Research Report on Digital Sovereignty

This research report provides a comprehensive analysis of digital sovereignty, exploring its conceptual foundations, international strategies, and policy implications for Japan. It addresses the critical question, "What is digital sovereignty?" by defining it as the ability of individuals, businesses, and states to autonomously control their own data and systems. The report conducts a comparative analysis of different approaches, contrasting the EU's implementation-focused model, the U.S.'s de facto sovereignty through technological dominance, and China's state-controlled system with Japan's principle-driven Data Free Flow with Trust (DFFT).
The report identifies a significant "sovereignty gap" in Japan's institutional landscape. Current frameworks like ISMAP focus on security but overlook key sovereignty aspects such as legal jurisdiction, supply-chain autonomy, and operational control—areas that constitute 65% of the EU's assessment criteria. To address this, the report proposes a novel two-axis framework for digital sovereignty, integrating technical "Capability" with social "Legitimacy," or public trust. It suggests a collaborative model as a realistic path for Japan, where domestic and overseas providers work within a sovereignty framework that is objectively verified. The report concludes by recommending a phased implementation of a Japanese sovereignty assessment system, starting with sensitive sectors like healthcare, and pursuing international mutual recognition to institutionalize trust and ensure Japan plays a leading role in shaping global standards.