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Snapshot 3:Thu, Aug 7, 2025 5:36:41 PM GMT last edited by Vandita

Japan's Population Hits Record Low, Shrinks by 900K in 2024

Japan's Population Hits Record DeclineLow, asShrinks Foreignby Residents900K Risein 2024

Above: An elderly woman looks at cherry blossoms along the river in Nakano, Tokyo, on March 30. Image copyright: Yusuke Harada/NurPhoto/Getty Images

The Spin

RisingJapan's foreignbirth immigrationcrisis threatensreflects Japan'sa culturalleadership identityfailure andto strainsaddress resourcesdeep-rooted duringsocial economic hardshipissues. TheDespite "Japanesewarnings, First"policymakers movementhave gaineddelayed 14implementing seatsmeaningful inreforms recenton electionswork-life becausebalance, voterschildcare, recognizeand thisgender silent invasionequality. JapanTemporary shouldincentives prioritizehaven't itstackled ownthe citizenslong-term overinsecurity foreignfaced workersby whoyoung allegedlyadults. abuseWithout welfarebold, systemsstructural changes, Japan's demographic decline will continue.

The Japanese government is actively working to address the birth crisis through policies that improve childcare, increase parental leave, and promote work-life balance. Initiatives include expanding access to affordable daycare, offering financial incentives for families, and promoting gender equality in the workplace. While challenges remain, these efforts aim to create a supportive environment for raising children and reversing demographic decline.

Japan desperately needs foreign workers to fill critical labor shortages and sustain its economy. With a considerable number of foreign residents being working age, they're plugging gaps in manufacturing, hospitality and retail that Japanese workers can't fill. The government should increase the number of foreign workers by 2040 as planned.

Rising foreign immigration poses a threat to Japan's cultural identity and strains its resources during economic hardship. The "Japanese First" movement gained 14 seats in recent elections because voters recognize this silent invasion. Japan should prioritize its citizens over foreign workers who allegedly abuse welfare systems.

Japan's falling birth rate is partly due to limited economic opportunities for young people, especially men. Stable jobs and affordable housing are harder to secure, making marriage and parenthood less feasible. Many delay or forgo starting families due to financial insecurity. This economic pressure threatens long-term growth and societal stability.

Japan's increasing life expectancy reflects significant advancements in healthcare, nutrition, and overall quality of life. With one of the world's longest-living populations, Japan benefits from a strong medical system, active lifestyles, and a healthy diet. These factors contribute to lower mortality rates and better quality of life, showcasing the country's success in promoting longevity and public health.

Metaculus Prediction

There's a 50% chance that 575,000 will be the lowest number of annual births in Japan through the year 2100, according to the Metaculus prediction community.


Editor's Note

This story currently has limited reporting from right sources. We will continue to monitor all major outlets and update our coverage as additional perspectives become available.

The Controversies



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