Robert Walters Japan survey reveals progress in workplace discrimination, yet barriers remain for authentic self-expression at work

TOKYO, JAPAN - Specialist recruitment and talent advisory firm Robert Walters Japan unveils key insights into the experiences and expectations of LGBTQ+ individuals, diversity and inclusivity in Japanese society and the workplace through its latest survey of Tokyo Pride attendees and online respondents*. 

According to Ipsos's recent global LGBTQ+ Pride report**, Japan ranks 24th out of 26 countries for support of "LGBT people being open about their sexual orientation or gender identity with everyone" at just 26%, and lowest among all surveyed nations in recognising discrimination against transgender people, with only 39% acknowledging that significant discrimination exists. While the findings show that Japan continues to lag behind other developed nations in LGBTQIA+ awareness and acceptance as a wider society, this latest survey from Robert Walters Japan reveals a markedly different perspective and challenges among professionals who are connected to the LGBTQIA+ community.

Against this backdrop, Robert Walters Japan's survey presents a contrasting view from a more engaged demographic, where 43% identify as LGBTQIA+ community members and an additional 20% as allies. The survey, released in conjunction with Tokyo Pride 2025's theme "Same Life, Same Rights," captures insights from 1,498 professionals aged 20-60+ living in or visiting Japan, with the majority (62%) aged 21-40. This demographic composition - significantly more connected to LGBTQIA+ issues than the general Japanese population - highlights both the progress possible within inclusive professional environments and underscores how much work remains to be done across broader Japanese society.

*Survey period: June 2025 at Tokyo Pride events and online, Target: Attendees aged 10-60+ living in or visiting Japan. n=1,498  

The Critical Role of Diversity and Inclusion in Career Decisions

The survey reveals that diversity and inclusion initiatives have become a decisive factor in career choices for professionals in Japan. When asked to rate the importance of working for a company that actively promotes diversity and inclusivity for LGBTQIA+ individuals on a scale of 1 to 10, nearly one-third (31%) rated it as very important (10), while an additional 25% rated it as highly important (8-9). Only 7% of respondents considered it unimportant (1-3), which is lower than last year’s 9%, demonstrating a shift toward valuing inclusive workplace cultures.

Even considering other factors in company selection, the survey identified diversity and inclusion as a top-tier priority for survey respondents. While salary and benefits remained the primary factor for 55% of respondents, 40% emphasised both "a company that values and acts on diversity & inclusion" and "company culture" as critical decision-making factors. Work-life balance (36%) and career progression (28%) followed as additional key considerations, highlighting the multifaceted approach professionals take when evaluating potential employers.

Workplace Discrimination Shows Signs of Improvement

Amongst survey respondents, the percentage who have faced discrimination or bias at work decreased from 50% in 2024 to 43% in 2025, indicating positive momentum in creating more inclusive workplace environments.

The types of discrimination also show improvement across key categories. Age-based discrimination dropped from 46% to 35%, sexual orientation discrimination decreased from 44% to 30%, and gender identity discrimination fell from 37% to 27%. Sex-based discrimination currently leads at 45%, followed by the aforementioned categories, with foreign nationality/race (22%) and disability/neurodiversity (12%) also representing significant challenges. While the findings show potential improvements, they underscore the ongoing need for sustained efforts to address multifaceted discrimination challenges in Japanese workplaces.

Workplace Openness: A Mixed Reality

Among LGBTQIA+ community members, workplace openness varies significantly. The survey found that 38% of those in the LGBTQIA+ community are open about their gender identity and/or sexual orientation with everyone at work, while 37% share this information only with certain trusted colleagues. 21% have not shared their identity with anyone in their workplace, indicating barriers to full authenticity at work.

While some cited neutral reasons for not being open in the workplace, such as feeling that their gender identity and/or sexual orientation is “not relevant to their professional role” (40%) or that they “don’t feel the need to share” (27%), the majority of respondents claimed fear of discrimination.

The survey revealed that 58% cite "concern about discrimination or bias" as the primary factor influencing their decision to limit disclosure, and 29% fear negative impacts on career progression. This highlights how workplace culture not only affects how much professionals can be their authentic selves at work but is also perceived to impact career advancement opportunities for LGBTQIA+ individuals.

Foreign Companies Perceived to Lead the Way in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Respondents perceive a clear difference in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives between company types. Nearly half (44%) believe foreign companies are generally stronger in DEI initiatives, compared to 21% who view Japanese companies as stronger. Notably, 27% admitted unfamiliarity with DEI initiatives in either company type, suggesting room for improved communication about diversity efforts across the corporate landscape.

The Path Forward: What Companies Can Do

When asked about the most valuable actions companies can take to better support and advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights, respondents identified specific priorities that organisations can implement both internally and externally.

The top three most valued actions include offering public and active support for the LGBTQIA+ community (36%), providing gender-neutral facilities such as restrooms and changing rooms (35%), and implementing comprehensive HR policies including non-discrimination policies and equal benefits for same-sex partners (31%). Additional priorities include establishing LGBTQIA+ employee resource groups** (28%), enhancing workplace DEI initiatives through seminars and trainings (21%), and including transgender healthcare coverage and gender transition support (19%).

The survey also asked people, "Which companies do you believe are leading the way in LGBTQIA+ inclusivity, and what makes them stand out?" In line with our findings above, the majority of responses mentioned foreign firms, with respondents highlighting their participation in Pride events, inclusive HR policies and visible support for LGBTQIA+ communities. Major Japanese electronics and e-commerce companies were also mentioned, particularly for their internal networks and educational programs. These examples underscore the importance of both cultural openness and structured initiatives in fostering inclusive workplaces.

The findings provide guidance for companies committed to creating meaningful change, demonstrating that effective LGBTQIA+ support requires both visible external advocacy and concrete internal policy changes.

*** ”LGBTQIA+ employee resource groups” includes internal groups that provide opportunities for interaction and consultation for LGBTQIA+ employees, handles internal communication efforts, and suggest policy and benefit improvements.

Towards “Same Life, Same Rights”: Voices for Change

Reflecting on this year's Tokyo Pride theme “Same Life, Same Rights”, we asked in the survey, “What’s the first change you want to see to achieve equal rights for everyone including the LGBTQIA+ community?” A resounding majority of participants emphasised the urgent need for legal recognition of same-sex marriage as the first and most critical step towards equality, with many of them expressing that marriage equality is foundational to securing broader civil rights and social acceptance for LGBTQIA+ individuals.

Beyond legal reforms, respondents highlighted the importance of eliminating prejudice and discrimination, fostering greater societal awareness and education, and creating environments where people can live authentically without fear or stigma. Some also called for better access to gender-affirming surgery, equal workplace rights and support for transgender individuals. The overall sentiment reflects a strong desire for a society where diversity is embraced, and equal rights are not just promised but practiced.

Joshua Bryan, Senior Director of Financial Services, Legal, HR & Support at Robert Walters Japan's Tokyo office, commented:

“These findings provide a compelling snapshot of what engaged LGBTQIA+ professionals and allies are seeking from employers today in Tokyo. The clear message is that inclusive workplace cultures aren't just a nice-to-have—they're fundamental to attracting and retaining talent.

What strikes me most is the alignment between this community's career priorities and broader workforce trends we're seeing across Japan. The emphasis on authentic self-expression, psychological safety, and values-driven employment reflects changing expectations that forward-thinking organisations simply cannot afford to ignore.  

This year's Tokyo Pride theme of 'Same Life, Same Rights' resonates deeply in the workplace context. LGBTQIA+ professionals don’t want special treatment, they want fair opportunities, the same psychological safety, and the same ability to bring their whole selves to work as their colleagues. When organisations embrace this principle—not just in policy but in practice—they unlock the full potential of diverse talent and position themselves as employers of choice."

Learn more about Robert Walters Japan’s ED&I initiatives: 
https://www.robertwalters.co.jp/en/about-us/equity-diversity-and-inclusion.html

** IPSOS LGBT+ PRIDE REPORT 2025. Ipsos, June 2025. Available at: https://www.ipsos.com/en/ipsos-pride-survey-2025

Press Release (PDF)