Amid foreign sex tourist rise, Japanese government considering outlawing paying for prostitution

A panel of experts in Japan has recommended outlawing both the buyers and sellers of prostitution, citing concerns over the unfairness and ineffectiveness of the current system. Under Japan's Prostitution Prevention Law, only those who "sell" sex are subject to criminal penalties, while those who "buy" it face no legal repercussions as long as they haven't committed other crimes like sexual assault or coercion.

This discrepancy has led to an increase in foreign tourists visiting Japan specifically to engage in sex work, as they're not subject to any legal consequences.

Shinjuku Ward, in Tokyo, has seen a rise in streetwalkers in recent months, particularly near the Kabukicho entertainment district. Social media videos of women waiting for customers in the area have gained international attention, drawing even more visitors to the region. Local citizens' groups have responded by conducting public awareness patrols, warning both locals and tourists that prostitution is illegal.

The expert panel has also suggested raising the penalties for those who sell sex, arguing that the current penalties aren't strong enough to deter the practice. However, they acknowledge that harsher penalties could push the industry further underground, posing greater risks for workers who might be unwilling to report violent encounters with clients or pimps.

The panel aims to finalize its report next month, potentially leading to a new law criminalizing paying for sex as early as September when the next session of the Japanese Diet begins.