Unpacking the Surge of Japan’s Far Right: How Trump and Tourism Fuelled the Movement

Japan’s Political Shift: A Closer Look

Japanese politics has long been seen as stable and predictable. Recently, however, this has changed dramatically. In the latest elections, a little-known far-right party, Sanseito, jumped from just one seat to fifteen in the upper house, showing that the political landscape is shifting. Their “Japan First” agenda echoes the “America First” slogan made famous by Donald Trump, and it has clearly shaken the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba.

A Turbulent Week

For Ishiba, the past week felt like a rollercoaster ride. His coalition lost its majority in the upper house, which follows earlier losses in the lower house. The pressure for him to resign is growing, even from within his party.

Economic Woes and Anger

The Japanese economy has struggled recently. Inflation is rising, and prices for staples like rice have skyrocketed, doubling in some cases. A 5kg bag now costs over 4,000 yen (£20), primarily due to a poor harvest and a significant earthquake that caused panic buying. As families feel the pinch, the frustrations are palpable in supermarkets and political rallies alike.

A Youthful Discontent

Young voters are especially disillusioned. Many feel neglected by the current political situation. “We’re sick of it,” says a voter named Eriko Harada. Others, like Uta Kato, feel that Sanseito speaks directly to their concerns. This generational gap may have fueled the party’s unexpected rise.

Underlying Global Tensions

Jeff Kingston, a professor at Temple University, points out that the rise of the far-right in Japan mirrors global trends, notably fueled by movements like Trump’s in the U.S. He believes that these global sentiments enhance the feelings of nationalism among voters.

An Upsurge in Immigration Concerns

Despite historically low levels of immigration, Japan’s foreign resident population grew significantly last year, reaching about 3.77 million—a record high. While some argue that immigrants are necessary for filling job vacancies and providing care for the elderly, others express concerns over rising numbers and their economic implications. This tension is contributing to Sanseito’s appeal.

Tourism Frustrations

Japan has also seen a surge in tourism, with 37 million visitors last year. While this boosts the economy, some residents feel that tourists disrespect local customs. Recent incidents, like graffiti at cultural sites and bad behavior in towns, have fueled further discontent, prompting Sanseito’s focus on tightening immigration policies.

The Impact of Social Media

Sanseito gained traction by utilizing social media to amplify its message. Founded in 2020 by Sohei Kamiya, the party thrived on the growing discontent and conspiracy theories, especially surrounding issues like vaccination and immigration. Kamiya’s bold style, inspired by Trump, resonates with voters seeking change.

Future Uncertain

Analysts suggest that Sanseito’s rise is not just about policy—their passionate messaging plays a vital role in attracting voters. But as the old guard, the LDP, remains powerful and influential, it’s uncertain whether this populist trend will take root in Japan. The LDP, though wounded, still holds considerable sway and is navigating turbulent international waters.

Japan’s political environment is definitely changing. With a new generation eager for change and dissatisfaction within the LDP, the future could be very different. As this populist movement grows, it could reshape not just politics but the identity of modern Japan.

For more insights on this subject, check out the BBC InDepth.

Source link