In Japan, it might soon be illegal to take sexually exploitative photos of others without permission
- Until now, those caught taking photos without the subject’s consent fell under purview of prefectural anti-disturbance laws, which vary across regions
- Under the new law, violators would face jail term of up to three years or a fine of up to 3 million yen (US$22,000)
A bill has been submitted to an ongoing session in the Japanese Diet targeting a crackdown on people who take surreptitious photographs, a move that would make it illegal nationwide to snap voyeuristic images of a sexually exploitative nature.
While the issue is particularly serious for young athletes targeted by people engaging in “sneak photography” at fields and courts around the nation, the situation remains unresolved as proving sexual or malicious intent in photos taken of athletes competing in sporting attire is difficult.
At a symposium on April 15, lawyers working on the issue and former national volleyball team member Kana Oyama, among others, stressed the need for legislation, saying it is a “remaining issue” for sneak photography, especially for competitive athletes.
“You cannot say that just because photos are taken of someone who’s clothed that it isn’t a problem,” said lawyer Yoji Kudo. “We shouldn’t give up on legal controls simply because it is difficult to draw a line of distinction.”
Kudo spoke of his determination to have clear legislation after pointing out the damage caused when images of athletes’ bodies are posted and proliferated on the internet.
He gave examples of other countries where clandestine photography is punishable by law.
Oyama says she first learned the reality of photo voyeurism in junior high school when, while changing out of her uniform at a venue with no locker room, her coach warned that photos of her were being snapped.