According to a study conducted by a private-sector panel of experts, Japan is projected to face a substantial decline in its young female population in the coming decades. The study revealed that over 40% of Japanese municipalities could potentially see their young female resident numbers decrease by more than half by 2050. This alarming trend has raised concerns among experts, as it could potentially lead to the “disappearance” of 744 municipalities due to population decline. These municipalities may struggle to maintain essential services and infrastructure as their populations dwindle.
While the latest projection shows a slight improvement compared to a similar study conducted in 2014, experts emphasize that the overall trend of a falling birth rate remains unchanged. The panel urged local authorities in the affected municipalities and the central government to implement measures aimed at increasing the birth rate and preventing population outflow. The study’s findings highlight the critical need for Japan to address its declining birth rate to ensure the sustainability of its communities and the well-being of its future generations.
