The last critique upon acceptance of Karen refugees is the lack of preparedness
on the Japanese society. This concerns not only the official resettlement programs
and financial assistance to refugees, but also how they can start a new
life within the wider Japanese community. The Japanese government decided
to accept refugees, and even chose those who would be admitted. However, it
is residents in the communities who will be living together with the refugees
and help to determine how and whether they can integrate. If local residents
are not prepared (administratively at local government level, and also practically
at the individual level) to welcome refugees, then people in the communities
will find themselves at odds, trying to interact with different cultures and
falling back on “common sense”. Japanese communities thus also may need
some preparation to help them become more welcoming to resettlement refugees
like the Karen.