Question from the readers:
What do you think about the people on social media who criticize Watanabe Nagisa by saying, “You settled, yet…”? I believe it is strange to ignore her words just because she reached a settlement. How do you all feel about this? I don’t think a settlement necessarily means that the victim agreed with the perpetrator. Why is
she being criticized for speaking out? Furthermore, I find it truly odd that the structure of the offense is not being questioned, while the victim continues to be hurt. What are your thoughts?
Settlements and the Voice of the Victim
Lately, I have been pained by the reactions on social media regarding Watanabe Nagisa. The voices criticizing her with statements like “You settled, yet…” are particularly noticeable, but I believe her words and feelings should not be ignored simply because she reached a settlement. A settlement signifies an agreement with the perpetrator, but that does not always mean that it reflects the victim’s complete satisfaction. I also work part-time at a judicial scrivener’s office, and occasionally get involved in the settlement process. I know how much a client can struggle when deciding to settle, so the thoughts of the victim are genuinely complex. While a settlement may sometimes be the best means of seeking legal resolution, it is often accompanied by pain and conflict.
A Society That Ignores the Voice of the Victim
It is hard to believe that there are people who attack victims on social media. They truly seem unable to empathize with the victim’s position. In our society, many can only understand this pain once they become a victim themselves. This lack of understanding may further exacerbate the hurt experienced by victims. A settlement is a contract entered into through legal procedures, and its value should never be underestimated. This process, often conducted through a lawyer, is a significant decision for the victim and can sometimes serve as an important step toward emotional closure.
My Experience and Thoughts
Through my work as a judicial scrivener, I have encountered many victims. One day, a client who had been sharing her story with me broke down in tears and said, “I decided to settle, but I really want to speak out more.” In that moment, I felt a tightening in my chest. Understanding her feelings was a significant revelation for me. That’s why I believe it is incredibly important for people like Watanabe to be able to raise their voices. I hope that through her experiences, other victims can find the courage to speak out as well. Finally, I would love to hear your opinions and experiences. I look forward to engaging in discussions in the comments section. I hope that by understanding each other even a little, we can contribute to changing our society for the better.
