The Japanese government has decided to revamp its foreign-trainee programme, which has faced criticism for exploiting cheap labour. The country is now introducing a new system aimed at teaching skills and protecting the rights of trainees.
Given the fact that Japan is facing an ageing and declining population, there is a pressing need for more foreign workers to support various industries.
Under the approved plan, individuals arriving on a three-year trainee visa will have the opportunity to transition to the category of ‘skilled workers’, allowing them to stay for up to five years and potentially obtain permanent residency.
This shift comes as the current technical intern-training programme, initiated in 1993, has been accused of promoting unfair labour practices and failing to provide adequate benefits to participants.
The new programme, pending parliamentary approval, follows the recommendations of a government panel and aims to address issues such as abuse and violation of labour rights. While certain job restrictions will remain in place, as the government will prefer to be cautious, changes such as allowing trainees to switch jobs within their field after a certain period will help improve working conditions.
Overall, it is clear that the government is committed to bring about positive changes in the foreign-trainee programme. These changes will ensure fair treatment and better opportunities for workers, and at the same time, address Japan’s labour needs.
