Japan Immigration News

editorial: Human rights protection must be central to Japan's new foreign worker program

Release Date: 2023-11-15
Media: The Mainichi
Summary: Japan's government is nearing the conclusion of discussions on a new framework to replace the controversial Technical Intern Training Program, which has been criticized for human rights violations like low wages, long hours, and poor working conditions. The new system aims to secure foreign workers while protecting their rights. The draft proposes allowing workers to switch jobs within the same industry after one year, contingent on passing a technical skills exam and a Japanese proficiency test. This change is opposed by some in the ruling party, who fear rural workers will leave for cities with higher wages. However, job switching is seen as a worker's right, and companies should improve working conditions to retain foreign workers.

The new framework also emphasizes employment support services, such as utilizing "Hello Work" job centers, and addresses the issue of foreign workers coming to Japan with significant debts from agency fees. The draft suggests host companies should help cover these fees, but comprehensive reform requires active government involvement. While the new system allows for long-term employment, it ties career advancement to passing Japanese language tests at each stage. This poses challenges, as learning Japanese while working is difficult. A supportive learning environment, backed by the government, is necessary to ensure the success of the system.

Ultimately, Japan's economy can no longer function without foreign workers, and the country must move away from treating them as disposable labor, focusing instead on their integration and long-term well-being.
Tags: Technical Intern Training

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