Japan: Japan has raised the age of consent from 13 to 16 years old, joining the ranks of countries with higher minimum ages for sexual activity. Lawmakers passed key reforms to sex crime legislation, including provisions to clarify rape prosecution requirements and criminalise voyeurism. The unanimous vote in the parliament’s upper house led to the adoption of a new bill that marks a crucial update to Japan’s outdated laws on sexual offences.

Prior to this reform, Japan had maintained an age of consent of 13 since 1907, considering children aged 13 and above capable of giving consent. However, regional ordinances in various parts of the country imposed restrictions on engaging in “lewd” acts with minors, effectively raising the age of consent to 18 in those areas. The new law introduces exemptions from prosecution for teen couples with a five-year age difference, provided both partners are over 13.

This latest reform comes after Japan revised its criminal code on sexual offences in 2017 for the first time in over a century. However, critics argued that the previous reforms were insufficient, and a series of acquittals in rape cases in 2019 sparked nationwide rallies calling for stronger measures.

The bill includes a comprehensive list of examples under which rape prosecutions can be pursued. These instances encompass victims being under the influence of alcohol or drugs, experiencing fear, or perpetrators exploiting their social status.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new offence called “visitation request offence,” targeting individuals who use intimidation, seduction, or financial incentives to coerce children under 16 into meeting for sexual purposes. Offenders of this crime will face penalties of up to one year in prison or a fine of $3,500, as outlined by the justice ministry.

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