Japan to Establish Command Center for Foreign Resident Issues Amidst Election Debate

Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba announced plans to establish a new command center within the Cabinet Secretariat early next week. This initiative, according to the top government spokesman, is designed to address issues concerning foreign residents in Japan. The announcement comes amidst the official campaigning for the upcoming July 20 House of Councillors election.

The government's focus on foreign residents is seen as a key policy matter. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi emphasized the importance of creating an orderly and inclusive society for all residents. This move is perceived as an effort to garner public support for the government's handling of controversies related to foreign residents, particularly in light of the upcoming upper house election.

The issue of foreign residents has sparked debate, with some minor conservative opposition parties adopting xenophobic stances. These parties have made remarks that could be interpreted as hate speech, advocating for the protection of Japanese culture and the economy. Justice Minister Keisuke Suzuki responded by emphasizing the need for an "orderly coexistence" between Japanese and foreign nationals, condemning xenophobia.

The government has clarified that foreign residents are expected to adhere to Japanese laws and regulations, and to engage only in activities permitted under their residency status. This follows remarks made by Naoki Hyakuta, a former novelist and leader of the Conservative Party of Japan, who made critical statements about foreign workers.

The Sanseito party, another minor opposition group, has also gained attention with its nationalist and anti-establishment views. The party's leader, Sohei Kamiya, has attributed Japan's economic challenges to globalization, expressing concerns about foreign land ownership and the increasing number of foreign workers. Both the Conservative Party of Japan and Sanseito hold seats in the House of Representatives.