Before the unified local elections this spring, a group made up of volunteers such as researchers has set up a harassment consultation desk for female candidates nationwide, and has been accepting consultations since the 20th.
This was announced at a press conference held on the 20th by a group made up of researchers and people with experience in elections.
According to the organization, at this consultation desk, female candidates and lawmakers nationwide can consult about harassment online for free.
In addition to the counselors conducting hearings, there will also be opportunities to talk with senior lawmakers.
The harassment consultation desk for female lawmakers is rare in Japan, so the group is accepting consultations for a limited time until the end of April, when the unified local elections are held.
Machida City Council member Tomomi Higashi, who attended the press conference, said, "A male passerby stroked my hand and touched my armpit when I shook hands. He was diagnosed with acute pancreatitis.
Mari Hamada, representative of the Harassment Counseling Center for Female Diet Members, said, "Among the female candidates who have been harassed, there are many who think, 'Everyone is suffering, so it's natural.' I want you to consult without doing it."
* "Hama" is "Hama" which is "Hama" which becomes eyebrows.