Maurice SkinnerThe issue of orphans and orphanages is not something new to Japan. Currently, there are approximately 39,000 children in orphanages or similar institutions across the country who have no proper guardians, come from abusive families, or have parents who are unfortunately unfit for childcare.
Furthermore, compared to western countries, there is a larger concern within Japanese culture regarding child adoption. This leads to further questions regarding the adoption rate of children, why such a stigma exists, and what groups and organizations are doing in order to help Japan’s orphaned youth.
Complications when adopting in Japan
Compared to western countries, adoption of children in Japan is relatively rare. This may be due to how it is culturally important to have your own children. When speaking with many Japanese nationals, it becomes clear that most would not even consider the idea of adopting a child. They want to have a child of their own. Although this may hold true in other parts of the world, this sediment might run a little deeper in Japan.
Moreover, it may be interesting to know that Japan has one of the highest adoption rates in the world. However, this rate is primarily skewed due to the age group being adopted. Adult males in their 20s and 30s account for 98% of the total adoptions in Japan. This is usually done for businesses leaders that have no biological or suitable heir to take over once they have stepped down. The other 2% of adoptions around Japan only account for roughly 300 adoptions annually. It’s hard to imagine that out of 39,000 children in the orphan system in and around Japan, only a select few are able to find caring homes.
Social stigma to adopting in Japan is not the only issue preventing families from bringing a child into their home. Another factor to is that biological parents still have a say in what happens to their child.
What might not be understood is that many children living or residing in orphanages in Japan still have ties with their biological parents. These parents often effectively remain legal guardians of their child, and have a final say as to whether the children are able to be adopted into another family. Although many of these children are institutionalized for many years, many parents in Japan will not allow for the adoption of their own children. One of the primary reasons they don’t want to give up prime guardianship of their child. Many of them might feel like it will be possible to care for their child or children in the future. Unfortunately, this is not always the case.
The Foster Care system in Japan
There is also a need for improvement in Japan’s foster care system. According to Japan’s Minister of Health, Labor, and Welfare, approximately 12% of the children without stable homes are put into foster care. This percentage is lowest compared to other countries in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), such as Australia, Korea, and the U.S.
One theory as to why children in Japan are rarely placed into foster care is that officials might be concerned that the child or children might become too attached to the foster family, which might make future separation difficult. Whether this may be the case or not, most experts believe that placing children in foster care helps them form attachments with the next foster family more easily.
Steps to move Japan in the right direction
There are a number of issues and flaws in children in foster care and institutions in Japan. However, many groups are now advocating for better policies to secure a more stable future for Japan’s orphans.
One such group is the Japan Children Support Association. It is not only promoting foster care, but also providing information to new and expectant parents. The group’s website also provides information on the types of adoption and how to adopt a child. In addition, those who browse the website also have the chance to send donations toward a worthy cause.
Another progress towards helping children in need came from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Healthcare; accordingly, in 2017 the said ministry amended the Child Welfare Act, which aims to find a home for a third of these children by 2029.
Getting involved through volunteering
Although many of these children remain in foster care around the country, there are opportunities for adults and students alike to volunteer and get involved within the lives of orphans around Japan. Many local orphanages are open to events or activities for children. Another advantage of being able to volunteer is that many foreigners are also able to have an opportunity to become engaged in a side of Japanese society to which not many Japanese nationals are even exposed.
One site worth checking out is the Tokyo Voluntary Action Center. This organization hosts a number of events for individuals interested in volunteer work. Although it may not seem as though there are opportunities in order to volunteer at orphanages on their site, the staff would also be able to point willing volunteers in the right direction. One of the best ideas would be to personally contact a local orphanage in order to see if it is possible to set up an event or time to volunteer with the children. The volunteer work can be anything from teaching English, heading to an aquarium or simply playing games.
In conclusion
The situation for Japanese youth without homes or stable families is now being pushed further into the spotlight. Although children in Japanese foster care and institutions are often overlooked, this is set to change in the future thanks to NGOs, the Japanese government and individuals willing to help improve the lives of those in need of a helping hand.
