The Stream

Persistent danger

Stalking is on the rise in Japan. The Stream examines why.

Stalking cases in Japan hit a record high in 2013. For victims, the constant emails, phone calls and “gifts” are a terrifying reminder that someone is watching and waiting, even when they’ve been told to go away. Now, a former beauty queen is lobbying to strengthen laws to stop acts of obsession that can be dangerous and even deadly. But is society ready or willing to help? Join the conversation at 19:30 GMT.

In this episode, The Stream speaks with: 

Joyce Gelb
Professor Emeritus, City University of New York

Ikumi Yoshimatsu @ikumiyoshimatsu
Actress & activist 
Ikumiyoshimatsu.com 

Jake Adelstein @jakeadelstein
Investigative journalist
Japansubculture.com 

Emmy Suzuki Harris @suzuk_e
Social activist

What do you think? Leave your thoughts in the comments section below.