This co-authored volume critically examines Japan’s immigration (or “foreign workers acceptance” in Japan’s favorite phraseology) policy, its evolutions and outcomes, and a future trajectory from cross-disciplinary and multi-level perspectives. The volume questions: What policy responses did the Japanese state make in order to meet two national imperatives—to secure cheap and flexible labor and normative claim for migrant integration? Are the current institutions adequate and effective to crystalize an inclusive Japan? What needs to be done to improve the flawed system so that migrants and their host society can mutually benefit? Ultimately, will Japan transcend its assumingly homogenous society into a pluralistic and liberal one?
Introduction & Chapter 1 (pp.1-75)