Japan faces an ongoing challenge in addressing sexual offenses, particularly non-consensual photography. Disturbingly, this issue has permeated even the nation’s schools, where cases have dramatically surged.Statistics paint a stark picture. In 2022, Japan recorded 5,737 cases of nonconsensual photography (tousatsu). This figure jumped to 6,933 in 2023, a worrying increase of 1,196 cases.
This rise occurred despite the introduction of a new law in 2023 establishing a uniform penalty of up to three years imprisonment for nonconsensual photography.Previously, this crime fell under Japan’s Nuisance Laws, which varied in enforcement across prefectures.
regrettably, Japan’s education system is struggling to keep pace. As smartphone ownership among youth increases, so have instances of nonconsensual photography within schools.Last year, schools and childcare centers reported 169 cases, more than double the 75 cases reported in 2022.
Adding to concerns, some schools appear hesitant to treat these incidents as criminal offenses.In one case highlighted by LiveDoor News, a male student was caught taking photos of a female classmate while she was changing. Rather of involving the police, the school opted to “educate” the student on proper smartphone usage.
Child sexual crimes expert Sakurai Tsutsumi, a professor at Otemon Gakuin University, emphasizes the urgency for schools to take a firmer stance. He stresses the need to educate students that nonconsensual photography and the distribution of such images are not harmless pranks,but serious crimes.Beyond schools, japan has been taking steps to combat various forms of nonconsensual photography. Men using infrared cameras to target women and minors, even at sporting events, have prompted sportswear manufacturers to develop anti-infrared technology to protect athletes’ privacy. Many events, particularly those involving minors, have now banned photography altogether.
Another pervasive problem is groping (chikan), which remains underreported. Studies suggest that up to 80% of these incidents go unreported, highlighting a need for greater awareness and bolder action.
Similarly, many purikura photo booths, popular among young Japanese women, have prohibited unaccompanied men from using the facilities in an effort to ensure female safety.
How can parents and educators effectively educate youths about the importance of consent and the risks of non-consensual photography?
Tackling Non-Consensual Photography in Japan: An Interview with Child Sexual Crimes expert Sakurai tsutsumi
Editor (Time.news): welcome, Professor Sakurai Tsutsumi. Thank you for joining us to discuss the alarming rise of non-consensual photography in Japan, particularly in schools. Coudl you start by providing an overview of the current situation?
Sakurai Tsutsumi: Thank you for having me. The statistics are indeed concerning. in 2022, Japan recorded 5,737 cases of non-consensual photography, which increased to 6,933 cases in 2023. This stark rise illustrates a critical need for society,especially educational institutions,to address the issue more effectively.
Editor: It’s troubling to hear that this problem has infiltrated schools. What factors do you believe contribute to this surge?
Sakurai Tsutsumi: One significant factor is the increased smartphone ownership among young individuals. as more children and students have access to powerful cameras, the potential for misuse rises dramatically. Additionally, there seems to be a cultural underestimation of the seriousness of these actions. Non-consensual photography should not be seen as a harmless prank; it is indeed a violation of privacy and trust.
editor: you mentioned that schools are struggling to address this issue.Could you elaborate on how schools have responded to incidents of non-consensual photography?
Sakurai Tsutsumi: Regrettably, there is a tendency in some schools to handle these incidents with a lack of urgency. For example, in one reported case, a male student was caught photographing a female classmate while she was changing. Instead of notifying the police, the school chose to “educate” the student about responsible smartphone usage. This approach downplays the seriousness of the offense and sends the wrong message to students about accountability.
Editor: With recent legislation establishing a uniform penalty for non-consensual photography, do you think the new law will have a significant impact?
Sakurai Tsutsumi: While the law, which imposes penalties of up to three years imprisonment, is a step in the right direction, it needs rigorous enforcement and the support of educational institutions to be effective. It’s essential not just to have laws,but to ensure that both students and staff are educated about their implications and the seriousness of these actions.
Editor: Beyond schools,what other measures are being taken in Japan to combat non-consensual photography?
Sakurai Tsutsumi: Various industries are responding to these concerns. As a notable example, some sportswear manufacturers have developed anti-infrared technology to protect athletes from harassment during events. Moreover, many events involving minors have now instituted bans on photography altogether, which is a proactive measure to safeguard the privacy of participants.
Editor: Speaking of proactive measures, how are cultural aspects, such as purikura booths, adjusting to enhance safety for women in Japan?
Sakurai Tsutsumi: It’s encouraging to see that purikura photo booths have prohibited unaccompanied men from using their facilities. This change aims to create a safer surroundings for young women who visit these popular venues. Such steps are vital in fostering a culture that prioritizes safety and respect.
Editor: What advice woudl you offer to parents and educators on addressing the issue of non-consensual photography with youths?
Sakurai Tsutsumi: Open dialog is paramount. Parents and educators should discuss the implications of non-consensual photography candidly and reinforce that it is a serious crime. Education should include recognizing boundaries and understanding consent. Schools should implement comprehensive programs that address these topics directly, making it clear that these behaviors are unacceptable.
Editor: Thank you, Professor Tsutsumi, for your insights on this critical issue. It is indeed evident that more needs to be done to combat non-consensual photography in Japan, particularly in our schools.
Sakurai Tsutsumi: Thank you for highlighting this vital issue. It’s crucial that we work together to foster a safer environment for our children and young adults.
Editor: This discussion has been enlightening. We hope that our readers can use this facts to advocate for change in their communities.
