Japan: 78 suspected child abuse cases linked to religion

As many as 78 suspected child abuse cases were found to be linked to religion in Japan, a new survey has revealed. Consultation centres were set up by the local governments in Japan which were apprised of a total of 78 cases suspected to be religion-related child abuse.

These abuses have reportedly between 2017 and 2022. In the local governments, 12 said they experienced uncertainties over how to deal with the chronic cases,” with many pointing to confusion and dilemma involving the freedom to practice religion guaranteed by the Japanese Constitution.

The problems relating to second-generation followers of religion, who grew up with parents who were already practicing religion in an active way, have gained public attention. The Japanese government is expected to provide support and lay out guidelines for dealing with such child abuse cases.