The article focuses on the youth in Japan who are living in harsh financial conditions, with their total assets amounting to just 105 yen. However, thanks to various forms of assistance, these young people are able to slowly make their way out of this debilitating poverty. The piece discusses how these support mechanisms function, the individuals and organizations behind them, and the positive impacts they're having on the lives of marginalized youth.
Japan’s stagnating economy and high cost of living have led to an increase in poverty, especially among young people. With limited social security, it has become common for struggling individuals to seek help from NGOs, charities, or government schemes. The Japanese society is very much concerned about this issue, with discussions involving the efficiency of their social system and the necessity for a stronger safety net for vulnerable populations.
In the US or EU, there are more comprehensive forms of social security and welfare systems in place to assist individuals in similar circumstances. Policies like unemployment benefits, housing assistance, and food stamps help ensure that people do not fall into severe poverty. However, both regions also struggle with ensuring an equitable distribution of wealth and opportunity, especially among younger generations.