As Japan advances its military expansion, it faces challenges in attracting women to its Self-Defence Forces (SDF), despite pledges from policymakers to actively recruit them. A recent surge in sexual harassment cases has led to a 12% decline in women applying to join the SDF, reversing previous years of growth. Victims cite a culture of harassment as a deterrent to potential recruits.
Progress in addressing these issues has been slow, with no concrete plans made nine months after the defence ministry pledged action. A key recommendation from an independent panel to establish a national system for reviewing anti-harassment training standards remains unimplemented. This lack of action perpetuates cultural problems within the institution, as highlighted in an August report from a government-appointed panel.
Makoto Tadaki, head of the panel, criticized certain training sessions for inadequately addressing the severity of the situation. A servicewoman suing the government over an alleged harassment incident echoed these concerns, stating that the education she received had been ineffective.
As Japan faces threats from neighboring countries like China, North Korea, and Russia, while also grappling with its wartime history, calls to address harassment and increase female representation in the military are becoming more urgent. Despite these challenges, women make up only 9% of military personnel in Japan, compared to 17% in the United States.
The defence ministry emphasizes a zero-tolerance policy towards harassment, acknowledging its impact on trust within the SDF. Efforts to improve training include hosting prevention lectures, adopting discussion-based sessions, and planning to engage specialists to review protocols. However, the ministry has not indicated whether it will implement the panel's recommendation to centralize oversight of training.
Sexual harassment within the SDF gained attention after former soldier Rina Gonoi went public with allegations of assault. A subsequent survey uncovered over 170 alleged harassment incidents within the SDF. One victim, an Okinawa-based servicewoman, accused a senior of making lewd remarks in 2013 and was publicly named in harassment training materials in 2014, though the alleged perpetrator was not identified.
As Japan addresses these challenges, addressing harassment and increasing female representation in the military remain crucial for fostering inclusivity within the SDF.