Japan adopts 4-day work week to combat declining birth rate
text_fields
In a bold move to tackle its record-low fertility rate and improve work-life balance, Japan will introduce a nationwide four-day work week starting in April next year.
This policy aims to address the country’s population crisis and reduce the strain of its demanding work culture.
The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare reported that only 727,277 babies were born last year, with the fertility rate plummeting to 1.2 - far below the 2.1 rate needed to sustain a stable population. If this trend continues, Japan’s population, which stood at 128 million in 2008, is projected to decline to 86.7 million by 2060.
Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike emphasized the urgency of this issue during a recent policy address. "Now is the time for Tokyo to take the initiative to protect and enhance the lives, livelihoods, and economy of our people during these challenging times for the nation," she said.
Japan’s demanding work culture, exemplified by the term "karoshi" - which refers to death caused by overwork - is cited as a major factor behind the declining birth rate. The government’s new four-day work week is designed to alleviate occupational stress and give families more time to focus on personal lives, including raising children.
Additionally, a separate policy will allow parents of elementary school-aged children to reduce their work hours with proportionate salary adjustments, offering further support for working families.
Japan’s gender gap in workforce participation remains a significant barrier. According to a World Bank report, only 55% of women participate in the labour force compared to 72% of men. Many women are forced to choose between advancing their careers or starting a family, contributing to the nation’s demographic challenges.
Studies have shown that a four-day work week enhances productivity and employee well-being, making the initiative a potential model for other nations. Nonprofit organisation 4 Day Week Global has conducted international trials with overwhelmingly positive outcomes, sparking interest in Western countries.
Japan is not alone in its struggle to address low fertility rates. Singapore has implemented flexible work guidelines to support families, while South Korea grapples with its own demographic crisis exacerbated by gender divides. In South Korea, the 4B movement - a pledge by women to avoid marriage, childbirth, and relationships with men - has highlighted the societal challenges contributing to declining birth rates.
