The move has sparked protests from opposition parties and the media amid concerns about a possible denial of the people’s right to know and potential disruption to news-gathering activities. While the legislation all but bans private drone flights, certain organisations including news media may be granted exceptions if prior permission is sought from authorities. The legislation similarly restricts the flying of drones over Japan Self-Defense Forces’ facilities and venues for this year’s Rugby World Cup. In response to criticism, lower and upper house panels adopted a supplementary resolution requesting the government ensure press freedom and the people’s right to know. “Freedom of the press and the people’s right to know will suffer if restrictions go beyond the necessary limits,” the resolution said.

Source: Bangkok Post May 18, 2019 09:56 UTC