An examination of Japan’s immigration and foreign student policies amid demographic decline. The essay argues that beyond ideology or sentimental cosmopolitanism, the state’s foremost duty is to protect the lives and property of its citizens and uphold national sovereignty.

2019-02-19
This stands above ideology and takes precedence over sentimental notions of “global citizenship” or emotional cosmopolitanism. It is a line that cannot be conceded by even one millimeter.

The following continues from the previous chapter.
Amid declining domestic demand caused by an aging population, I do not entirely reject the government’s policy of attracting 40 million foreign tourists and accepting 300,000 foreign students by 2020.
However, when the government and ruling parties set ambitious numerical targets and ministries focus primarily on securing budgets and meeting quotas, the approach appears short-sighted and bureaucratically driven.
To say, “We have invited them; the rest is not our concern,” would only burden the younger generations who will bear the nation’s future.
The issues now emerging are not unrelated to the immigration challenges faced by Western countries.
The government should explain these realities candidly to the public.
Immigration policy, which fundamentally affects the character of the nation, must not proceed without broad national discussion.
What I sense on the ground is that immigration has expanded without sufficient public consensus.
Borders are not only visible lines on a map.
Healthcare, education, public safety, and legal systems are also integral components of national boundaries.
The administration must confront these matters directly.
Although many domestic and international challenges remain, immigration policy cannot be treated as a secondary issue.
Opposition parties, too, should engage seriously in parliamentary debate on immigration, rather than focusing solely on scandals.
In an era where “population is power,” demographic change shapes the destiny of nations.
History shows that numerous states and regions have disappeared from the map.
Examples in neighboring regions illustrate how fragile cultural and national continuity can be.
Japan’s position in the future international order depends on present policy choices.
The foremost duty of a nation is to protect the lives and property of its citizens.
This principle transcends ideology and sentimental cosmopolitanism and constitutes a non-negotiable line.
To be continued.