According to a recent study, the percentage of Japanese families wishing for a second child is at its lowest ever, at 33%. This is indicative of an ongoing trend caused by various factors such as economic instability and changes in social attitudes towards family life. The implications of this are extensive, affecting future population demographics and potentially the economy as a whole. The government and various organizations are working to address this issue by implementing family-friendly policies.

The declining birth rate is a significant concern in Japan. It is intrinsically linked to economic challenges and socio-cultural transformation. Many young Japanese people prioritize economic stability and career advancement over starting a family, and the high cost of living and childcare often deter families from having more than one child. The government emphasizes this issue due to the potential future labor shortage and the implications for the social security system supporting a rapidly aging population.

In the US or EU, the desired family size varies considerably, but it is generally higher than in Japan. The cultural expectations, socio-economic conditions, and the provision of family-friendly policies, such as parental leave and affordable childcare, often impact family planning decisions. Both regions also face declining birth rates but not as pronounced as in Japan.