Osaka, Sept 6, 2025 — Japan’s immigration policy is under renewed scrutiny after thousands marched through central Osaka demanding a halt to foreign migration.
The protest, held on August 30, has triggered a wave of political, diplomatic, and public responses that could reshape the country’s approach to immigration.
Japan immigration policy review
Justice Minister Keisuke Suzuki has announced a full-scale review of Japan’s immigration framework.
The move follows confusion over a JICA program that designates four cities as “home towns” for African partner countries — Mozambique, Nigeria, Ghana, and Tanzania.
A now-deleted post from the Nigerian embassy suggesting a new visa category for young professionals added to public anxiety. Officials have since clarified that no special visas are being issued and that African volunteers will return home after training.
Also Read: Thousands March in Osaka Demanding End to Immigration – Watch Viral Video
Keisuke Suzuki said:
“We will conduct a full-scale review of immigration policy to ensure clarity and national interest.” This announcement came just one day before the Osaka protest and was seen as a direct response to growing public concern
Rise of Sanseito party
The protests have coincided with the growing influence of Sanseito, a nationalist party that gained traction in the July 2025 elections.
Their platform—focused on cultural preservation and tighter immigration controls — has resonated with many demonstrators, especially in Osaka and Tokyo.
Yoshimasa Hayashi—Chief Cabinet Secretary, said,
“There are no plans to promote accepting immigrants or issue special visas for residents of African countries, and the series of reports and announcements concerning such measures are not true.” He clarified that African volunteers involved in the JICA program would return home after training
Elon Musk’s comment sparks global debate
The rally gained international attention after Elon Musk replied “Good” to a video of the protest on X (formerly Twitter). His comment ignited global debate on immigration, national identity, and Japan’s demographic challenges.
While some praised Musk’s stance, others criticized it as endorsing xenophobia. The viral clip showed peaceful marchers holding signs like “Don’t make Japan Africa,” which further fueled controversy.
Public sentiment and viral footage
The protest video has surpassed 1.2 million views, showing a dense crowd moving through Osaka’s shopping district.
Chants echoed through the streets as demonstrators called for an end to immigration, citing cultural dilution and economic strain.
🚨BREAKING: Anti-immigration protests are sweeping through cities across Japan right now.
The world is fed up with the flood of illegal immigrants! pic.twitter.com/MSHxrlSK2l
— USA NEWS 🇺🇸 (@usanewshq) August 31, 2025
Meanwhile, cities involved in the JICA program received thousands of complaints. Officials in Sanjo and Imabari reported over 4,000 emails and calls in just three days.
Japan’s immigration debate is no longer confined to policy circles — it’s playing out in the streets, online, and at the ballot box. As the government reviews its stance, the tension between national identity and global integration remains a defining issue.
Thousands in Japan are protesting immigration policies, demanding Liberal Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba resign over foreign resident limits.
Meanwhile, the government is pushing a five year plan to bring in 500,000 people from India.🇯🇵 pic.twitter.com/TqldwAuOfJ
— Nate (@CelticAshes) September 3, 2025
Will Japan tighten its borders or find a new balance between tradition and openness?
