Japan Trafficking Intervention Program (JTIP) A program of Polaris Project Japan. Location: Washington, DC
Language(s) Preferred: English and Japanese fluency
Type: Full Time (Preferred), minimum 15 hour weekly commitment (Required)
Salary: Unpaid
Position Description:
Based in Tokyo, Polaris Project Japan was launched in 2004 to address human trafficking and the commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC). The sex industry in Japan operates under a variety of names: soaplands, delivery health services, pink salons, and compensated dating (enjo kosai) are only a few. Kabukicho, an entertainment and red-light district in Shinjuku, Tokyo, covers less than ¼ of a square mile and contains several thousand sex parlors, strip theaters, peep shows, porno shops, sex telephone clubs, karaoke bars and other `entertainment’ venues. On the labor trafficking side, thousands of young people from developing countries are brought to Japan to work as interns, as a part of the Japanese trainee program. Japan is regularly criticized for the abuse and forced labor that often results in these settings, and it is reported that interns often work between 90 and 100 hours per week in what could be considered slave-like conditions. In 2010, Polaris Project Japan is still the only nongovernmental organization in the country that is solely dedicated to combating all forms of human trafficking. Polaris Project Japan’s holistic approach mirrors our U.S. programs and includes providing case management for survivors; operating the only anti-trafficking hotline in Japan where calls can be received in Japanese, English, and Korean; advocating for stronger anti-trafficking legislation and implementation of Japan’s national action plan; offering specialized training and community awareness education.; and a focus on youth prevention efforts and corporate engagement. This position provides a supportive link between our headquarters and Tokyo offices.
Position Breakdown
• Act as a general liaison between Polaris Project US and Polaris Project Japan (PPJ)
• Assist with legal and general research/writing related to: trafficking trends in Japan, status of Japan’s national action plan, and issues related to managing international field offices
• Manage the volunteer translator network and assist with periodic direct translations
• Help plan and strategize on development and fundraising efforts
• Create materials to be used for public outreach and other purposes
• Provide general administrative assistance to the PPJ office including issues related to finances, technology, websites, and/or knowledge management.
Requirements:
• Native or fluent Japanese and English language skills
• Commitment to human rights/social justice issues
• Knowledge of and commitment to the anti-trafficking movement
• Demonstrated relevant professional or volunteer experience
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Strong creative and descriptive writing ability
• Strong interpersonal and organizational skills
• Interested in working with a dynamic team
• Strong research skills
• Detail oriented
• Professional or internship experience in Japan preferred
How to Apply:
All application materials should be sent electronically as attachments toFellowship@polarisproject.org. Materials should include a custom cover letter, resume and three references complete with contact information. You may also include any additional personal statements. Please see the fellowship FAQ page for more information and check the timetable of important dates. Early applications are advised.