A recent report has unveiled a concerning trend of harassment, including sexual and other forms, within Japan’s self-defence forces (SDF). This report sheds light on systemic abuse and a lack of effective response mechanisms. The study was conducted by a panel of experts formed in response to a notable case in 2022. The findings show that there have been 1,325 instances of harassment targeting both men and women, with more than 60% of victims choosing not to report the incidents, citing mistrust or fear of retaliation.
Around 80% of the reported cases involve an abuse of power, and sexual harassment accounts for approximately 12% of the cases. Notably, there were also instances of maternity harassment directed at women taking maternity leave. The report highlights a lack of confidence in how the SDF and defence ministry handle complaints, and some victims express concerns about being targeted as whistleblowers.
The investigation was triggered by allegations from a former SDF member, Rina Gonoi, who claimed to have experienced repeated assaults by multiple servicemen, leading to her departure from the military. Initially, the defence ministry dismissed her case due to insufficient evidence. However, Gonoi’s public demand for a reinvestigation prompted an acknowledgment of her mistreatment, apologies, and disciplinary action against the perpetrators.
The report recommends that the SDF and ministry raise awareness about harassment and assess how complaints are handled by supervisory officials. It emphasizes the importance of cultivating a culture of trust and accountability within the military. In response, the defence ministry has committed to acting on the report’s recommendations to address harassment.
Gonoi’s bravery in coming forward encouraged other SDF soldiers to share their experiences, with some even filing damages claims against the government for alleged cover-ups or mishandling. The revelations underscore the urgent need to address harassment and promote a safe and respectful environment within Japan’s armed forces.