Human Trafficking in Japan Through the Use of Schoolgirls

Joshi Kosei (JK Business), is the integration of schoolgirls in the human trafficking industry in Japan. It is a form of compensated dating called “Enjo Kosai.” Japan is currently ranked as a tier 2 country within the Trafficking in Persons 2017 report that is conducted by the United States Department of State. This is due to the lack of enforcement behind the current policies to prosecute traffickers and protect victims. This paper traces the human trafficking industry from World War II to present times, as well as the Joshi Kosei phenomena from the 1990s to the present. After that there is a look at current efforts and current policies in place. With a stronger awareness, rewording of current policies, and stronger enforcement efforts, Japan has the potential to become a tier 1 country