The threat from Shinzo Abe Many journalists, both local and foreign, are harassed by government officials, who do not hide their hostility towards the media. Members of nationalist groups on social media also intimidate and harass journalists who dare to question the government or tackle “controversial” subjects. Despite UN protests, the government continues to refuse any debate about a law protecting “Specially Designated Secrets,” under which whistleblowers, journalists, and bloggers face up to ten years in prison if convicted of publishing information obtained “illegally.”