失落的三十年，日本女性如何一步步走向贫困

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the changing dynamics of women's lives in Japan, particularly focusing on the increasing number of women living independently without marriage, driven by economic stagnation and societal shifts [4][5]. Group 1: Economic Context - Japan's prolonged economic stagnation has led to a significant shift in women's life choices, with marriage no longer seen as a safety net but rather a potential risk [5]. - The employment landscape for women has deteriorated, with a high percentage (54.8%) of women in non-regular employment as of 2019, compared to 25.7% for men, leading to lower average monthly salaries [7][8]. - The average annual income for men aged 35-44 decreased by approximately 11% from 1997 to 2020, contributing to the perception that marriage is no longer financially beneficial [9]. Group 2: Changing Marriage Dynamics - The traditional path of "marriage and resignation" has shifted to a fear of job loss, with only 17.6% of non-regular female workers able to transition to permanent positions in the past five years [8]. - Among unmarried women aged 30-34, 46.2% cite the lack of a financially stable partner as a primary reason for remaining single [8]. - The concept of "working poverty" affects many single women, with an average disposable income of 2.87 million yen (approximately 140,000 RMB) per year, barely covering basic living expenses [8]. Group 3: Social and Institutional Challenges - The traditional gender roles in Japanese society have eroded, making marriage less appealing as men’s incomes stagnate and women bear the brunt of household responsibilities [9][10]. - Women spend an average of 4 hours and 3 minutes daily on household and childcare duties, while men only spend 41 minutes, leading to a "double shift" for working women [10]. - The introduction of the "pension division system" in 2014 has provided some financial security for divorced women, but single-parent households still face a high relative poverty rate of 50.6% [10]. Group 4: Systemic Inequities - Japan's welfare system primarily supports families, leaving single, divorced, or childless women at a disadvantage, often referred to as a "systemic single tax" [12][13]. - Single women face higher tax burdens due to the lack of benefits available to married individuals, and they receive lower pension benefits [12]. - By 2040, it is projected that 35% of women aged 65 and older will live alone, with a significantly higher poverty rate compared to their male counterparts [12]. Group 5: Conclusion and Future Outlook - The article emphasizes that while women in Japan have gained more choices, these freedoms come with increased risks and lack of support [15][16]. - A call for a social safety net that does not rely on marriage is highlighted as essential for ensuring that all individuals, regardless of marital status, have security in times of need [16].