Japan expands scope of background checks amid child safety concerns

by Karin Kaneko - The Japan Times

Amid heightened concerns over child safety, the government is expanding the scope of its planned background check system designed to protect children from sexual offenders.

A new system, commonly referred to as the “Japanese version of the U.K.’s Disclosure and Barring Service,” is set to go into effect in December 2026. It aims to ensure a safe learning environment for minors by facilitating background checks on individuals seeking work that involves interacting with children.

Read more: https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/07/01/japan/crime-legal/japan-version-dbs/

Hong Kong to allow employers to check self-employed tutors, coaches for record of sexual offences before hiring

by Sammy Heung - SCMP

Hong Kong employers will be able to check whether self-employed tutors and coaches have been convicted of any sexual offences before they are hired, under a voluntary government scheme in the fourth quarter of this year.

Secretary for Security Chris Tang Ping-keung said on Tuesday the change to the Sexual Conviction Record Check Scheme will enhance the protection of children and the mentally disabled.

Read more: https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/law-and-crime/article/3265390/hong-kong-allow-employers-check-self-employed-tutors-coaches-record-sexual-offences-hiring?campaign=3265390&module=perpetual_scroll_0&pgtype=article