An uncertain future for foreign workers

Gurung Nissan (right), from Nepal, laying out futon mattresses at Ginshotei Awashima, a Japanese hot springs inn in Oigami Onsen, Japan. — ©2024 The New York Times Company

NGU Thazin had a dream – to leave the hardships of her war-torn homeland, Myanmar, and build a better life in Japan.

After completing a degree in chemistry from one of Myanmar’s top universities, Thazin set her sights on Japan, a nation renowned for safety and stability.