Japan’s birth rate hits record low, Tokyo introduces govt dating app to boost marriage rates
First Published: 8th June, 2024 13:32 IST
However, experts caution against apocalyptic scenarios, asserting that demographic shifts, while transformative, will not result in the disappearance of nations like Japan.
Japan faces a daunting demographic challenge as its birth rate plunges to an unprecedented low, prompting governmental initiatives to reverse the trend, including the rollout of a state-backed dating app, CNN reported.
In a nation with a population of 123.9 million, a mere 727,277 births were recorded last year, a stark decline revealed by data from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. This downward spiral in fertility is underscored by a drop in the fertility rate, now standing at 1.20, down from 1.26.
A stable population demands a fertility rate of 2.1. Yet, Japan has struggled to meet this benchmark for over five decades, a trend exacerbated by the 1973 oil crisis, which precipitated economic recessions globally.
The repercussions are profound. With deaths outnumbering births, Japan faces a shrinking population, fueling concerns regarding its workforce, economy, and societal structure. In 2023 alone, the nation witnessed 1.57 million deaths, doubling the birth rate, as reported by CNN.
Marital unions, too, are on the decline, with a notable decrease of 30,000 marriages last year juxtaposed with a rise in divorces. Experts anticipate this decline to persist for decades, given the nation’s demographic imbalance.
Efforts to mitigate these challenges are underway, with the government establishing specialized agencies to address the issue. Initiatives include the expansion of childcare facilities, housing subsidies for parents, and, in select regions, financial incentives for couples to have children.
In Tokyo, a novel approach emerges: a government-operated dating app. Currently undergoing preliminary testing, the app aims to facilitate connections among individuals seeking marriage.
Described as “the first step” towards matrimony, the app employs an AI matchmaking system provided by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. Users undergo a “values diagnostic test” to ascertain compatibility, with an option to specify desired traits in a partner.
Elon Musk, the tech magnate, expressed approval of Japan‘s initiative, emphasizing the critical nature of addressing declining birth rates, according to CNN.
However, experts caution against apocalyptic scenarios, asserting that demographic shifts, while transformative, will not result in the disappearance of nations like Japan.
The dating app underscores the government’s commitment to fostering marital bonds, urging individuals with a desire for marriage to take the initial leap. Eligibility criteria mandate users to be single, over 18, and residing or working in Tokyo.
Furthermore, the app promotes additional support measures, including guidance on work-life balance, childcare, and housing assistance, as well as promoting men’s involvement in domestic responsibilities and career counselling.
The endeavour seeks to redefine the notion of couplehood, encouraging contemplation on the significance of marital commitment. Through these multifaceted efforts, Tokyo aims to catalyze a cultural shift towards marriage, offering hope for a revitalized demographic landscape, CNN reported. (ANI)
COMMENTS
![](assets/images/article/fb.jpg)
TOPMOST STORY NOW
![Banner](https://img.youtube.com/vi/i9bZ0wOrYFc/mqdefault.jpg)
Live Northeast Diva, the region’s biggest and grandest beauty pageant, is back
07th June 2024![Banner](https://northeastlive.s3.amazonaws.com/media/uploads/2024/06/Representational-image-23.png)
Live Arunachal: CM Khandu pulls up officials over slow progress of NH-415 four-laning work
24th June 2024![Banner](https://northeastlive.s3.amazonaws.com/media/uploads/2024/06/Representational-image-22.png)
Live Assam: 28-year-old man kills friend over monetary dispute, arrested
24th June 2024![Banner](https://img.youtube.com/vi/NKrt8A8eySc/mqdefault.jpg)
Live Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal takes oath as member of 18th Lok Sabha
24th June 2024![Banner](https://img.youtube.com/vi/5KEyftGsGuA/mqdefault.jpg)
Live Weather update in NE, India and neighbourhood today
24th June 2024WE RECOMMEND
![Banner](https://northeastlive.s3.amazonaws.com/media/uploads/2024/06/Representational-image-14-1.png)
Over 1,300 people died during Hajj pilgrimage in 2024: Saudi Arabia
Hajj permits are given to nations based on a quota system and Saudi Arabia requires each pilgrim to acquire one of the 1.8 million available licences to legally access Mecca.
24th June 2024![Banner](https://northeastlive.s3.amazonaws.com/media/uploads/2024/06/GQphkFoXcAA-xvi.png)
US: Death toll rises to 3, ten injured in Arkansas grocery store shooting
The Arkansas State Police reported that the incident unfolded at the Mad Butcher grocery store around 11:30 am local time.
22nd June 2024![Banner](https://northeastlive.s3.amazonaws.com/media/uploads/2024/06/Representational-image-2-2.png)
Thailand passes landmark bill, to become first country in Southeast Asia to recognise same-sex marriage
Gay rights activists hailed the action as a "monumental step forward."
19th June 2024![Banner](https://northeastlive.s3.amazonaws.com/media/uploads/2024/06/Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Copy-of-Untitled-Design-3.png)
India lays foundation stone to build high impact community development project in Nepal’s Pyuthan
The Government of India's grant under 'Nepal-India Development Cooperation' is being utilised for the construction of school and hostel buildings with other facilities for this school.
15th June 2024![Banner](https://northeastlive.s3.amazonaws.com/media/uploads/2024/06/Representational-image-2.png)
least 49 dead, 140 missing after boat carrying refugees, migrants from Horn of Africa to Yemen sinks
The vessel capsized on Monday and was carrying around 260 people, mostly from Ethiopia and Somalia
12th June 2024