Sexual harassment by multiple stakeholders in entrepreneurship: The case of Japan

Abstract

Sexual harassment in entrepreneurial contexts remains a critical yet underexplored issue. While workplace harassment in traditional employment settings has been widely researched, little is known about how power dynamics and cultural norms shape the sexual harassment risks faced by entrepreneurs. To address this gap, we conducted an exploratory study within Japan's entrepreneurial context, where cultural norms and limited institutional protections create distinct vulnerabilities. Through an anonymous online survey of 197 participants (105 of whom identified as female entrepreneurs), we collected both quantitative and qualitative data. We found that 52.4% of female entrepreneurs reported experiencing sexual harassment by multiple stakeholders in the past year. Investors emerged as the primary perpetrators (43.2% of cases), followed by customers, mentors, and members of entrepreneurial support organizations. Qualitative insights suggest that power asymmetries, especially in funding and mentorship relationships—create unique vulnerabilities for entrepreneurs to sexual harassment that differ from those in a traditional workplace. Our study not only advances research on Japanese entrepreneurship, but also provides actionable insights for other contexts with similar cultural and institutional barriers. These findings can inform efforts to combat gender stereotypes and strengthen legal protections against harassment.