Putting Japanese Families First Risks Children's Well-being

In response to an evolving domestic policy known as "Japanese First", concerns are mounting over its potential impact on children. This policy, which relates to prioritizing Japanese citizens' rights in areas such as employment and education, may adversely affect the development of children who are non-Japanese or mixed nationality. The implementation details are yet to be clear, causing public anxiety and debate.

In Japan, the notion of blood and soil — being Japanese by blood and born in Japan — governs many societal norms and legal paradigms, even in a globalizing environment. When policies like "Japanese First" come into play, they touch upon deeply rooted Japanese values of homogeneity and societal solidarity. Therefore, while some view such policy as protecting social integrity, others fear it could potentially marginalize mixed nationality children leading to social exclusion.

In contrast, the US and EU tend to have more integrative policies, focusing on multiculturalism and diversity. This issue could be compared to ongoing debates about immigration policy and the impact on second-generation immigrant children in these countries. However, each country's distinct social, historical, and political context makes direct comparison complex.

Information for Your Country

For those outside Japan interested in children's rights and immigration policies, they may want to follow UNICEF or other international organizations that offer perspectives and resources on these topics.