Ngu Thazin’s Journey: Seeking a New Life in Japan

A Journey to a New Life: Ngu Thazin’s Story

Ngu Thazin yearned to escape the turmoil of her war-torn homeland in search of a brighter future. Her aspirations led her to Japan, a country known for its safety and opportunities. In Myanmar, she dedicated herself to studying the Japanese language and proudly earned a degree in chemistry from one of the nation’s most esteemed universities. Despite her academic achievements, she embraced a humble role in Japan, working at a nursing home where she changes diapers and bathes elderly residents.

“To be honest, I want to live in Japan because it is safe,” Ms. Thazin shared, expressing her hopes for the future. She aspires to pass an examination that would allow her to become a licensed caregiver, a role she feels passionate about. Additionally, she aims to support her family financially back home through her hard work.

The Growing Need for Foreign Workers

Japan is in urgent need of individuals like Ms. Thazin to fill positions that are increasingly vacant due to a declining and aging population. Since 2007, the number of foreign workers in the country has surged, quadrupling to over two million in a nation of 125 million people. Many of these workers have fled from low wages, oppressive political regimes, or armed conflicts in their native countries, seeking better prospects in Japan.

Ambivalence Towards Foreign Workers

Despite the growing presence of foreign employees in various sectors—working as convenience store clerks, hotel staff, and restaurant servers—there remains a sense of ambivalence towards them. Politicians are often hesitant to establish clear pathways for foreign workers, particularly those in low-skilled roles, to gain permanent residency. This reluctance may hinder Japan’s ability to compete with neighboring countries such as South Korea and Taiwan, as well as more distant nations like Australia and those in Europe, all of which are also in search of labor.

The Challenges of Integration

The political resistance to immigration in Japan, a nation historically known for its insularity, coupled with a public that can be skeptical about welcoming newcomers, has resulted in a vague legal framework and a lack of support systems for foreign workers. These factors create significant barriers for foreigners trying to establish themselves in Japanese society. On average, foreign-born workers earn about 30 percent less than their Japanese counterparts, according to government statistics.

• Many workers live in constant fear of losing their right to stay in Japan, which leads to precarious relationships with their employers.
• Career advancement opportunities often remain elusive for these foreign employees, making it challenging for them to build stable futures.

As Ms. Thazin navigates her new life in Japan, she embodies the hopes and challenges faced by many foreign workers striving to find their place in a society that both needs and hesitates to fully embrace them.