End Isolationist Refugee Policy of Japan
Editorial, The Asahi Shimbun, January 9, 2009
Japan adds itself to less than 20 developed countries open to refugees under resettlement programs. ++ Since 1981 Japan has accepted 451 refugees. ++ Over the next 3 years, 30 refugees per year will be accepted from Burma into camps in Thailand. ++ This number is too small; the Burmese should be allowed to establish their own community in Japan in order not to feel isolated. ++ Plans for teaching them Japanese, finding them jobs and schools must be carried out. ++ Despite tough economic times, they should be welcomed as neighbors.
