Author: Philippe Mesmer
Japan’s migration policy, characterized by a mix of progress and setbacks, reflects the country’s deep-rooted skepticism towards foreigners despite a pressing labor shortage. Recent reforms have streamlined asylum processes and tightened regulations for technical trainees. However, concerns have been raised about the withdrawal of permanent resident status for serious offenses. Read more Subscribers only Japan defends its immigration policy amid criticism of xenophobia Despite criticism, Japan’s Minister of Justice emphasizes the need to uphold rules and foster mutual respect between Japanese and foreigners. With a history of labor shortages and reluctance to address immigration, the topic remains a sensitive issue…
A couple in traditional dress while visiting a temple in Tokyo’s Asakusa district, October 15, 2019. WILLIAM WEST / AFP A recent amendment to Japan’s Civil Code, passed by the National Diet, introduced joint parental custody in cases of divorce. While a significant step forward for a country used to sole custody, the change has been met with mixed reactions. Some view it as too little, too late, while others are concerned about potential abuse victims. Starting in 2026, divorced parents will have the option to choose between sole and joint custody, allowing shared decision-making on important matters concerning their…
A Minke whale unloaded at a port in Kushiro, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan, July 1, 2019. KYODO/REUTERS Japan’s decision to add fin whales to the list of commercially hunted whales, despite criticism, has sparked controversy. The government justifies the move by considering whales as an important food resource that should be utilized sustainably. Despite dwindling whale meat consumption in Japan, the Fisheries Agency has proposed including fin whales in the list of cetaceans that can be hunted by Japanese whalers, citing studies showing sufficient fin whale populations in the North Pacific. This initiative has faced backlash from environmental organizations, condemning Japan’s…
As the foreign population in Japan grows, the issue of racial profiling is gaining attention. In a testimonial to the newspaper Mainichi, a former police officer revealed orders to target foreigners based on appearance alone, leading to human rights violations. Racial profiling has been condemned by the UN, prompting the US embassy in Japan to express concern over discriminatory police practices. An internal investigation by the National Police Agency revealed cases of unjustified screening based on stereotypes, particularly targeting neighborhoods with large foreign populations. A negative image A survey by the Tokyo Bar Association showed that a majority of foreign…
Pokemon cards, in Niva, Denmark, on November 25, 2022. IDA MARIE ODGAARD / AFP The arrest of a yakuza executive for petty theft of Pokémon cards worth 252,000 yen sheds light on the changing dynamics of organized crime in Japan. Traditionally known for more serious crimes, such as blackmail and exploitation, yakuza members now resort to diversifying their activities due to government crackdowns and societal changes. As the yakuza face declining numbers and an aging population, they turn to unconventional ventures like illegal fishing and photo retouching. The surge in Pokémon card value during the pandemic has enticed even these…