The power of collective action: raising Japan’s age of consent from 13 to 16

On March 14, the Japanese government approved a bill to amend a longstanding regulation, raising Japan’s age of consent from 13 to 16. Remarkably, this law had remained unchanged for over a century.

The bill also includes revisions to violations and threats, extensions to the statute of limitations, and new provisions regarding the punishment for child grooming. It is expected that most of these changes will be enacted and enforced by the Japanese government this summer.

The question arises: Why did the cabinet decide to deliberate on the matter seriously now, although they have been underrating it for countless years? The answer lies in the persistent belief and tireless efforts of many citizens.

Empowering survivors for social wellbeing

Human Rights Now, an NGO dedicated to addressing human rights violations against women and girls, has been instrumental in pushing for change. The organization hosts numerous educational webinars and online workshops focused on sexual abuse, rape, and women’s empowerment.

Survivors and their friends have joined these events, determined to reclaim their autonomy. Human Rights Now has also collaborated with other women’s rights NPOs to revise the law, collect signatures, and promote online action with the hashtag: non-consensual sexual intercourse should be a crime.

The organization believes that speaking out is crucial to protect sexually abused women and to ensure that “No means No.”

Amplifying silent voices to bridge the equality gap

All survivors of sexual violence deserve the chance to overcome their fears and reclaim their confidence. This belief drives the women-centered NPO, Spring.

Their One Voice Campaign, aimed at amending the criminal code, has been conducted in the lead-up to these legal changes. The campaign’s video messages have been sent to assembly members and the Ministry of Justice, raising awareness and inspiring action.

In response, some parliament members have listened closely to these voices, advocating for change by sharing these stories in writing and working to shift social norms.

Jun Yamamoto, a representative of Spring, emphasizes that assailants must recognize that sex without consent constitutes a crime, specifically sexual violence. She also argues that it is crucial to understand the ongoing situation in order to identify injustice.

Their collective action made the historical change; raising Japan’s age of consent. Although numerous unresolved and critical issues related to gender equality persist in Japan, positive change is gradually taking place. As long as there is continued solidarity and determination, progress can be made.