Japan has been facing a declining birth rate for nearly two decades, with the total fertility rate (TFR) being 1.4 children per woman, significantly lower than the global average of 2.5. Factors contributing to this decline include economic uncertainty, high costs of raising children, gender inequality, long working hours and lack of childcare support from employers or government policies. This has had a significant impact on Japan's economy including decreased economic growth, an aging population and a lack of skilled labor. Additionally, it has had an effect on Japanese society and culture with fewer young people entering into adulthood and higher education programs. The Japanese government have introduced various policies aimed at increasing the birth rate however there are still challenges faced by the government in addressing this issue such as cultural attitudes towards marriage and parenthood.