiative?
Please specify in the “Comments” section below.
a. A number of individuals
Comments: This applies only to citizen's initiatives at a sub-national level. One-fifth or more persons with the right to vote in election (electorate) in that province/city. People can demending enactment, amendment or abolition of a bylaw (not relating to the levy or collection of local tax or the collection of assesments, charge or fee)
Source: Local Autonomy Law, article 74 (1)
Last updated: 2007-01-07 16:00:10 UTC
DD52 Who determines the title of a citizens' initiative?
a. Proponents of the initiative
Comments: Not specifically regulated but the initiative itself (petition) is given directly to the chief executive. After that, the petition together with his/her opinion is given to the assembly for the result.
Source: Local Authority Law, article 74 (1)
Last updated: 2007-01-07 16:00:10 UTC
DD53 Who determines the title of an agenda initiative?
f. Not applicable
Last updated: 2007-01-07 16:00:10 UTC
DD57 If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, who is responsible for undertaking it?
b. Independent electoral commission
Comments: Election Administration Commission of each ordinary local public body
Source: Local Autonomy Law, article 74 (4)
Last updated: 2007-01-07 16:00:10 UTC
DD59 Which institutions, if any, are given an opportunity to propose an alternative to proposals contained in a citizens’ initiative?
e. Registered electors
Source: Local Autonomy Law, article 74 (1)
Last updated: 2007-01-07 16:00:10 UTC
DD63 Who decides the final ballot text?
c. Legislature
Source: Local Autonomy Law, article 74 (3)
Last updated: 2007-01-07 16:00:10 UTC
DD64 Once an initiative is qualified for the ballot, the vote on it takes place:
c. Other (specify)
Comments: c) Not specifically regulated but usualy as soon as all instrument of citizen's initiative is complete. In Japan, it is called a popular referendum.
Source: Local Autonomy Law, article 74 (1-4). National report of Japan, http://www1.kcn.ne.jp/~imashu/n-report.htm
Last updated: 2007-01-07 16:00:10 UTC
DD65 Which of the following individuals/positions may be subject to the recall mechanism?
e. Members of provincial / local legislature bodies
f. Governors, Mayors or equivalent
g. Other provincial/local level elected executive positions
h. Provincial/local level appointed executive positions
Source: Local Autonomy Law, article 13 (1-3) Local Autonomy Law, article 244-4 (1-6)
Last updated: 2007-01-07 16:00:10 UTC
DD67 What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to the time period in which an individual/position can be recalled?
Last updated: 2006-12-25 13:00:32 UTC
DD70 If a separate ballot to replace an individual who has been recalled takes place, how soon after the recall ballot is it held?
Last updated: 2006-12-25 13:00:32 UTC
DD72 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
Last updated: 2006-12-25 13:00:32 UTC
DD73 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for a rejective referendum (optional)?
Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
Last updated: 2006-12-25 13:00:32 UTC
DD74 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for a citizens' initiative?
Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
Last updated: 2006-12-25 13:00:32 UTC
DD75 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for an agenda initiative?
Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
Last updated: 2006-12-25 13:00:32 UTC
Electoral Management
EM01 Please provide the following contact information for the national electoral management body:
a. Name of Institution Central Election Management Council
b. Full Address 100-8926, 2-1-2 kasumigaseki chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 2nd Bldg of Central Common Government Office.
c. Telephone +81 (0) 3-5253-5111
d. Facsimile +81 (0) 3-5253-5575
e. Email -
f. Website Address -
g. Name and Title of Chairperson/President Akira Ishihara.
h. Information Officer Ministry of Public Management, Local Administration Bureau, Election Department.
i. Official language of the electoral law governing national elections Japanese
Source: Electoral division of the Ministry of Public Management.
Last updated: Wed, 02 Jul 2003 08:50:30 GMT
EM02 Does this national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
a. National level
Source: Electoral Code, article 5.
Last updated: Wed, 02 Jul 2003 08:51:56 GMT
EM03 The national electoral management body reports to:
f. Other
Comments: The electoral management body is an independent body.
Source: Electoral Code, article 5.
Last updated: Tue, 02 Sep 2003 14:05:06 GMT
EM04 The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:
d. A national government department
Comments: Ministry of Public Management, Home Affairs, Posts and Telecommunications.
Source: Electoral Code, article 5-2 (Paragraph 16)
Last updated: Mon, 30 Jun 2003 09:18:48 GMT
EM05 The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:
d. A national government department
Comments: Ministry of Public Management, Home Affairs, Posts and Telecommunications.
Source: Electoral Code, article 5-2 (Paragraph 16).
Last updated: Mon, 30 Jun 2003 09:20:16 GMT
EM06 The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
b. For a term of _________ years
Comments: For a term of 3 years.
Source: Electoral Code, article 5-2 (Paragraph 9).
Last updated: Mon, 30 Jun 2003 09:24:39 GMT
EM07 The national electoral management body chairperson, or equivalent, is chosen in the following way:
a. Elected (specify by whom)
Comments: The Chairperson is chosen from the members of the national electoral management body.
Source: Electoral Code, article 5-2 (Paragraph 12).
Last updated: Mon, 30 Jun 2003 09:27:32 GMT
EM08 According to official sources, what was the estimated overall cost (in US dollars if available) of the most recent national elections?
a. estimated total: USD 529,086,341.67. (JPY 63,490,361,000)
Comments: 529 086 341,67 USD (JPY 63 490 361 000) Exchange rate used: 1 USD = 120 JPY
Source: The electoral division of the Ministry of Public Management. (Jun 2003)
Last updated: 2008-01-21 13:31:33 UTC
EM09 What was the total number of registered voters or, where there was no voter roll, the estimated number of eligible voters?
a. Total number: 101,886,618
Source: Ministry of Public Management, Home Affairs.
Last updated: 2008-01-21 13:31:33 UTC
EM10 What was the spending (in USD) per registered voter (NOT actual voters) or, where there was no voter roll, the estimated number of eligible voters at the last general elections?
a. USD/registered voter 5.25 USD
b. Exchange rate used 120 JPY = 1 USD
Source: The electoral division of the Ministry of Public Management.
Last updated: Mon, 30 Jun 2003 09:48:19 GMT
Electoral Systems
ES01 How is the Head of State selected?
d. Indirectly elected by legislature
Source: The preamble to the Constitution and articles 66 and 67.
Last updated: 2004-05-28 09:46:14 UTC
ES02 How is the Head of Government selected?
c. Indirectly elected by legislature/chosen by parliament
Source: Constitution, article 67.
Last updated: Wed, 25 Jun 2003 07:47:55 GMT
ES04 The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
b. Two chambers
Source: Constitution, article 42.
Last updated: Wed, 25 Jun 2003 07:49:12 GMT
ES05 What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
e. Parallel (Segmented) (PR Lists and Majoritarian constituencies)
Source: Electoral Code, article 4.
Last updated: Wed, 25 Jun 2003 07:50:05 GMT
ES06 What is the electoral system for Chamber 2 of the national legislature?
e. Parallel (Segmented) (PR Lists and Majoritarian constituencies)
Source: Electoral Code, article 4.
Last updated: Wed, 25 Jun 2003 07:51:08 GMT
ES07 If List PR is used, is a highest average formula used?
a. d'Hondt Formula
Source: Electoral Code, article 95-2.
Last updated: Wed, 25 Jun 2003 07:54:01 GMT
ES08 What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 1?
a. National level
Source: Constitution, article 43.
Last updated: Wed, 25 Jun 2003 07:55:52 GMT
ES09 What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 2?
a. National level
Source: Constitution, article 43.
Last updated: Wed, 25 Jun 2003 07:57:22 GMT
ES10 Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 1 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
b. No
Source: Constitution, article 44.
Last updated: Wed, 25 Jun 2003 07:58:42 GMT
ES11 If special constituencies or seats are reserved in Chamber 1, specify which interest groups, and the proportion of total seats reserved for:
e. Not applicable X
Source: Constitution, article 44.
Last updated: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 14:08:22 GMT
ES12 Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 2 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
b. No
Source: Constitution, article 44.
Last updated: Wed, 25 Jun 2003 08:00:59 GMT
ES13 If special constituencies or seats are reserved in Chamber 2, specify which interest groups, and the proportion of total seats reserved:
e. Not applicable X
Source: Constitution, article 44.
Last updated: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 14:15:09 GMT
ES14 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 1?
c. Not applicable
Comments: Combination of a. and b. b. 2% of the valid votes.
Source: Electoral Code, article 95-2
Last updated: Mon, 14 Jul 2003 13:18:32 GMT
ES15 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 2?
c. Not applicable
Comments: Combination of a. and b. b. 2% of the valid votes.
Source: Electoral Code, article 95-2.
Last updated: Mon, 14 Jul 2003 13:19:08 GMT
ES16 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 1?
b. Specify the percentage:
Comments: More than one sixth of the valid votes.
Source: Electoral Code, article 95 (paragraph 1).
Last updated: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 14:19:30 GMT
ES17 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 2?
b. Specify the percentage:
Comments: 1. More than one sixth of the valid votes. 2. In the case that a constituency needs the plural seats, the number of valid votes is divided by the number of seats. One sixth of the result of this division will be the precentage required.
Source: Electoral Code, article 95 (paragraph 1).
Last updated: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 14:19:00 GMT
ES18 Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 1, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
a. At fixed intervals (specify length)
b. Elections can be called at any time (specify by whom)
Comments: a) Elections are called every 4 years. b) Elections can be called at any time by the Prime Minister.
Source: Constitution, article 45.
Last updated: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 14:24:13 GMT
ES19 Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 2, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
a. At fixed intervals (specify length)
Comments: Elections must be called every 3 years in order to renew half of the members of the Chamber.
Source: Constitution, article 46.
Last updated: Mon, 14 Jul 2003 13:13:40 GMT
Legislative Framework
LF01 What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
b. Separate legislation
Source: Constitution, article 47 and Electoral Code, article 1.
Last updated: Mon, 30 Jun 2003 08:43:34 GMT
LF02 What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?
a. January 2000 or later
Last updated: Mon, 30 Jun 2003 08:44:04 GMT
LF03 The national electoral law covers:
a. National elections
b. Regional elections
c. Local elections
Source: Electoral Code, articles 2 and 3.
Last updated: Mon, 25 Aug 2003 14:08:26 GMT
LF04 Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
a. Voting is voluntary
Source: Constitution, article 15 (paragraph 3).
Last updated: Mon, 30 Jun 2003 08:46:12 GMT
LF05 Are there provisions in the law which permit or require regional and/ or local election (s) to be held on the same day as national elections?
a. National elections are not held on the same day as regional or local elections
Last updated: Wed, 02 Jul 2003 08:39:13 GMT
LF06 Are there provisions in the law which permit or require presidential election (s) to be held on the same day as national legislative elections?
c. Not applicable
Last updated: Mon, 30 Jun 2003 08:52:54 GMT
LF07 What are the agency(ies) responsible for first level of formal electoral disputes?
b. EMB
Source: Electoral Code, articles 204 and 208.
Last updated: Wed, 02 Jul 2003 08:41:50 GMT
LF08 If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?
h. Not applicable
Last updated: Mon, 30 Jun 2003 08:55:54 GMT
LF09 Who has the right to submit cases to the person or agency(ies)which settles formal disputes?
a. Candidates
b. Parties
c. Voters
Source: Electoral Code, articles 204 and 208.
Last updated: Mon, 30 Jun 2003 08:57:05 GMT
Media and Elections
ME01 Please provide information about the person completing the questionnaire.
Last updated: 2007-01-17 08:55:46 UTC
ME11 What laws, if any, guarantee freedom of access to public information for representatives of the media?
Last updated: 2007-01-17 08:55:46 UTC
ME13 What are the laws, if any, which govern the operations of the public broadcaster?
Specify the date of the latest version (including latest amendments)
Last updated: 2007-01-17 08:55:46 UTC
ME18 What are the laws, if any, that provide for the safeguards for editorial autonomy in relation to the public broadcaster(s)?
Last updated: 2007-01-17 08:55:46 UTC
ME19 What are the laws, if any, which govern the granting of broadcasting licenses/frequencies to private broadcasters?
Last updated: 2007-01-17 08:55:46 UTC
ME22 What are the legal conditions, if any, under which the activities of a media outlet may be suspended?
Last updated: 2007-01-17 08:55:46 UTC
ME37 What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?
b. Based on number of candidates put forward in present elections
Comments: Political parties have free access to TV and radio broadcast, and newspaper advertisements during the election campaign.
Source: International IDEA (2003) "Funding of Political Parties and Election Campaigns"
Last updated: 2007-01-17 08:55:46 UTC
ME38 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?
Last updated: 2007-01-17 08:55:46 UTC
ME55 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a presidential candidate is permitted to spend on paid advertising?
Last updated: 2007-01-17 08:55:46 UTC
ME56 What are the laws, if any, which govern the disclosure of campaign advertising expenditures by political parties and candidates?
Last updated: 2007-01-17 08:55:46 UTC
ME57 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a media outlet can charge parties/candidates for advertising during the campaign?
Last updated: 2007-01-17 08:55:46 UTC
ME58 How does this maximum amount (identified in question C.15.1) affect the political participation of smaller or newly formed parties?
Last updated: 2007-01-17 08:55:46 UTC
Parties and Candidates
PC01 What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
e. Minimum number of candidates
f. Other
Comments: e. 10 members f. 2% of total seats.
Source: Electoral Code, articles 86 and 86-2.
Last updated: Fri, 04 Jul 2003 13:58:53 GMT
PC02 What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 2)?
e. Minimum number of candidates
f. Other
Comments: e. 5 members f. 2% of total seats.
Last updated: Fri, 04 Jul 2003 13:58:34 GMT
PC03 What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
a. Age
b. Citizenship
Comments: Minimum age: 25 years old.
Source: Constitution, article 44 and Electoral Code, article 10.
Last updated: Mon, 25 Aug 2003 14:40:11 GMT
PC04 What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
a. Age
b. Citizenship
Comments: Minimum age: 30 years old.
Source: Constitution, article 44 and Electoral Code, article 10.
Last updated: Wed, 02 Jul 2003 09:32:05 GMT
PC05 What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?
k. Not applicable
Last updated: Mon, 30 Jun 2003 14:50:07 GMT
PC06 What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?
e. Offences against electoral law
k. Mental health problems
Source: Electoral Code, articles 11 and 252. Political Funds Control Law, article 28.
Last updated: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 07:42:26 GMT
PC07 What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?
o. Not applicable
Last updated: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 07:43:06 GMT
PC08 Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
c. In legislative elections (Chamber 1)
d. In legislative elections (Chamber 2)
Source: Electoral Code, articles 86 and 86-4.
Last updated: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 07:44:58 GMT
PC09 If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?
a. Signature requirement (specify)
b. Deposit requirement (specify)
Comments: a) Name, family records, date of birth, address and occupation. b) If running under proportional representation, the party should pay JPY 6.000.000 per registered candidate.
Source: Electoral Code, articles 86 and 92. Enforcement Ordinance on Electoral Code, article 88.
Last updated: Wed, 02 Jul 2003 09:45:29 GMT
PC10 If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 2), what are the registration requirements?
a. Signature requirement (specify)
b. Deposit requirement (specify)
Comments: a) Name, family records, date of birth, address and occupation. b) If running under proportional representation, the party should pay JPY 6.000.000 per registered candidate.
Source: Electoral Code, articles 86-4 and 92. Enforcement Ordinance on Electoral Code, article 89.
Last updated: Wed, 02 Jul 2003 09:46:28 GMT
PC11 If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
e. Not Applicable
Last updated: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 07:54:19 GMT
PC12 Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
b. Direct
c. Indirect
Source: Party Grants Law, articles 3 and 4. Electoral Code, articles 263 and 264.
Last updated: Wed, 02 Jul 2003 09:47:26 GMT
PC13 If political parties receive direct/indirect public funding, when do they receive this?
c. As related to the election period and between elections
Source: Party Grants Law, article 11. Electoral Code, articles 261-2, 263 and 264.
Last updated: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 07:58:32 GMT
PC14 If political parties receive indirect public funding, identify the type of funding:
a. Free media access
c. Free state transportation
d. Other
Comments: d. Posters/billboards, public meetings, mailouts, and cars for election campaigns.
Source: Electoral Code, articles 141-144, 149-151, 164, 176, 263 and 264.
Last updated: Fri, 04 Jul 2003 13:11:15 GMT
PC15 What is the basis of the public funding?
a. Equal funding, regardless of size and previous performance
b. Based on result of previous election
c. Based on current legislative representation
Comments: a)For candidates. b and c) For parties.
Source: Electoral Code, article 261-2. Party Grants Law, chapter 3.
Last updated: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 08:03:04 GMT
PC16 If political parties receive public funding, what is the specified purpose?
a. General party administration
b. Election campaign activities
Source: Electoral Code, articles 261-2, 263 and 264.
Last updated: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 08:04:10 GMT
PC17 Are political parties entitled to private funding?
a. Yes
Source: Political Control Law, articles 1 and 2.
Last updated: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 08:06:23 GMT
PC18 If political parties are entitled to private funding, for what period?
c. As related to the election period and between elections
Comments: Parties can accept donations and there is no ceiling to the amount. Independent candidates can only accept contributions between elections and must disclose them.
Source: Political Funds Control Law, article 21-2.
Last updated: Fri, 04 Jul 2003 13:17:27 GMT
PC19 Which of the following party financing provisions are applicable?
a. Public disclosure of party contributions received
b. Public disclosure of party expenditure
c. Prohibition on party funding from foreign sources
h. Publication or public access to contribution and / or expenditure reports
Source: Party Grants Law, chapter 4. Political Funds Control Law, articles 12 and chapter 4 and 5.
Last updated: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 08:20:05 GMT
PC20 Which of the following candidate financing provisions are applicable?
a. Public disclosure of candidate contributions received
b. Public disclosure of candidate expenditure
c. Prohibition on candidate funding from foreign sources
e. Ceilings on candidate election expenses
h. Publication or public access to contribution and / or expenditure reports
Source: Political Funds Control Law, chapter 4 and 5.
Last updated: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 08:22:23 GMT
PC21 Who is responsible for administering and enforcing party income/funding regulations at national level?
c. Government department
d. Other
Comments: d) Regional Electoral Body for those not running under proportional representation.
Source: Political Funds Control Law, article 12 (paragraph 1).
Last updated: Wed, 02 Jul 2003 09:53:48 GMT
Vote Counting
VC01 What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
c. Write-in ballot
o. Ballots signed or otherwise authenticated by polling station official
Source: Electoral Code, article 45 and 46.
Last updated: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 08:59:35 GMT
VC02 What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
c. Write-in ballot
o. Ballots signed or otherwise authenticated by polling station official
Source: Electoral Code, articles 45 and 46.
Last updated: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 10:53:37 GMT
VC03 What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?
s. Not Applicable
Last updated: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 10:54:26 GMT
VC04 Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
c. At special counting centres
Source: Electoral Code, article 63.
Last updated: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 10:55:19 GMT
VC05 What procedures are used in the initial count?
a. Separate ballots for different elections
d. Number of ballots in box reconciled against number of voters
e. Number of ballots reconciled against ballots initially received (minus spoilt and unused)
f. Each ballot paper held up for public scrutiny, with name of party/candidate called out loud
j. Sorted into piles according to individual party/candidate
k. Counted by machine
l. Counted by hand
o. Data fed into computer for calculation
p. Copies of results of the count are publicly posted at the counting site immediately on the completion of the count
q. Copies of results are provided to observers
r. Observers and party agents are permitted to take their own copies of the results
Source: Electoral Code, articles 66, 67 and 68. Enforcement Ordinance on Electoral Code, articles 72 and 73.
Last updated: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 10:59:09 GMT
VC06 Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?
d. Regional level (specify whether it is constituency/ province/ state/ department/other)
Comments: To the local electoral management bodies.
Source: Electoral Code, article 66 (paragraph 3). Enforcement Ordinance on Electoral Code, articles 75 and 76.
Last updated: Wed, 02 Jul 2003 11:34:04 GMT
VC07 At what levels are seats allocated?
b. District level
Source: Electoral Code, articles 4, 13 and 14.
Last updated: Wed, 02 Jul 2003 11:33:22 GMT
VC08 How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?
a. Physically transported
c. By fax
g. Internet
Last updated: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 11:04:41 GMT
VC09 If the polling results are physically transported, what is transported?
a. Ballots
b. Unused and spoiled ballots
c. Counterfoils of used ballots
d. Voter rolls
e. Tendered ballots
f. Certificate of result
Source: Electoral Code, article 70. Enforcement Ordinance on Electoral Code, articles 74, 75 and 76.
Last updated: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 11:06:47 GMT
VC10 If the polling results are physically transported, what security measures are used?
d. Transported in boxes sealed with numbered seals
e. Accompanied by election officials
i. Accompanied by observers
Source: Enforcement Ordinance on Electoral Code, article 76.
Last updated: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 11:08:20 GMT
VC11 Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
d. By request
e. Court order
Source: Electoral Code, articles 204 and 208.
Last updated: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 11:09:28 GMT
VC12 If automatically recounted, what is the trigger?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 11:10:11 GMT
VC13 If ballots are recounted by request, who can make the request?
a. Political parties
b. An individual candidate
Source: Electoral Code, articles 204 and 208.
Last updated: Wed, 02 Jul 2003 11:36:43 GMT
VC14 If recounted, who conducts the recount?
b. Regional Election Management body
c. Local Election Management body
Comments: b) For those candidates under proportional representation system.
Source: Electoral Code, articles 204, 205 and 208.
Last updated: Wed, 02 Jul 2003 11:38:15 GMT
VC16 If preliminary results are announced, how long after the close of polls is this done?
a. hours: a few hours
Comments: During election day, the electoral commission announces preliminary results every half an hour.
Last updated: Fri, 04 Jul 2003 13:32:43 GMT
VC17 Is there a legal requirement for the declaration of the officially certified results?
a. Yes
Source: Electoral Code, 101, 101-2, 101-3.
Last updated: Fri, 04 Jul 2003 13:34:01 GMT
VC18 How long after the close of polls is the certified results publicly announced? (if there is no legal requirement enter the average time)
b. days:
Comments: One or two days. The national management body has to announce the results as soon as it is possible.
Last updated: Fri, 04 Jul 2003 13:34:41 GMT
Voter Education
VE01 Who conducts voter education and information campaigns at the national elections (informing where, when and how to register and vote)?
a. National Electoral Management Body
b. Regional Electoral Management Bodies
c. Local/County Electoral Management Bodies
d. National Government
e. Regional Governments
f. Local Governments
Source: Electoral Code, articles 6, 31 (paragraph 3), 34 (paragraph 6). Enforcement Ordinance on Electoral Code, article 132.
Last updated: Mon, 30 Jun 2003 14:01:16 GMT
VE02 At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
a. Continuously
Source: Electoral Code, article 6 and 261-2.
Last updated: Mon, 30 Jun 2003 14:02:18 GMT
VE03 Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
m. Not applicable
Source: Electoral Code, articles 6, 169 and 170.
Last updated: Fri, 04 Jul 2003 13:01:34 GMT
VE04 What types of voter education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
a. Poster/ Billboard campaigns
b. Media advertisement
f. Mail-outs
g. Internet
Source: Electoral Code, articles 6, 169 and 170.
Last updated: Mon, 30 Jun 2003 14:04:45 GMT
Voting Operations
VO01 Approximately what percentage (on the basis of cost) of election day supplies and equipment are obtained or produced within the country?
a. 91-100%
Last updated: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 08:31:16 GMT
VO02 Is there a code of conduct for election officials?
a. Yes
Source: Electoral Code, article 5.
Last updated: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 08:35:35 GMT
VO03 Where can electors vote?
a. At a specified polling station in the locality where they are registered at national elections
f. By mail
Comments: f) Limited to the disabled and for those residing abroad.
Source: Electoral Code, articles 39, 44, 49 (paragraph 1 and 2) and 49-2 (paragraph 2).
Last updated: Wed, 02 Jul 2003 09:58:50 GMT
VO04 Who can vote from outside the country?
b. Citizens residing outside the country
Source: Electoral Code, article 49-2 (paragraph 1).
Last updated: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 08:39:25 GMT
VO05 If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?
b. Consulates
e. By mail
Comments: e) Only for those who are unable to reach the consulate.
Source: Electoral Code, article 49-2 (paragraph 1-2).
Last updated: Mon, 25 Aug 2003 14:24:23 GMT
VO06 Can people vote in advance of the designated national election day(s)?
b. Yes
Source: Electoral Code, article 49.
Last updated: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 08:43:26 GMT
VO07 If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), how may they do so?
a. At special advance polling centers
b. By mail
Comments: Limited to the disabled.
Source: Electoral Code, articles 49 and 49-2.
Last updated: Mon, 25 Aug 2003 14:26:21 GMT
VO08 If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), specify who:
b. Disabled persons
c. People in remote areas
d. People in hospitals
f. Other
Comments: f) People who won't be able to vote at the election day because of one's duty or ceremonial occasions or if they live in a care home.
Source: Electoral Code, article 49 and 49-2.
Last updated: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 08:48:05 GMT
VO09 Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
b. No
Comments: As most polling stations are primary schools, the amount of voters per polling station will depend on the number of eligible voters and of primary schools in a given area within the local jurisdiction boundaries.
Last updated: Fri, 04 Jul 2003 13:22:51 GMT
VO10 Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
b. No X
Comments: As most polling stations are primary schools, the amount of voters per polling station will depend on the number of eligible voters and of primary schools in a given area within the local jurisdiction boundaries.
Last updated: Fri, 04 Jul 2003 13:25:10 GMT
VO11 How do electors cast their votes?
a. By manually marking the ballot
Source: Electoral Code, articles 46 and 46-2.
Last updated: Tue, 01 Jul 2003 08:54:57 GMT
VO12 How many staff are assigned to each polling station?
a. The smallest polling station: 3
b. The largest polling station: 10
Comments: There is one presiding officer, two to five regulated observers and the rest are assistent officers.
Source: Electoral Code, article 62.
Last updated: Wed, 02 Jul 2003 11:27:27 GMT
Voter Registration
VR01 What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
e. 20
Source: Electoral Code, article 1.
Last updated: Mon, 30 Jun 2003 13:23:48 GMT
VR02 Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?
a. Citizenship
d. Naturalization
Source: Constitution, article 10 and Electoral Code, article 9.
Last updated: Mon, 30 Jun 2003 13:25:03 GMT
VR03 What restrictions on registering to vote and voting exist in the country?
a. Criminal Incarceration
b. Previous Conviction
d. Mental disability
h. Other
Comments: h) A person who has been sentenced.
Source: Electoral Code, article 11.
Last updated: Wed, 02 Jul 2003 09:21:23 GMT
VR04 Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?
d. Election Management Body (specify)
Source: Electoral Code, article 19 (paragraph 2).
Last updated: Mon, 30 Jun 2003 13:28:10 GMT
VR05 What is the registration method for national elections?
b. Voters register
Source: Electoral Code, articles 19 and 22.
Last updated: Mon, 30 Jun 2003 13:28:59 GMT
VR06 How frequently is the voters register updated?
c. Periodically (or before each election)
Comments: c) The voters register is updated 4 times a year and before each election.
Source: Electoral Code, articles 19 and 22. Enforcement Ordinance on Electoral Code, articles 11 and 12.
Last updated: Wed, 02 Jul 2003 09:25:11 GMT
VR07 What methods are used to compile and update the voters register?
c. Links for applications for government services
Comments: Local governments keep a residents register which states the addresses of residents.
Source: Electoral Code, article 21.
Last updated: Mon, 25 Aug 2003 14:22:15 GMT
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