Japan to introduce a four-day work week to combat low birth rates (2 photos)

Combating demographic decline is not always the most obvious approach.





Japanese authorities have decided to introduce an experimental work schedule to address the issue of an aging population and extremely low birth rates. Currently, the experiment with a four-day work week, which reformers hope will help Japanese people devote more time to starting a family and parenting, is being conducted in Tokyo. The capital has the lowest birth rate on record—0.99 children per woman.

Sociologists believe that the low birth rate in Japan is closely linked to a grueling work culture and the rising cost of living. Some experts believe the initiative may not work without comprehensive economic incentives, as it's not just a matter of time but also the financial confidence of young couples. At the same time, some believe that shortening workdays could negatively impact the productivity of companies in the capital, or that employers will simply overburden employees by forcing them to complete the same amount of work in four days.



There's another problem that prevents the Japanese from reproducing: anime. According to studies and surveys, half of people under 25 in Japan have no sexual experience, and a tenth of them remain virgins until age 30. It's believed that anime serves as a substitute for romantic relationships for these Japanese. Furthermore, a form of pornographic anime (hentai) is almost completely replacing "traditional" adult content, and hormonal contraception is not covered by insurance. As a result, over 50% of couples aged 20 to 49 admit to not having a sex life.