Migration and Law in Japan

It has been claimed that J apan is not a country of immigration. Where is J apan's distinctiveness evident, and what features does it share with other countries? This article examines the unique points of J apan and investigates problems of residence and citizenship. This article argues that J apan's historical legacy and international human rights have had an impact on J apan's migration and law, takes into consideration the need for new policies and examines some thorny issues. Globalisation and an ageing population are generating a debate on implementing a more liberal admission policy for highly skilled workers, students and nurses/care workers. Thorny issues comprise ethnic discrimination underscored by a colonial legacy and the still existing cold war in E ast A sia. Drawing a comparison with selected developed countries, this article indicates several challenges for J apan's migration and law. Markedly, J apan is the only developed industrialised democracy that does not have an anti‐discrimination law.