Gender-Based Violence in Contemporary Japan: The Case Study on Examples of DV in International Marriages

Abstract

Gender equality is a highly discussed topic to some extent. However, when it comes to domestic violence (DV), gender-based violence (GBV), or any form of abuse, society, as well as its head, represented by the government and other authorities, is very reluctant to discuss these issues openly. Especially when international migrants and local citizens are involved. Japan is not an exception. Consequently, the primary goal of this study was to understand the background and the situation regarding the horrific reality of domestic violence statistics. This manuscript, illustrating the nationwide statistics, primarily focuses on the county's international household, highlighting measures, national programs, and the steps Japan is(was) taking to stop, prevent, and/or decrease this issue. Currently (the spread of COVID-19 highlighted how critical the situation is), Japan is becoming even more intolerant of this problem. The country is trying to provide prevention measures and show the response of the government and/or society to this issue. Highlight the problem of GBV and DV in various studies. It is needed to underline that recently some significant developments have been witnessed in the field: programs of prevention, protection, and elimination efforts. However, as this study illustrated, Japan is nowhere close to illuminating, discussing, and finding solutions to the issue of DV, GBV, and abuse in international marriages. Hence, the main objective of this work was to highlight and investigate this topic. The fieldwork and interview data analysis, as well as historical context analysis, data analysis, and data interpretation research methods, were implied. This study has once again highlighted the need to investigate this topic and put strategies for preventing and reducing violence in international families.