In a decisive move to keep athletes safe, more than half of Japan’s sports authorities have introduced measures aimed at combating the non-consensual holding and distribution of sexual materials. image. This was confirmed by a recent survey conducted by the Japanese Sports Agency.
On Wednesday, the sports community marked the fourth anniversary of a collective statement from the Japanese Olympic Committee and seven other associations addressing the urgent issue. In a total of 126 organizations surveyed, 62 out of 113 respondents stated that they actively implement protective measures.
To ensure the privacy and dignity of athletes, many organizations have designated special zones for photographers at events, implemented permit systems, and stationed staff and security guards to monitor closely. the participants.
In addition, 42 federations have established advice and reporting centers where athletes can report concerns or incidents of harassment.
Leading by example, the Japanese Judo Association prohibits the taking or use of images intended to harass athletes or damage their reputations. Similarly, the Japan Para-Volleyball Association has banned the use of telephoto lenses without permission and posted signs reminding viewers not to distribute photos that inappropriately focus on bodies. of athletes, especially female participants.
Despite these efforts, Japan’s sports agency has identified several challenges, including the difficulty of preventing unauthorized photography in large areas and identifying more compact photography devices. The lack of clarity about the purpose behind the acquired images also presents a complication for implementation.
Despite the introduction of a new anti-voyeurism law last year, protections are noticeably absent from athletes in sportswear, largely due to challenges in identifying potential sexual motivations behind in those photos. However, there are calls for changes in the law to address these complexities.
Some organizations that have not yet implemented the measures cite insufficient human resources as an obstacle. With this in mind, a representative of the sports agency encourages the federations to act with whatever resources they have, noting that even small efforts can improve the sense of security of the athletes.
Public awareness of this issue has increased significantly in recent years, as demonstrated by the German artistic gymnastics team’s use of full body suits during the Tokyo 2021 Olympic Games, intended to create a strong on statement about the representation and dignity of athletes.
In anticipation of the Olympic Games in Paris, sports equipment manufacturer Mizuno Corp. develops advanced materials for uniforms that prevent unauthorized photography through infrared cameras. Teams such as Japan’s women’s volleyball, table tennis and hockey teams have all adopted this new technology in their apparel.
JOC Secretary-General Mitsugi Ogata indicated that “further engagement is essential” to address pressing concerns. Lawyer Sakura Kamitani said that “we must prevent this issue not only by changing the law, but also by establishing a special department to deal with cybercrime and voyeurism.”