An introduction to Human Trafficking in Japan

There is a common misconception that slavery ended years ago. However, human trafficking is a form of a modern day slavery and still exists today.

• Recognize that modern day slavery still exists today.
• Define “human trafficking.”
• Know the 3 core elements of human trafficking according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.
• Explain different types of human trafficking.
• Understand the magnitude of the problem.

Japan is experiencing an extreme labor shortage, making it an attractive destination for foreign migrant workers. Unfortunately, traffickers are eager to exploit the vulnerability of these workers.

• Explain how foreign workers are exploited through the Technical Intern Training Program
• Explain how foreign students are exploited through language schools

Prostitution is technically illegal in Japan, but there are many loopholes leading to a very active sex industry. Learn more about the common ways in which vulnerable women are targeted for commercial sexual exploitation.

• Understand how vulnerable mothers from South East Asia are targeted for exploitation
• Explain some of the techniques that traffickers are using to obtain visas for victims
• Explain how modeling scouts target young women to exploit them for pornography
• Recognize how Japanese and foreign men and women are exploited for prostitution at host clubs/bars

Thousands of children in Japan are being exploited for child sexual abuse images and commercial sex. This course provides an introduction into the main forms of child trafficking happening in plain sight in Japan.

• Explain how JK businesses are exploiting children for prostitution.
• Describe how children are exploited for prostitution through compensated dating.
• Understand some of the tactics used by “Romeo Pimp” traffickers to lure their victims into sex trafficking.
• Know the definition of child sexual abuse material.