Coexistence without Principle: Reconsidering Multicultural Policies in Japan*

Abstract

Multicultural coexistence (tabunka kyōse) in Japan is as complicated as its definition. On the one hand, it is regarded as a challenge to the coherence of national identity that sustains the popular image of ethnic homogeneity in Japan; on the other hand, it has been considered a retrogressive force that destabilizes civic solidarity needed for the development of responsible citizens. After describing the multicultural policies proposed by local governments in Japan that have facilitated multicultural coexistence, this article critically reviews the policies' relevance as a viable democratic practice for foreign residents and warns against the dangers of exclusion and assimilation when multicultural policies are driven by local citizens without a regulative principle. Then, this article presents "reciprocal nondomination" as a regulative principle that prevents the practice of multicultural coexistence from leading to regressive consequences and provides a ground for democratic deliberation on various ethnic differences.

Foreigners Cometh! Paths to Multiculturalism in Japan, Korea and Taiwan

“…Some local municipalities and prefectures, such as Kanagawa and Yamagata, have been successfully experimenting with local policies of multiculturalism based on the concept of tabunka kyôsei ("many cultures living together") which encourages the participation of foreign residents in prefectural and municipal policy debates. This contrasts with the LDP concept of "multiethnic society living together" which does not include the deliberative political participation of foreign residents (Kwak, 2009). However, such examples are rare or exceptional phenomena in Japan where there is limited grassroots as well as central level support for the co-existence of many cultures.…”

Multiculturalism and Conflict Reconciliation in the Asia-Pacific

“…While urban areas are rightly the predominant focus of multicultural activities, in Japan, as elsewhere, the rising number of foreign female spouses in rural areas due to the inability of farming household males to be able to find marriageable Japanese women as partners has led to tabunka kyōsei centers and support services in prefectures such as Yamagata. In addition to language education, the centers provide various information about health services, employment, and visas, and serve as spaces for socialization for the women, many from the Philippines, China, and other Asian countries (Kwak, 2009).…”

Multicultural Coexistence in Japan: Follower, Innovator, or Reluctant Late Adopter?

“…In 2009, Kawasaki passed a resolution to allow foreign residents to vote in local elections and referenda. Both Kwak (2009) and Green (2013) make a strong case for the effect that local policy initiatives have made on the larger national policy perspective. "The significance of the foreigners' assembly may be trivialized because of a lack of political power.…”

“…In addition to language education, the centers provide various information about health services, employment, and visas, and serve as spaces for socialization for the women, many from the Philippines, China, and other Asian countries (Kwak, 2009). …”