In a significant legal reform, Japan's parliament has elevated the age of sexual consent from 13 to 16. This move modernizes a law that had remained unaltered for over a century and was considered one of the lowest globally. The change is a key component of a broader overhaul of the nation's sexual crime legislation, reflecting a growing demand for enhanced protection of children and women.

Alongside the age of consent reform, parliament also passed a new law aimed at raising awareness of LGBTQ+ issues. However, this separate legislation has drawn criticism from activists who argue it falls short of guaranteeing equal rights for sexual minorities.

Historically, Japan has been slow to implement reforms that offer stronger safeguards for victims of sexual crimes and stricter penalties for perpetrators. This hesitancy is attributed in part to the long-standing male dominance within the legislative and judicial branches. Public outcry following a series of acquittals in sexual abuse cases, coupled with increasing instances of non-consensual sexual imagery of women and girls, propelled the recent revisions.

The updated laws now explicitly define sexual intercourse with anyone under 16 as rape. They also introduce the concept of "consentless sex crimes," encompassing eight specific scenarios that constitute forced sexual intercourse. These scenarios include situations involving alcohol or drug influence, fear, or intimidation. Furthermore, the creation, dissemination, and possession of non-consensual sexually exploitative images are now prohibited.

The statute of limitations for such crimes has been extended to 10 years for consentless sexual intercourse, with a maximum prison sentence of 15 years. "Photo voyeurism" can now result in up to three years of imprisonment.

A pivotal case in Nagoya, where a father accused of raping his 19-year-old daughter was acquitted due to the daughter's perceived lack of forceful resistance despite not consenting, became a catalyst for change. The controversial verdict sparked widespread protests across the country, contributing to the momentum for legislative reform.

While the new LGBTQ+ law seeks to promote understanding, activists have voiced concerns that last-minute alterations, seemingly influenced by opponents of transgender rights, may actually threaten the community rather than fostering equality. Japan remains the sole G7 nation without legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals. Although public support for same-sex marriage and related rights is growing, significant resistance persists within the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, known for its conservative stance and reluctance to champion gender equality and sexual diversity.

The final version of the law denounces "unjust discrimination" but stops short of explicitly banning it. The stipulation that conditions should be created for all citizens to "live with peace of mind" has been interpreted by activists as prioritizing the concerns of those opposed to equal rights over the rights of sexual minorities themselves.

Critics like Minori Tokieda, a transgender woman, express apprehension that the law, rather than addressing the ordeals faced by the LGBTQ+ community, seems to cater to those who perpetuate their suffering. This approach, she argues, creates a sense that the very existence of sexual minorities is perceived as a threat to public safety.