Japan Immigration News

Japan’s Governors Speak Out on Need for a Better Foreign Resident Policy

Release Date: 2026-01-19
Media: nippon.com
Summary: Japan’s National Governors’ Association (NGA) issued a July 2025 proposal urging Tokyo to build a clearer, more systematic national framework for foreign residents—treating them as “residents and members of local communities,” not just labor. Shizuoka Governor Suzuki Yasutomo, who led the effort, argues that local governments are already dealing with foreigners’ everyday needs (language, schooling, healthcare, taxes, consultations), but national policy and funding remain vague because of a “double standard”: Japan says it is not promoting immigration while continuing to bring in foreign workers to address labor shortages.

Key recommendations include creating a basic law that clarifies national principles toward foreign nationals, establishing a central command-center agency to coordinate across ministries (covering language education, labor, and living conditions), expanding employment/training fields to match regional needs (including the upcoming Employment for Skill Development Program), and securing long-term, stable financial support for municipalities.

Suzuki emphasizes Japanese-language education as foundational for work and daily life, especially for children, and calls for clear role-sharing among the central government, local governments, and the private sector. He also argues policy debates should be evidence-based: Japan is relatively strict in accepting foreigners, foreign crime has declined over the long term, and isolated incidents should not drive exclusionary responses. Overall, the proposal demands that if Japan continues to accept foreign workers, the national government must take full responsibility—through coherent policy, coordination, and sustained funding—to support integration and community stability.
Tags: Immigration Policy

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