Japan prepares legislation to recognize 'quasi-refugee' status

Ukraine war prompts change to immigration law, opening doors to those fleeing conflict

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Ukrainian evacuees arrive at Haneda Airport in Tokyo in April 2022. Japan often will not recognize those fleeing war as refugees, per a 1951 United Nations convention. © Reuters

SHIKO UEDA, Nikkei staff writer

TOKYO -- The Japanese government is drawing up a bill to create a new immigration category for "quasi-refugees" fleeing conflict, after the war in Ukraine highlighted shortfalls in its current framework.

The proposed amendment to Japan's immigration law would create a new designation for individuals who require "additional protection" but may not have met Japan's current stringent definition of refugees.

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