This Video Does Not Show Kurdish Migrants Protesting in Japan Against Immigration Policies
The Claim
Kurdish migrants are causing mayhem in Saitama, Japan and demanding that immigration policies be changed to allow even more of them in.
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Emerging story
Recently, a video went viral on social media platform X, purportedly showing Kurdish migrants protesting in Saitama, Japan against immigration policies.
Misbar’s Analysis
Misbar investigated the circulating claim and found it to be misleading. The circulated video is outdated and does not depict protests by Kurdish migrants against Japanese immigration policies.
Turks and Kurds Clash in Japan During 2015 Turkish Election
The video captures a scuffle between Turks and Kurds in Japan during the Turkish general election in October 2015. Hundreds of Turkish citizens gathered at their embassy in Tokyo to vote, and the clash reportedly began when Turks assaulted Kurds after a Kurdish party flag was displayed at the embassy. Japanese and Kurdish sources corroborated this account.
Kurds in Japan Seek Support
Kurds are an ethnic group residing in border areas of Turkey, Syria, Iran, and Iraq, with an estimated population of around 30 million. Some Kurds arrived in Japan seeking refugee status, and approximately 2,000 Kurds live in Kawaguchi and neighboring Warabi, both in Saitama Prefecture. Unfortunately, none have succeeded in receiving approval due to Japan's asylum system.
Tokyo has long faced criticism for its restrictive immigration policy. Japanese citizens often oppose immigration reforms, expressing dissent against increased immigration and diversity.
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