New ABU president Yamana Hiroo warns of ‘unprecedented challenges’ ahead

Yamana Hiroo, executive VP at Japan’s NHK, warned broadcasters face “unprecedented challenges” after he was elected as the 20th president of the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union (ABU).

Yamana Hiroo

His term of office begins on January 1, 2027 and will run until the end of 2029.

The election was held during the organisation’s general assembly in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Hiroo becomes the eighth executive from public broadcaster NHK to take the role.

Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, the ABU is a non-profit organisation founded in 1964 that connects 224 companies in 66 countries with the aim of advancing broadcasting and media co-operation in the region.

Hiroo said: “Today, broadcasters face unprecedented challenges. The ABU must also consider how it can continue to create value for its members in a rapidly changing environment.

“Regardless of size, culture or political system, our union has maintained its unity and strengthened its standing in the international community by respecting the diverse perspectives of its members.

“Our challenge now is to transform that diversity into even greater strength and opportunity for members. As a member who has walked alongside the ABU since its founding, NHK will continue to do its utmost for the development of media in Asia-Pacific.”