Many Japanese families share the dream of expanding their families, making them whole. Yet, the cost of living in Japan is so massively expensive, many families believe it to be financially impossible for them.To many families, this is extremely discouraging and even heartbreaking. However, a new plan, proposed by the Democratic Party Japan, may be the solution to the struggles of many families. The idea is to pay Japanese parents about $3,400 a year per child. This idea, like any government plan, has gained supporters and critics.
Its been recently reported that about a quarter of Japan's population is made up of people age 65 and over. This percentage is expected to increase steadily, reaching 40 percent around 2050. Increasing the birthrate would have a huge effect on the future of Japan.Many people, however, believe that the birthrate isn't the problem. Its suggested that the problem lies with the near taboo with working mothers. The lack of childcare, and the accepted loss of career after giving birth seems to be the biggest blow to Japan's economy. Experts agree that balance must be found between motherhood and a career for the counrty to flourish in the years ahead.
Also, critics are wondering where the money will come from to fund the baby-boom that will follow the announcing of the plan. Japan and the United States seem to both be trying to help their people in anyway they can. I tend to wonder though, if the massive amount of money being thrown into these programs will really help. At some point, for the Japanese and American generations to come, the debt that stems from these programs will need to be repaid. People that didn't necessarily ask for the help will be left with the bill. Cultures vary immensly between these two nations, but in the end, we'll have in common a gargantuan crisis if the government spending continues.
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