Japan sees rise in opposition to more foreign residents

A panel study by the University of Tokyo Institute of Social Science reveals a significant rise in opposition to accepting more foreign residents in Japan. According to the research, 56.3 percent of respondents expressed opposition this year, marking a 20.7 percentage point increase compared to 2024.

The study, which included approximately 3,800 valid responses, indicates that this shift in sentiment is not limited to the elderly but also includes a notable increase among younger generations. Researchers found that individuals who feel there is little hope for the future of Japanese society tend to show higher levels of opposition to increased foreign residency.

Professor Shin Arita noted that increasing negative discussions, social anxiety, and general dissatisfaction may be driving this change. He suggested that feelings of restlessness and insecurity within society could also be influencing public attitudes. Conversely, the number of people in favor of accepting more foreign citizens has dropped to 9.4 percent.