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“Japanese First” politics creates fears for Indonesians

Release Date
2025-07-18
Media
New Mandala
Summary
In the lead-up to Japan’s Upper House elections on July 20, immigration has become a major political issue. Prime Minister Ishiba and his ruling Liberal Democratic Party have adopted hardline stances, calling for "zero illegal foreign nationals" and tighter entry controls, echoing global trends where migration is politicized by right-wing factions to deflect economic frustrations.

Japan’s foreign population has reached a record 3.8 million (as of 2024), reflecting growing reliance on migrant labor amid population decline. However, the political climate is increasingly hostile, with parties like the populist Sanseitō promoting “Japanese First” policies. Sanseitō’s recent electoral gains in Tokyo suggest this rhetoric resonates with some voters.

This rising xenophobia has stirred anxiety among migrant communities—particularly Indonesians, who form a significant portion of Japan’s foreign labor force. Indonesian social media and communities in Japan have expressed fear over discrimination, scapegoating, and rumors (e.g., a potential blacklist in 2026). Many Indonesians worry that the actions of a few could endanger opportunities for all.

Online discussions often focus on "protecting the good name" of Indonesian migrants, with calls for good conduct. Yet these conversations also highlight how blame is frequently shifted to the migrants themselves rather than to systemic issues—such as exploitative brokers, abusive employers, and discriminatory policies.

Japan’s Technical Intern Training Program (TITP), which has facilitated Indonesian labor migration for over 30 years, has been criticized for exploitation, lack of integration efforts, and reinforcing temporary worker status. Migrants often face debt, contract restrictions, and human rights violations before even leaving Indonesia.

The narrative of “Japanese First” is also being echoed by some in sending countries like Indonesia, where influencers and officials pressure migrants to conform and stay silent for fear of losing access to job markets. This gatekeeping reinforces fear and discourages workers from asserting their rights.

Ultimately, the article argues that migration is being framed as a security issue instead of a humanitarian one, leading to inhumane practices. Rather than blaming migrant workers, attention should be directed at the exploitative systems, brokers, and political forces that profit from migrants' vulnerability while silencing their voices in the name of discipline and reputation.
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Immigration Policy

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