Key Facts
• 2024: Foreign nationals’ misconduct and crimes rise with increased workers and tourists.
• LDP aims for ‘zero illegal residents’ and stricter enforcement of foreign license conversion.
• Ishin proposes population strategy, including foreign land acquisition pre-approval.
• CDP advocates a ‘Multicultural Coexistence Society Basic Law’ to expand foreign acceptance.
• National Democratic Party revises policy to address ‘excessive foreigner privileges.’
• 2025: Debate intensifies over balancing regulation and coexistence in foreigner policies.
Summary
Japan’s political parties are divided on foreign national policies ahead of the Upper House election. The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) emphasizes strict regulation, aiming for ‘zero illegal residents’ and enhanced enforcement of foreign license conversion and land ownership laws. Ishin proposes a population strategy to limit foreigner ratios and regulate land acquisitions in critical areas. The National Democratic Party supports revising foreigner privileges and tax exemptions. Conversely, the Constitutional Democratic Party (CDP) and the Communist Party advocate for a multicultural coexistence framework, promoting foreigner acceptance to address labor shortages. The debate highlights the tension between regulation and integration in shaping Japan’s future policies.
