ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Japan’s population crisis intensified last year as the country recorded its lowest annual number of births since records began, prompting renewed concerns about its economic and social sustainability.
Births Fall Below 700,000 for First Time
According to data released by Japan’s Health Ministry on Wednesday, the number of babies born in 2024 fell to 686,061—a 5.7% drop from the previous year. It marks the 16th consecutive year of decline and the first time the number of annual births has dropped below 700,000 since official tracking began in 1899.
The latest figure represents just a quarter of the postwar peak in 1949, when approximately 2.7 million births were recorded.
Fertility Rate and Marriage Trends Also Decline
Japan’s fertility rate—the average number of children a woman is expected to have in her lifetime—also fell to a new low of 1.15 in 2024, down from 1.2 the previous year. While there was a slight increase in marriages, with 485,063 couples wed, the broader trend remains downward since the 1970s.
The shrinking population raises long-term concerns for Japan’s economic growth, labor force, and national defense, particularly as the government boosts military spending amid regional security challenges.
Government Vows Action Amid “Silent Emergency”
Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has labeled the demographic crisis a “silent emergency.” He has pledged to implement policies aimed at easing the burden on married couples, including promoting flexible work arrangements and improving childcare options, especially in rural areas where conservative social norms may place additional pressure on women.
Despite government efforts, experts argue that many policies focus too narrowly on supporting married couples while overlooking the growing reluctance among young people to marry or have children. Economic uncertainty, high living costs, and a rigid, male-dominated corporate culture are often cited as key deterrents.
Additionally, social issues such as Japan’s law requiring couples to adopt a single surname—typically the husband’s—have also contributed to declining marriage rates.
Regional and Global Context
Japan is not alone in grappling with population decline. Neighboring countries including South Korea and China are also facing similar demographic challenges. On Wednesday, Vietnam scrapped its decades-old two-child policy in a bid to reverse falling birth rates.
Japan’s current population stands at around 124 million, but projections suggest it could shrink to 87 million by 2070, with 40% of citizens expected to be over the age of 65—posing significant challenges for healthcare, pensions, and the broader economy.
As demographic pressures mount, analysts say bold and comprehensive reforms will be essential if Japan hopes to stabilize its population and secure its long-term future.
