There’s an ongoing backlash on social media against foreigners receiving welfare benefits in Japan. During the July Upper House election, the political party Sanseito, which advocated for stopping welfare payments to foreigners, saw its seats increase significantly. However, many of the arguments shouted during the election stemmed from misinformation and misconceptions. People often express concerns about foreigners abusing Japan’s social security system or feel that Japanese citizens are being neglected. Experts highlight why such fears might exist and offer insights into the situation.
Professor Hifumi Okunuki of Showa Women’s University explains the historical context of welfare for foreigners in Japan. The post-war Public Assistance Act, established in 1946, originally targeted those needing protection. By 1950, the law included only Japanese citizens, which excluded many people from Korea and Taiwan who had been living in Japan since the colonial era. In 1954, a notification allowed local governments to provide welfare to foreigners in need, a practice that continues today.
Advocates correct misconceptions that it’s illegal for foreigners to receive welfare. The 2014 Supreme Court ruling stated that foreigners do not have a legal right to receive welfare under Japanese law, but it also affirmed that they can receive administrative assistance. The Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare should clarify that providing welfare to foreigners is not illegal or irregular.
In reality, only half of foreigners in Japan have residency statuses eligible for welfare. Many struggle without support, often relying on community assistance, and some even face life-threatening conditions without proper aid. Misconceptions about foreigners living luxuriously on welfare are unfounded, and welfare does not significantly impact Japan’s financial situation since cases with foreigners as household heads make up only a small percentage.
Advocates warn against making foreigners the scapegoats in socio-economic debates, emphasizing that foreigners contribute to the social security system by paying taxes. Removing welfare for foreigners could harm many industries that rely on foreign workers. It’s crucial to base discussions on accurate data and not spread false or misleading information.
by MagazineKey4532