Record-Breaking Birth Rates: Japan's Foreign-Born Population Explodes
Japan is witnessing a demographic revolution, with a record number of babies born to foreign parents in 2024, sparking intense political debate. This surge in foreign-born children, surpassing 20,000, marks a stark contrast to the declining birth rates among Japanese couples. The health ministry's data reveals a 50% increase in foreign-born children over a decade, while Japanese births plummeted by 41,115 in the same period.
The Nikkei business newspaper highlights a silver lining: foreign newborns are helping to stabilize Japan's declining birthrate. Chinese, Filipino, and Brazilian mothers lead the pack, contributing to a diverse population. The number of legal foreign residents in Japan has skyrocketed to 3.95 million, with many young adults settling long-term and starting families.
This demographic shift has ignited a political firestorm. Right-wing politicians advocate for stricter immigration rules and better integration, fearing a divided society. The Sanseito party's success in the upper house elections, fueled by anti-foreign worker sentiments, underscores the growing tension. The governing Liberal Democratic party's new leader, Sanae Takaichi, emphasizes immigration reform in her campaign.
However, the labor shortage and aging population are expected to intensify migration. Justice Minister Keisuke Suzuki predicts a foreign resident proportion surpassing 10% by 2040, earlier than forecasted. Experts urge local authorities to support foreign families, emphasizing the need for policies fostering integration and equal opportunities for foreign-born children.
As Japan grapples with this unprecedented demographic change, the future of its society hangs in the balance, raising questions about immigration, integration, and the well-being of its diverse population.
