Guidelines for the Creation of aMulticultural Society in Hyogo

March 2016
Hyogo Prefecture

Contents
Page

I.

Overview of Guidelines·········································································· 1
1. Background of Guidelines······································································ 1
2. Amendments to Guidelines ···································································· 1
3. Current Situation for Foreign Residents ·················································· 2(Changes over the Past 10 years)

II. Fundamental Concepts Regarding Plans for a Multicultural Society ··············· 5
1. Fundamental Ideals ············································································· 5
2. Fundamental Objectives ······································································· 5III. Fundamental Direction ··········································································· 7
1. Creating Awareness of Multiculturalism ··················································· 7
2. Creating Multicultural Citizens······························································· 8(1) Educational Support for School-Aged youth of Non-Japanese Origin(2) Creating Leaders Who Participate in Multiculturalism(3) Creating Global Talent Amongst Japanese Residents
3. Creating the Foundation for a Livable Society ········································· 12(1) Providing Multilingual Information(2) Providing Educational Support Regarding Japanese Language,
Culture, and Customs(3) Providing Information Regarding Housing and Everyday Life
(4) Providing Information and Support Regarding Health,
Medical Services, and Welfare(5) Improving Employment Support and Working Environments(6) Increasing Awareness of Disaster Risk Reduction and
Maintaining Support Systems(7) Providing Consultation Systems for Foreign Residents
4. Creating a Dynamic Region in Which Anyone Can Participate···················· 19(1) Improving Foreign Resident Participation in Region Building(2) Accepting Foreign Business Talent, Students from Abroad, etc.
IV. The Role of Multiculturalism Within the Region ········································· 21

References
1. Forum for Creation of a Multicultural Society in Hyogo: Framework ··············· 23
2. Public Comments on the Report (Draft Version) of the Forum for
Creation of a Multicultural Society in Hyogo ··············································· 25

I. Overview of Guidelines
1. Background of Guidelines
Hyogo Prefecture has had a long history as an international region. Ever since the initial
opening of the Port of Kobe, many foreigners have lived in the area, working together withJapanese residents.
The “Fundamental Guidelines for Promoting an International Region” were first formulated
in 1993, with the basic principle of “The realization of an international society where people
from all around the world can live together”. Since that time, foreigners who base theirlivelihoods within Hyogo have been designated as “foreign residents”, and a variety of efforts
have been made towards multiculturalism.
After the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake on the 17th of January 1995, foreign andJapanese residents came together to help restore the foreign community and maintain its
independence, including the “Foreign Prefectural Resident Restoration Meeting”. The
earthquake also became an opportunity for a variety of non-government organizations andvolunteer groups to begin operating within the prefecture, and these also included foreign
residents. These groups made efforts to support foreign residents, and provide opportunities forexchange between foreign and Japanese residents.
In 2003, the “New Hyogo International Strategy Forum” was created in reaction to changes
to society caused by the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake and increased globalization.
Guidelines and policies were examined at the forum, and a report was published in March of
the following year. The prefectural government actively began to roll out measures based upon
the findings of this report, including the creation of a network to ensure the safety andwellbeing of foreign residents.
More than a decade has passed since the report, and while there has been a decline in total
foreign residents, there have been increases in multinationalization of residents and theoverall population has aged. Compared to Japan as a whole, Hyogo also has a greater trend
towards foreigners becoming permanent residents. These trends mean it has becoming
increasingly important to provide Japanese language acquisition support for school-aged youthof non-Japanese origin. It will also become increasingly important for Japanese and foreign
residents to participate and support each other in regards to region-building and planning.
In order to reconsider the implementation of multiculturalism in light of these changes, the“Forum for Creation of a Multicultural Society in Hyogo” was held in 2015. Surveys were
performed in foreign communities, with discussions at the forum being held based uponchanges to the situation of foreign residents, along with medium to long-term forecasts. A
report was also created based upon the forum.
Based upon the report, the “Guidelines for the Creation of a Multicultural Society in Hyogo”
have been formulated in order to realize a multicultural society where, through mutual
understanding and support, foreign and Japanese residents can realize their own goals, whilestill working together on region planning and building.
These guidelines also provide details for exchange with short-term foreign residents, toallow them to share their different cultures, daily habits and values.

2. Amendments to Guidelines
These guidelines will be amended as necessary over the next 5 years (2015–2020), in responseto changes in society and overall progress towards multiculturalism.

13. Current Situation for Foreign Residents (Changes over the Past 10 years)(1) Foreign Resident Numbers
As of the end of 2014, there were 96,530 foreign residents residing within the prefecture(7th highest nationwide), a reduction of 5,433 from the peak of 101,963 (6th highest
nationwide) in 2004.
Nationwide, there were 2,121,831 foreigners residing in Japan at the end of 2014, anincrease of 148,084 from 2004, when 1,973,747 foreigners were living in Japan.
(2) Nationalities
As of the end of 2014, South/North Koreans accounted for the greatest number of foreign
residents in the prefecture (46,680 / 48.4%), followed by Chinese/Taiwanese (24,605 / 25.5%)
and Vietnamese (6,580 / 6.8%) residents.
There were 13,609 fewer South/North Korean residents compared to the end of 2004.
Chinese/Taiwanese residents, and Vietnamese residents increased by 3,905 people and3,455 people respectively. Decreases in numbers of Korean residents had a large effect on
the overall total.
There were people of 145 different nationalities living within Hyogo as of the end of 2014,
an increase of 18 since 2004.
2,217,426

Hyogo Prefecture

2,152,973

1,973,747
101,963

2,134,151

2,078,508

2,011,555

2,033,546

2,066,445

2,121,831

Nationwide
2,000,000

101,496

102,188

101,527

102,522

12,043
3,564
3,326
4,258

100,000

80,0002,186,121

2,084,919

120,000

11,251

11,427

11,70011,64911,952

3,550
3,048
3,125

3,550
2,923
3,385

3,612
3,052
3,705

3,398
3,131
3,978

3,697
3,288
4,190

20,70021,614

22,57023,456

24,760102,059

25,726

100,387
11,949
3,124
3,438
4,300

25,58560,00098,515

97,16496,541

96,53011,991

12,002

12,323

12,714

2,872
3,477
4,484

2,706
3,494
4,709

2,504
3,531
5,209

2,306
3,645

25,25325,086

24,8171,500,000

6,580

24,6051,000,000

40,00060,28958,59757,54955,91554,635500,000

53,142

51,99150,43849,167

48,157

46,680

H21

H22

H23

H24

H25

H26

20,00000
H16

N/S Korea

H17

H18

H19

China/Taiwan

H20

VietnamPhilippines

BrazilOther(Ministry of Justice, “Statistic on Foreign National Residents”)
Note: As of 2012, Chinese and Taiwanese statistics have been made available separately, but have beenpresented as a single figure here to allow for comparison with previous years.

2

Nationwide

(3) Residential Status*
As of the end of 2014, the majority of residents were designated as “Special Permanent
Residents” (42,621 / 44.2%) followed by “Permanent Residents” (22,734 / 23.6%), and“Students” (6,519 / 6.8%).
Compared to the end of 2004, numbers of special permanent residents had fallen by
13,351, permanent residents had increased by 8,331, and students from abroad had
increased by 1,072. Primary factors for the decrease in special permanent residents are
believed to include naturalization, along with children of foreign and Japanese mixed
spouses acquiring Japanese citizenship.
74,646 foreign residents had residential statuses with no restriction on activities as ofthe end of 2014, accounting for 77.3% of total residents. This is in comparison to thenationwide figure of 1,367,402, which accounts for 64.4% of the total. Foreigners without
these restrictions are often long-term residents, and there is a large trend of foreign
residents living in Hyogo becoming permanent residents.
*“Special Permanent
Resident”“Permanent Resident”“No restriction on activities”

Residence status given to persons, or descendants of persons whondwere living in Japan prior to September 2 , 1945 who lost
Japanese citizenship due to the signing of the Treaty of San
Francisco.
Those recognized as permanent residents by the Minister ofJustice.
Those whose are “Special Permanent Residents”, “Permanent
Residents”, “Long Term Residents” or “Spouses or Children of
Japanese Nationals”, and “Spouses or Children of Permanent
Residents”.

（People）
60,000

2004

2009

2014

50,00040,00030,00020,00010,0000

2004

55,972

14,403

5,447

5,877

Trainee/Technical
InternTraining
1,702

2009

48,696

18,549

6,542

5,717

1,979

5,506

5,794

3,595

725

4,956

2014

42,621

22,734

6,519

5,849

5,139

4,244

4,213

3,767

834

591

SpecialPermanent
Permanent
Residents
Residents

Students

Working
Visa

Spouses/
Spouses/Long Term Children ofChildren of
Dependent
Residents Japanese
Permanent
Nationals
Residents
5,527
5,866
3,233
558

Other
3,378

(Ministry of Justice, “Statistic on Foreign National Residents”)
Note: The “Technical Intern Training” category was created in 2010. The previous “Designated Activities”
statistics have been incorporated into this category.

3

(4) Per-Region
As of the end of 2014, the city of Kobe had the highest number of foreign residents at 43,247.
By comparison, Awaji had the lowest at just 675. Looking at rates of increase/decrease perregion, Awaji saw the largest increase, with a 13.6% increase since the 2004 figure of 594.
The region with the largest rate of decrease was South Hanshin, which saw a 12.3%
decrease from the end of 2004, from 21,417 to 18,780.
2004

2014

Kobe
South Hanshin
North Hanshin
East Harima
North Harima
Middle Harima
West Harima
TajimaTamba
Awaji

44,276
21,417
9,463
6,996
3,296
11,713
1,756
1,153
1,201
594

43,247
18,780
8,532
7,280
3,537
10,591
1,698
1,023
1,167
675

2014/2004
Inc./Dec.
PeopleRate (%)- 1,029- 2.3- 2,637- 12.3
- 931
- 9.8
284
4.1
241
7.3
- 1,122
- 9.6
- 58
- 3.3
- 130
- 11.3
- 34
- 2.8
81
13.6

PeoplePeopleTotal

101,865

96,530- 5,335- 5.2(Ministry of Justice “Statistic on Foreign National Residents”, Hyogo Prefecture)
Note: 2004 figures are from an independent survey carried out by Hyogo Prefectural Government, so do notconform with the “Statistic on Foreign National Residents” total.

(5) By Age
Looking at the age of foreign residents, as of 2014, 15,771 were aged 65 or older, an increaseof 4,499 compared to 11,272 in 2004. The overall percentage of those aged 65 or older was
16.3% at the end of 2014, compared to 11.1% at the end of 2004. This shows an increase in
the elderly population that is greater than the nationwide percentage of 6.9%.
Total
2004

2014

0 – 14 years old
2004

15 – 64 years old

2014

2004

65=< years old

2014

PeopleRatio

PeopleRatio

PeopleTotal

101,963 96,530

9,580

9.4%

7,289

7.6%

81,111 79.5%

73,470 76.1%

11,272 11.1%

15,771 16.3%

South/North Korea

60,289 46,680

5,675

9.4%

2,559

5.5%

45,462 75.4%

31,292 67.0%

9,152 15.2%

12,829 27.5%

1,292

6.2%

1,944

8.4%

51

3.5%

Chinese Taipei

20,70023,151
1,454

17,923 86.6%

PeopleRatio

19,587 84.6%
1,074 73.9%

People2014

People People

China

Ratio

2004
Ratio

1,485

7.2%

People

1,620

Ratio

7.0%

329 22.6%

Brazil3,550 2,306

350

9.9%

348 15.1%

3,173 89.4%

1,850 80.2%

27

0.8%

108

4.7%

Other

17,424 22,939

2,263 13.0%

2,387 10.4%

14,553 83.5%

19,667 85.7%

608

3.5%

885

3.9%

3,297 90.5%

－

－

28

0.8%

Philippines

－

3,645

－

－

320

8.8%

－

(Ministry of Justice, “Statistic on Foreign National Residents”)

4－II. Fundamental Concepts Regarding Plans for a Multicultural Society
1. Fundamental Ideals(1) Fundamental Ideals
The realization of a multicultural society where, through mutual understanding andsupport, foreign and Japanese residents can realize their own respective goals, while stillworking together on region planning and building.
(2) Concept
In order to realize a vibrant and healthy region, it is necessary to create a society in which
foreign and Japanese residents can realize their own goals, while working together,regardless of nationality, and while respecting all aspects of culture and religion, as well as
differing cultures, lifestyles, and values.
Foreigners who make their livelihood within Hyogo are, along with Japanese citizens,
residents of the prefecture. In order to create an even more vibrant region and improvesociety as a whole, it is necessary to actively encourage foreign prefectural residents toparticipate in planning the region they live in.
Through this process, we believe that all prefectural residents can live together safely
and happily, with both foreign and Japanese residents working together to develop theregion, and aiming towards the realization of a multicultural society.

2. Fundamental Objectives
After clarifying the role of implementing multiculturalism within the region, it was decided
that the following 4 fundamental objectives must be attained in order to create a multiculturalsociety and realize these fundamental ideas.
(1) Creating Awareness of Multiculturalism
After the “Fundamental Guidelines for Promoting an International Region” were decided in
1993, efforts to promote understanding and acceptance of differing cultures, customs, andvalues were made under the concept of “Internationalization of the heart”. However,misunderstandings and friction between Japanese and foreign residents are still a source oftrouble, so it cannot be said that all of these barriers have been removed.
Awareness of multiculturalism is being promoted in order to allow all residents to fully
understand the concepts of a multicultural society and allow for the creation of a vibrantregion.
(2) Creating Multicultural People
Along with the increase in international marriages in recent years, there have been
increasing numbers of school-aged youth, either with foreign or Japanese nationalities, wholack a full understanding of both Japanese and their mother tongue languages. In order toallow these youths to realize their dreams and goals, as well as contribute independently tothe future of the region, it is necessary to improve Japanese and mother tongue language
educational support, as well as systems to accommodate these youths at school.
On a regional level, education initiatives to create next-generation leaders who areprepared to propel multiculturalism forward are required, along with increased efforts to
spread multiculturalism. With increased globalization, it is also necessary to raise young
people in a way that provides them with an understanding of multiculturalism, andprepares them to perform on a global level.

5(3) Creating the Foundation for a Livable Society
In order to realize a multicultural society, it is important to ensure that all residents of theprefecture can live safely and happily, while improving and making use of their skills,
allowing them to contribute to both regional society and regional planning. The current
reality is, however, that many foreign residents face difficulties surrounding language or
institutional barriers. In order for foreign residents to be able to carry out their day-to-day
lives in the same manner as Japanese residents, it is necessary to improve the basis fortheir livelihoods, so that they can participate in society fully.
(4) Creating a Dynamic Region in Which Anyone Can Participate
Efforts to allow Japanese and foreign residents alike to work together on region building
must focus not only on creating a multicultural society, but also on region creation. To allow
the activities of foreign residents to contribute to the vibrancy of the region, foreign
residents must be able to participate actively in region building in the same way asJapanese residents. To allow for the continuous development of Hyogo, it is necessary to
welcome overseas business talent, researchers, and students from abroad, along withshort-term visitors such as tourists.
Structure of current efforts
1. Creating Awareness ofMulticulturalism

Educational Support for Foreign School-Aged Youth● Promoting Local Japanese Language and MotherTongue Language Education Support●Establishing School Acceptance Systems & Ensuring
Opportunities for Education

2. Creating Multicultural
PeopleCreating Leaders who Participate in Multiculturalism
Creating Global Talent Amongst Japanese Residents
Providing Multilingual Information
Providing Educational Support for Japanese Language,
Culture, and Customs
Providing Information Regarding Housing and Daily Life

3. Creating the Foundation
for a Livable Society

Providing Information and Support Regarding
Health, Medical Services, and Welfare
Improving Employment Support and Working
Environments
Increasing Awareness of Disaster Risk Reduction and
Maintaining Support Systems
Providing Consultation Systems for Foreign Residents

4. Creating a Dynamic
Region in Which Anyone
Can Participate

Improving Foreign Resident Participation in Region Building
Accepting Foreign Business Talent, Students from Abroad,etc.

6III. Fundamental Direction
1. Creating Awareness of Multiculturalism(1) Current Trends and Issues
While it is important that foreign and Japanese residents understand and respect eachother, differences in language, culture, and customs can lead to a lack of communication,and cause foreigners to become isolated within local society.
In regions where there are many foreigners, problems can arise between these twogroups due to misunderstandings and other issues. However, in regions where there are few
foreign residents, Japanese residents may have limited opportunities to interact withforeigners and experience multiculturalism. It is therefore important to take into accountregional differences when creating awareness of multiculturalism.
Primary Themes:- Encouraging mutual understanding between foreign and Japanese residents. Eliminate
discrimination amongst Japanese residents through promoting multiculturalism and anawareness of foreigners’ rights, taking regional differences into account.

(2) Direction of Primary Efforts by Involved Parties
Prefecture:● Encourage mutual understanding between Japanese and foreign citizens throughout
the prefecture. Reduce discrimination, through creating continuous opportunities toraise awareness of multiculturalism by cooperating with local citizens’ groups,
businesses, and NGOs.
● Increase awareness of multiculturalism throughout Hyogo Prefectural Government
and all related organizations, thereby making it possible to promote multicultural
policies and improvements.
Towns/Cities:● Encourage mutual understanding between Japanese and foreign citizens at a local
level. Reduce discrimination, through creating continuous opportunities to raiseawareness of multiculturalism by cooperating with local citizens’ groups, businesses,
and NGOs.
● Increase awareness of multiculturalism throughout local governments and all
related organizations, thereby making it possible to promote multicultural policies
and improvements.
Hyogo International Association:● Encourage awareness of multiculturalism throughout the prefecture. Guide local
international associations in their efforts to promote multiculturalism.
Local International Associations:● Work with neighborhood councils and regional citizens’ associations to promote
understanding of multiculturalism and an awareness of the rights of foreigners
amongst local citizens. If there are few foreign citizens in the area, request
cooperation from foreign communities and NGOs etc., and drive forward efforts thattake local situations into consideration.
Educational Institutions:● Aim for education that, at a fundamental level, encourages respect for human rights
and allows for the realization of a multicultural society at each stage of education. At
a university level, aim for the creation of lectures on multiculturalism etc., and makespecialized and comprehensive efforts to create awareness of multiculturalism.

72. Creating Multicultural Citizens(1) Educational Support for School-Aged Youth of Non-Japanese Origin“Promoting Local Japanese Language and Mother Tongue Language Education Support”
A. Current Trends and Issues
The increase in international marriages in recent years has led to increasing numbersof foreign and Japanese school-aged youth who lack a full understanding of the both
Japanese and their mother tongue languages. There are also increasing numbers ofJapanese school-aged youth who became Japanese citizens after coming to Japan,
who lack a full understanding of the Japanese language.
School-aged youth of non-Japanese origin who lack a full understanding of theJapanese language have issues settling into school, and have less interest in learning.
There are also students who, while able to speak enough Japanese to communicate ona day-to-day basis, lack the Japanese skills necessary to fully understand theirclasses. In order to remove any obstacles to learning, it is necessary to promote andprovide regional Japanese language support and coursework support. Foreign youth
who lack a full understanding of their mother tongue languages should also be
supported to study their respective languages, thereby ensuring that they acquire

their own identities.

Primary Themes:- Providing Japanese and mother tongue language support to students as necessary.
Further improving regional Japanese and mother tongue language education support,
along with coursework support.

B. Direction of Primary Efforts by Involved Parties
Prefecture:● Work together with the Hyogo International Association, NGOs, and other groups,
to further Japanese language education, mother tongue language education, andother coursework support amongst foreign school-age youth in regions throughout
Hyogo.
Towns/Cities:● Work together with local international associations, NGOs, and other groups, tofurther regional Japanese language education, mother tongue language education,and other coursework support.
Hyogo International Association:● Provide support to ensure that regions throughout Hyogo are able to hold Japanese
language education classes, mother tongue language education, and othercoursework support.
● Promote supporters that provide Japanese language education and mother tongue
language education for foreign school-age youth.
● Through the use of an advisor, provide management and training support forgroups and teachers who provide Japanese language classes for foreign school-age
youth. This advisor will be dispatched as necessary.
Local International Associations:● Work together with NGOs etc. to hold Japanese language education, mothertongue language education, and other coursework support classes for school-aged
youth of non-Japanese origin.
NGOs and Other Groups:● Make use of students from abroad etc. and work to hold Japanese language
education, mother tongue language education, and other coursework supportclasses.

8

“Establishing School Acceptance Systems & Ensuring Opportunities for Education”
A. Current Trends and Issues
Detailed school acceptance systems are required that allow school-aged youth of
non-Japanese origin to maintain their own culture and unique daily lifestyles without
becoming isolated. It is also necessary to provide opportunities for education to
students who require assistance with Japanese language, to ensure they are able tocontinue into higher education.
Issues arise, however, when parents and guardians of these students do notunderstand the Japanese education system or the importance of regular attendance.
Financial difficulties also mean that it can be difficult for some students to attend
school regularly or continue their educations. It is therefore necessary to provide
these students with the proper support to allow them to follow their own dreams andambitions, and become independent members of regional society.
Primary Themes:- Expanding educational support systems and opportunities for education amongst
school-aged youth of non-Japanese origin.
- Providing deeper understanding to parents and guardians of these youth regarding theJapanese education system and the importance of regular attendance.
- Providing proper support to students who find it difficult to attend regularly or continue
their educations due to financial difficulties.

B. Direction of Primary Efforts by Involved Parties
Prefecture:● The prefectural government will cooperate with towns and municipalities todispatch multicultural supporters in order to provide educational and emotional
support for school-aged youth of non-Japanese origin, and encourage earlyintervention. To encourage school attendance, a variety of multilingual materials
will be created, and a multicultural center will be created to provide informationand consultation regarding education.
● Increased opportunities for education will be provided by seeking out students who
have limited Japanese language and communication proficiency, creating ascreening process for new entrants at the prefectural model high school, andcreating a special quota to provide educational support after entering school.
● Elementary and Middle Schools within the prefecture will be designated as
research schools, and perform practical research into effective Japanese language
guidance. Japanese language proficiency support will be provided throughJapanese language supporters.
● A support system will be considered for exceptional foreign students who havedifficulties attending school regularly for financial reasons.
Towns/Cities:● Information on the Japanese compulsory education system and regular attendance
processes/procedures will be provided to the guardians of school-aged youth of
non-Japanese origin through cooperation with local international associations,NGOs, and the foreign community. Systems will be devised to provide schoollife/educational support upon enrollment.
● The abilities of students who do not attend school regularly will be measured, andefforts made to raise awareness regarding the importance of regular attendance
amongst foreign students and their parents.
Educational Institutions:● Will work to promote and strengthen opportunities for Japanese and school-aged
youth of non-Japanese origin to interact.

9(2) Creating Leaders Who Participate in Multiculturalism
A. Current Trends and Issues
NGOs and volunteer groups have been making efforts throughout the prefecture topromote multiculturalism, and foreign communities have been provided with mothertongue language education and coursework support. However, these efforts have yet
to be fully connected to future generations, or the region as a whole.
Primary Themes:- Involving younger generations in NGOs and volunteer groups that support the foreigncommunity, to ensure that these groups can continue in the future.
- Creating and support NGO and volunteer groups in regions where efforts towards
multiculturalism are lacking.

B. Direction of Primary Efforts by Involved Parties
Prefecture:● Through the use of nationwide systems, enable NGO and volunteer groups etc. toactively perform activities related to multiculturalism from a prefecture-wide
perspective, help to create new talent for these groups, and provide support tothem.
Towns/Cities:● Work together with neighboring towns/cities to gain an understanding of thecurrent activities of NGO and volunteer groups performing activities related tomulticulturalism. Seek out and support talented individuals to lead Japanese
language classes.
Hyogo International Association:● Use seminars etc. to encourage people living throughout the prefecture to deepen
their understanding of multiculturalism and how it contributes to society.
Encourage the creation of leaders who will contribute to multiculturalism.
● Create a network with foreign residents, support foreign communities who arecontributing to the livelihood and wellbeing of their members enable them tocontinue their activities in a stable and continuous manner.
Local International Associations:● Hold lectures on multiculturalism, and work to create key people within the region.
● Support foreign communities to continue their activities in a stable and continuous
manner, to allow them to be bases for leaders to work towards multiculturalism.
● Consider the use of existing, unused facilities (closed schools etc.) as activity bases
for the foreign community.
NGOs and Other Groups:● Work together with other local groups to improve cooperation of efforts related tomulticulturalism. In addition, share information and know how, create and train
leaders in multiculturalism.

10(3) Creating Global Talent Amongst Japanese Residents
A. Current Trends and Issues
With both society and the economy becoming evermore globalized, there is anincreasing need for talented individuals who have strong language andcommunication skills, and are able to perform on the world stage. Individuals such asthese have a large influence on regional society, and it is hoped that they willcontribute to the realization of multiculturalism. It is also hoped that young people
who have a strong understanding of multiculturalism will be able to perform at a
global level.
Primary Themes:- Along with strong language and communication skills, encouraging an understanding ofother cultures and an identity as a Japanese person, with the aim of fostering talent thatcan perform at a global level.
- Encouraging study abroad amongst high school and university students.
- Encouraging communication between Japanese residents and local foreign residents suchas students from abroad.
- Increasing opportunities for young people to experience other cultures.

B. Direction of Primary Efforts by Involved Parties
Prefecture:● Encourage exchange with sister cities/states. Support/encourage towns, cities, anduniversities to create their own international exchange programs.
Towns/Cities:● Encourage exchange with sister cities, and promote international exchange,
particularly amongst the youth.
Hyogo International Association:● Support efforts by towns/cities in their attempts to create opportunities forexchange and foster global talent. Increase awareness of multiculturalism amongst
young people.
Local International Associations:● Encourage understanding of globalization and multiculturalism amongst Japanese
residents through exchange events with foreign residents etc.
Educational Institutions:● Create double degree systems that recognize credits from overseas

universities. Encourage study overseas amongst Japanese students.

● Cooperate with overseas universities to create international internships forJapanese students, therefore encouraging Japanese students to have globallyoriented careers.
● Make use of networks created by the prefectural and municipal governments toencourage overseas study amongst high school students.
● Make use of assistant language teachers (ALTs) and the creation of attainment
targets to improve English language classes, improve language and communication
skills amongst students through training for educators etc.
● Japan’s relationship with developing nations is becoming increasingly important.
It is therefore necessary to foster the acquisition of languages native to thesecountries.
● At every stage of education, make use of classes, extracurricular activities, lectures
etc., to foster an interest in foreign affairs amongst students, and encourage thecreation of international talent by deepening students’ understanding ofmulticulturalism.

113. Creating the Foundation for a Livable Society(1) Providing Multilingual Information
A. Current Trends and Issues
The prefectural government and municipal governments, are distributing andproducing the fundamental information necessary for day-to-day life in multiple
languages, both online and as pamphlets etc. There is low awareness of theavailability of these materials however, so efforts need to be made regarding
awareness raising. There are also issues where, even if information is being provided
in other languages, it is difficult for foreign residents to understand due tofundamental differences in systems and methods when compared to their homecountry. It is also realistically impossible to provide all information in multiple
languages, but longer residency periods are bringing about improvements in the
average Japanese language abilities of foreign residents. These improvements have
led to new efforts such as adding furigana to kanji, or producing materials in simple
Japanese.
Primary Themes:- Continuing to provide more information about government and day-to-day life in multiple
languages. Improving awareness of the availability of this information.
- Providing information in a variety of formats, including via community radio stations etc.
- Providing information in a variety of forms, such as simple Japanese.

B. Direction of Primary Efforts by Involved Parties
Prefecture:● Provide information in multiple languages, use furigana and simple Japanese,
improve information variety.
● Police should work towards providing more multilingual information to help
ensure foreign residents don’t get caught up in accidents or other incidents.
Towns/Cities:● Use registration of residency by foreign residents as an opportunity to provide local
information in the resident’s language.
● Improve/increase use of furigana and simple Japanese
Hyogo International Association:● Provide multilingual information. Provide information about furigana use andsimple Japanese, as well as easy to understand signage. Support local
international associations in their efforts towards providing multilingual language
and information in simple Japanese.
Local International Associations:● Provide information in multiple languages, and encourage the use of
furigana/simple Japanese as required for local communities. Work towards
providing easy to understand signage.
● Make use of community radio stations, the internet, and other communication
services/devices to provide information in a variety of forms.
● Provide “pointing” guidebooks and other forms of information.
NGOs and Other Groups:● Work towards providing information in multiple languages and in simple Japanese,
based upon societal differences between foreign residents’ home countries andJapan.

12

(2) Providing Educational Support for Japanese Language, Culture, and Customs
A. Current Trends and Issues
In order for foreign residents to become true members of their local society, andparticipate fully in work and other activities, it is necessary for them to have an
understanding of Japanese language, culture and customs. It was for this reason thatJapanese language classes were established throughout the prefecture byinternational associations. These classes provide not only language training, but arealso a way for participants to gain necessary information about daily life. They also
provide an opportunity for exchange between foreign and Japanese residents, andform the foundation of emergency networks.
Japanese classes are a way for foreign residents to continuously learn Japanese,and have the important role of being on the front line of improving multiculturalism
in their local communities. It is for this reason that it is necessary to create theseclassrooms throughout the prefecture and provide support to run them.
Primary Themes:- Providing opportunities for foreign residents to learn about Japanese culture and customs.
- Providing support for these classrooms so they can be run regularly/ensuring they are held
throughout the prefecture.

B. Direction of Primary Efforts by Involved Parties
Prefecture:● Provide support for efforts by the Hyogo International Association and cities andtowns to create Japanese language classrooms throughout the prefecture.
Towns/Cities:● Create Japanese classrooms as necessary based upon a thorough understanding of
local needs. Work with the prefectural government and Hyogo International
Association, as well as provide support for local international associations andNGOs, etc.
Hyogo International Association:● Provide Japanese language classes that allow foreign residents to learn therequired Japanese for daily life.
● Support local volunteer groups and international associations to hold Japanese
language classrooms, thereby improving opportunities to learn Japanesethroughout the prefecture.
● Provide training for Japanese language teachers and volunteers. Assist in the
production of study materials.
Local International Associations:● Create Japanese language classrooms based upon local needs. Cooperate with theprefectural government, Hyogo International Association, and local volunteer
groups, to provide fully realized opportunities for Japanese language education.
● Hold lectures/seminars on local traditions/history for foreign residents.
Businesses:● Encourage foreign workers to participate in Japanese language classes. Provide
workplace Japanese language training, as well as information on Japanese culture
and customs.

13(3) Providing Information Regarding Housing and Daily Life
A. Current Trends and Issues
There have been issues regarding foreign residents being refused rental housing.
Foreign residents can also find it difficult to understand certain concepts regarding
housing contracts in Japan, such as the necessity of a security deposit and key money.
There are also issues surrounding understanding local rules and customs regarding
daily life, leading to misunderstandings and friction with Japanese residents.
Primary Themes:- Reducing the number of people refused housing due to being foreigners.
- Creating better relationships between foreign residents and their neighbors to ensure
there are no disruptions to local communities.

B. Direction of Primary Efforts by Involved Parties
Prefecture:● Increase awareness of the rights of foreigners and multiculturalism amongst thereal estate industry and other related organizations at a prefecture-wide level,thus reducing the number of foreigners being refused housing.
● Promote information about rental properties that accept foreigners, thus allowing
foreign residents to more easily find accommodation.
● Provide multilingual information about rules/manners for foreign residents whowill live, or currently are living in prefectural housing.
Towns/Cities:● Increase awareness of the rights of foreigners and multiculturalism amongst thereal estate industry and other related organizations, thus reducing the number offoreigners being refused housing.
● Cooperate with neighborhood councils to provide multilingual information about
rules/manners for foreign residents who will live, or currently are living inmunicipal housing.
Hyogo International Association:● Create and distribute daily life guidebooks to ensure that foreign residents face as
few issues in their daily lives as possible.
Local International Associations:● Cooperate with neighborhood councils to provide multilingual information about
local rules/manners and differences in systems between their home countries forforeign residents.
Local Neighborhood Associations:● Work to provide information about rules and manners to foreign residents.
Residents:● Japanese residents should work to communicate as much as possible with local
foreign residents, to ensure that they understand the rules and manners requiredfor daily life in Japan.
● Foreign residents should understand that they are members of the local community,
and work to understand and protect local rules/customs.

14(4) Providing Information and Support Regarding Health, Medical Services, and Welfare
A. Current Trends and Issues
Many foreign residents do not fully understand Japanese health care, welfare,pension, and health insurance systems due to differences with their home countries
etc. As a result, there have been instances where foreign residents do not make use of
these services or do not join pension/health insurance schemes.
The prefectural government provides information about healthcare providers who
can provide consultation in multiple languages on its website, but this is not widely
known.
Foreign residents who do not fully understand Japanese often require interpreters
to undergo treatment at healthcare providers, but a medical interpretation system
has not yet been fully implemented.
More multilingual information about welfare etc. is required.
Primary Themes:- Making efforts to ensure that multilingual information about health care, medical
services, and welfare systems is available and widely known about by foreign residents.
Thus ensuring that foreign residents do not miss out on becoming members of publichealth insurance and other social insurance schemes.
- Further improving information about healthcare providers with multilingual services.
- Creating a fully implemented and realized medical interpretation system.

B. Direction of Primary Efforts by Involved Parties
Prefecture:● Efforts should be made to ensure that information about multilingual healthcare
providers is more widely known about by the foreign community by cooperatingwith cities/towns and NGOs.
● Efforts to train medical interpreters and use ICT etc. to improve the medical
interpreting system should be continued.
● Multilingual information should be provided about health, healthcare providers,
welfare etc.
Towns/Cities:● Resident registration should be used as an opportunity to provide multilingual
information about health, healthcare providers, welfare and social welfare.
Local Administrative Authorities:● Efforts should be made to make information about social welfare systems more
widely known amongst foreign residents, and encourage employers of foreign
workers to have their employees join social welfare schemes.
Businesses:● Should provide easy to understand information about Japan’s social welfare
systems to their foreign employees, and encourage them to join.

15

(5) Improving Employment Support and Working Environments
A. Current Trends and Issues
Foreign residents often face difficulties finding employment opportunities due to a
combination of a lack of Japanese language proficiency, and not knowing where tofind employment information. This also applies to foreign youth who have been raisedin Japan. Ensuring these youths are able to secure employment, become independent
residents, and contribute to the future of the region, is of utmost importance.
The Japanese government is currently considering expanding its practical skills
training systems and systems for accepting foreigners who will work in nursing andcare, so an increase in foreign workers is anticipated. To ensure that foreign residents
who are eligible to work can do so in a safe and secure manner, it is necessary to
promote employment support and skills development, and improve working
environments.
Primary Themes:- Creating consultation areas for foreign workers at public employment security offices etc.
Making foreign residents aware of their availability.
- Further promoting awareness of/efforts towards employment of foreigners amongst
businesses, as well as adherence to laws/suitable employment.

B. Direction of Primary Efforts by Involved Parties
Prefecture:● Cooperate with local public employment security offices to ensure employment
opportunities for foreigners who are eligible to work in Japan, and support skills
development.
Towns/Cities:● Cooperate with prefectural/local public employment security offices to ensure
employment opportunities for foreigners who are eligible to work in Japan, andsupport further development of skills.
Local Administrative Authorities:● Labor bureaus and public employment security offices should work to promoteadherence to laws and stable/safe, suitable employment amongst businesses who
employ foreigners.
Businesses:● Should adhere to laws when employing foreign workers, and ensure that theseworkers are provided with suitable employment terms and safe work environments,
to ensure they can make use of their skills within the limitations of their visa
status. Measures should be made to improve employment management etc.
according to guidelines provided by labor bureaus.
● Necessary information should be provided to foreign workers regarding local
day-to-day life, to ensure that they experience as few difficulties as possible.
Efforts should be made to ensure that foreign and Japanese workers cancommunicate freely.
Educational Institutions● Efforts should be made to improve the employment opportunities for foreign
students with eligible visas, by promoting internships with businesses within theprefecture.

16

(6) Increasing Awareness of Disaster Risk Reduction and Maintaining Support Systems
A. Current Trends and Issues
The Tohoku earthquake in March 2011 provided a reminder of the difficulties that
foreign residents face regarding finding information during disasters, and thatfurther improvement of this support is required. It is necessary to prepare for a wide
range of future natural disasters, including an earthquake in the Nankai Trough,which is expected to occur within the next 30 years with a 70% certainty, along withincreasing instances of guerrilla rainstorms and typhoons.
Due to climactic differences between their home countries and Japan, many
foreign residents lack awareness of disaster risk reduction techniques andpreparation. It is therefore necessary to increase awareness of disaster risk reduction
amongst foreign residents and ensure systems are in place to provide information andsupport, and provide status checks to ensure their wellbeing in times of disaster.
Primary Themes:- Increasing awareness of disaster risk reduction amongst foreign residents.
- Creation of systems in cooperation with relevant authorities to provide information,
support and provide status checks to ensure their wellbeing in times of disaster.
- Providing information to foreign residents in simple Japanese and multiple languages intimes of disaster.

B. Direction of Primary Efforts by Involved Parties
Prefecture:● A strategy should be established regarding foreign residents in regional disaster
preparation plans, with necessary support being provided based upon this strategy.
● Efforts should be made to promote awareness of disaster risk reduction throughcooperation with towns/cities and foreign communities. Foreign residents should
be encouraged to register with multilingual emergency weather information
services etc.
● Systems and services should be implemented in cooperation with towns/cities,
consulate-generals within Kansai, and foreign communities to create a network for
prefecture-wide communication, information provision, and wellbeing
confirmation.
Towns/Cities:● A strategy should be established in local disaster preparation plans regarding
foreign residents, with support provided based upon this strategy. Efforts should bemade to create a network for communication, information provision, wellbeing
confirmation, and support activities.
● Efforts should be made to raise awareness of disaster risk reduction and crime
prevention in cooperation with local international associations. Foreign residents
should be encouraged to register with multilingual emergency weather information
services etc.
Hyogo International Association:● Efforts should be made to raise awareness of disaster risk reduction throughcreating and distributing multilingual guidebooks.
● A network should be created with neighboring prefectural international
associations and related organizations in times of peace. Further efforts should bemade to train volunteers etc.
Local International Associations:● Should produce and distribute multilingual disaster preparation guides, and work
to raise awareness of disaster risk reduction.

17

Businesses:● Employees should be provided with evacuation instructions when needed, andmade aware of what to do during a disaster before it actually occurs.
Educational Institutions:● Students should be provided with evacuation instructions when needed, and madeaware of what to do during a disaster before it actually occurs.
(7) Providing Consultation Systems for Foreign Residents
A. Current Trends and Issues
Within the prefecture, multilingual consultation services have been created by theprefectural government and other government organizations such as the Immigration
Bureau and public employment security offices. 16 cities and towns have createdthese services. For areas where there are few foreigners however, each department
deals with these consultations as required.
Consultations regarding immigration etc. upon arriving in Japan have decreased
over time. As the average age of the foreign population has increased, however,consultations regarding social security and healthcare, as well as other mattersregarding daily life have increased. It is therefore necessary for related organizations
to create wide-reaching cooperative consultation systems.
Primary Themes:- Furthering cooperation amongst relevant organizations in order to cope with increasingly
diverse, complex, and specialized consultations.

B. Direction of Primary Efforts by Involved Parties
Prefecture:● A multilingual consultation service needs to be provided to provide support toforeign residents for the issues that they face.
Towns/Cities:● Further cooperation is required with local international associations and relatedorganizations/departments, to create fully realized consultation systems for foreign
residents.
Local Administrative Authorities:● The Immigration Bureau and public employment security offices etc., should aim
to provide specialized multilingual consultation services.
Hyogo International Association:● Deeper cooperation is required in order to deal with changes to the issues that
foreigners are facing. Multilingual consultation services should be created andimplemented with relevant organizations. Training seminars should be held to
support towns/cities to improve their own consultation services.
Local International Associations:● Deeper cooperation is required in order to deal with changes to the issues that
foreigners are facing. Multilingual consultation services should be created andimplemented with relevant organizations. Participate in training seminars to
improve local consultation services.

18

4. Creating a Dynamic Region in Which Anyone Can Participate(1) Improving Foreign Resident Participation in Region Building
A. Current Trends and Issues
The foreign resident population in Hyogo is aging, but becoming increasingly diverse,with more foreigners becoming permanent residents than in other parts of Japan. For
this reason, it is becoming increasingly important for foreign and Japanese residents
to work together to support each other as members of their region, and participate inregion building. In order to create a vibrant region, it is also necessary to secure
places where foreign residents can have their opinions heard.
Primary Themes:- Have both foreign and Japanese residents participate actively in regional events, andprovide more opportunities for exchange.
- Secure spaces for foreign residents to have their opinion heard regarding
government-related region building.

B. Direction of Primary Efforts by Involved Parties
Prefecture:● Secure spaces where foreign residents can have their opinions heard on mattersregarding region building, such as the Meeting for the Promotion of an Integrated
Society etc.
Towns/Cities:● Decide on a space where foreign residents can have their opinions heard on
matters regarding region building.
● Consider supporting the creation of activity bases for the foreign community.
● Cooperate with neighborhood associations, local resident associations, and NGOs
etc., to promote foreign resident participation in local activities.
Hyogo International Association:● Promote participation in prefecture-wide events created by NGOs and the foreigncommunity.
Local International Associations:● Encourage foreign resident participation in exchange events.
● Encourage local residents to participate in local exchange events held by NGOs
and foreign communities.
Local Resident Associations:● Cooperate with local international associations, NGOs etc., and work to ensurethat foreign residents don’t become isolated within their own communities.
Residents:● Encourage foreign residents to participate in region building and other events.
● Work to ensure that foreign residents can participate fully in region building as
members of their communities.

19

(2) Accepting Foreign Business Talent, Students from Abroad, etc.
A. Current Trends and Issues
Hyogo Prefecture has a long history as being a window to the rest of the world, andhas developed as a region in which foreigners have worked in harmony with Japanese
residents. In order to make use of Hyogo’s unique traits and allow it to develop
further as a prefecture, it is necessary to accept foreign business talent, researchers,
students, and tourists.
There have, however, been fewer increases in foreign business owners andmanagerial staff compared to other parts of Japan. Universities within the prefecture
are also struggling to increase their foreign student numbers. In order to have thesestudents use their strengths to contribute to the future of Hyogo, it is necessary toincrease the numbers of students working within businesses in the region, and havethem work towards creating student networks upon returning to their homecountries.
Primary Themes:- Increasing the amount of foreign business talent being accepted in Hyogo.
- Increasing the number of high school/university students from abroad and promotion theiracceptance into businesses within Hyogo.
- Accepting more foreign tourists in Hyogo.

B. Direction of Primary Efforts by Involved Parties
Prefecture:● Aim to attract more foreign business talent in specialist/technical fields.
● Provide scholarships for students from abroad to provide support in their daily
lives, and aim to promote their acceptance into businesses within Hyogo throughinternships etc.
● Consider having students from abroad create networks upon returning to theirhome countries.
● Promote plans to attract more foreign tourists.
Towns/Cities:● Cooperate with the prefectural government to attract foreign businesses, and aim
to increase numbers of foreigners who are experts in specialized/technical fields byholding international meetings and exhibits.
● Provide tours to students from abroad who are living locally, and work towards
promoting local information to increase foreign tourist numbers.
● Promote knowledge of the local region and exchange with Japanese residents
through homestay programs for students from abroad etc.
Businesses:● Increase numbers of foreign students who are being employed.
Educational Institutions:● Increase numbers of students from abroad and help them to find employment at
businesses within the prefecture.
● Consider having students from abroad create networks upon returning to theirhome countries.
● Use overseas networks created by the prefecture and municipalities to accept morehigh school-aged students from abroad, provide support in everyday life.

20

IV. The Role of Multiculturalism Within the Region
The issues facing foreigners in daily life extend broadly over multiple fields. It is necessary todeal with them on a prefecture-wide basis, with efforts being divided between administrative
bodies, citizens’ groups, and businesses as appropriate. Efforts by administrative bodies mayneed to be divided further, at nationwide, prefecture, and municipal levels.
There are also issues that are central to businesses who hire foreign residents, and otherissues that are more appropriate for Hyogo International Association and local international
associations to tackle. Issues of exchange etc. need to be tackled by foreign and Japanese
residents, with individual citizens playing a central role.
In order to promote a multicultural society, it is necessary for each party to make efforts
suitable to their respective situations. Many of the challenges facing foreign residents are
unique to the regions they live in, and it is therefore important for local parties to cooperate intheir efforts to make improvements.
The roles of these local parties in promoting multiculturalism can be seen in the following
table.
At a nationwide level, a structured and comprehensive policy regarding multiculturalism
needs to be prepared, with an overall direction planned out. Policies regarding acceptance of
foreigners need to be made clear, with necessary legal and fiscal measures taken, and support
for regional multiculturalism efforts provided.
Party

Primary Role

Prefectural
Government

As the local regional authority, decide fundamental principles, createawareness and provide information, tackle region-wide issues, andmake early efforts toward providing solutions. Promote efforts that are
difficult to deal with at a municipal level, cooperate and work with
relevant authorities within the prefecture.

Towns/Cities

As the administrative body closest to foreign residents, promptly
understand foreign residents’ daily needs, and offer necessary services.
Create an environment where local residents can work together andhave opportunities for exchange. Drive forward efforts that have beencreated to meet the respective needs of the local community.

Local
Administrative
Authorities

The Immigration Bureau/public employment security offices etc.,
should provide prompt consultation for foreign residents for theirrespective administrative areas.

Hyogo
International
Association

Cooperate with the prefectural government to promote early,
region-wide efforts that take into account regional issues and needs,
making use of specialist knowledge, knowhow and mobility. Carry out
projects that help propel multiculturalism forward.

Local International
Associations

Cooperate with the municipalities to promote efforts that take into
account regional issues and needs, making use of specialist knowledge,
knowhow and mobility. Carry out projects that help propel
multiculturalism forward.

NGOs etc.

Cooperate and work together with prefectural/municipal governments,
and perform activities to promote multiculturalism using local
knowhow, information, talent and networks, making use of each group’s
specialties.

21

Businesses

Value foreign employees on the same level as Japanese employees,
respect their human rights, and comply with labor laws. Be a
responsible member of society, and work to develop the talents offoreign workers, supporting them to ensure they can make use of theirabilities. Be active in, and contribute to, regional society.

Educational
Institutions

Regardless of their enrollment status, provide all students witheducation that promotes the realization of a multicultural society. At auniversity level, support research/fact-finding surveys regarding
multiculturalism, and create international awareness amongst
students. Produce talented individuals that can perform in
multicultural fields and on the world stage.

Local Residents’GroupsAt neighborhood association meetings etc., provide easy to understandexplanations to foreign residents, while taking into account differenceswith their home countries. Help ensure foreign residents participate inlocal activities.

Citizens

Japanese residents should respect and understand each other as
members of their regions, and promote the creation of a multiculturalsociety. Japanese residents should make efforts to recognize foreign
residents as their friends, and deepen exchange. Foreign residents
should make efforts to study Japanese and deepen their understandingof Japanese culture and customs, participating proactively in local
activities and international exchange activities.

22Reference 1
Forum for Creation of a Multicultural Society in Hyogo:
Framework
Aim:
Article 1. The “Forum for Creation of a Multicultural Society in Hyogo” (hereinafter “Forum”) is
held to gather opinions from those who are well versed in multiculturalism, regarding
medium to long-term policies regarding multiculturalism in Hyogo, in response tochanging socio-economic conditions.
Matters for Consideration:
Article 2. The Forum will consider the following matters:(1) Results of multicultural policies.
(2) The fundamental direction of efforts to promote the creation of a multicultural society.
(3) Plans to realize a multicultural society.
(4) As well as the previous three items, any matters necessary to realize the previous three
items.
Members and Chairperson:
Article 3. The Forum consists of the following members, as listed on the next page.
3-2. To advance the Forum’s proceedings, a chairperson will be elected by the members.
3-3. If the chairperson is unable to attend or not present for any other reason, his or her role
will be performed by a member designated by the chairperson in advance.
Management:
Article 4. The call to convene the Forum will be made by the Director General of the International
Affairs Bureau.
4-2. If any member cannot attend due to unforeseeable circumstances, a representative may
participate in his or her place with the advance permission of the Director General.
4-3. The Director General may request the presence of non-members in order to hear theiropinions.
Opening of the Forum:
Article 5. The Forum is open to the public, however, it may be closed to the public if there any
severe obstacles arise that stop it from proceeding.
5-2. Matters concerning observers will be defined separately.
Minutes of Forum:
Article 6. Minutes will be recorded whenever the Forum is performed.
6-2. The minutes and other materials pertaining to the Forum will, as a general rule, be madepublic. This does not apply for materials which may contain personal details or formaterials that apply to previous articles.
Rewards/Travel Fees:
Article 7. Members or their proxies will be paid travel fees and be rewarded monetarily forattending the Forum.
7-2. Payment of rewards is defined separately.
7-3. Travel fee amounts will be calculated and paid according to the ordinance pertaining topersonnel travel fees (Showa 35 [1960] Hyogo Prefectural Government Ordinance 44).
Supplementary Rules:
Article 8. All items defining this framework, along with all other necessary items, are defined
separately.

Additional Clause
Fixed date of execution:
1. This framework will be executed from June 11, 2015.
Framework expiry:
2. This framework will expire on March 31, 2016.

23

(Appendix)

Forum for Creation of a Multicultural Society in Hyogo
Members* Listed in alphabetical order of family name

Name

Position

Miki INUIAssociate Professor, School of Human Science andEnvironment, University of Hyogo

Mitsuru IOZUMIProfessor, School of Education, Department of Education,
Kwansei Gakuin University

Setsuko MIYAMOTO

Professor, School of Human Science and Environment,
University of Hyogo

Tomio SAITO

Chairman, Hyogo International Association

Ikuko SEGUCHI

Overseas Study Coordinator, Institute for Promotion ofHigher Education, Kobe University

Kentaro SERITA

President, Kyoto Notre Dame University

Kiran S. SETHI

Vice President, American Chamber of Commerce inJapan/Kansai Representative

Yasuko TAKEZAWA

Professor, Institute for Research in Humanities, Kyoto
University

Megumi YAMASAKI

Professor, Faculty of Foreign Languages, Himeji Dokkyo
University

24Reference 2

Public Comments
on Report (Draft Version) of the Forum for Creation of a Multicultural Society in Hyogo
Comment Collection Period: December 28, 2015 – January 18, 2016
Numbers of Comments Collected: 9 (4 people)

No.

Comment

1

Countermeasures need to be made regarding discriminatory trends in society,such as soccer fans saying “Japanese only” and making hateful comments, hatespeech by Zaitokukai, discriminatory posts on the internet, etc. It is also
necessary to protect non-Japanese children from these trends at school.

2

Nothing is being mentioned about raising ethnic identity amongst children. I
think that educational support is required so that children can proudly identify
and speak with confidence about their roots.

3

The requirement for medium to long-term visa holders in Japan to have theirforeigner registration card on them at all times should be abolished, along withpenalties for late notification of change of address. Foreigners should be treatedin the same way as Japanese citizens.

4

Policies regarding overseas workers are focused primarily on their low wages,
and lack multicultural aspects. Policies should be created to provide overview toensure that human rights of overseas workers are not ignored, and that they are
not discriminated against.

5

I would like it to be made clear what stipulations are currently in place
regarding nationality of public servants in Hyogo Prefecture, and issues
surrounding this.

6

I hope that the prefecture and municipalities can cooperate fully in times ofdisaster to provide full support to foreigners.

7

I would like to know the current situation regarding whether opinions are beingreflected in public referendums, and what issues exist.

8

I would like a report on how many Meetings for the Promotion of an Integrated
Society are being held, I would also like an increase in members, for it to becomea permanent fixture, and for further improvements to be made.

9

I want more students from abroad to be supported to find work at local
businesses, in the same way that Japanese students are.

25