【研究ノート】 Necessity of Language Instruction for Immigrants in Japan - through Comparison with Canada’s Policies

抄録

The purpose of this study is to discuss issues related to immigration policies in Japan. The country is now facing a shortage of labor force due to declining birthrates and a rapid increase of the aged population. The government and many companies are aiming to survive in such an aging society by accepting more immigrants. Japan, however, has been criticized as politically and culturally closed, historically speaking, and people are not very accustomed to co-inhabiting with foreigners. As a result, there is lack of measures, or consideration, to promote immigrants’ comfortable living. This paper analyzes the situation of immigrants in Japan, comparing with the one in Canada, one of the most popular nations for immigrants. The paper also discusses the possibility of improving quality of circumstances in which immigrants are currently set in. The findings suggest that we need to provide immigrants with some help, such as language programs, to encourage them to become better members in Japanese society.