The Japanese Federation of Social Workers, JFSW, recognizes World Social Work Day as an opportunity for domestic social workers to learn and think about social work around the world as well as people in Japan with roots in other countries, and plan various events. On March 9th of this year, we carried out a training program titled “Establishment of Social Work to support medical and mental health for foreigners residing in Japan” for Japanese social workers and students in Tokyo.
Today, more than 3.2 million foreigners reside in Japan. However, it is generally known that it can be difficult for foreigners to live in harmony with Japanese society. We often hear news of conflicts between local Japanese and foreigners, and many people have no idea what they can do to solve the situation. Social workers who are working with minorities and the socially vulnerable should have more knowledge and experience, but, unfortunately, we can’t say that social workers understand about them fully.
To address this awareness, we designed the program to comprise three lectures and workshops. The first session was titled “Comprehensive understanding and social work for foreigners residing in Japan,” by Prof. Onuki. In his lectures he discussed what it means to deepen multicultural understanding, encouraging participants to experience and helping the participants to deepen their learning by acting out the examples.
Based on this basic understanding, we had session about medical issues with foreigners residing in Japan by Dr. Sawada, and mental health issues by Prof. Ukawa. Both lecturers gave presentations and led discussions with the group. The participants were very active in the discussions and activities.
Japanese society is currently in a period of major change, with the number of people immigrating to Japan steadily increasing, and social workers can provide a major contribution to helping Japan adapt to that change. If social workers are more aware of the current situation and challenges faced by foreigners living in Japan, and are more familiar with the support and means necessary, there is a possibility that social workers can make a significant contribution. We will continue to encourage Japanese social workers to learn and grow to meet this rising challenge.