Challenges in Japan's Social Security System:Considering a Society with a Declining Population
Japan has successfully established a comprehensive social security system,achieving the goal of universal health insurance and pensions.The system's evolution spans a substantial history,adapting to the challenges of each era.Post-World War Ⅱ,policy measures addressed the development of public assistance and social welfare systems for children and persons with disabilities.Subsequently,from the late 1950s to the early 1970s,universal health coverage and pensions became integral components of Japan's social security system.Responding to the challenges posed by a declining birthrate and an ageing population since the 1990s,Japan has reformed the system to ensure its long-term sustainability.Consequently,the country now has a comprehensive social security system covering health care,pensions,long-term care,childcare support,and public assistance,offering holistic protection to individuals.However,against the backdrop of an ageing society,declining birthrates,and regional disparities,policy challenges persist.These challenges encompass ensuring the sustainability of financial and service resources,fostering community-based medical and social service provisions,and implementing effective anti-relative poverty policies.The 2020s have witnessed population decline as a common phenomenon not only in Japan but also in China and South Korea.The discussion on policy options for social security in the context of population decline also deserves the attention of researchers in China,Japan and South Korea.
Japansocial security systemregional differencespopulation declineEast Asia
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