Rina Gonoi, the former soldier who was sexually assaulted while serving in Japan's Self-Defense Forces (SDF), has reached a settlement with two remaining defendants — the state and an ex-colleague.
Her attorney announced that Gonoi will receive 1.6 million yen ($10,400; £7,600) from the Japanese government, yet there was no apology or compensation from her former colleague. This landmark case has drawn international attention as it concluded Gonoi's civil lawsuit against five ex-soldiers and the government, where she had settled with four out of five earlier.
In a related ruling from 2023, three of the ex-soldiers were found guilty of sexual assault, which further highlights the systemic issues surrounding sexual violence in the military.
Gonoi's case is seen as significant in Japan, a country where it is rare for victims of sexual violence to speak out. Her journey began with a powerful YouTube testimony in 2022, making her story known.
Public discussions around sexual violence in Japan have been increasing, fueled by high-profile cases and changing societal norms. Gonoi expressed that the journey to speak out was challenging but reaffirmed her commitment to her cause, stating, Even so, I did not regret speaking out. She communicated her gratitude to those who supported her throughout the grueling legal process.
Initially seeking 5.5 million yen ($40,000; £32,000) for mental distress, Gonoi's settlement marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing battle against sexual violence in the military and the societal atmosphere surrounding it.
Her bravery not only sheds light on her experience but has catalyzed investigations into systemic abuse, highlighting over 1,000 other sexual harassment reports within the SDF.
It remains to be seen how this case will influence future legislative changes and cultural attitudes towards victims of sexual violence in Japan.
