In an effort to address its declining birth rate, Tokyo has announced plans to make daycare free for families, aiming to ease the financial burden of childcare and encourage more couples to have children.

The initiative, set to roll out across the city, is part of a broader strategy to combat Japan’s rapidly aging population and shrinking workforce. By removing the high costs of early childhood care, officials hope to make parenting more accessible and appealing for young families.

Japan has one of the lowest birth rates in the world, with economic pressures, long working hours, and limited childcare options often cited as key factors discouraging people from starting families.

By offering free daycare, Tokyo seeks to provide greater financial security for parents while enabling more women to remain in the workforce.

Experts believe this policy could serve as a model for other regions facing similar demographic challenges, though its long-term effectiveness will depend on broader societal and economic reforms to support family life in Japan.

https://www.canadianaffairs.news/2024/12/13/tokyo-to-make-day-care-free-to-boost-birth-rate/