Addressing the Kurdish Issue through Visa Waiver Suspension for Turkish Nationals: Its Validity and the Expected Impact of Japan’s ESTA System

In recent years, immigration control and refugee recognition policies in Japan have become increasingly scrutinized. Among the most pressing issues is the situation surrounding Turkish nationals of Kurdish origin, especially those residing in areas such as Saitama Prefecture. In 2024, Saitama Governor Motohiro Ono requested the national government to temporarily suspend the short-term visa waiver …