761 people with disabilities in Japan suffered abuse at work last year, 105 more than the previous year

From NHK

September 7 2024

TOKYO – A survey by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare found that 761 people with disabilities suffered abuse at work, such as unpaid wages and verbal abuse, last year, an increase of 105 from the previous year. This is thought to be due to the recovery of economic activity from COVID-19, which has increased employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare conducts an annual survey on abuse suffered by disabled people working at the workplace by employers and superiors.

As a result, 761 people with disabilities were recognized as having suffered abuse nationwide last year, 105 more than the previous year, and the number has increased for three consecutive years.

There were 447 companies where abuse was confirmed, of which 77% were small businesses with fewer than 50 employees, and by industry, the majority were in the “healthcare and welfare” and “manufacturing” industries.

In terms of type of abuse, 659 people were “economic abuse,” such as unpaid wages and being forced to work for illegal wages below the minimum wage, accounting for approximately 80% of the total.

Next, 71 people suffered “psychological abuse,” such as abusive and discriminatory remarks, and 31 people suffered “physical abuse,” such as being subjected to violence.

The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare stated, “The increase in employment opportunities for people with disabilities and the number of working hours per person due to the recovery of economic activity from COVID-19 is believed to be leading to an increase in abuse. We will continue to provide guidance and education to businesses in order to prevent abuse.”