Child Protection System in Japan

Abstract

Cases of child abuse often worsen or recur, since it is hard for children to report or escape abuse situations on their own. Because experiences of childhood abuse can persist as physical and emotional threats throughout an individual’s life course, efforts must be made to keep the issue of child abuse at the forefront of public and policy attention. This article examines how child abuse is addressed in Japan, a country with an institutional framework similar to Korea’s, and considers the implications Japan’s practices may hold for Korea. Among the lessons drawn is that, for an effective response to child abuse, the government should both support the entities involved in the response system and oversee the quality of services they provide. Also crucial is strengthening collaboration with stakeholder organizations. In addition, to proactively prevent child abuse, current and prospective guardians must be made subject to education, support, and oversight.