AY2025 2nd ICL Study Seminar “Comparative Perspectives on Japanese and American DEI Policies: Current Trends in American Society Revealed by Research in the United States”,(Lecturer: NISHIDA, Reiko (Junior Researcher (JSPS PD), Institute of Comparative Law, Waseda University))
Date and Time: November 5, 2025 (Wed) 17:00 – 18:30
Venue: 8th Building, Room 308, Waseda Campus (Hybrid Meeting via Zoom)
Host: Institute of Comparative Law, Waseda University
【Abstract】
This study seminar introduces the appeal of comparative law—interpreting societal contexts and values through legal system comparisons—with a focus on the issue of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion).
The seminar will cover three main topics. First, by comparing U.S. and Japanese legal systems regarding employment of persons with disabilities, this seminar will clearly convey the significance of comparative law, touching not only on differences and commonalities in systems but also on variations in employment practices and societal perspectives. Second, this seminar will share firsthand observations from field research and daily life in Washington, D.C., regarding how DEI policies are evolving under the current U.S. administration. Beyond DEI policies, this seminar will discuss the broader societal impacts of presidential executive orders, including university budget cuts, the suspension of student visa interviews, heightened U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) surveillance, and the deployment of National Guard troops. Third, this seminar shares the lecturer’s candid impressions on the meaning of conducting research abroad, how to find a host institution, and what daily life is like overseas.
This seminar is intended for students aiming to study at graduate school or pursue research careers. The seminar hopes it will help you appreciate the appeal of comparative law, understand the importance of grasping the societal context behind laws, and feel how studying abroad can broaden your life and research horizons.
【What is ICL Study Seminar?】
The Institute of Comparative Law holds the “ICL Study Seminar” primarily for students of Waseda university (including undergraduates and graduate students), with the aim of broadening understanding of legal cultures in other countries.
This seminar aims to share the Institute’s research findings with students. Unlike the public lectures and seminars held by the Institute, which were geared toward researchers, this seminar presents knowledge about foreign law in an accessible format for students (though faculty, staff, and the general public are also welcome to attend!).
The Institute of Comparative Law plans to hold the seminar two to three times a year. It will feature explanations of legal cultures in other countries, incorporating personal accounts from overseas study and study trips in other countries, providing valuable insights for those considering or preparing for study abroad or graduate school. We look forward to your participation.
◆Everyone is welcome to attend. However, those wishing to participate online should register in advance with the Comparative Law Research Institute via this link. Please note that registration closes at 4:00 PM on November 3 (Mon).
Link to Japanese page
