Japan to take tougher action against online bullying, writes NBC News† With the arrival of a new law, which is due to come into effect this summer, perpetrators can receive a year in prison or a fine of 300,000 yen (more than 2,100 euros).
Penalties for cyberbullying already existed in Japan. The maximum prison sentence was thirty days. The fine was 10,000 yen (72 euros). This week, Japanese lawmakers decided that those penalties should be tougher.
In 2020 Hana Kimura took her own life. The 22-year-old professional wrestler and reality star has been the target of online bullying. Since then, much attention has been paid to cyberbullying in Japan.
Two men who insulted Kimura online were both fined around 65 euros last year for their behavior. The reality star’s mother thought the sentences were too lenient and pleaded with lawmakers for a change and a tougher approach to such behaviour.
The law is also controversial. Opponents say the law limits criticism of those in power and freedom of expression. The rules will be reviewed in three years to see what impact they have had.
–
