Japan gets tough against teachers’ sexual misconduct, voyeurism after arrests
Sexual offences involving mostly male teachers targeting students remain high despite stricter rules against the menace in recent years
A law aimed at preventing sexual misconduct in schools took effect in 2022, but the offences prompted further revisions.
Schools will be required to undergo regular inspections to ensure that cameras are not hidden in classrooms, bathrooms or changing rooms, and that teachers understand they are prohibited from photographing students on personal smartphones.
“The law to protect students from sexual harassment by teachers has been in place for a couple of years, and we are seeing more teachers being punished for their actions,” said Chisato Kitanaka, an associate professor of sociology at Hiroshima University and a government adviser on gender issues.
In the 2024 financial year, 281 teachers and staff from kindergartens to senior high schools were disciplined for sexual offences, according to the latest available official data. While the figure was a decline from a record high of 320 cases the previous year, such incidents are still a cause for concern.