#Japan #Tokyo #Conference #Multicultural #JANIC

National Conference on Multiculturalism 2026

On September 3, the National Conference on Multiculturalism 2026 will take place, organized by JANIC’s Multiculturalism Working Group. This event is focused on fostering a sustainable multicultural society through collaboration among various stakeholders. Building on last year's success, which attracted over 300 participants, this year's conference emphasizes sharing practical insights and strategies in promoting multicultural coexistence while voicing the needs of foreign residents in Japan.

Background of the JANIC Multiculturalism Working Group

Established in 2023, the JANIC Multiculturalism Working Group emerged in response to the growing number of NGOs supporting foreign residents in Japan post-COVID-19, alongside a rising demand for collaboration with government agencies and related organizations. The group is coordinated by the Japan NGO Center for International Cooperation (JANIC), which has a wealth of experience in dialogues with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and JICA.

Conference Format and Agenda

The conference will be held in a hybrid format, combining in-person discussions at the JICA Global Plaza and online participation. The in-person attendance will be limited to stakeholders from organizing and co-hosting entities to ensure fruitful discussions.

Participants will divide into five thematic groups addressing topics like collaboration for multicultural coexistence and development of capable actors within the multiculturalism sector. The closing session will revolve around promoting multicultural interactions and sustainable local community building.

Schedule and Participation Details

• - Date: September 3, 2026
• - Time: 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM JST
• - Format: Online and In-Person
• - Target Audience:

- Regional actors aiming to contribute to multiculturalism (NPOs, students, professionals, municipal and international exchange officers)
- Organizations wishing to accept multiculturalism participants (municipalities, businesses, chambers of commerce, NPOs)
- Organizations with schemes for nurturing capable actors (JICA, JF, CLAIR, Kamonori)
- Government officials responsible for foreign resident policies

• - Capacity: 200 participants (first-come, first-served basis; Zoom link will be sent to registrants)
• - Registration Deadline: August 20
• - Participation Fee: Free

Organizers and Support

The conference is primarily hosted by the Japan NGO Center for International Cooperation (JANIC) and its Multiculturalism Working Group, in collaboration with various entities, including the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the Japan Foundation, and the Council of Local Authorities for International Relations (CLAIR). Support is provided by the Kamonori Foundation.

For more details regarding the thematic sessions, please refer to the official documentation.

Contact Information for Media Inquiries

For any press inquiries, please contact the National Conference on Multiculturalism 2026 Office, within the CSO Network.
E-mail: [email protected]

This conference serves as a crucial platform to discuss and enact strategies that lead to a vibrant and inclusive multicultural landscape in Japan. Join hands with us as we seek to create a society where diversity thrives and every voice is heard.