Is it a win-win situation?
I attended a debate last Saturday. The topic was “Should Japan accept more foreign caregivers?” Those in favor explained how serious the situation we are facing is. The lack of caregivers in Japan has reached a critical level. Japanese society is aging rapidly. However, the caregiving profession is not popular among Japanese people. Hence, we can offer better services by accepting more foreigners.
On the other hand, those who are against argued that the low salary for caregivers is the main cause of its unpopularity. Their salary will never increase by inviting more foreigners. They also argued that foreigners who are not familiar with Japanese culture or rules might cause trouble.
Additionally, someone raised the issue on whether we should rely on foreigners in fixing this domestic problem. He said it’s the same as solving the garbage problem for rich countries by paying poorer countries to dispose of their garbage.
The opposition rebutted by saying that his analogy was off the point because he was veering away from the topic and focusing on emotional issues and strongly stated that accepting caregivers from other countries would create a win-win situation for both sides.
The debate became more exciting and the atmosphere got more intense.
Should’t we feel guilty about having foreigners do our difficult jobs for us?
There are many cases wherein poor people in rich countries are working with low salaries coupled with severe working conditions. It’s their choice. Despite the low salary, it’s helpful for them to make ends meet.
What do you think about it? Is the idea to accept immigrants ethically good or bad?