Japan's Population to Fall Below 100 Million in Less Than 50 Years

Japan's total fertility rate (the average number of children a woman will have in her lifetime) fell to a record low of 1.26 in 2005.
While this is widely known, it later rose slightly to 1.32, but it remains at an extremely low level.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the government has implemented various measures to combat the declining birthrate, such as expanding child allowances and improving childcare services, but the number of babies has not increased at all.

It is clear that Japan's total population will continue to decline. The National Institute of Population and Social Security Research has announced that Japan's total population will fall below 100 million in 2055 (compared to 127.8 million in 2007), reaching 89.93 million.
In less than 50 years, the population will decrease by roughly 30%.

A Shocking Homeless 4-Year-Old Girl

It is truly astonishing. A significant population decline critically weakens a nation's economic foundation.
It is as if a future devoid of vitality is promised for Japan. Amidst this, a recent evening edition of the T newspaper (a major newspaper company) featured a shocking article and photograph on its final page about a homeless 4-year-old girl in Shinjuku, Tokyo.
A Korean photographer expressed his anger and sorrow, asking, 'How can there be a homeless 4-year-old in such a prosperous Japan?'
This is an endlessly shocking event for the Japanese people.

Are Children the Crystallization of Adult Pleasure?

In reality, the girl lives on the ground with her homeless father, who drinks all day. I believe it is utterly irresponsible for a man with no ability to support himself and who is a drunkard to have a child. It is a pity for the child who is born. The child has committed no sin.
This reminds me of a story told by one of my closest friends, a European correspondent for the A newspaper. He passed away young but had three sons.
His constant refrain was, 'Children are the crystallization of adult pleasure. Therefore, children must never be made to feel unhappy. Under no circumstances should a couple argue in front of their children. Raising children is the parents' responsibility.'
Some may disagree, but I still feel the essence of my friend's philosophy.

Humans Are the Only Animals Who Can Choose Whether or Not to Have Children

In the current recession, the number of young people earning ¥2 to 3 million annually is increasing. They are in a situation where they cannot even afford to get married, let alone have children.
In any case, I hope people will reconsider the idea of having children easily.

Finally, one word.
Please reflect deeply on the fact that humans are the only animals who can choose whether or not to have children.