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Understanding Workplace Harassment in Japan: Insights from a New Survey

Overview of the Survey

A recent study conducted by the CREA Human Resource Development Association, based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has shed light on the current state of harassment consultation systems in Japanese workplaces. The survey targeted 500 employees and was conducted on November 12, 2025. The results have sparked discussions on the disparity between having established systems and the cultural barriers that still exist, making it difficult for employees to seek help when needed.

Key Findings

The survey revealed that only 39.8% of respondents were aware that their workplace had a harassment consultation desk. This figure suggests that, while the structures may be in place, their recognition and efficacy are far from optimal. Furthermore, a staggering 56% of participants reported feeling that it is difficult to consult about harassment issues, highlighting a significant psychological barrier despite the establishment of formal systems.

Detailed Results

1. Do you have a harassment consultation desk at your workplace?
- Yes: 39.8%
- No: 44.2%
- Unsure: 16.0%
This illustrates that despite the introduction of mandatory consultation desks by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, only two-fifths of workers are aware of their existence.

2. Do you feel that there's a conducive atmosphere to report issues?
- Yes: 12.4%
- Mostly: 31.8%
- Not really: 35.6%
- Not at all: 20.2%
A combined 55.8% of participants indicated that they feel hesitant to report incidents, showing a significant lack of psychological safety even where systems exist.

3. If you witness harassment, who would you first consult?
- Supervisor: 22.2%
- Colleague/Friends: 28.2%
- Internal Desk: 11.2%
- External Desk: 10.6%
- No one: 26.8%
- Others: 0.4%
The high percentage of those who chose not to consult anyone illustrates a worrying trend of potential harassment being left unaddressed.

Background of the Survey

The renewed focus on human capital disclosure as a corporate responsibility has positioned harassment prevention as a critical management issue. However, many organizations view the establishment of consultation desks as the end goal rather than part of an ongoing effort to enhance workplace culture. Without functional avenues for reporting, harassment can become a hidden risk that compounds silently beneath the surface. This survey specifically aims to reveal the existing gap between the establishment of systems and the cultural acceptance of reporting mechanisms.

About CREA Human Resource Development Association

Founded in 2023 as a subsidiary of Company SA, CREA specializes in training and qualifications related to employment, labor, and harassment prevention. Their focus is on protecting workers and their families through clean employment practices and providing practical educational experiences. Over 650 professionals have obtained the harassment and labor management qualification, "Employment Clean Planner," and are actively engaging in various sectors including corporate, governmental, and educational fields. Official Website