The Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union (ABU) has elected Yamana Hiroo, Executive Vice-President of NHK, Japan, as its new President during the 63rd ABU General Assembly and Associated Meetings. This was held in Colombo, Sri Lanka, from 30 October to 3 November 2026, as the ABU has claimed in a statement.

Mr Yamana will become the ABU’s 20th President, with his three-year term commencing on 1 January 2027. He will also be the eighth NHK executive to lead the Union.

As President-Elect, Mr Yamana has emphasised the importance of strengthening the Union’s value to its members while embracing the diversity of perspectives, cultures and broadcasting environments across the Asia-Pacific.

His election marks an important leadership transition as the broadcasting industry navigates rapid technological developments, changing audience expectations and increasing challenges surrounding media credibility and public trust.

NHK, one of the founding members, has been a longstanding member of the ABU since its establishment in 1964, contributing to regional cooperation in news, programming, technology and professional development.