Japan – Population Decline / Ageing Population

Location:

Japan, in East Asia, had a population of 128.1 million in 2010, which decreased to 125.8 million by 2020, with a population change rate of -0.3%.

Causes (pick 2 main ones):

1. Japan has low birth and fertility rates, with 1.36 children per woman, partly due to delayed marriage, high childcare costs, and women focusing on careers.

2. The population is ageing rapidly, with about one-third of people over 60, leading to a higher death rate and fewer young workers.

Impacts (pick 2 main ones):

1. The country faces labour shortages and economic stagnation, with school closures and fewer workers to support businesses.

2. There is an increased strain on social services, including healthcare and pensions, and a predicted shortage of 380,000 elderly care workers by 2025.

Response / Solution:

Japan has introduced robotics for elderly care, revised immigration policies to attract foreign workers, and implemented family-friendly policies such as the Angel Plans and construction of new daycare facilities.