Management policy
Top Message
Our continuous contribution to the sustainment and advancement of academic societies in an evolving world
Since its establishment formerly as “The Copyright Council of the Academic Societies” in 1989, Japan Academic Association For Copyright Clearance (JAC) has built the circulative licensing system that protects the copyrights of our member associations who are academic associations and also provides simple ways for users to obtain permissions for the use of copyrighted works.
With the major growth of information and communication technology over the past 30 years, we have been encouraged to take initiative to introduce a paperless environment and take advantage of the cloud instead of using printed paper materials as means of sharing information these days.
Considering digital data is not “things”, people tend to have insufficient awareness about the use of copyrighted works because they can use content so easily, and it may be said that the risk of copyright infringement is relatively high compared to other intellectual property rights infringements.
If copyright infringement should occur, not only would cause economic loss, there is also a danger that their social reputation and credibility could be seriously damaged with the rapid spread of information in the modern age, which makes compliance all the more important to organizations.
We offer simplified services that help you to meet compliance requirements of copyrights and also contribute to the sustainable development for rightsholders of academic associations as well as academic societies.
June, 2022
Japan Academic Association For Copyright Clearance (JAC)
President
Hiroshi Matsumoto
Mission Statement

【VISION】
As an indispensable pillar of academic advancement, JAC provides essential social functions that serve the mutual benefit of both users and rights holders of academic works.
【MISSION】
- We support the scholarly community by establishing frameworks that ensure proper rights enforcement while maintaining the fluidity of academic works distribution.
- We are committed to generating continuous benefits for the academic community through the frameworks we develop and maintain.
- We strive to become academic pioneers in copyright matters through comprehensive education and advocacy regarding the proper rights management of academic works.
【VALUE】
1. “Bridge of Knowledge”: Facilitating the responsible exchange of academic knowledge
We serve as a vital bridge between rights holders and users, facilitating responsible and effective exchange of academic knowledge. Through diligent copyright stewardship, we contribute to a sustainable academic ecosystem grounded in mutual benefit and integrity.
2. “Global Perspective”: Upholding global standards in rights management
We maintain agreements with rights holders not only in Japan but across countries and regions worldwide, managing copyrights on their behalf with care and precision. We take pride in supporting the development of diverse cultures beyond national borders, and we strive each day to meet global standards while aiming to be an organization that grows together with people across the world.
3. “Sustainable Development”: Fostering balanced and lasting academic growth
The advancement of culture relies on the continuous and balanced development of both rights holders and users. Any approach that benefits only one side cannot build a truly sustainable future. For us, sustainability is not about maintaining the status quo—it requires constant adaptation to change, proposing optimal solutions, and creating systems that enable ongoing growth. Through our strategic plans, organizational structures, and individual efforts, we commit to supporting the circulation of knowledge and contributing to the sustained progress of the academic community.
4. “Compliance Awareness”: Prioritize compliance in our actions
We faithfully manage the copyrights entrusted to us by rights holders, honoring the core principles of copyright law.
As an organization dedicated to copyright management, and as its members, we strictly comply with all relevant laws and regulations. In addition, we establish and uphold appropriate internal policies and guidelines, fulfilling our social responsibility with integrity and accountability.
5. “Ensuring Reliability”: Carry out each task diligently and become a trusted entity
Copyrighted works may be used in various ways, including copying, posting on the internet or social media, and creating derivative works.
Misinterpretation of intended use can lead to copyright infringement, thereby undermining the trust of both rights holders and users.
We place the utmost priority on executing each task with diligence and precision, ensuring that rights holders and users alike can confidently entrust us with the management of their copyrights.
【SPIRIT】
“Social Loyalty”
We conduct ourselves with unwavering sincerity in all aspects of our work, demonstrating respect and integrity toward all individuals within and outside the organization, as well as society at large, including strict adherence to applicable laws and regulations.