#Japan #Tokyo #Child Protection #Certification Marks #Children’s Safety

Introduction

The Japanese Child and Family Agency is set to implement the "Child Sexual Violence Prevention Law" on December 25, 2026. Aimed at enhancing safety, this law introduces two significant marks: the "Certified Business Mark" for businesses that meet national standards, and the "Statutory Business Mark" for schools and authorized childcare facilities. These markers will help create a secure environment in which children and their guardians can confidently access educational and childcare services in their communities.

Purpose of the Marks

These newly established marks will be displayed by various organizations, including schools, licensed daycare centers, tutoring services, sports clubs, and after-school programs that provide care for children. The primary goal is to make clear that these establishments are actively engaged in preventing sexual violence against children while protecting their physical and mental well-being.

Design of the Marks

The inspiration for these marks comes from the watchful "owl," symbolizing vigilance over children's safety. Named "Koma-Morou," the design features large black eyes that signify a strong commitment to watching over children and antenna-like elements resembling a protective stance against potential threats. The colors chosen aim to be comforting and recognizable, with a warm orange base complemented by blue and pink backgrounds to enhance visibility and approachability.

Community Involvement in Design

In October, the Child and Family Agency opened discussions with children regarding the design of the marks through the "Child and Youth Opinion Plus" initiative. Feedback from children during these discussions highlighted the need for bright, reassuring colors and relatable characters. These insights were crucial in shaping the final design, ensuring it resonates with both children and their parents.

Types of Marks

The introduced marks fall into two categories: the "Certified Business Mark" on the left, which can be displayed by certified businesses meeting established criteria, and the "Statutory Business Mark" on the right, designated for facilities bound by legal obligations. Only those facilities and entities that comply with the legal stipulations will be permitted to display these marks. This visibility encourages children and their families to recognize the measures being taken to protect children from sexual violence, promoting a culture of safety and awareness.

Minister's Statement

According to Daisuke Akikawa, Minister of the Child and Family Agency, safeguarding children from sexual violence requires collective understanding and cooperation from all adults interacting with them. It's essential for adults who engage daily with children to be attentive, to listen to their voices, and to establish protective measures in case of emergencies. Through this initiative, the Minister emphasizes the importance of fostering a society where every individual—parents, educators, and anyone interacting with children—takes action towards creating a secure environment for them.

Understanding the Child Sexual Violence Prevention Law

The Child Sexual Violence Prevention Law, which is set to be implemented in December 2026, will play an integral role in preventing sexual violence in environments providing education and care to children, including schools, daycare centers, tutoring facilities, and sports clubs. Once enacted, this law will enforce strict measures on these establishments, including verifying staff backgrounds for sexual offenses, setting up support systems, investigating allegations of abuse, and providing training to staff about prevention strategies.

Conclusion

By displaying the "Koma-Morou" mark, establishments will signify their commitment to adequately protecting children from sexual violence, thereby fostering trust among families. The introduction of these marks aims to instill a collective consciousness throughout society, promoting the idea that protecting children is a shared responsibility among all. As these marks become more recognized within communities, the hope is to encourage a widespread cultural shift towards safeguarding the welfare of children everywhere.