Japan has launched a new government body to address growing public concerns over the rising number of foreign residents, ahead of national elections on July 20.

The agency will coordinate responses to issues like crime and over-tourism involving foreigners.

With foreign nationals now making up 3% of the population, Japan has eased immigration to counter labor shortages, but anxieties remain.

Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s party has proposed stricter rules for foreign residents, while the populist Sanseito party has gained momentum with its “Japanese First” stance, the Asahi Shimbun has reported.

Polls suggest the ruling coalition may lose its majority in the upcoming vote.

written by B.C. Begley