Japan in Diaspora - Diaspora in Japan

“Diaspora” is a concept which is paid more and more attention to within the current discussion of cultural and sociological studies. By global migration, transnational economic cooperation and cultural self-assurance the awareness of cultural differences has become more noticeable. Within this context the multicultural discourse broaches the issue of cultural diversity and the cohabitation in a modern society. Because of this the concept of “Diaspora” becomes more important. The pejorative connotation of former times is eclipsed by new positive aspects of the idea. In the new discussion, Diaspora means a position between two or more different cultures and is revealed as the new paradigmatic life situations in times of globalization.

The planned symposium will follow this notions and will discuss the role of Japanese living in Diaspora and the understanding of the importance of the Diasporas in Japanese society. Europe, North- and South America will be specified as an example for Japanese Diasporas abroad. The aim of the symposium will be to reflect, compare and bring together the perspective of Japanese culture in foreign countries and foreign cultures as part of the Japanese society. Thereby it is expected to find new aspects and approaches on Japanese studies, which will be followed up by the department of east-asian studies at Heinrich-Heine-University Dusseldorf.

Dusseldorf with its large Japanese community – ranking among the biggest in Europe – and its openness for cultural diversity is predestinated as a location for this event. Dusseldorf has the chance to become the leader in this difficult discussion about cultural diversity. The Japanese community of Dusseldorf also can emphasize its importance within the global context.