Far-right party Sanseito gains traction in Japan's parliament

Japan experienced a significant political shift during a recent upper house election, where the fringe far-right populist party, Sanseito, emerged as one of the largest gainers. Led by Sohei Kamiya, the party adopted a 'Japanese First' platform that resonated with voters seeking more restrictive policies, particularly regarding immigration and gender equality. In this election held on July 18, 2025, Sanseito gained 14 additional seats, bringing its total to 15 in the 248-member upper house. This result, although not enough to challenge the ruling Liberal Democratic Party's coalition, indicates a growing segment of the population aligning with the party's nationalist rhetoric. Sanseito, which translates to 'Participate in Politics,' began in 2020 with Kamiya leveraging social media platforms to connect with disenchanted voters. His strategy gained momentum during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly among those opposing vaccination mandates. Kamiya's previous ascension to national politics was marked by his successful election to a six-year term in the upper house in 2022, demonstrating his party's increasing influence over time. During the recent campaign, Kamiya emphasized a new regulatory body designed to oversee immigration policies, further appealing to voters concerned about foreign influence on domestic affairs. Critics of Sanseito argue that its xenophobic positions have encouraged intolerance and unrest within the political discourse. The party has directed accusations at foreign workers for contributing to wage stagnation and overburdening social welfare systems, which has incited a noteworthy backlash from human rights organizations. Kamiya also expressed admiration for the policies of former U.S. President Donald Trump, suggesting his leadership exemplifies a broader anti-globalist movement. This alignment with Trump has produced mixed responses, as it reflects a distaste for traditional governance and a shift toward more radical approaches. Under his leadership, Sanseito advocates for a conventional social structure characterized by ethnic homogeneity, an ideology that has alarmed many experts and attracted protests. As the political landscape in Japan evolves, the implications of these trends will continue to shape national discussions about inclusion, governance, and the future direction of Japanese democracy.