Part 4/9:
Former high-ranking minister Taro Kono outlines the gravity of Japan's demographic predicament, warning that a decline in youth population will worsen burdens on the younger generation, threatening the stability of society itself. The implications extend far beyond foundational social structures, impacting military recruitment, economic vitality, and overall national strength.
Although the dramatic demographic decline is unique to Japan, numerous countries outside Africa are grappling with similar issues. The United States, for example, is facing its fertility crisis, exhibiting one of the lowest rates on record. Kono compares these trends, lamenting Japan's inadequate preparation for impending labor shortages and the need for investments in technology to mitigate potential setbacks.