Introduction
In 2024, Japan experienced a historic population decline of over 900,000 people, marking the sixteenth consecutive year of decline and the largest drop since census records began in 1968, according to Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs.
Background and Context
Japan’s Demographic Challenges:
- Japan, like many developed nations, grapples with low birth rates.
- However, Japan’s situation is particularly severe due to its declining population for years.
Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s Response:
Recognizing the issue as a “silent emergency,” Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has pledged family-friendly measures, including flexible work hours and free childcare, to reverse the trend.
Population Trends in 2024
Overall Population Decline:
- Japan’s population decreased by 908,574 people in 2024, a 0.75% reduction, reaching 120.65 million.
- This marks the sixteenth consecutive year of population decline, with the largest drop since census records began in 1968.
Foreign Population Growth:
- Despite the overall decline, Japan’s foreign population reached its highest level since record-keeping began in 2013.
- As of January 1, 2025, there were approximately 3.67 million foreign residents, accounting for nearly 3% of Japan’s total population of over 124.3 million.
Age Distribution:
- Individuals aged 65 or older made up nearly 30% of the population, while those aged 15 to 64 constituted 60%, both with slight increases from the previous year.
Aging Population:
Japan has the world’s second-oldest population, after Monaco, according to the World Bank.
Birth Rates and Future Concerns
Declining Birth Rates:
The number of births in Japan fell below 700,000 for the first time in history, according to data from Japan’s Ministry of Health, published in June.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: Why is Japan’s population decline a significant issue? A: The declining population poses challenges for Japan’s economy, social security system, and overall societal structure.
- Q: How is Japan addressing its low birth rates? A: Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has proposed family-friendly policies, such as flexible work hours and free childcare, to encourage more births.
- Q: What impact does Japan’s aging population have on the country? A: An aging population puts pressure on social security, healthcare systems, and labor markets.
- Q: How does Japan’s foreign population growth compare to its overall population decline? A: While Japan’s foreign population has increased, it does not offset the overall population decline.
