Why Japan’s Disability Law Still Fails Disabled Students

An attorney who represents families in disability cases explains how gaps in the law leave some disabled students stranded.

By Saki Toi

Our recent story about a disabled student’s battle to take the entrance exam sheds light on some of the deeper problems that disabled students face in Japan. The law now requires both public and private schools to provide accommodations. Yet many students still struggle to access the support they need.

Why does this gap exist despite legal mandates? We spoke to a Japanese legal expert who gave us some insights.

Disability law falls short in schools despite expanded mandate

I spoke with attorney Nakagawa Akira, who has handled lawsuits and administrative reviews related to the schooling of students with disabilities since 1984. He explained the legal background, current issues, and shared his insights on the Act for Eliminating Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities.

The law took effect on April 1, 2016. It requires public schools to provide reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities.

The latest amendment, enacted in April 2024, expanded this requirement to private schools. The law now applies to…