NEWS News

On August 25, 2026, JaCER held the 16th Learning Lab, "Current Status and Response for Foreign Workers: Case Studies from Specialized Foreigner Consultation Agencies", online.

In this Learning Lab, Ms. Midori Nii, a coordinator at the NPO CINGA, Citizen's Network for Global Activities, which specializes in supporting foreign residents in Japan, gave a lecture on the current status of foreign worker consultation services and the challenges faced by foreign workers, incorporating consultation case studies.

With the increasing number of foreign residents in Japan, the number of consultations submitted to local governments and consultation desks is increasing every year. The consultation topics covered not only employment and residence status but also general living issues such as taxes, social insurance, childcare, education, housing, and medical care, highlighting the increasing complexity of the challenges faced by foreign workers.

The difficulties faced by foreigners are rooted in three barriers: the legal barrier, the language barrier, and the psychological barrier. In many cases, problems are exacerbated by a combination of restrictions due to residence status, difficulties in communication due to the Japanese language, and mental burdens caused by discrimination and isolation.

Regarding the consultation cases, examples were introduced where the issues not only affected the foreign workers themselves but also had a significant impact on their families, their children's education and advancement, and their future plans. In supporting foreign nationals, it is important not only to address individual issues but also to provide comprehensive support through collaboration with relevant organizations and experts.

Furthermore, it was demonstrated that to realize a multicultural society, it is essential not only to support foreign nationals but also to promote understanding among the local communities, companies, and governments that receive them.The session provided an opportunity to deepen understanding of the use of "Easy Japanese," efforts to eliminate prejudice and stereotypes, and the importance of communication that emphasizes "empathy" and "dialogue." The session also introduced the "anti-rumor strategy," which is spreading in Europe and is being implemented in Japan.

Through this Learning Lab, it was reaffirmed that the issues surrounding foreign workers are not limited to labor issues but encompass a wide range of themes related to living, education, family, and local communities. We were able to learn the importance of deepening understanding and dialogue toward realizing a society where people from diverse backgrounds can work and live with peace of mind.

JaCER will continue to provide opportunities through its Learning Labs for member companies to deepen their understanding of key developments and practical challenges in business and human rights, both in Japan and internationally.