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Japan’s 99% conviction rate

Quantifying justice in Japan, with Tim Harford

The fugitive former Nissan boss, Carlos Ghosn, has raised questions about justice in Japan. The government in Tokyo has defended its system, where 99% of prosecutions lead to conviction. Prof Colin Jones, from Doshisha Law School in Kyoto, explains what's behind this seemingly shocking statistic. And a listener asks if it’s true Canada’s is roughly the same. Toronto lawyer Kim Schofield sets them straight.

(a news screen displays a sketch of former Nissan chief Carlos Ghosn in the courtroom in Tokyo. Credit: Behrouz Mehri/Getty Images)

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9 minutes

Last on

Tue 21 Jan 202003:50GMT
BBC World Service West and Central Africa

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Broadcasts

  • Sat 18 Jan 202018:50GMT
    BBC World Service News Internet
  • Mon 20 Jan 202013:50GMT
    BBC World Service except News Internet
  • Tue 21 Jan 202002:50GMT
    BBC World Service except West and Central Africa
  • Tue 21 Jan 202003:50GMT
    BBC World Service West and Central Africa

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Podcast

  • More or Less

    Tim Harford explains the numbers and statistics used in everyday life