Twentieth International Conference on Diversity in Organizations, Communities & Nations

Abstract

In April 2019, modifications to Japan’s immigration regulations came into effect, ostensibly opening the nation up to unskilled foreign workers for the first time in its modern history. While Japan’s hand may have been reluctantly forced by serious labourforce shortages in many sectors of the economy, it is undoubtedly the beginning of the creation of an even more ‘multicultural Japan’; providing further impetus to the pressing challenge of creating a society where diverse peoples can live together in harmony. This colloquium addresses the prospects and problems local Japanese society faces from both micro and macro points of view spanning a number of thematic perspectives. For any nation’s immigration policy to be successful, inclusion practices at the local level must be supported, comprehensive and meaningful. Drawing on examples from fieldwork and examples in England, Italy, New Zealand and Japan, this set of papers discusses successful practices at the local level aimed at alleviating problems associated with belonging and acceptance caused by alienation, discrimination, educational stress, and workplace disharmony. In particular, the situation pertaining to schools, institutions, families and communities are examined and best practice suggestions are offered. The overall consensus of the papers stress that for Japan’s initiative to be successful - for both immigrants and Japanese - there is a need to embrace and effect lasting change. Through proper planning, preparation and education, we suggest how Japan’s model could provide a successful option for other countries to follow in the future.