Sexual Violence and Gender Inequality in Japan

Raising awareness about the extent of sexual violence in Japan and the damage inflicted on individuals is essential to change the status quo. T his article draws on quantitative and qualitative data to reveal the reality of sexual violence and victimization, which has been poorly understood and largely ignored in Japanese society. The quantitative data is drawn from a landmark 2022 survey of sexual victims conducted by NHK that collected over 38,000 responses. Raising awareness about the harm caused by sexual violence is necessary, but not enough. It is a scourge that is symptomatic of Japan's patriarchal social system where attitudes, norms, values, and practices render many people marginal and vulnerable to abuse. This includes the social norms of masculinity and femininity, the education system, the labor market structure, and a tax and social security system based on a division of labor that reinforces a strict division of gender roles. Due to the harm fu consequences of widespread sexual violence on people and the economy, it is incumbent on the government to offer more support for relevant services, especially civil society organizations that have been playing a key role in helping victims. In this pivotal transition from ignoring to addressing sexual violence, it is also essential to engage the police and judicial officials in ways that enhance sensitivity towards victims, and to take actions that increase accountability.

Automated summary

Raising awareness about sexual violence and its impact is crucial for changing the current situation in Japan. This article utilizes both quantitative and qualitative data to shed light on the reality of sexual violence and victimization, which has been overlooked and ignored in Japanese society. While raising awareness is necessary, it is also important to address the underlying patriarchal social system that perpetuates such abuse. The government should provide more support, especially to civil society organizations that play a crucial role in assisting victims. Cooperation with law enforcement and judicial officials is essential to enhance sensitivity towards victims and ensure accountability.