Japan Background Check Mark For People Working With Children Unveiled

TOKYO, Dec 25 (Bernama-Kyodo) -- The Japanese government agency overseeing child policies on Thursday announced a new certification mark for entities taking part in a "Japanese DBS" programme to check the sexual offence histories of people working with children, Kyodo News reported.

The design features a wide-eyed owl with "Komamoro" written above it, based on a wordplay blending "fukuro", the Japanese term for the bird, with "ko wo mamoro", a phrase meaning "protect children", the agency said.

Under the programme set to begin on Dec 25, 2026, two certification marks will be introduced -- one for designated operators such as schools and childcare centres that will be required to check sexual offence histories and ensure safety, and another for private businesses.

Authorities envision that the marks will be used in pamphlets, on websites, at facilities and in job advertisements for schools, childcare centres and related services nationwide.

Participation in the programme by private operators, including cram schools and after-school care clubs, will be voluntary.

The Japanese-style DBS programme is named after Britain's Disclosure and Barring Service, according to the Children and Families Agency.

-- BERNAMA-KYODO