Recent Asahi Shimbun estimates report the number of new births in Japan for this year to total around 668,000, marking a significant downward trend. Detailed reports behind this decline are yet to be fully disclosed, but preliminary analyses suggest a variety of societal and economic factors at play. Typically, Japan's demographic challenges have widely been associated with lack of affordable childcare, workforce issues and changing familial dynamics.

In Japan, the dropping birth rate is of grave societal concern and is regularly monitored. This trend has far-reaching consequences on Japan's economy, welfare, and health systems. Demographic imbalance is a huge challenge due to the ageing population and shrinking labor force. Social values such as affording childcare, job security, and the desire for personal freedom play key roles in this issue.

In contrast, while the US and EU also face demographic challenges, these are often offset by immigration and higher fertility rates. In these regions, there is more societal and governmental support for working parents, making it more manageable to juggle careers and parenthood.