Core Viewpoint - Japan is facing a severe crisis of aging and declining birth rates, with the total population decreasing for the 16th consecutive year, raising concerns about the future workforce and economic sustainability [3][4]. Population Trends - As of 2024, Japan's total population is slightly above 124.33 million, a decrease of approximately 554,500 from 2023, representing a decline of about 0.44% [3]. - The native Japanese population is projected to fall below 120 million by 2026, having peaked at 127 million in 2009 [4]. - The elderly population (65 years and older) is approximately 35.69 million, accounting for about 29.6% of the total population, while the working-age population (15 to 64 years) is around 71.24 million, making up about 59% [4]. Regional Population Changes - Out of Japan's 47 prefectures, 46 are experiencing population declines, with only Tokyo showing a slight increase of 0.13% [4][5]. - The largest population decrease is observed in Akita Prefecture, with a decline of 1.84% [5]. Foreign Population Dynamics - The number of foreign residents in Japan has increased significantly, with a rise of 350,000 in the past year, reaching 3.77 million, marking a 10.5% year-on-year growth [7]. - Foreign residents now account for a substantial portion of the population, with the largest groups coming from China (23.2%), Vietnam (16.8%), and South Korea (10.9%) [7][8]. Economic Implications - The influx of foreign tourists has also been notable, with over 33 million visitors in the past year, surpassing pre-pandemic levels and contributing significantly to Japan's economic growth [7]. - The government has recognized the need for policies to manage the increasing foreign population, as highlighted by the establishment of the "Foreign Resident Coexistence Promotion Office" [9]. Political Landscape - The issue of foreign residents has become a focal point in Japanese politics, with varying perspectives among political parties regarding immigration policies and the treatment of foreigners [8][9]. - A recent election saw the rise of a right-wing party advocating for prioritizing Japanese citizens, reflecting growing concerns about national security and social order [8].

Core Viewpoint - The issue of "foreigners" has emerged as a focal point in Japan's election agenda, driven by rising right-wing populism and public anxiety over the increasing number of foreigners in the country [2][4]. Group 1: Origin of the "Foreigner" Issue - Japan has historically maintained a "single-ethnic nation" ideology, leading to strict immigration policies to preserve demographic homogeneity. However, declining birth rates and an aging population have prompted the government to gradually relax these policies to address labor shortages [4][5]. - As of the end of 2024, the number of foreigners in Japan is projected to exceed 3.8 million, a 10.5% increase year-on-year, accounting for approximately 3% of the total population. Among these, Chinese nationals represent the largest group at 23.2% [4][5]. - The influx of foreigners has led to rising public complaints, including concerns over competition for scholarships, illegal residency, and perceived increases in crime rates attributed to foreigners [5][6]. Group 2: Likelihood of "Exclusion" - Despite extreme rhetoric in the public discourse, the likelihood of Japan implementing policies to expel foreigners is low. Political parties exhibit significant divisions on this issue, with some advocating for coexistence and balanced foreigner policies [8][9]. - Mainstream media in Japan remains vigilant against exclusionary rhetoric, emphasizing the importance of foreigners in the labor market and the economy [8][9]. - Foreign workers are essential in various sectors, including manufacturing, construction, agriculture, and nursing, with foreign workers constituting about 7% of the construction workforce and 5% in agriculture [9][10]. Group 3: Historical Context and Legal Framework - Japan's collective memory of historical events, such as the establishment of a racial segregation system in the 1930s, influences current political discourse, making outright expulsion of specific ethnic groups a sensitive topic [10]. - The Japanese Constitution prohibits discrimination based on nationality, and international agreements further constrain government actions against foreigners [10].

Core Points - The issue of "foreigners" has emerged as a focal point in Japan's election agenda, driven by a rise in right-wing populism advocating for restrictions on foreigners [1][2] - The ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) is responding to public concerns about the increasing number of foreigners in Japan by establishing a cross-departmental body to manage foreigner policies and proposing strict measures [1][2] - The influx of foreigners has led to various social issues, including illegal residency, low-wage exploitation, and public complaints about foreign behavior [3][4] Group 1: Background and Current Situation - Japan has historically maintained a "single-ethnic nation" ideology, leading to strict immigration policies, but is now facing a labor shortage due to declining birth rates and an aging population [2][6] - As of the end of 2024, the number of foreigners in Japan is projected to exceed 3.8 million, a 10.5% increase year-on-year, accounting for about 3% of the total population [2] - Chinese nationals represent the largest group among foreigners in Japan, making up 23.2% of the foreign population [2] Group 2: Public Sentiment and Media Influence - Public complaints about foreigners have increased, with issues ranging from competition for scholarships to perceptions of higher crime rates among foreigners [3][4] - Media narratives often exaggerate the negative impact of foreigners, leading to public misconceptions about their contributions to society [4][5] Group 3: Political Responses and Future Outlook - Despite the rise of right-wing sentiments, there is a significant political divide in Japan regarding foreigner policies, with some parties advocating for coexistence and protection of refugees [6][7] - The economic necessity of foreign labor is recognized, with foreign workers comprising about 7% of the construction workforce and contributing significantly to local economies through tourism [7][8] - Japan's historical context and constitutional protections against discrimination suggest that extreme measures against foreigners are unlikely, although balancing public concerns with economic needs remains a challenge [8][9]

Core Viewpoint - The upcoming Japanese Senate elections have brought foreigner-related issues to the forefront, highlighting the tension between the need for foreign labor and rising public concerns about safety and welfare associated with foreigners [1][8]. Group 1: Foreign Population and Economic Impact - As of the end of last year, the foreign population in Japan reached approximately 3.769 million, marking a 10.5% increase year-on-year, with permanent residents accounting for about 918,000 [3][4]. - Japan welcomed over 33 million foreign tourists last year, surpassing pre-pandemic levels, indicating that tourism has become a significant component of Japan's economic growth [3]. Group 2: Public Sentiment and Media Influence - There is a growing public sentiment in Japan expressing concerns over social issues attributed to foreigners, including complaints about scholarship competition, healthcare burdens, and perceived higher crime rates [3][4]. - Social media has amplified negative perceptions of foreigners, with unfounded claims about higher crime rates being frequently cited by right-wing politicians [4][11]. Group 3: Political Responses and Policy Implications - The political landscape is divided, with right-wing parties advocating for stricter management of foreigners, while left-wing parties emphasize multiculturalism and human rights [8][10]. - The ruling Liberal Democratic Party is pushing for measures such as tightening regulations on foreign driver's license conversions and limiting foreign property purchases [8][9]. Group 4: Long-term Policy Challenges - Japan's immigration policy has been criticized for being reactive rather than proactive, leading to misunderstandings and biases between locals and immigrants [6][12]. - The lack of a systematic integration policy for immigrants has been highlighted as a significant issue, contrasting with more established frameworks in European countries [12][13].