Japan and Refugees: An Ethical Question

This question is particularly directed at Japanese people and those who has a deeper insight. While living in Japan, I've often heard the argument that Japan is hesitant to accept refugees due to fears of rising crime. While I can understand this concern, especially when looking at other countries, I find myself wondering: why do many Japanese seem to focus solely on Japan's interests?

I'm from Europe, and during the refugee wave in 2014, there was a strong sense of global responsibility and a willingness to help those in need. Even though I think the policy was very one-sided, I think it was important to offer help. I’m curious whether this is more of a cultural or religious sentiment, perhaps tied to Christianity, or if there are also people in Japan who feel a similar desire to help refugees?

Japan's prosperity is deeply connected to the global economy. Even if Japan is geographically an island, economically, it's a continent. Without global economic connections and the wealth derived from them, Japan might still be a small agricultural nation with limited significance on the world stage.

So, my question is this: on one hand, Japan benefits immensely from being part of the global economy, but on the other hand, there seems to be a lack of ethical responsibility toward global issues. Am I missing something?

by Aurorapilot5

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