#Japan #Tokyo #Tokyo University #Multiculturalism #Diversity Issues

Upcoming Symposium on Diversity and Multiculturalism

The Tokyo University of Foreign Studies, located in Fuchu City, Tokyo, is hosting a significant symposium titled "How to Live Diversity: A Multifaceted View on Regional Reality" on October 4, 2025. This event is organized by the 3rd Committee of the National University Annex Research Institute and Center Conference, chaired by Nobuaki Kondo, who is also the director of the Institute of Asian and African Languages and Cultures at the university.

Purpose of the Event

The ideas of "multicultural coexistence" and "inclusivity of diversity" have long been advocated as values that should be promoted within Japanese society. Various government bodies, local authorities, businesses, and universities have embraced these concepts in their initiatives. However, the recent rise of anti-immigrant sentiment in Western countries, alongside the ongoing decrease in population and the fragmentation of society in Japan, raises uncertainties about the very principles of "fairness" and "inclusivity" itself.

In this context, the symposium seeks to explore the understanding and embodiment of 'diversity' as we move forward. Researchers will analyze the complexities surrounding issues tied to language, culture, politics, and social diversity, providing multiple perspectives from both domestic and international landscapes. The discussions will aim to highlight the challenges faced by societies composed of diverse individuals and contemplate how we should confront these issues.

About the National University Annex Research Institute and Center Conference

The National University Annex Research Institute and Center Conference is a collaborative framework designed for the representatives of research institutes and centers established at national universities across Japan. This symposium, part of the 3rd Committee (Humanities and Social Sciences), serves as a platform for in-depth discussions based on scholarly insights regarding the challenges of diversity that contemporary society encounters.

Event Details

• - Date: October 4, 2025 (Saturday) 13:30 - 16:30
• - Venue: Conference Room, Institute of Asian and African Languages and Cultures, Tokyo University of Foreign Studies & Online (via Zoom)
• - Address: 3-11-1 Asahicho, Fuchu City, Tokyo 183-8534
• - Participation Fee: Free (Pre-registration required by noon on October 3)

Program

• - Moderator: Hideaki Kuroki, Professor at the Institute of Asian and African Languages and Cultures, Tokyo University of Foreign Studies

1. Opening Address by Toshihide Nakayama, Vice President of Tokyo University of Foreign Studies.
2. Purpose Explanation by Hideaki Kuroki.
3. Presentation 1 by Daisuke Shinagawa, Associate Professor - Topic: "Perspectives on Linguistic Diversity in Africa as a 'Universal Value'".
4. Presentation 2 by Kazuya Nakamizo, Professor at Kyoto University - Topic: "Diversity and Indian Democracy - Trials of the World's Largest Democratic Nation".
5. Presentation 3 by Kikuko Nagayoshi, Professor at the University of Tokyo - Topic: "Is Coexistence Possible in Japan? - Public Opinion and Limits of Tolerance Regarding Foreigners".
6. Comprehensive Discussion featuring Hiroki Takakura, Director and Professor at Tohoku University Center for Northeast Asian Studies.
7. Closing Remarks by Nobuaki Kondo.

Speaker Profiles

• - Daisuke Shinagawa: Specializes in Bantu languages and has conducted research on lesser-known languages in the Kilimanjaro region. He aims to combine descriptive linguistics with typological studies.
• - Kazuya Nakamizo: A political scientist focusing on Indian politics and examining the challenges democracy faces amid poverty and violence.
• - Kikuko Nagayoshi: A sociologist studying immigrants' attitudes and their integration into Japanese society, utilizing quantitative research methods.
• - Hiroki Takakura: Expert in social anthropology, his work focuses on indigenous groups in Siberia and research on climate change impacts.

This symposium represents a timely opportunity for academic discourse on the emerging complexities of diversity in societies today.