The Japanese government says it wants to spread awareness on eliminating discrimination against people with disabilities. A survey showed that only 24 percent of respondents were familiar with a law aimed at achieving that goal.

The Cabinet Office surveyed 3,000 people in Japan aged 18 and older from November to December last year to assess public awareness on people with disabilities. Fifty-nine percent, or 1,765 people, responded.

Asked whether the respondents think there is discrimination and prejudice against people with disabilities, 48 percent answered "yes," while 41 percent answered "to some extent."

The respondents who said they think there is discrimination were asked whether they thought the situation has improved compared to five years ago. Fifty-nine percent said the situation has improved, while 40 percent said it has not improved.

The Act for Eliminating Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities stipulates that central and local governments take measures to eliminate discrimination. The respondents were asked whether they were familiar with the law, but only 24 percent said they knew of it.

The Cabinet Office says it hopes to promote the elimination of discrimination and deepen understanding to businesses and the public through meetings and online portals.