Over the last year, Japan’s approach toward foreign nationals has been a constant source of debate. It was driven by intensified public scrutiny due to an increasing number of foreign nationals, media attention, misinformation and disinformation, geopolitical tensions, overtourism, as well as growing political pressure.

Yet, the issue of how to better protect the rights of foreign nationals remains a missing piece in Japan’s policy response to be addressed during the Feb. 8 Lower House election.

Sanseito’s rhetoric during the July 2025 Upper House election propelled the topic of foreign nationals onto the national and international stage.

The Liberal Democratic Party responded to public concerns and political pressure by announcing a raft of new policies. A new government panel of experts was also established to consider rule compliance, and ministries were tasked with considering ways to ensure stricter compliance with rules by foreign nationals.

Meanwhile, just last week, on Jan. 23, a new policy package toward foreigners was approved by the Cabinet. 

With Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi having called a snap election for Feb. 8, attention will be on whether the political gamble was worth it.

Takaichi is considered comparatively popular in her own right, being Japan’s first female prime minister, adopting a decisive leadership style, and having withstood a pressure campaign from China. However, cost of living challenges, taxes,........

© The Asahi Shimbun