As more foreign nationals join Japan’s workforce, diversity policies take on new importance

In response to changing expectations, Japanese organizations have embraced diversity, equity and inclusion, but hurdles remain toward proper implementation. | Johan Brooks

Nov 15, 2026

With foreign nationals becoming an increasingly significant part of Japan’s workforce in recent years, questions of diversity and inclusion are taking on new importance.

In response to changing expectations, Japanese organizations have embraced diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). Training programs have been introduced, policies established, and commitments made to creating more inclusive workplaces.

All of this is important, especially as organizations struggle to attract and retain talent. Yet a survey by the Nikkei daily earlier this year raised concerns about what it described as “DEI fatigue,” including frustration with an excessive focus on numerical targets for women’s advancement, training that brings little tangible change and perceived unfairness. These findings suggest that people are not necessarily growing tired of diversity itself, but rather of how DEI is discussed and practiced in Japanese organizations.

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