VOICED : Ageing Japan struggles to make immigrants feel at home

Japan faces a labor shortage due to a low birth rate and aging population, necessitating foreign workers in industries like construction and healthcare. Programs exist to bring in foreign workers, but they face criticism for being exploitative. Chinese workers struggle with debt, while Indonesian nurses must pass difficult exams to stay. Critics argue these measures are insufficient to address Japan's demographic challenges, as foreigners make up only 2% of the population.

What is one of the main criticisms of the Japanese trainee program for foreign workers?

• It only accepts workers from Europe.

• It is considered a form of modern slavery.

• It provides too much freedom to workers.

• It is too expensive for the government.

Why is Japan facing a shortage of qualified medical staff?

• High emigration rates of Japanese doctors.

• Lack of interest in medical careers among Japanese youth.

• A low birth rate and an aging population.

• Strict immigration policies for medical professionals.

What is required for Indonesian auxiliary nurses to stay in Japan permanently?

• Passing a nursing exam in Japanese.

• Obtaining a work visa from the Indonesian government.

• Completing a five-year work contract.

• Passing a Japanese language test.

What percentage of foreigners currently make up Japan's population?

• 15%

• 2%

• 10%

• 5%

What is a potential solution to Japan's labor shortage according to the transcript?

• Investing in automation and robotics.

• Increasing the proportion of foreigners in the population.

• Raising the birth rate through incentives.

• Increasing the retirement age.