Greetings from the President

Greetings from the President

New Year’s Message for 2026

Dear PRSJ Members and Colleagues:

Happy New Year to you all. I am delighted to share this New Year’s message with you as we embark on a new year together. Last year, PRSJ celebrated its 45th anniversary. It was a year of steady transformation, where we initiated various content reforms across our programs and initiatives, taking meaningful steps forward. Meanwhile, the landscape surrounding the public relations industry has shifted dramatically. As generative AI is increasingly incorporated into business and organizational practices, we must keep in mind the risks related to intellectual property and privacy rights.

As noted at the start of last year, the practical application of AI agents is now a reality.  At the same time, perhaps in response to the growing use of AI, there is a renewed focus on the unique value that only humans can provide. Amidst the diversification of values and a rapidly evolving information environment, the relationship between organizations, society, and the media is increasingly anchored in “Trust.” In this context, the role of PR goes beyond mere information dissemination; it is the fundamental vehicle for building sustainable trust. Through authentic dialogue—including strategic listening—we foster empathy and understanding. For corporations and organizations, PR has solidified its role as a core function of management and business strategy.

The Public Relations Society of Japan has consistently dedicated itself to enhancing the social value of PR, nurturing talent, and establishing ethical standards. In 2026, while leveraging the “ability to provide answers” through AI and digital technology, we will champion the practice of communication characterized by transparency and integrity. Our goal is to achieve an optimal fusion of technology with human creativity—specifically, “the ability to identify what to pursue.”

To support this vision, we are committed to developing industry-wide guidelines that address PR ethics and responsibility in the AI era, ensuring that PR contributes meaningfully to solving social issues. Furthermore, we will broaden our horizons by cultivating next-generation leaders and fostering collaborations that transcend both industries and national borders. To bring about positive social change through the power of PR, the diverse perspectives and collective action of all our members are indispensable.

Looking ahead to our 50th anniversary in four years, our ambition is to elevate the status of PR to a level where it is recognized as essential driver of management, business growth, and organizational transformation. This year, the PRSJ will continue to advance alongside you, serving as an entity that “connects society, shapes sound values, and builds enduring relationships of trust.”

Wishing you all the best for the year ahead, I look forward to connecting with you throughout 2026 and seeing you at our upcoming events.

Yours in Service,

Takamasa Yamaguchi
President, Public Relations Society of Japan
President & CEO, PR Consulting Dentsu Inc.