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Dealing with Human Trafficking and Exploitation in Japan
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- Speakers:
- Shihoko Fujiwara (Founding director of Lighthouse: Center for Human Trafficking Victims (formerly Polaris Project Japan))
- Yumi Itakura
Although Japan is supposed to be one of safest countries in the world, it does not fully meet the minimum global standards for the elimination of trafficking, including forced labor, exploitation, and sex trafficking. Lighthouse, a Japanese nonprofit organization dedicated exclusively to combating human trafficking and modern-day slavery, has helped more than 400 people abused in Japan’s pornography industry since 2013. We will also cover the problems involved in the exploitation of young foreigners involved in the internship (trainee) program.
Speakers:
Shihoko Fujiwara
Founding director of Lighthouse: Center for Human Trafficking Victims (formerly Polaris Project Japan)
Shihoko Fujiwara is the founding director of Lighthouse: Center for Human Trafficking Victims (formally Polaris Project Japan), which runs a human trafficking hotline; provides direct intervention, counseling, and other support to trafficking survivors; educates law enforcement and the public about how to identify victims; and advocates for improved public policy and a more coordinated, victim-centered response to the issue. Fujiwara has been an advocate for the rights of women and children in Japan since 2004 and has participated in numerous panels, consortia, and global efforts. She received her BA in international studies from the University of Wisconsin.