#Japan #Gender Equality #Plan International #SRHR #Setagaya, Tokyo

Launching SRHR for JAPAN Initiative to Tackle Gender Inequality

On July 30, 2025, the international NGO Plan International will launch the "SRHR for JAPAN" campaign aimed at promoting Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) in Japan. This initiative seeks to address gender disparities, as highlighted by the World Economic Forum's 2025 Gender Gap Index, where Japan ranks 118th out of 148 countries, placing it last among G7 nations.

Overview of SRHR

SRHR encapsulates the rights of individuals to access accurate information and make autonomous choices regarding their bodies and relationships. It includes the right to education about one's body and sexuality, protection from unintended pregnancies and sexual violence, and freedom in romantic choices. The campaign aims to ensure that everyone can exercise their rights and make informed decisions about their lives.

The SRHR for JAPAN initiative will focus on tackling issues through three key areas: systems, education, and culture. By collaborating with various stakeholders, the campaign intends to raise awareness about the importance of SRHR within society and advocate for its active promotion.

Challenges Facing SRHR in Japan

Currently, Japan faces significant challenges in realizing SRHR, resulting in social disparities and discrimination, particularly affecting women and LGBTQ+ individuals. Many still find it difficult to make free choices regarding their bodies and lifestyles due to persistent societal prejudice. Additionally, the country is struggling with inadequate responses to sexual violence, as many victims lack support and may find it hard to voice their experiences. Moreover, access to medical services regarding contraception, emergency contraception, and sexual health remains limited due to economic and geographic factors.

The lack of comprehensive sexual education and healthcare services exacerbates risks of unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections, leading to a vicious cycle that undermines educational opportunities and job security for vulnerable groups.

Survey Overview

To support the campaign's objectives, a groundbreaking survey titled "SRHR White Paper 2025" was conducted from April 25 to 28, 2025, targeting 10,000 individuals aged 15-64 across Japan. The survey was crafted to assess public awareness and attitudes toward SRHR, focusing particularly on younger generations.

Key Facts About the Survey:

• - Survey Period: April 25-28, 2025
• - Method: Online survey
• - Focus Group: Males and females aged 15-64, with an emphasis on youth

The survey results will help paint a clearer picture of how SRHR is perceived in Japan and identify gaps in understanding and respect for these essential rights.

Survey Highlights

• - SRHR Awareness: Only 25% of respondents are aware of SRHR, with only 9% having a clear understanding, showing that youth tend to be more knowledgeable.
• - Gaps in Importance vs. Respect: There exists a significant gap between how important individuals believe SRHR is and how much they feel it is respected in society.
• - Data Breakdown by Gender and Age: Women, especially those in their 30s to 50s, rated the importance of reproductive rights highly, while men demonstrated a lesser sense of urgency regarding important SRHR aspects.

The survey results also revealed that while knowledge about sexual consent is recognized by 85% of respondents, actual learning experiences remain low at just 18%.

Looking to the Future

From 2025 to 2028, the SRHR for JAPAN campaign will work towards ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to understand their bodies and minds and simultaneously advocate for a society where individuals can live authentically and with mutual respect. The initiative will strive to fill the gaps highlighted by the survey, pushing for comprehensive education that respects gender rights and promotes equal opportunities for all.

Conclusion

The campaign represents a turning point in the fight for gender equality and SRHR in Japan. By addressing key societal issues surrounding sexual health and rights, it works towards a future where everyone can fully exercise their rights and make informed choices about their lives. Join us in this vital campaign as we strive for a fair and just society for all citizens.

About Plan International

Plan International is an international NGO dedicated to achieving an equal and just world, working in over 80 countries to eliminate disparities for children and young individuals. With local partners and community members, it focuses on addressing the root causes of inequality and empowering individuals to overcome challenges and adversity.

For more information, visit the SRHR for JAPAN website: SRHR for JAPAN