The Five Eyes (FVEY) is an intelligence alliance that includes Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States. These countries are bound by the UKUSA agreement for signals intelligence and sharing of information via wiretapping networks for security purposes.
Recently Japan expressed its wish to expand this alliance. In an interview, Japan's defence minister, Taro Kono said, "These countries share the same values, Japan can get closer even to the extent of it being called the 'Six Eyes'."
Despite not being a formal member Japan has been exchanging information with the Five Eyes. Non-member countries can only access their classified data on request, giving Japan a greater incentive to join as a formal member.
Is the Five Eyes alliance interested in Japan? Due to its geographical location, Japan could provide valuable information about Russia, China, and North Korea- 3 countries that pose a threat to the Five Eyes. The alliance is also interested in Japan’s satellite and military intelligence.
Japan's path to membership is not a walk in the park. Japan’s security clearance system has no hierarchy. They have a history of sharing highly classified information with trusted civilians. The US and UK have their specialised intelligence agencies, the CIA and M16. In Japan, the intelligence is left at the hands of the police. Japan’s restriction of wiretapping poses an additional issue as it is the foundation for information sharing amongst the alliance.
Written By Hardik Dogra
Artwork by Izzy Johns
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