Japan’s new prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, has announced stringent actions against criminal activity by migrants, framing the issue as a threat to national security. In her first speech following her October 21 inauguration, Takaichi emphasized that unlawful behavior by foreigners is fueling public anxiety and unfairness among Japanese citizens. “The government will respond decisively to these activities,” she stated, dismissing concerns about xenophobia.
Takaichi’s plan includes enhanced oversight of foreign workers and potential restrictions on foreign land purchases. Kimi Onoda, appointed as economic security minister, will lead efforts to address what the administration describes as threats to Japan’s social and economic stability. The prime minister also reiterated her commitment to increasing defense spending to 2% of GDP by March 2026, a year ahead of schedule, while linking domestic security measures to broader concerns about regional powers like China, North Korea, and Russia.
The policy shift comes amid Japan’s severe demographic crisis, with the lowest birth rate in 125 years and a shrinking workforce. Despite labor shortages, Japan maintains one of the strictest immigration policies globally, granting asylum to just 303 people in 2023. Takaichi’s approach reflects a focus on enforcing existing laws rather than expanding migration.
International attention will soon center on her upcoming talks with former U.S. President Donald J. Trump in Tokyo from October 27-29, where defense cooperation and migration policies are expected to be discussed. Trump has praised Takaichi as “a highly respected person of great wisdom and strength.”
