Groundbreaking Scheme to Promote Enrollment in Workers' Compensation for Entertainment Professionals

New Workers' Compensation Initiative for Entertainment Professionals

The entertainment industry has been among the hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, with countless performances and events canceled and many artists, performers, and staff left without work. Due to their employment conditions, a significant number of these individuals were excluded from key social safety nets such as workers' compensation and unemployment benefits. Various surveys have underscored these challenges that highlight the inadequacies of support systems for those in the entertainment sector.

Founding of the Japan Performing Arts Welfare Foundation

To improve the situation, four organizations, including the Japan Council of Performers, came together to establish the Japan Performing Arts Welfare Foundation in July 2025. This foundation represents a collaborative effort between those who produce performances and the artists and staff involved. It aims to create a comprehensive welfare platform designed to address the intricate issues faced by professionals within the performing arts sector, including workforce shortages, harassment prevention, and the preservation of diverse artistic expressions.

Launch of Workers' Compensation Enrollment

Starting December 15, 2025, the Japan Performing Arts Welfare Foundation will introduce special enrollment for workers' compensation insurance, establishing the Workers' Compensation Center under its umbrella. This initiative will allow individual performing artists, staff, and content producers to apply for coverage irrespective of their membership status in affiliated organizations. Enrollment procedures will prioritize accessibility, removing financial barriers that previously impeded participation in workers' compensation insurance.

Understanding Workers' Compensation

Workers' compensation serves as a protective mechanism for individuals affected by work-related injuries or illnesses. Generally, employees are covered under mandatory enrollment by their employer. However, many performing artists and creatives, operating as independent contractors, do not fall under this category, making them ineligible for such insurance benefits. Fortunately, a special enrollment provision established in April 2021 now includes those in the entertainment sector, though challenges persist with awareness and irregular working schedules making it difficult for many to take the necessary steps to enroll.

Efforts by the Japan Council of Performers

Since 2022, the Japan Council of Performers has led research into social security provisions for artists, collaborating with various organizations to explore the needs of these professionals. The inferred conclusions highlighted the necessity for collective efforts across industry bodies to pave the way for the Japan Performing Arts Welfare Foundation. This newly formed organization aims to reduce the cost burden on individuals enrolling in workers' compensation insurance while amplifying awareness and facilitating access.

In light of this, a public symposium titled "Social Security for Artists: What the Cultural Sector Needs Right Now" will be organized on December 12, 2025, to discuss these important topics and promote understanding within the community.

Looking Forward

This groundbreaking initiative symbolizes a significant shift toward securing welfare for those involved in the arts, fostering an environment where artists and entertainers can pursue their passions with greater peace of mind. By lowering fees and organizing collective support through member contributions, the foundation not only addresses immediate concerns but also sets a foundation for sustained legacy and innovation within the entertainment industry.

For further inquiries:

Japan Performing Arts Welfare Foundation

163-1466 Tokyo, Shinjuku, Nishi-Shinjuku 3-20-2 Tokyo Opera City Tower 11F

Phone: 03-6258-2800 (Weekdays 10 AM - 6 PM)

Website

Conclusion

The successful implementation of this workers' compensation program is expected to empower many artists and their crews, ensuring their hard work and creativity are protected. Through the collaborative efforts of various organizations, the foundation promises to create a safety net that has long been needed in the entertainment sector.