Reference

Reference | EXPLAINER Nov 27, 2019

Cherry blossom-viewing party: Breaking down Abe's latest cronyism scandal

by Eric Johnston

Every year since 1952, the prime minister, via taxpayer funds, has hosted one of the nation's largest cherry blossom-viewing parties. But with allegations of cronyism and favoritism surrounding the selection of invitees by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and his administration, next year's party has been ...

Reference | EXPLAINER Nov 17, 2019

Outsourcing of English tests stirs up storm in education

by Eric Johnston

When speaking last month about a plan to introduce private-sector English testing for university entrance exams, education minister Koichi Hagiuda created an outcry when he said students should compete for entry "in accordance with their (financial) standing," implying they should compete financially. The comments created ...