Sex Tourism Rises in Marital Shame of Japan
A wave of "sex tourism" is washing over Japan, driven by a weakening currency and rising poverty, forcing young women into the sex industry for survival. Yoshihide Tanaka, secretary general of the Youth Defense Liaison Council (Seiboren), paints a stark picture of the situation, stating, “Japan is becoming a poor country.”
Tanaka highlights a disturbing trend: an influx of foreign men, particularly those from China, seeking sexual services. Since the easing of COVID-19 travel restrictions, parks like Okubo Park have become hotspots for prostitution. Young women, desperate for income, congregate there, waiting for "customers" even before sunset.
“We are seeing a huge increase in the number of men from abroad coming from many countries, including white people, black people, and Asians. But the largest dimension is Chinese men,” Tanaka says.
This surge in foreign buyers coincides with the dire circumstances faced by many Japanese teenagers and women in their early twenties. Faced with mounting financial burdens, they see the "sex industry" as their only option for making ends meet. However, Tanaka emphasizes the alarming rise in violence accompanying this trend.
"Rua", a pseudonym used by a 19-year old who began offering illicit sexual services in Okubo Park, exemplifies this tragic reality. After leaving home in February 2023, Rua sought work as a waitress. However, insurmountable debt to her lodgings forced her down a darker path. Since April, she has been working in the park. "Usually, I receive five guests a day, but on the weekend, the number is doubled," she shares. Confirming Tanaka’s observations, Rua notes the diverse clientele, with about half being foreigners: "One is British. But people from Taiwan, China, and Hong Kong are the people who come regularly."
The situation has reached a point where Japanese lawmakers are calling for regulation of prostitution. Kazunori Yamanoi, a member of parliament from the Constitutional Democratic Party, Japan’s main opposition, believes the issue has international implications.
He asserts, “The truth is that Japan has become a country where foreign men find young women and buy sexual services.” Yamanoi underscores the damage to Japan’s image, stating, “This is not just a domestic issue. But it has damaged the image of Japanese women in the international community.”
A police crackdown on prostitution in Okubo Park in 2023 resulted in 140 women being charged, with approximately 80% under 20 years old.
The vulnerability of sex workers extends beyond sexually transmitted diseases. They are at risk of physical harm and exploitation. While buying and selling sex is illegal in Japan, the law only applies to sexual intercourse. Other services remain legal.
Punishment for sex trafficking is limited, with a maximum six-month jail sentence and a fine of about $2,200, punishing only female sellers, not male buyers.
The crisis in Japan echoes conversations occurring worldwide. As economic pressures intensify, vulnerable populations become increasingly susceptible to exploitation. The debate around sex work, regulation, and the need for social safety nets is sure to continue, both in Japan and on a global scale.
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2024-12-02 02:57:00
## Sex Tourism Rises in the Shadow of Japan’s marital Shame
**World Today News exclusive interview with Yoshihide Tanaka, Secretary General of the Youth Defense Liaison Council (Seiboren)**
**(Tokyo, Japan) -** A chilling trend is gripping the shores of Japan – a surge in “sex tourism” driven by a weakening yen and a growing chasm of poverty. Young women, increasingly vulnerable in a society grappling with economic hardship, are being drawn into the depths of the sex industry for survival.
Yoshihide Tanaka, Secretary General of the Youth Defense Liaison Council (Seiboren), a leading institution fighting against sexual exploitation, paints a stark picture of this burgeoning crisis.
**WTN:** Mr.Tanaka, thank you for speaking to us today. Can you elaborate on this alarming increase in “sex tourism” in Japan? What are the key factors driving this trend?
**Tanaka:** The current economic climate in Japan is pushing manny individuals, especially young women, to desperate measures. The weakening yen, coupled with stagnant wages and rising living costs, leaves many struggling to make ends meet.
Add to this the pervasive societal pressure on women, especially regarding marriage and domestic expectations, and you have a recipe for disaster.Many young women feel trapped, lacking viable economic alternatives and facing societal stigma for choosing a life outside the traditional mold.
**WTN:** How is poverty specifically contributing to this rise in sex tourism?
**Tanaka:**
Poverty creates a fertile ground for exploitation. When basic needs like food and shelter become unaffordable, some young women find themselves with few options. The allure of quick money, even if it comes with grave risks, can be overwhelming. Not only do they face economic hardship, but the shame associated with poverty can further push them towards seclusion and make seeking help more challenging.
**WTN:** You mentioned “societal pressure” on women. Coudl you elaborate on how these traditional expectations contribute to the problem?
**Tanaka:** Japanese society traditionally places heavy emphasis on marriage and motherhood as the ultimate goals for women. This can create immense pressure, particularly for those who find themselves unable or unwilling to conform.
these women often face marginalization and judgment, making it harder to find secure and dignified employment opportunities. Consequently, they become more vulnerable to exploitation, as they may feel like they have nowhere else to turn.
**WTN:** What are the consequences of this trend for the victims?
**Tanaka:** The consequences are devastating. Sex trafficking and exploitation leave deep scars on individuals – both physically and emotionally. Victims face a high risk of violence,abuse,and sexually transmitted infections.
Moreover, the stigma surrounding sex work can make it near unachievable to reintegrate into society, trapping them in a cycle of exploitation.
**WTN:** What solutions are being proposed to address this growing problem?
**Tanaka:** Combating this crisis requires a multi-pronged approach.
First and foremost, we need to address the root causes – poverty and societal expectations. This means providing economic opportunities for women, dismantling harmful stereotypes, and creating a supportive environment where they feel empowered to make their own choices.
Secondly, we need stricter laws and enforcement against sex trafficking and exploitation. This requires international cooperation and a commitment to holding perpetrators accountable.
we must offer thorough support to victims, helping them access healthcare, counseling, and education to rebuild their lives.
**WTN:** Mr. Tanaka, thank you for shedding light on this pressing issue. Your insights are invaluable as we work towards a future where every individual in Japan, irrespective of their circumstances, can live with dignity and safety.
