Creating Safe Spaces for Youth: A Unique Initiative in Nagoya
As Japan’s legislation changes, particularly the revised Entertainment Business Control Law implemented on June 28, 2025, there are rising hopes for the protection of minors from harmful environments and late-night outings. However, enhancing regulations alone may not fundamentally solve the issues of isolation and unhealthy dependencies prevalent among young people.
In light of this, the National Child Welfare Center has been establishing a platform for children and young adults since 2012, allowing them to create supportive and ‘healthy dependency’ relationships among themselves. This summer, the center will open its doors to the public on select Saturdays, inviting individuals to join in building connections that contribute to a safer society.
Event Details
- - Dates: August 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30, 2025 (Every Saturday)
- - Time: 18:00 to 21:00
- - Location: Nagoya Station West Exit Plaza
This initiative will see participation from local young people and university faculty from the Tokai region, aiming to foster dialogue among attendees.
The Importance of Community Engagement to Prevent Delinquency and Suicide
During summer vacations, while children and young adults enjoy increased freedom, they also face higher risks of crime, delinquency, and troubles through social media. Furthermore, there is a notable rise in suicide rates when schools resume, highlighting the urgent need for accessible spaces beyond traditional consultation services offered by schools and local governments.
The uniqueness of our community platform includes:
- - Open participation for individuals of all ages, genders, and abilities.
- - An emphasis on building respectful relationships without a focus on direct problem-solving.
- - Active involvement of youth in operations and outreach.
- - The use of engaging tactics like character costumes to create a welcoming atmosphere conducive to conversation.
To date, over 26,000 young individuals have participated in this initiative, bringing together participants from various backgrounds, even including street residents in their 60s. Through everyday interactions, many cases of isolation, delinquency, and suicidal tendencies have been effectively mitigated.
Supporting Healthy Dependencies within Society
Our community space has no prerequisites for participation or qualifications. We aim to highlight the importance of everyday interactions that support one another instead of solely relying on formal ‘consultations.’ This summer is marked as the “Month of Strengthening Prevention Against Isolation and Delinquency,” and we warmly welcome media representatives, local residents, and supporters to visit, cover, and engage in this initiative.
Various individuals with diverse backgrounds actively partake in this endeavor, each contributing to a supportive community.
Contact Information
National Child Welfare Center
Official Website
[Email] kodofc@gmail.com
[Phone] 052-756-3399
References
Through collaboration with children and youth, the National Child Welfare Center continuously strives to expand ‘spaces of engagement’ where everyone can feel safe and supported.