Japanese civic leaders launch campaign against political discrimination

A coalition of prominent Japanese lawyers, academics, and cultural figures has launched a national appeal campaign demanding that politicians stop spreading misinformation and discriminatory rhetoric. The group named the appeal, “We will not tolerate a society where misinformation and discrimination are rampant,” and is rallying support for the proper progress of a nation.

The campaign was formed in response to what organisers describe as a dangerous rise in divisive language. The appeal states, “We are now facing a strong sense of crisis regarding the spread of discriminatory speech and exclusionary movements (xenophobia) against foreigners and people with foreign roots within Japanese society.”

At a press conference on 28 July, organisers voiced alarm over the use of exclusionary rhetoric during a recent election campaign, which they said has left many foreign nationals and people with foreign roots feeling anxious and fearful. The appeal notes that discrimination is often fuelled by baseless claims, such as assertions that “serious crime by foreigners is increasing” or that “foreigners are depriving Japanese people of rights.”

Keiko Ota, a lawyer who initiated the appeal, explained the urgency of the movement. “Although the election is over, visualising and amplifying citizens’ voices against xenophobia remains essential. The struggle against discrimination must continue long after elections,” she said.

The group’s appeal is grounded in both domestic and international law. It reminds politicians that “all members of the Diet have a ‘duty to respect and uphold this Constitution’ (Article 99 of the Constitution of Japan),” and references a 1978 Supreme Court ruling that affirmed basic human rights extend to foreign residents.

Sumiko Hatakeyama, co-representative of the international exchange organisation Peace Boat, stressed that Japan is already a multicultural society and that scapegoating minorities is a dangerous path. She argued that it is the responsibility of the majority to stand in solidarity with those targeted. “It’s difficult and dangerous for targeted minorities to speak out. That is why I, in solidarity, must raise my voice,” Hatakeyama stated.

Music producer Kiyoshi Matsuo shared his experience observing a court case where a Korean resident in Japan successfully sued a former classmate for hateful social media posts. He warned of a political climate where candidates make unfounded statements such as “Black people near the station are scary” and “Muslims are scary,” which contradict facts but draw applause. “In a society where speaking out brings hurt and silence is rewarded, many will choose silence,” Matsuo said. “That silence risks making us complicit in trampling someone’s dignity.”

To rally public support, the group is organising a street event at Shinjuku Station’s Southeast Exit Plaza in Tokyo on 1 August 2025, from 6pm to 7pm. The event will feature speeches from signatories and a performance by singer-songwriter Haru Nemuri. An online petition addressed to all political parties is also being prepared. The petition on Change.org has just gathered over 30,000 signatories at the point of writing.

The appeal concludes with a stark warning against the erosion of civil liberties. “We cannot allow democracy to be destroyed, freedom to be taken away, and the path to war to be pursued by the misinformation and discriminatory remarks of some political parties and politicians.”