Japan sees rise of Islamophobia
Japan sees rise of Islamophobia
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Despite constitutional guarantees of religious freedom, Japan is witnessing a troubling rise in Islamophobia.
According to Al Jazeera, hostile rhetoric targeting Muslims is becoming more widespread, particularly on the platform X. This trend is characterized by online campaigns calling for restrictions on the hijab, opposing the construction of mosques, and preventing the establishment of Muslim cemeteries. These demands, driven by nationalist groups and influential accounts, directly contradict Article 20 of the Japanese Constitution, which guarantees freedom of religion and prohibits state interference in religious matters.
An analysis by Hirofumi Tanada, a professor at Waseda University, estimates that by the end of 2024, there were around 420,000 Muslims living in Japan, representing about 0.3% of the total population. Despite being a small minority, this community is increasingly being targeted by hostile narratives.
The Net Uyoku movement, which emerged in the early 2000s, initially focused on anti-Korean and anti-Chinese rhetoric but has gradually shifted toward anti-Muslim sentiment, particularly with the growing number of foreign workers in Japan.
Some observers also point to the role of public figures and politicians in amplifying these views. By supporting or indirectly endorsing these online campaigns, they help shape public opinion and legitimize discriminatory proposals.
