In recent years, various influential voices in Japan have proposed that the country open itself to immigration as a partial solution to revitalize the economy, to prop up the demographic decline, and in recognition of already present streams of migration who enter through “side” or “back” doors. Where will Japan go from here? In this presentation, Roberts traces connections among developments in migration policy in recent years. While pro-immigration voices are present, the prospect for any “opening up” of Japan remains murky, due in no small part to the failures evident in various policies up to now as well as the economic recessions of the past two decades, exacerbated by the disastrous earthquake and nuclear accident of 3/11. The recent change in political regimes, however, is bringing back a more “pro” immigration rhetoric.

Note: Dress code for the event is business/business casual.