Title: Japan’s Population Crisis Intensifies with Record Decrease in Nationals
In a disturbing trend, Japan’s ongoing population crisis has reached new heights, as over 800,000 Japanese nationals have vanished from the country in the past year alone. The total population of Japan, including both Japanese and foreign residents, now stands at 125.4 million as of January 1 this year.
What is particularly concerning is that all prefectures in Japan have experienced a decrease in the number of Japanese nationals for the first time. However, Tokyo managed to buck the trend slightly, with a modest increase in its overall population due to the rise in foreign residents.
These figures are the result of a sharp contrast between the number of births and deaths in the country. Sadly, the number of deaths soared to a record high of 1.56 million, while the number of births amounted to a mere 771,801.
Japan’s population decline can be attributed to a combination of factors, including a low fertility rate of 1.3 and a high life expectancy, which have resulted in an alarming aging population and a shrinking workforce. This phenomenon is not unique to Japan, as countries like China, South Korea, Singapore, and Taiwan are experiencing similar challenges. Young people across these nations are becoming increasingly hesitant to start families due to soaring living costs and widespread social discontent.
In response to the crisis, Japanese authorities have been striving to attract more foreign residents and workers to help balance the population. However, progress on this front has been slow, primarily due to the setbacks caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
A recent report emphasizes that by 2040, Japan will require four times the current number of foreign workers to stabilize its population. However, it also highlights the importance of creating an environment that supports migrant workers’ rights and fosters social acceptance of foreigners.
The need for an urgent and comprehensive solution is critical, as Japan grapples with the repercussions of a significant decline in its population. Efforts to promote economic growth, encourage family-friendly policies, and ensure social support systems are essential to addressing this crisis effectively. By doing so, Japan can strive to strike a balance and ensure a brighter future for the nation.
