Japan’s fertility rate has dropped to a record low, prompting the government to intensify efforts to encourage marriage and family formation, including launching its own dating app.
The country, with a population of 123.9 million, saw only 727,277 births last year, resulting in a fertility rate decline from 1.26 to 1.20.
To maintain a stable population, the rate ideally needs to be 2.1. However, Japan’s rate has been below this for fifty years, leading to a population decline and numerous societal challenges.
The situation has worsened in recent years, with deaths surpassing births annually, causing the population to shrink significantly.
In 2023, Japan recorded 1.57 million deaths, double the number of births. Marriage rates have also declined, while divorces have risen.
Experts predict this trend will continue for several decades, primarily due to Japan’s demographic structure.
To address the issue, the government is implementing various measures, such as expanding childcare facilities, providing housing subsidies, and even paying couples to have children in some areas.
In Tokyo, officials are testing a government-run dating app aimed at facilitating marriages.
The app uses AI matchmaking based on users’ values and desired traits in a partner, with Elon Musk expressing support for such initiatives.
While experts believe Japan will eventually stabilize demographically, the country will undergo significant changes.
The dating app encourages singles over 18 with a desire to marry to participate and provides information on work-life balance, childcare, and career counseling.
Overall, the government is striving to create momentum for marriage and support couples in building meaningful relationships.
Source-CNN
