CRC UNITED NATIONS Convention on the Rights of the Child Distr. GENERAL CRC/C/15/Add.231 26 February 2004 Original: ENGLISH COMMITTEE ON THE RIGHTS OF THE CHILD Thirty-fifth session CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS SUBMITTED BY STATES PARTIES UNDER ARTICLE 44 OF THE CONVENTION Concluding observations: Japan 1. The Committee considered the second periodic report of Japan (CRC/C/104/Add.2) at its 942nd and 943rd meetings (see CRC/C/SR.942 and 943), held on 28 January 2004, and adopted, at the 946th meeting (CRC/C/SR.946), held on 30 January 2004, the following concluding observations. A. Introduction 2. The Committee welcomes the submission of the State party’s comprehensive periodic report, as well as the detailed written replies to its list of issues (CRC/C/Q/JAP/2), which gave a clearer understanding of the situation of children in the State party. It further notes with appreciation the cross-sectoral delegation and welcomes the frank dialogue and the positive reactions to the suggestions and recommendations made during the discussion. B. Positive aspects 3. The Committee notes with appreciation: (a) The adoption of the Law on Punishing Acts related to Child Prostitution and Child Pornography and on Protecting Children (1999) and of the Child Abuse Prevention Law (2000); (b) The establishment of a National Plan of Action against Commercial and Sexual Exploitation of Children in 2001; (c) The formulation of the National Youth Development Policy in 2003. GE.04-40496 (E) 050304