Japan Considers Legislation to Combat Uyghur Forced Labor

On February 25, 2026, Japanese lawmakers and Uyghur activists convened in Tokyo at an event organized by the Japan Uyghur Association to address the Chinese government's human rights violations against Uyghurs in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. Keiji Furuya, a senior lawmaker from the ruling Liberal Democratic Party and chairperson of the Japan Uyghur Parliamentary Association, emphasized the need for Japan to send a strong message regarding these abuses. Furuya announced plans to draft a Japanese version of the United States Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act, which aims to combat forced labor practices linked to the Chinese government.

Human Rights Watch

Since 2016, Chinese authorities have detained an estimated one million Uyghurs and other Turkic Muslims in Xinjiang, subjecting many to severe human rights abuses, including forced labor, torture, and cultural persecution. Human Rights Watch has highlighted that state-imposed forced labor in Xinjiang has significant implications for global supply chains, affecting various sectors such as automotive, solar panels, apparel, seafood, agricultural products, and critical minerals. The Japanese government has historically criticized Beijing's actions, raising concerns during international forums and bilateral meetings.

Human Rights Watch

Human Rights Watch has urged Japan to implement import restrictions targeting products linked to state-imposed forced labor. The organization advocates for legislation that would require companies to prove that their products were not produced through forced labor, thereby increasing pressure on the Chinese government to cease these practices. This approach aligns with similar initiatives in the European Union, which has introduced corporate sustainability due diligence directives aimed at integrating human rights considerations into economic policies.

Human Rights Watch

While the proposed legislation has garnered support from lawmakers and human rights advocates, there may be challenges ahead. Critics could argue that such measures might strain Japan's economic relations with China, which is a significant trading partner. Additionally, there are concerns about the feasibility of enforcing strict import regulations and the potential impact on Japanese businesses reliant on Chinese supply chains.

Human Rights Watch

In a letter dated February 18, Human Rights Watch emphasized the importance of Japan adopting measures to counter forced labor, stating that "import restrictions targeting state-imposed forced labor are crucial for increasing pressure on the Chinese government." Furuya's remarks at the Tokyo event underscored the urgency of addressing these human rights violations, indicating a growing recognition within Japan of the need for legislative action.

Human Rights Watch

As Japan moves forward with drafting the proposed legislation, the focus will be on how effectively it can balance human rights advocacy with economic interests. The outcome of this initiative could set a precedent for other nations grappling with similar issues regarding forced labor and human rights abuses linked to global supply chains.

Human Rights Watch