The discussion about 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 children, Maud de Boer-Buquicchio , made a direct appeal to the Japanese government requesting a ban on manga and illustrations with loli 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 with characters that, despite being fictional, represent minors in sexual or suggestive situations.
Debate between artistic freedom and child protection
Although the topic is divisive, a large number of manga artists and authors are against the ban. For them, the line between freedom of expression and criminal content is thin , and it is difficult to establish objective criteria that do not negatively affect cultural production.
However, local NGOs and activists argue that materials featuring children in swimwear and provocative poses fuel a worrying market. Although such content does not show genitals—and therefore escapes current legislation—the objective of sexual arousal is clear, as pointed out by experts.
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 perpetuate a dangerous culture of tolerance.
So now, what to think?
Ultimately, the controversy raises complex questions: to what extent should fiction be regulated? Is banning lolis censorship or legitimate protection? While Japan decides its next steps, we want to know your opinion: should manga featuring lolis be banned or not?
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Source: Exame