Japan's Population Decline Worsens

Japan's demographic crisis has reached a new milestone, with the country experiencing its largest annual population decline on record. In 2024, Japan's population decreased by more than 900,000 people, bringing the total to 120 million. This marks the 16th consecutive year of population decline since peaking at 126.6 million in 2009.

The root causes of this demographic shift are multifaceted. Japan's birth rate has plummeted to its lowest level since records began in 1968, while death rates have simultaneously reached an all-time high. This imbalance is exacerbated by various socioeconomic factors, including a stagnant economy, high cost of living, and deeply ingrained gender norms that often discourage women from both pursuing careers and starting families.

The repercussions of this population decline are far-reaching. With nearly 30% of the population now elderly and only 59% of working age (compared to the global average of 65%), Japan faces significant challenges in maintaining its social welfare systems, including pensions and healthcare. The government has implemented numerous initiatives to combat this trend, such as offering childbirth subsidies and promoting paternity leave, but the effectiveness of these measures remains to be seen.

Some experts propose increased immigration as a potential solution to offset the population decline. However, this remains a contentious issue in Japan, a country that has traditionally been resistant to large-scale immigration. Despite this, recent data shows a 10% increase in foreign residents, suggesting a gradual shift in policy and societal attitudes.