False Claims of Japan’s ‘Mass Deportations’ Spark Online Outrage

Misleading claims regarding a supposed ministry for “mass deportations” in Japan have gained traction on social media platforms such as X and Facebook. These assertions come shortly after the election success of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, which saw a significant rise in support for the anti-immigration Sanseito party.

The false narrative suggests that Sanae Takaichi, who was sworn in as Japan’s first female prime minister this week, established a ministry to oversee mass deportations. The rumors allege that she appointed Kimi Onoda to head this new ministry. In reality, Onoda was appointed to several roles, notably as the economic security minister and as the minister responsible for promoting a “society of well-ordered and harmonious coexistence with foreign nationals.” This department was established under Takaichi’s predecessor, Shigeru Ishiba, but appointing a cabinet minister to oversee it is a new development.

During a press conference on Wednesday, Onoda addressed immigration concerns, stating that Japan “will strictly handle foreign nationals who do not follow the rules.” However, she did not refer to mass deportations. She highlighted that “the inappropriate use of various systems by some foreign residents, their crimes and misbehaviour are causing anxiety and a sense of unfairness among Japanese people.”

Japan’s immigration levels remain relatively low compared to other developed nations. Yet, the country faces challenges such as an aging population, one of the world’s lowest birth rates, and worker shortages across various sectors. Consequently, the number of immigrants is on the rise. The increase in foreign nationals, including tourists, became a focal point during the recent leadership race of the Liberal Democratic Party, which Takaichi won before becoming prime minister.

In a controversial statement, Takaichi accused foreigners of engaging in harmful behavior towards deer in her hometown of Nara. Notably, one misleading post on X claimed that Takaichi was “sworn in and IMMEDIATELY created a ministry for mass deportations,” which received over nine million views. Additionally, a Facebook video falsely claimed that Japan’s emperor had sanctioned a “nationwide deportation plan.”

These false claims are not limited to English speakers; they have also circulated in languages such as Thai, German, and Spanish. They emerged following the cancellation of a Japanese cultural exchange program with four African nations last month. This cancellation was prompted by a flood of inquiries from individuals who mistakenly thought it was a new immigration policy.

Furthermore, last month, the city of Kitakyushu faced numerous complaints based on inaccurate reports that it intended to implement Muslim-friendly school lunches. The Sanseito party, which gained significant traction in the July 2023 upper house elections, now holds 15 seats, up from just two. In the lower house, it has three members of parliament. The party’s agenda resonates with other populist movements globally, advocating against “elitism” and “globalism” while promoting the idea of “bringing power back to the people.”

As misinformation continues to swirl around immigration in Japan, clear communication from government officials remains crucial to dispel false narratives and maintain public trust.