【Latest in 2026】What is Normalization? An Easy-to-Understand Explanation of Mandated Reasonable Accommodation and Challenges in Japan

When discussing the social life of people with disabilities, the concept of "Normalization" is indispensable.

Many people are asking, "I've been hearing about it a lot lately, but how should I actually respond?" This article will give you a comprehensive understanding from the basics to the latest legal regulations in just 5 minutes.

Originally a term from social welfare, "Normalization" was not widely known, but recently, thanks to the promotion by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, it has gradually gained recognition in society.

Moreover, starting in April 2024, private companies will be required to provide reasonable accommodation, making normalization shift from an 'ideal' to a 'rule to be followed = corporate compliance requirement.'

However, many people may know the term "Normalization" but not fully understand its meaning.

This time, we will explain the definition, history, and specific initiatives of normalization in Japan.

1. What is Normalization?

1-1. Definition and History of Normalization

Normalization is the concept that elderly people and those with disabilities should be able to lead normal social lives equivalent to those of able-bodied individuals, regardless of age or handicap.

In English, it is written as "normalization," and in Japanese, it is translated as "normalization" or "standardization."

Normalization is a term that originated in the social welfare industry and is defined as "aiming for people with disabilities or the elderly to live social lives just like able-bodied individuals without being treated or discriminated against specially due to their disabilities or age."

The term "Normalization" was born in Denmark after World War II when parents of users who were abused in facilities for the intellectually disabled began a movement for improvement.

Then, an administrator named Nils Erik Bank-Mikkelsen proposed welfare ideas, and the term normalization was first used in Denmark's "Welfare Act for the Intellectually Disabled" in 1959.

This law became the foundation for ensuring that people with intellectual disabilities have the same rights as the general public and can lead ordinary social lives.

Since then, the term has spread worldwide and is now a fundamental principle of social welfare.

1-2. The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare's Principle of Normalization

Japan, like the rest of the world, promotes the independence and social participation of people with disabilities under the basic principle of normalization.

In particular, Japan respects the autonomy of people with disabilities, allowing them to choose services and systems themselves.

To establish an equal relationship between service providers and users, a support cost system was introduced in 2003, allowing users to choose directly instead of the traditional administration deciding on welfare facilities for admission.

1-3. Differences Between Normalization and Barrier-Free

The difference between normalization and barrier-free lies in whether it is a concept or a method/means to realize that concept.

Normalization is the idea that "everyone should be able to lead a normal social life regardless of age or disability."

On the other hand, barrier-free is used to mean "removing barriers (obstacles) that hinder people with disabilities from leading social lives and making it easier for them to live."

In other words, under the basic idea of normalization, barrier-free is the means to make it easier for people with disabilities and the elderly to live and to realize it in form.

For example, when constructing a commercial facility, the idea of designing it so that everyone, including those in wheelchairs or with mobility issues, can use it is normalization, and realizing it in form is barrier-free.

If you want to know more about the definition of barrier-free, please see this article.

Reference:

1-4. Differences Between Normalization and Universal Design

Universal design refers to designs that can be used by as many people as possible, regardless of age, gender, or ability.

Universal design is based on the following seven principles:

• Equitable use for everyone
• High degree of freedom in use
• Easy to understand how to use
• Information is easily understandable
• Design that prevents accidental mistakes or dangers
• Easy to use with minimal effort without forcing awkward postures
• Accessible space and size are ensured

A representative example of universal design is signage that uses simple illustrations to be immediately recognizable even to foreigners.

The difference from normalization is that universal design is not about eliminating disparities but designing from the start so that anyone can use it.

2. What are Bengt Nirje's "Eight Principles of Normalization"?

Sweden's Bengt Nirje, influenced by Nils Erik Bank-Mikkelsen, the originator of normalization, organized the concept into eight principles and spread it internationally.

Therefore, Nirje is often referred to as the "foster parent of normalization."

Here, we will explain the eight principles of normalization with specific examples.

2-1. Normal Daily Rhythm

This refers to people with disabilities having the same daily rhythm as able-bodied individuals, such as waking up in the morning, going to school or work, having dinner, bathing, and sleeping at night.

It also includes getting dressed and preparing oneself, as well as having meals at one's own pace as much as possible.

For example, it goes against the spirit of normalization if the meal times are adjusted based on the convenience of caregivers.

2-2. Normal Weekly Rhythm

A normal weekly rhythm involves going to work or school and enjoying leisure on weekends.

On weekends, people refresh themselves by spending time with friends or relaxing at home doing what they love.

The right to lead a balanced life rhythm with work or study is guaranteed even for people with disabilities.

2-3. Normal Yearly Rhythm

A normal yearly rhythm means enjoying events, sports, and work throughout the four seasons.

For example, in Japan, there are various events like cherry blossom viewing in spring and summer festivals in summer.

The right to participate in and enjoy seasonal events as a matter of course is also available to people with disabilities.

Additionally, work should not be monotonous but should allow one to experience busy and quiet periods.

2-4. Normal Developmental Experiences in the Life Cycle

This refers to people with disabilities experiencing and growing through similar life events as able-bodied individuals.

For example, playing in parks during childhood, developing interests in fashion, music, and the opposite sex during adolescence, and experiencing love are events that people with disabilities should also experience.

Through such experiences, by the time they grow older, they will become individuals rich in experience and intellect, regardless of disability.

2-5. Normal Personal Dignity and Autonomy

This refers to recognizing personal dignity and the right for everyone to make their own decisions, regardless of disability.

For example, as adults, it is normal to live in a place they like and choose a job that suits them.

It is also necessary to have a warm atmosphere where society and those around them recognize and accept the decisions made by their own will.

2-6. Normal Sexual Relationships in That Culture

This refers to the right for everyone to have sexual relationships with others, regardless of disability.

It does not necessarily have to be with the opposite sex, but people may develop romantic feelings for someone. Having a disability does not mean one should give up on dating or marriage; they can fall in love just like able-bodied individuals.

With mutual consent, they can have sexual relationships and get married just like able-bodied individuals.

2-7. Normal Economic Standards and the Right to Achieve Them in That Society

This refers to the right to receive public financial assistance to ensure an average economic standard.

In terms of work, Japan has systems like the Minimum Wage Law to ensure economic stability, and for people with disabilities, receiving disability pensions is considered.

The money earned can be freely used for hobbies, shopping, or living expenses.

2-8. Normal Environmental Patterns and Standards in That Region

Normal environmental patterns refer to living environments, including housing.

People with disabilities do not need to live in large facilities.

To lead a normal social life, it is best to live in a regular-sized house rather than in an isolated place.

Of course, the living environment should respect the individual's wishes, considering the severity of the disability and the family providing care.

Being integrated into social life and living normally is the essence of normalization.

Reference: The Normalization Principle and Its Human Management Implications｜Bengt Nirje

3. Examples of Normalization Initiatives in Japan

3-1. Initiatives by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare

The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare promotes services for the independence and social participation of people with disabilities under the principle of "aiming for a society where people with and without disabilities support each other and live actively and brightly in the community."

For example, the "Act on the Support of Independence for Persons with Disabilities," enacted in April 2006, unified services that were previously provided based on the type of disability, allowing them to be received regardless of the type of disability.

This eliminated disparities between systems, allowing anyone with a disability to access support services that suit them.

Additionally, user burdens have been revised from being based on income to being calculated based on both the amount of service used and income, with monthly cap fees also being reviewed.

Furthermore, in April 2013, the Act on the Support of Independence for Persons with Disabilities was amended, and the "Comprehensive Support Act for Persons with Disabilities" was newly enacted.

The definition of who is eligible for support has been expanded, and as of April 1, 2024, 369 diseases are covered.

Reference: Additional Diseases Covered by the Comprehensive Support Act for Persons with Disabilities｜Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare

In this way, based on the idea of normalization, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare regularly reviews and reforms laws to enable people with disabilities to live in the community.

3-2. Initiatives by Local Governments

Efforts toward normalization are reflected not only at the national level but also in local government initiatives.

In the case of Kawasaki City in Kanagawa Prefecture, a "Kawasaki Normalization Plan" was formulated to promote overall disability welfare policies, with a six-year plan from 2021 to 2026, outlining the following policy framework.

Basic Policy I: Growing, Learning, Working, and Living - Building a Comprehensive Support System (Community Rehabilitation) to Respond to Diverse Needs

• Policy 1: Enhancing Consultation Support Systems
• Policy 2: Enhancing Community Life Support
• Policy 3: Enhancing Seamless Support Systems for Children's Growth
• Policy 4: Securing Diverse Living Options and Spaces
• Policy 5: Strengthening Collaboration with Health and Medical Fields
• Policy 6: Securing and Developing Human Resources and Mutual Support by Diverse Entities
• Policy 7: Promoting Employment, Work, and Economic Independence

Basic Policy II: Engaging with the Community - Realizing a "Heart Barrier-Free City Kawasaki" Where Everyone Can Live Actively in the Community

• Policy 8: Promoting Initiatives to Protect Rights
• Policy 9: Heart Barrier-Free
• Policy 10: Promoting Social Participation

Basic Policy III: Creating a Kind City - Promoting City Development Where Everyone Can Live Safely and Comfortably

• Policy 11: Promoting Barrier-Free
• Policy 12: Strengthening Disaster and Emergency Measures

Reference: 5th Kawasaki Normalization Plan Policy Framework (2p)｜Kawasaki City

The above plan is an initiative to systematically improve the problems and challenges faced by local governments based on the philosophy of "realizing a community society where people with and without disabilities respect each other and support each other."

3-3. Initiatives by Private Companies and Organizations

Private companies and organizations are also implementing initiatives with an awareness of normalization.

SoftBank Group Corp. operates under the philosophy of "not distinguishing work based on the presence or absence of disabilities," with job content and employment forms being the same as other employees, as well as the criteria for salary increases and personnel evaluations.

Additionally, for employees who need regular medical visits, a "Normalization Leave" is provided, allowing them to take one day per month and 12 days per year.

SoftBank Group Corp.'s employment rate for people with disabilities is 2.8% (as of the end of March 2024), exceeding the legally mandated employment rate of 2.3% for people with disabilities.

Reference: What Does It Mean to Work with People with Disabilities? SoftBank's Initiatives Toward "Normalization"｜SoftBank News
Reference: Expanding Employment for People with Disabilities｜Social Initiatives｜SoftBank Group Corp.

In terms of customer perspective normalization, "Resona Holdings" is implementing the following initiatives:

• Installation of "Priority ATMs" and "Priority Seats"
• Creating stores that are easy for people with disabilities to use
• Installation of communication boards
• Provision of simple writing devices and wireless vibrating call devices
• Placement of dementia supporters
• Installation of AEDs
• Production and presentation of Braille calendars

Reference: Normalization Initiatives｜Resona Holdings

In this way, actively incorporating normalization by private companies can lead to improved work styles and service convenience.

General Incorporated Association Ayumi is accepting consultations on normalization, disability employment, and reasonable accommodation. Currently, a free 45-minute consultation is available, so please feel free to contact us.

Reference: Try a Free Consultation

3-4. What Individuals Can Do

Normalization can also be realized through the actions of each of us.

For example, treating the elderly and people with disabilities equally without special treatment is a commendable action based on normalization.

Additionally, people with disabilities have different things they cannot do or are not good at, depending on the degree of their disability.

First, listen to the concerns of people with disabilities around you.

By understanding the real voices of those with disabilities, prejudice and misunderstanding will decrease, and normalization will be nurtured in each of us.

4. Challenges and the Future of Normalization

Various organizations, including the government, local governments, and private companies, are promoting normalization, but there are challenges in Japan, such as:

• Low awareness in companies
• Lack of appropriate consideration
• Prejudice and discrimination against people with disabilities

In Japan, there are still few companies with systems in place to accept people with disabilities or that understand the know-how of disability employment.

Additionally, the lack of appropriate consideration for people with disabilities in the workplace leads to high turnover rates in disability employment.

Moreover, some people still hold prejudice and discrimination against people with disabilities because they are not familiar with the term "Normalization."

How to spread the correct understanding of normalization and permeate it into society will be a major challenge in the future.

5. Conclusion

Normalization is a foundational concept for realizing a society where "everyone can lead a normal life regardless of disability."

The government, local governments, and private companies are actively promoting normalization initiatives in Japan.
And deepening our understanding and knowledge of disabilities is the first step toward realizing normalization.