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66万亿「生育补贴」,救不了日本生育率?
36氪· 2025-08-06 00:12
Core Viewpoint - The article discusses Japan's introduction of a "single tax" as a funding mechanism for child and parenting support, which has sparked significant public backlash despite being framed as a collective contribution to address declining birth rates [4][10][11]. Group 1: Introduction of the "Single Tax" - Japan's government will implement a "single tax" starting April next year, aimed at raising funds to combat the population decline crisis [4][10]. - The term "single tax" is controversial, with many citizens expressing strong dissatisfaction and viewing it as a direct tax on single individuals [5][6][10]. Group 2: Child and Parenting Support Fund - The "Child and Parenting Support Fund" was established to provide financial assistance to families with children, requiring an annual expenditure of 2.1 trillion yen [12][14]. - The fund will be financed through contributions from all insured individuals, with the amount increasing based on individual income levels [16][17]. Group 3: Public Reaction and Misunderstanding - Despite the government's clarification that the fund is not a tax on singles, public sentiment persists in labeling it as such, with a notable increase in social media posts using the term "single tax" [27][28]. - Many citizens express frustration over the government's approach to incentivizing childbirth through financial means, questioning the effectiveness of such measures [30][32]. Group 4: Historical Context of Financial Support - Japan has been providing financial support for childbirth since the 1971 Child Allowance Law, with the current monthly allowances set at 15,000 yen for children under three and 10,000 yen for older children [34][36]. - Over the years, Japan has invested at least 66 trillion yen in efforts to combat declining birth rates, yet the results have been disappointing, with new births projected to fall below 730,000 in 2024 [38][39]. Group 5: Alternative Approaches to Boost Birth Rates - Some regions in Japan, such as Nagareyama City, have successfully increased birth rates not solely through financial incentives but by enhancing childcare services and community support [53][54][62]. - The article suggests that comprehensive support for families, including time and energy contributions from the community and government, may be more effective than financial incentives alone [69][70].