How Japan Used a Fake Rumor About Islam to Build Alliances

Japan is experiencing a rise in anti-immigration sentiment and nativist populism, characterized by the political growth of the Sanseito Party, which advocates for a Japanese First platform. This shift follows a historical period where Japan used strategic narratives, including a 20th-century rumor that the Japanese emperor would convert to Islam, to build alliances with Muslims.

The Sanseito Party won 14 out of 248 seats in a recent Upper House election, according to Asia Times. Founded in 2020 by Sohei Kamiya, a former supermarket manager, the party utilized the internet to gather supporters during the Covid-19 pandemic. The group initially gained traction by spreading conspiracy theories regarding vaccinations and a perceived cabal of global elites before pivoting toward a platform focused on immigration and overtourism.

Sanseito Party Platform and Policy Goals

The Sanseito Party’s current agenda focuses on restricting the presence and rights of foreign nationals within Japan. According to Asia Times, the party supports the following measures:

• Implementing caps on the number of foreign residents permitted in each city or town.
• Increasing restrictions on immigration and the benefits available to foreign residents.
• Implementing stricter requirements for naturalization as Japanese citizens.
• Establishing stronger anti-espionage laws and security measures.

Beyond immigration, the party advocates for greater tax cuts, renewable energy, and a healthcare system that leans away from vaccines. Asia Times reports that Sohei Kamiya has made references to Jewish capital in speeches, a rhetoric the outlet describes as an import of Western internet memes, noting that Japanese banks have essentially no Jewish representation.

Shift from Previous Conservative Governance

The rise of Sanseito represents a departure from the approach of former Prime Minister Abe Shinzo, who served from 2012 to 2020. While regarded as a rightist, Abe governed as a Reaganite conservative who opened the country to immigration and promoted women in the workforce, according to Asia Times.

During the early 2010s, Abe responded to the emergence of an anti-Korean hate group by passing Japan’s first law against hate speech. Asia Times reports that Abe placed the group on a watch list, which effectively neutralized it as a political force.

Historical Context of Strategic Diplomacy

The current nativist trend contrasts with earlier Japanese strategic efforts to foster international relations through religious and cultural narratives. In the early 20th century, a false rumor circulated that the Japanese emperor intended to convert to Islam. This narrative was utilized by Japan to build alliances with Muslims during that era.

Asia Times suggests that the current migration boom hitting Japan is part of a global trend driven by the internet, which allows people in the developing world to access information on moving to wealthier nations. The party’s growth is linked to domestic frustrations over stagnant wages, high inflation, and the rising cost of living.