The debate over the presence of content involving the sexualization of minors in fictional works has resurfaced in Japan. This time, the UN , through its Special Rapporteur on trafficking in minors, Maud de Boer-Buquicchio , made a direct appeal to the Japanese government requesting a ban on manga and illustrations with l0li themes —even when the characters are virtual.
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According to the representative, although the country has made progress in legislation that penalizes the possession and distribution of real child pornography, there are still loopholes in the law that allow the sale of graphic materials featuring characters that, despite being fictional, represent minors in sexual or suggestive situations.
Debate between artistic freedom and child protection
Although the issue is divisive, many manga artists and authors oppose the ban. They believe the line between freedom of expression and criminal content is blurred , and it's difficult to establish objective criteria that don't negatively impact cultural production.
However, local NGOs and activists argue that materials featuring children in swimsuits and provocative poses fuel a worrying market. Although such content does not show genitals—and therefore falls outside current legislation—the objective of sexual arousal is clear, as experts point out.
In fact, according to official data, Japan recorded 1,828 cases of child pornography last year, involving 746 children. Therefore, the UN believes that allowing these graphic depictions could maintain a dangerous culture of tolerance.
And now, what to think?
Ultimately, the controversy raises complex questions: to what extent should fiction be regulated? Is banning l0li censorship or legitimate protection? As Japan decides its next steps, we want to hear your opinion: should manga with l0li be banned or not?
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Source: Exame
