Immigrants and Foreigners in Japan: Their Role in Society and How They are Perceived
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Date
2021
Authors
Trostel-Shaw, Claire
Facer, Gene
Moehling, Chloe
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
Our project is called The Role of Immigrants and Foreigners in Japanese Society and How they are Perceived. We research attitudes towards immigration in Japan and explore why people have a negative view of immigrants even though immigrants coming to Japan would benefit the country. We explore the many factors that surround immigration to Japan, such as Japan’s low birth rate, aging population, competitive workforce, and history of strict immigration policy. We also explore the challenges of foreigners assimilating into Japanese society, from its complex language and writing system to its many complicated societal rules, as well as racism experienced by foreigners. We use primary and secondary sources including statistical data to support our research on how negative attitudes towards foreigners and immigrants in Japan affect people living there who are not Japanese. The homogenous nature of Japanese society and the importance placed on collectivist culture has resulted in an emphasis on people living in Japan feeling like they have to conform to cultural standards. This can make living in Japan as a non-Japanese person difficult, because immigrants often feel like perpetual foreigners. We conclude that immigrants have a tremendously important role in Japanese society and that Japan must consider easing immigration restrictions to remain competitive in an ever globalizing economy.
Description
1 page.
Keywords
Japan, Immigration, Globalization, Population, Politics