According to an article of Shueisha Online, February 22, 2025, representative Tamaki of the People’s Democratic Party said “It’s strange that a foreigner staying for 90 days can receive treatment for 160 million yen for just a few tens of thousands of yen”.
In recent years, statements made by Japanese politicians and public figures that could lead to the exclusion of foreigners have become a serious issue. Such remarks have the potential to fuel discrimination and prejudice against foreigners, raising concerns about their impact on Japanese society. Below are some notable examples:
1. Politician’s Statement on “No Immigration Policy”
In March 2016, Tomomi Inada, then the Policy Chief of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), declared, “Japan will not adopt an immigration policy,” during discussions about expanding foreign labor acceptance.
This statement indicated a reluctance to accept foreign workers and conveyed an exclusionary stance that could be perceived as anti-foreigner. Many conservative politicians strongly oppose “immigration policies,” and such remarks could reinforce xenophobic attitudes in Japanese society.
2. Online Comments: “If You Don’t Like Japan, Go Back to Your Country”
In February 2025, reports highlighted a rise in exclusionary remarks against foreign tourists on social media.
One example includes posts such as, “Japan can do just fine without foreign tourists. Rude ones should go back to their own countries.”
Such statements reflect negative sentiments toward foreign visitors and can contribute to fostering discrimination and prejudice against foreigners in general.
3. Public Figure’s Remarks on Foreign Welfare Benefits
In October 2024, comedian Honkon expressed his opinion on Japan’s pension system and welfare benefits for foreigners, questioning, “What kind of system is this?”
His statement cast doubt on providing welfare benefits to foreigners, reinforcing existing negative stereotypes. The concern is that such remarks could encourage the misconception that foreigners are unfairly benefiting from Japan’s social welfare system, leading to increased discrimination.
4. Ministry of Justice Report on Hate Speech
The Ministry of Justice has been conducting surveys on hate speech and racial discrimination to provide data for human rights policies related to foreigners.
Their findings indicate that hate speech incidents, including discriminatory protests and demonstrations, continue to exist in Japan. The report highlights the need for societal awareness and policy measures to combat these issues.
Conclusion
These cases demonstrate how statements made by politicians and public figures can significantly influence society. In particular, anti-foreigner remarks can fuel prejudice and discrimination, hindering efforts to build a multicultural society.
Therefore, individuals with public influence must carefully consider the social impact of their words and act responsibly. At the same time, society as a whole needs to deepen its understanding and empathy toward foreigners, working to create an inclusive and discrimination-free environment.