Japan’s Social Cohesion in Relation to Immigration Issues

Abstract

In contemporary social research—whether dealing with the involvement of citizens in social life, national character, or the relationships between immigrant or minority groups and the host citizens—social cohesion has become a major topic. However, there is no universal definition of social cohesion (Demireva, 2015; Markus, 2010), though there have been some common understandings of the concept. In addition, this concept is also found in the elaboration of political doctrines as well as in academic analyses, and there are some key terms which can be identified when attempting to define this term. In the United Kingdom and other developed democracies, “[s]ocial cohesion is often identified as ‘solidarity’ and ‘togetherness.’” The OECD, in its report Social Cohesion in a Shifting World, suggests three perspectives: “social inclusion,” “social capital,” and “social mobility” (2012: 53–54). Another way of considering this is to focus upon three common elements: “shared vision,” “a property of a group or community,” and “a process” (Markus, 2010: 8). Extensive surveys of social cohesion have helped define the national character of some societies, and will often include a nation’s attitudes toward newcomers who arrive via some form of immigration. On the other hand, social cohesion is also interrelated with the way in which immigrants and minority groups become participants in social life and therefore in their relations with the citizens of the host nation. The dynamics of social cohesion are central to the ways in which they develop solidarity with the host community. According to the OECD Director for Employment, Labor, and Social Affairs, Mr. Stefano Scarpetta: “The policy objectives for migration have also shifted, as has the perception of the role of migration. Today’s policy debate places greater emphasis on social cohesion and less on urgent recruitment needs” (OECD, 2014: 10).