Japanese investigative journalists are finding new ways to conduct their work despite restrictive secrecy laws. The Uncovering Asia conference highlighted the challenges and opportunities for investigative journalism in Japan, with a focus on transparency and accountability. Initiatives like Whistleblowing.jp and collaborations with international organizations are helping to push back against government secrecy. The Fukushima disaster served as a catalyst for more critical reporting, but mainstream media still faces pressure to conform. There is potential for new business models to support investigative journalism in Japan, similar to those in South Korea and the Philippines.

Matteo Salvini, former Deputy Prime Minister of Italy, has built his political career by portraying immigration as a threat to European identity, resonating with young Italians who identify as 'identitarians.' GroundTruth Fellows Alessia Cerantola and Lorenzo Bagnoli explore how Salvini's ideas are gaining traction in small Italian towns and at events like the Lega party's festival in Pontida. The article highlights the rise of nationalist sentiments and the influence of far-right ideologies in Italy.

Astypalea, a Greek island, has been declared 'smoke-free' with the support of Papastratos, a subsidiary of Philip Morris International (PMI). However, this status is misleading as it does not impose new restrictions on cigarettes but promotes PMI's IQOS smokeless tobacco device. Similar initiatives have been implemented in other locations, including Karlovy Vary in the Czech Republic and Sarajevo in Bosnia and Herzegovina, often involving financial contributions from PMI. These partnerships violate the World Health Organization's anti-smoking treaty, which prohibits cooperation between governments and the tobacco industry. Critics argue that these 'smoke-free' certifications serve as a marketing strategy for PMI to promote IQOS and undermine anti-smoking regulations.

China National Tobacco Corporation (CNTC), the world's largest cigarette producer, is expanding aggressively into global markets through ethically dubious and sometimes illegal means. Leveraging China's Belt and Road initiative, CNTC has been involved in smuggling, unethical advertising, and violating the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC). The company's global strategy includes buying tobacco leaves, manufacturing cigarettes, and forging new markets, often in countries where their brands are not legally sold. Despite its success, CNTC's activities put the Chinese government in a contradictory position against its FCTC obligations. The company's expansion has significant implications for global tobacco control and public health.

Matteo Salvini, former Deputy Prime Minister of Italy, has built his political career on anti-immigration rhetoric, resonating with young Italians who identify as 'identitarians.' GroundTruth Fellows Alessia Cerantola and Lorenzo Bagnoli explore how Salvini's ideas are spreading in small Italian towns and at the nationalist Lega party's festival in Pontida. The article critically examines the rise of nationalism and its impact on Italian society.

Italian financial police wiretapped a group of cigarette smugglers and discovered references to a mysterious man named Rodwan Omar Ahmed Elmagrebi, who was allegedly involved in the smuggling operation. Elmagrebi, who owns transport firms Blue Lines SRL and Argan Logistics, denied any involvement in the smuggling of contraband cigarettes manufactured by a subsidiary of the China National Tobacco Corporation. Despite his denials, wiretaps and company records linked him to the operation. Elmagrebi's connections include high-level Libyan and Italian officials, and he maintains a successful transport business between Italy and Libya. Raffaele Truglio, another key figure in the smuggling operation, is currently in jail awaiting trial.

In the early 1990s, journalists Leo Sisti and Leonardo Coen interviewed Bishop Donato de Bonis about a financial scandal involving the Vatican Bank's president, Paul Marcinkus. Their book on the scandal saw major success. Decades later, the media landscape in Italy has evolved, with more coverage of Church scandals. Journalists Emiliano Fittipaldi and Gianluigi Nuzzi faced prosecution for their exposés on the Holy See's financial mismanagement but were not tried due to jurisdictional issues. The Vatican has since worked towards greater transparency and financial accountability. Investigations by reporters like Amalia De Simone and Giovanni Viafora have highlighted abusive practices and complex financial structures within the Church, leading to calls for change and transparency.

An investigation revealed a smuggling network involving China Tobacco International Europe Company (CTIEC) and organized crime groups, including Italy's Camorra. The network smuggled Chinese-made cigarettes into Europe, exploiting legal loopholes and engaging in illicit activities. CTIEC, a subsidiary of China National Tobacco Corporation, was found to be shipping large quantities of cigarettes to suspicious buyers in conflict zones and regions known for smuggling. The operation was linked to an executive at CTIEC, Adina Ionescu, who provided support to smugglers. The case highlights China Tobacco's expansion into new markets through smuggling, a strategy historically used by tobacco companies. Italian authorities, including the Guardia di Finanza, conducted raids and investigations, leading to arrests and exposing the involvement of various individuals and companies in the smuggling ring.

Japan Tobacco International (JTI) has suspended planned investments in Russia and halted marketing activities and the launch of Ploom X due to the sanctions imposed on Russia for its invasion of Ukraine. Despite this, JTI, which is partially owned by Japan's Ministry of Finance, will continue to operate its factories in Russia. This decision contrasts with other corporations like McDonalds, Coca-Cola, and Starbucks, which have ceased operations in Russia. British American Tobacco initially announced partial measures but later decided to divest from Russia. The situation reflects the tension between profit pursuits in Russia and the pressure to comply with sanctions.

Senior customs officials in Italy, including Concetta Anna Di Pietro, were implicated in a corruption scandal involving Philip Morris, which allegedly bribed officials to gain market advantages over competitors like British American Tobacco. Wiretaps revealed that customs officials delayed tax increases and conducted raids on tobacconists displaying unauthorized advertisements. The scandal also questioned the integrity of the EU's track-and-trace system for tobacco products, with Philip Morris and its close associate, Fata Logistic Systems, accused of compromising the system. Nine people were arrested, but released after serving short house arrests. The case highlights ongoing issues of corruption and market manipulation within Italy's tobacco industry.

Mileta Miljanić, leader of the international drug trafficking network 'Group America,' remains elusive despite numerous charges and arrests linked to his organization. The group, deeply rooted in New York's Serbian-American community and Serbia's political history, has connections to Serbian law enforcement and possibly U.S. intelligence agencies. Italian authorities have struggled to prosecute Miljanić due to alleged interference from U.S. agencies. The article highlights the group's extensive criminal activities, including drug trafficking and contract killings, and suggests possible protection from intelligence agencies.

The article provides an in-depth look at the editorial process within the OCCRP, emphasizing the importance of teamwork, fact-checking, and legal review in investigative journalism. It outlines the stages from pitching a story to final publication, highlighting the rigorous standards and collaborative efforts required to produce high-quality investigative reports.

The article discusses the impact of Philip Morris International's (PMI) lobbying efforts to market its heated tobacco product, IQOS, as a healthier alternative to traditional cigarettes. Despite the U.S. FDA's decision to allow marketing of IQOS, there is criticism from tobacco control experts who argue that there is insufficient evidence to prove its health benefits. The article highlights the financial implications of lower taxation on heated tobacco products, resulting in significant revenue losses for governments. PMI's historical and ongoing efforts to influence tobacco regulation and taxation are detailed, along with the mixed responses from various health authorities and organizations.

Tobacco companies, particularly Japan Tobacco International, are exploiting loopholes in the European menthol cigarette ban to continue selling products that appeal to young smokers. Despite the ban, confusion and regulatory delays have allowed these companies to market alternative menthol products, such as menthol cigarillos and flavour cards. Competitors and public health authorities are calling for stricter enforcement and broader bans on all flavored tobacco products. The article highlights the challenges in enforcing the ban and the ongoing investigations by various European and UK regulatory bodies.

Tobacco companies, particularly Japan Tobacco International (JTI), are exploiting loopholes in the European menthol cigarette ban to continue selling products attractive to younger smokers. Despite the ban in May 2020, confusion over what constitutes a 'characterising menthol flavour' has led to a regulatory vacuum, allowing JTI to market its 'menthol reimagined' products. Competitors, including British American Tobacco and Imperial Tobacco, have expressed frustration and called for government investigations. The European Union and Public Health England are conducting ongoing investigations to determine compliance with the ban. The industry's efforts to circumvent the ban have raised concerns among health advocates about the potential impact on youth smoking rates.

China National Tobacco Corporation (CNTC), the world's largest tobacco company, is expanding its market beyond China by smuggling cigarettes into Europe using sophisticated methods. Despite its size, CNTC remains relatively unknown outside China, where it produces nearly half of the world's cigarettes, primarily consumed domestically. This expansion marks a significant shift in the company's strategy.

China National Tobacco Corporation (CNTC), the world's largest tobacco company, is expanding its market reach beyond China, where it produces nearly half of the world's cigarettes. The state-owned conglomerate is employing 'ingenious' methods to smuggle cigarettes through Europe, marking a significant shift in its market strategy.

China National Tobacco Corporation (CNTC), the world's largest tobacco company, is expanding its market beyond China by smuggling cigarettes into Europe using sophisticated methods. The state-owned conglomerate, which produces nearly half of the world's cigarettes, is now targeting international markets.

China National Tobacco Corporation (CNTC), the world's largest tobacco company, is expanding its market beyond China by smuggling cigarettes into Europe using ingenious methods. Despite being a major player in the global tobacco industry, CNTC remains relatively unknown outside China. The article highlights the company's strategic moves to capture international markets.

Japanese organized crime groups, including the yakuza and newer hangure gangs, are exploiting the COVID-19 pandemic to gain public favor and profit from medical supplies. The yakuza have attempted to improve their tarnished image by distributing free supplies and offering to clean contaminated areas, while hangure groups have capitalized on selling medical supplies. The pandemic has disrupted traditional yakuza businesses like the drug trade and sex industry, and the yakuza's influence is waning as public perception shifts and new laws target their activities. The hangure, with their looser structure and younger demographics, are rising in prominence.

The article explores the rise of the identitarian movement in Europe, particularly through the lens of Italy's League party and its leader Matteo Salvini. It highlights the movement's focus on traditional values, opposition to the European Union, and the paradox of needing transnational momentum to protect local identities. The piece also introduces Luca Toccalini, a young politician seen as a potential future leader of the League, and discusses the broader context of far-right movements across Europe.

In Japan, the phenomenon of 'futoko' sees increasing numbers of children refusing to attend school, attributed to systemic issues rather than individual problems. The term 'futoko' refers to children absent from school for over 30 days for reasons unrelated to family finances or health. The rise in school absenteeism has led to the growth of alternative 'free schools' that emphasize freedom and individualism, though they lack recognized qualifications. Bullying, personal issues, and rigid school rules are major factors driving this trend. The Japanese government and educational institutions are beginning to acknowledge the need for a more inclusive and flexible educational environment.

A significant number of children in Japan are refusing to attend school, a situation referred to as 'futoko'. The increase in absenteeism has raised questions about whether the issue lies with the educational system or the students themselves. In 2018, over 164,000 children were absent for more than 30 days, not due to health or financial issues but other reasons. The phenomenon of 'futoko' has evolved over the decades, with attitudes shifting from considering it a mental illness to a neutral term. The rise in 'futoko' has led to the growth of 'free schools' that operate on principles of individuality and freedom, though they do not grant recognized diplomas. Long-term effects of absenteeism can be severe, including social withdrawal and increased suicide rates among students. The Japanese government has taken steps to address the issue, and educational experts like Ryo Uchida suggest that the rigid educational system and large class sizes contribute to the problem. Alternative schools like free schools offer a more relaxed environment, but the educational system itself remains a challenge.

In Japan, an increasing number of children are refusing to attend school, a phenomenon known as 'futoko.' As school absenteeism rises, questions arise whether it reflects issues with the educational system rather than the students themselves. The Ministry of Education defines 'futoko' as children who miss more than 30 days of school for non-health or financial reasons. The term has evolved from being considered a mental illness to a more neutral term. In 2018, absenteeism reached a record high with 164,528 children absent for 30 days or more. Free schools, an alternative to traditional education, have been gaining popularity, offering a less rigid environment without government-recognized qualifications. Family problems, personal issues, and bullying are cited as primary causes of absenteeism. The article also touches on the long-term consequences of school dropout, including the risk of social withdrawal and a high number of student suicides. Critics argue that the lack of recognition of student diversity in the Japanese educational system is a violation of human rights.

In Japan, a growing number of children are refusing to attend school, a phenomenon known as 'futoko.' This trend is raising questions about the educational system rather than the students themselves. Factors such as bullying, family issues, and strict school rules contribute to this issue. Alternative education options like free schools are becoming more popular, offering a less rigid environment. The Japanese government and various organizations are taking steps to address the problem, including revising school rules and implementing suicide prevention measures.

In Japan, a growing number of children are refusing to attend school, a phenomenon known as 'futoko'. This trend is attributed to issues such as bullying, strict school rules, and personal discomfort in overcrowded classrooms. Alternative education options like free schools are becoming more popular, offering a more flexible and supportive environment. The Japanese government has acknowledged the issue, with recent policy changes aimed at addressing the root causes of absenteeism. Experts suggest that the education system needs to adapt to create a more welcoming environment for all students.

In Japan, a growing number of children are refusing to attend school, a phenomenon known as 'futoko'. This trend is attributed to issues within the school system, such as bullying, strict regulations, and lack of individual support. Free schools, which offer a more flexible and supportive environment, have become a popular alternative. Critics argue that the rigid school rules, known as 'black school rules', violate students' human rights and hinder diversity. Efforts are being made to review and change these rules, with increasing support from various organizations and the public.

The article explores the rise of the identitarian movement in Europe, focusing on Italy's League party and its leader Matteo Salvini. It highlights the annual meeting in Pontida, where Salvini honored Luca Toccalini, a young activist and future leader. The identitarian movement emphasizes preserving traditional identities, Christian values, and local traditions against perceived threats like Islamization and mass migration. The League's success under Salvini's leadership is attributed to its identitarian message, filling a political vacuum in Italy. The article also discusses the movement's intellectual foundation and its paradoxical need for transnational momentum to achieve its goals.

Fiat Brazil's internal espionage network, led by army reserve colonel Joffre Mario Klein, collaborated with the Brazilian military dictatorship to repress labor organizing. The company employed civilian and military spies to monitor and undermine workers, leading to arrests and firings. This clandestine operation mirrored Fiat's similar activities in Italy during the 'Years of Lead.' Despite Fiat's denials, documents and testimonies reveal the extent of the company's repressive measures. The 1978 strike at Fiat's Betim plant marked a significant moment in Brazilian labor history, challenging the dictatorship's control and inspiring future labor movements.

In the late 1970s, Fiat in Brazil engaged in espionage against its workers, collaborating with the military dictatorship to suppress labor movements. The company established a secret internal espionage network led by Colonel Joffre Mario Klein, which infiltrated union meetings and monitored employees. This collaboration helped Fiat maintain operations during potential strikes, contributing to its success in Brazil. The article reveals the extent of Fiat's surveillance, drawing parallels with similar practices in Italy, and highlights the company's reluctance to acknowledge these historical actions.

Tourism in Venice, while economically beneficial, poses significant challenges for residents, including overcrowding, pollution from cruise ships, and difficulties in daily life. The local population has dwindled, and many remaining residents have turned to the hospitality industry to sustain themselves. Efforts to manage tourism include proposals for structured hubs to control visitor flow, but solutions for public transport and affordable living remain inadequate. Despite these challenges, some residents and former residents remain committed to the city, valuing its cultural opportunities and unique charm.

The article discusses the murder of English businessman Neil Heywood in Chongqing, China, and its connection to the Panama Papers. Gu Kailai, the wife of the city's Communist Party chief, was convicted of Heywood's murder, motivated by an economic conflict. Leaked documents from Mossack Fonseca revealed that Gu used an offshore company to buy a luxury villa in France, fearing Heywood would expose her. The investigation, part of the Panama Papers project led by Suddeutsche Zeitung and the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists, exposed the use of offshore companies by various high-profile individuals.

A paper trail from Okinawa to Canada and from Israel to Italy and France links unauthorized online traders on Japan's financial regulator's blacklist to offshore companies in tax havens, as revealed by the Panama Papers. The documents, part of a cache obtained by Suddeutsche Zeitung and shared with the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists, show that at least four binary option trading operators warned by the Financial Services Agency for unauthorized targeting of Japanese users are connected to companies through a complex network of offshore shell firms and shareholders.

On February 5, 2004, Iranian and Japanese corporate executives and government officials celebrated a new business partnership in the South Pars gas field, the world's largest. Representatives from Iranian energy developer Petropars Ltd. and Japan's Toyo Engineering Corporation inaugurated the project in Assaluyeh, Iran. Petropars had awarded a consortium led by Toyo Engineering a $1.2 billion contract to implement three development phases of the gas field, which Iran shares with Qatar. The consortium was responsible for designing, constructing, and commissioning a natural gas processing plant.

The article explores the involvement of Japanese individuals and companies, including Secom Co. founders Makoto Iida and Juichi Toda, in the Panama Papers scandal. It details how they used offshore entities to manage assets and potentially avoid taxes. The investigation, led by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists, reveals the widespread use of Mossack Fonseca's services to create offshore companies, raising concerns about tax evasion and financial secrecy. The article highlights the global implications of the Panama Papers, with various countries initiating investigations, while Japan remains hesitant to probe further.

Following the 2011 earthquake and Fukushima nuclear disaster, Kaori Suzuki and other mothers established the Tarachine laboratory in Iwaki to measure radiation levels and ensure public safety. Despite lacking scientific training, they successfully monitor radioactive isotopes and provide crucial data to the community. The lab, which has grown to 12 employees, offers affordable testing services and health check-ups, addressing public mistrust in government and Tepco data. Tarachine's work is vital for local residents, offering peace of mind and contributing significantly to public health and safety.

Following the 2011 earthquake and tsunami that led to the Fukushima nuclear disaster, Kaori Suzuki and other local mothers established a non-profit organization, Tarachine, to measure radiation levels in Iwaki. Despite lacking scientific training, they successfully set up a laboratory to monitor radioactive isotopes in food and the environment, providing crucial data to the community. The lab has grown to 12 employees and offers services that the government does not, such as testing for strontium and tritium. Tarachine also provides training, equipment, and health check-ups for children, addressing widespread mistrust in official contamination data.

Italian local investigative reporters like Franco Castaldo, Claudio Cordova, and Mattia Fonzi are courageously exposing mafia corruption and other forms of wrongdoing despite facing intimidation and legal threats. Castaldo's Grandangolo di Agrigento and Cordova's il Dispaccio di Reggio are examples of independent media outlets that have grown in readership and impact, providing in-depth coverage of organized crime and its evolution. Newstown, born from the aftermath of the 2009 L'Aquila earthquake, is another platform that has been shedding light on local reconstruction scandals. These journalists and their teams are changing the landscape of local investigative reporting in Italy, often without the support of the state but with increasing reader engagement.

Dino Maglio, a suspected serial rapist and Italian police officer, evaded investigation for over a year despite a rape complaint filed in England in 2013 by an American student. The complaint, which detailed how Maglio used Couchsurfing.com to drug and rape her, was not pursued due to bureaucratic issues and lack of EU law enforcement cooperation. Maglio was later convicted for raping a 16-year-old Australian and is believed to have drugged and abused over 15 other women during the period between the initial complaint and his arrest. The case underscores the challenges in international crime reporting and the need for improved coordination among law enforcement agencies.

Two women from Hong Kong are among the alleged victims of Dino Maglio, a former Italian police officer accused of drugging and sexually abusing at least 16 women he met through Couchsurfing. Maglio, who has been dismissed from the police force, is awaiting trial for the rape of a 16-year-old Australian girl. The Hong Kong women claim they were drugged with a dessert wine and lost consciousness while staying at Maglio's flat in Padua. The rise in independent travelers from Hong Kong to Europe is noted, with a significant increase reported by Expedia.com. Maglio's trial is scheduled for the following month, and Couchsurfing's CEO has emphasized the importance of safety on their platform.

Dino Maglio, an Italian military police officer, is accused of drugging and raping numerous women he met through Couchsurfing.com. Using the pseudonym Leonardo, he allegedly lured women into a false sense of security before assaulting them. The case came to light after an Australian teenager reported her assault, leading to 14 more women coming forward with similar stories. Maglio has been dismissed from the force and is in military prison. The Investigative Reporting Project Italy (IRPI) is assisting victims in reporting their experiences. Couchsurfing has taken steps to improve safety but cannot disclose the number of profiles Maglio created.

Japan's new secrecy laws threaten press freedom, prompting journalists and activists to seek innovative ways to conduct investigative journalism. The Uncovering Asia conference highlighted the region's investigative efforts, with low Japanese participation. Masayuki Hatta launched Whistleblowing.jp to facilitate anonymous leaks. The Fukushima crisis spurred critical media coverage, with independent journalists leading the charge. Initiatives like iAsia and efforts by major newspapers like Asahi Shimbun and Kyodo News show a growing interest in investigative journalism. The future remains uncertain, but there is potential for new business models and funding to support these efforts.

Cesare Bergamini, the last professional eel fisherman on the Tiber River in Rome, continues his trade despite environmental challenges and declining eel populations. The article highlights his dedication to maintaining family and regional traditions, the impact of pollution on the river's ecosystem, and the difficulties of sustaining the profession. Cesare's story is also linked to the documentary film 'Sacro Gra,' which brought some attention to his life but did not change his commitment to the river.