Topic Reading-Vol.1949-8/12/2017

Dear MEL Topic Readers,

Can Japan survive without immigrants?

It seems uncomfortable for Japanese to have neighbors or fellow workers from foreign countries.

While the country is rapidly aging and desperately needs younger workers to fill the labor gap, sustain the social welfare system and maintain a demographic balance, Japan is still reluctant to accept foreign workers, immigrants or refugees.

Japan is one of the few sovereign countries that don't have any land borders. So easy to stay isolated, block out foreign immigrants from entering and maintain its distinctive identity. In fact, the island country was closed to foreigners between the 17^th to 19^th centuries, like its neighboring countries. There is a clear distinction in the country when it comes to classifying people, Japanese or a foreigner.

Will Japan never change its immigration policy or bet on alternative labor resources?

Enjoy reading and thinking if automation, AI and robots could take place for all human labors.

http://edition.cnn.com/2017/08/01/asia/japan-migrants-immigration/index.html