Japan's Birth Rate Hits Record Low for Eighth Consecutive Year
Government introduces new measures to support parents as the population continues to shrink, raising economic and security concerns.
- Japan's fertility rate fell to 1.2 in 2023, the lowest since records began in 1899.
- The number of births in 2023 dropped by 5.6% to 727,277, while marriages fell by 6%.
- Economic instability and traditional gender roles are cited as major factors behind the declining birth rate.
- New government initiatives include financial support for parents, expanded childcare services, and a state-developed dating app.
- Experts argue that economic measures alone are insufficient to address the deeper social issues contributing to the trend.