When did the UK get working holiday? I know the Frenchies got it a couple of years ago, but didn't hear anything about the UK. I think the US definitely has it the hardest of the western nations if you're thinking of going to get a job, for reasons stated. You've got three months, and can't renew.
I think westerners that speak great Japanese get more slack than the Asians that do. I suppose since we're BLATANTLY foreigners, there's no denying it. There's a seperate set of jobs for us and everything. A Japanese-born Korean, or immigrant basically doesn't have that priviledge, and is competing with other Japanese for their jobs. Just my take on it.
I guess one point that's clear -- it's harder to dehumanize someone if you can communicate with them.