Topical
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Japan's population has been decreasing for the last 15 years. In 2023, it dropped by more than half a million to 124.9 million because of low birth rates and high death rates. However, foreign residents increased by 11% to more than 3 million.
The government has tried to increase birth rates by allocating a $34 billion budget for childcare incentives. This is because many young Japanese are unwilling to marry or have children.
Please look at the chart and present it to your teacher.
Discussion
In your opinion, why is Japan's birth rate declining?
Japan's government has introduced incentives to help increase birth rates, do you think these are effective? If not, what do you think is a better solution?
How does Japan's aging population impact its economy and social services?
How can Japan address the needs of its rapidly growing elderly population while ensuring quality of life and social inclusion for everyone?
Foreigners have increased to more than 3 million in Japan. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this increase?