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How Many Foreigners in Japan Actually Commit Crimes?
Some online allege that foreigners in Japan commit more crimes than Japanese citizens. But what do the statistics say?
A high-profile lawsuit over racial profiling in Japan has some online peddling the old saw that foreigners in Japan commit more crimes than Japanese citizens. Is this true?
The short answer, based on the statistics, is no. At least, not in any way that matters. Let’s see what the numbers say to understand why harassing foreigners living in Japan won’t make a bit of difference in improving public safety.
A lawsuit over police harassment
This week, three long-term residents of Japan filed a lawsuit against both the central government of Japan and their local prefectural governments. The three, who are all long-term residents or naturalized citizens, say they are routinely stopped multiple times a month by police based solely on the color of their skin. They’re suing for damages, saying the police have violated their human rights under Article 14 of Japan’s Constitution.
Based on the press conference, it seems like the plaintiffs have a strong case…
