Megumi Okano wants Japan to undergo change (Photo: BBC News)
Metropolis Desk-
A historic bill to overhaul sexual harassment legislation is being discussed in the Japanese parliament. The country has only had two such amendments in the past century if this law is approved.
Although there are other modifications in the bill, the definition of rape is changed from “forced sexual intercourse” to “non-consensual sexual intercourse,” which is the biggest and most important change.
According to current Japanese legislation, rape is defined as any sexual activity or indecent act that is carried out under duress, through assault or intimidation, or by taking advantage of the victim’s “unconsciousness or incapacity to resist.”
This concept contradicts the definitions used in many other nations, which describe rape as any non-consensual sexual activity.
Activists contend that Japan’s strict definition has discouraged victims from coming forward with information about these crimes by encouraging judges and prosecutors to use even stricter interpretations of the law, creating an impossible standard for justice, and encouraging a culture of suspicion. Eight instances where it is impossible for victims to “form, express, or fulfill an intention not to consent” are specifically listed in the new law as part of the redefining of rape.
Among them are circumstances in which the victim is intoxicated or drugged, is being threatened or intimidated, or both. In a different example of power abuse, the victim is ‘worried’ that they would suffer if they do not obey.
Because the criteria are written ambiguously, certain rights organizations have demanded that they be more specifically specified. Others suggested extending the statute of limitations and adding extra safeguards for young victims.
However, if adopted, the revisions would represent a win for those who have long fought for change.
Source – BBC News
