The Japanese government is taking a unique step to address the nation's declining birth rate by launching a new dating app called 'Tokyo Futari Story.' This initiative aims to encourage marriage and family formation as the birth rate hit an all-time low in 2023. The government is actively promoting policies to support families, offering financial aid, and improving access to childcare and parental leave.
Government's New Approach
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's administration is addressing the labor shortage and declining birth rates with innovative solutions. In addition to traditional matchmaking events hosted by municipalities, the government has decided to create a dating app. The 'Tokyo Futari Story' app is expected to launch this summer and has been in a free test run since late 2023.
How to Enroll on the Dating App?
To join the dating app, users must sign a declaration of their intent to marry and provide documentation proving they are legally single. Additional requirements include a tax certificate to verify their annual salary. A Tokyo government official overseeing the app stated, "We learned that 70% of people who want to get married aren't actively joining events or apps to look for a partner. We want to give them a gentle push to find one."
Public Reaction
The app has sparked mixed reactions on social media. Some users expressed skepticism about the government using taxpayer money for a dating app. Others, like Tesla CEO Elon Musk, have supported the initiative, recognizing the urgency of addressing Japan's demographic challenges. Musk commented, "I'm glad the government of Japan recognizes the importance of this matter. If radical action isn't taken, Japan (and many other countries) will disappear!"
Birth Rate vs. Death Rate
Japan faces a significant demographic challenge with its death rate far exceeding the birth rate. In 2023, Japan recorded more than double the number of deaths compared to births. Preliminary data showed that births were down to 758,631, a 5.1% drop, while deaths stood at 1,590,503, which is 209.7% higher than the birth rate.
By launching 'Tokyo Futari Story,' the Japanese government hopes to reverse these trends and encourage more people to start families.
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