Development of Immigration Policy in Japan: by Atsushi Kondo

Discussion paper(PDF) by Atsushi Kondo(Kyushu Sangyo University, Japan), published in Asia and Pacific Migration Journal, Vol.11, No.4, 2002 (pp.415-436).

This paper gives a historical outline of immigration flow in Japan since W.W.Ⅱ and analyzes the development of integration policy in Japan. He examines Japan's recent admission and control policy and gives a sharp criticism on it.

"Acceptance of so-called 'simple labor' was to be carefully examined.....What is simple labor? The image of this term unskilled workers in contrast with skilled workers. However, its reality is determined by resident-status in Immigration Control and Refugee Recognision Act."

"...it seems appropriate to remark that if we consider the future globalization of aging society in Japan, we need to discuss the reform of the admission system from the 'positive list' to the 'labor market test' such as in European states and 'point system' such as in Canada. The so-called 'sectionalism' in the government will be solved and a new comprehensive administration office for integration policy will be established directly under the Cabinet Office"