Hideto Kawasaki: A Rising Leader Shaping Japan’s Digital Transformation and Web3 Policy
Early Life, Education, and Entry into the Digital and Political Sectors
Hideto Kawasaki, born in 1981 in Iga City, Mie Prefecture, is a Japanese politician known for his strong commitment to advancing Japan’s digital transformation and Web3-related policies. After graduating from Hosei University with a degree in economics, he began his professional career at NTT Docomo in 2006, where he gained first-hand experience in the telecommunications sector before leaving the company in 2015. He subsequently served as secretary to his father, Jiro Kawasaki, a veteran politician, which provided him with valuable insight into the workings of political institutions and public administration. This experience led him to pursue a political career of his own, and in the 49th House of Representatives election in 2021, he was elected for the first time. He is now serving his second term as a member of Japan’s House of Representatives.
Key Roles Within the Liberal Democratic Party and Digital Policy Leadership
Within the Liberal Democratic Party, Kawasaki has held several key roles, particularly in the digital policy domain. His positions include Deputy Director-General of the LDP Digital Society Promotion Headquarters, Secretary-General of the Web3 Project Team, Secretary-General of the Digital Human Resource Development Project Team, Deputy Director-General of the Information and Communications Strategy Committee, and Deputy Director of the Public Relations Headquarters’ Net Media Division. These roles highlight Kawasaki’s strong involvement in shaping policies related to blockchain, Web3 ecosystems, digital human resources, telecommunications, and broader future-oriented digital strategies. In November 2024, he assumed the role of Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Internal Affairs and Communications, where he supports national policy execution in areas such as communications, local administration, and digital governance.
Private Sector Experience That Strengthens His Digital Policy Expertise
Kawasaki’s political influence stems from his unique combination of experience: a background in the private sector, hands-on political training as a secretary, and a forward-looking perspective aligned with emerging digital technologies. His early career at NTT Docomo provided him with a practical understanding of telecommunications infrastructure, which today plays a central role in Japan’s efforts to strengthen digital competitiveness, expand 5G and explore 6G development, and enhance digital public services. Through his leadership within the Web3 Project Team and the Digital Human Resource Development PT, Kawasaki has contributed to discussions on blockchain adoption, Web3 ecosystem development, and strategies for cultivating the next generation of digital talent in Japan. His involvement bridges the gap between advanced technology fields and the policy-making process, making him an important figure in Japan’s transition toward a more digital, innovative society.
Modernizing Political Communication and Enhancing Digital Governance
Furthermore, Kawasaki’s work within the Net Media Division demonstrates his awareness of the evolving media landscape and the importance of modernizing political communication. As digital platforms increasingly shape public discourse, he has played a role in promoting effective, transparent, and contemporary communication strategies that engage citizens in meaningful ways. His recent appointment as Parliamentary Vice-Minister at the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications positions him at the center of national digital administration. The Ministry’s responsibilities span communications policy, regional revitalization, administrative digitalization, and innovation-driven public services—areas that align closely with Kawasaki’s expertise and vision.
Summary: A Key Architect of Japan’s Digital Future
In summary, Hideto Kawasaki is emerging as a key political leader in Japan’s digital policy sphere, combining technical literacy, strategic insight, and practical experience to guide the country through a period of rapid technological transformation. His commitment to digital innovation, Web3 development, and administrative modernization places him at the forefront of shaping Japan’s digital future. As the nation continues to navigate demographic challenges, technological shifts, and new economic models, Kawasaki’s role as a policymaker and digital advocate will remain increasingly significant and influential.
Born in Iga City, Mie Prefecture in 1981. Graduated from Hosei University Faculty of Economics. Joined NTT DOCOMO in 2006, and after retiring in 2015, he was elected for the first time in the 49th House of Representatives election in 2021 after working as a secretary for his father Kawasaki Jiro. Currently in his second term. He successively held positions such as Deputy Secretary General of the Digital Society Promotion Headquarters of the Liberal Democratic Party, Secretary General of the Digital Society Promotion Headquarters Web3PT, Secretary General of the Digital Human Resource Development PT, Deputy Secretary General of the Information and Communication Strategy Research Committee, and Deputy Director of the Internet Media Bureau of the Public Relations Division. From 2024/11, he will serve as Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Internal Affairs and Communications (current position).
