Background:

Contemporary Japan is experiencing increasing demographic diversity due to globalization and the influx of foreign residents. As a result, addressing the unique needs of different cultural and gender groups within disaster support systems has become essential. Traditional disaster support measures often overlook the perspectives of foreign residents and gender-specific needs, leading to disparities in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery. This study aims to investigate how foreign residents' experiences and gender perspectives can be incorporated into disaster support frameworks to enhance social inclusiveness and strengthen disaster resilience in Japan’s multicultural society.

Research Methodology:

Literature Review:

The review covered topics such as the intersection of disasters and gender, multicultural coexistence, and existing disaster support mechanisms in Japan. This analysis helped identify gaps in current policies and practices related to foreign residents and gender considerations in disaster preparedness and response.

Case Study Analysis:

This study examined the experiences of foreign residents during past disasters, including the 1995 Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, and more recent disasters. Through secondary data analysis, the study explored challenges such as language barriers, access to emergency information, cultural differences in shelter environments, and gender-related concerns.

Questionnaire Survey:

A structured questionnaire survey was conducted among foreign residents living in Tokyo. The survey aimed to assess their level of disaster awareness, preparedness, and specific needs related to disaster support. Questions covered topics such as preferred communication methods for disaster information, participation in disaster drills, access to multilingual resources, and gender-specific concerns in evacuation shelters.

Research Findings:

1. Correlation Between Foreign Residents’ Disaster Awareness and Gender:

Survey results indicate that gender plays a significant role in shaping disaster awareness and preparedness levels among foreign residents. Female respondents, especially those with children, expressed greater concerns about safety, hygiene, and privacy.

2. Recommendations for Inclusive Disaster Support:

Implementing gender-sensitive shelter management, such as providing separate spaces, ensuring access to hygiene products, and addressing cultural dietary needs.

Encouraging foreign residents’ participation in community-based disaster preparedness programs through partnerships with international organizations and local governments.

Conclusions:

Integrating culturally diverse needs and gender perspectives into disaster support measures is crucial to ensuring that all community members, regardless of nationality or gender, receive equitable assistance. By addressing the specific concerns of foreign residents and recognizing the differential impact of gender on the disaster experience, a more inclusive and disaster-resilient society is possible.