排外口号屡禁不止，调查节目被迫延期，日本仇外者把库尔德人当“眼中钉”

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rising tensions in Kawaguchi City, Japan, regarding the Kurdish population, highlighting the political discourse surrounding immigration and public safety concerns, particularly during local elections [1][2]. Group 1: Demographics and Immigration - Kawaguchi City has a population of approximately 607,000, with 48,000 foreigners, accounting for 8% of the population, significantly higher than the national average of just over 3% [1]. - The Kurdish community, numbering around 2,000, has become a focal point of public scrutiny, despite being a small minority within the foreign population [1]. Group 2: Political Discourse - Right-wing political candidates have targeted foreigners, especially Kurds, claiming they threaten Japanese culture and safety, with statements like "Japan belongs to Japanese people" [1]. - The political rhetoric has intensified, with calls for Kurds to leave Kawaguchi, reflecting a growing sentiment against this minority group [1][2]. Group 3: Crime and Public Perception - Despite the rise in foreign residents, crime rates in Kawaguchi have significantly decreased, with total crimes in 2024 projected to be less than one-third of those in 2005 [2]. - There is no statistical correlation between the Kurdish population and overall crime rates, although isolated incidents involving Kurds have been politicized [2]. Group 4: Social Response and Legislation - Japan has laws against hate speech, but they lack enforcement mechanisms, leading to ongoing public hostility and online attacks against the Kurdish community [3]. - Media coverage, including a documentary on Kurds, has sparked debate about the portrayal of this community, with some viewing it as biased towards Kurds while others see it as a necessary social warning [3]. Group 5: Broader Societal Issues - The Kurdish Cultural Association in Japan argues that the real issues facing the country are related to an aging population, economic stagnation, and political disillusionment, rather than the presence of foreigners [3].