One myth that needs to be destroyed in Japan is that more working women will drive the birthrate even lower. Empirical evidence around the world shows the opposite is true.

Empirical evidence around the world shows the opposite is true.

Yes in nations where people dont have to work 18 hours a day, and childcare is within reach for most. Not in Japan.

neverknow2 at 09:51 AM JST - 22nd January: "Yes in nations where people dont have to work 18 hours a day, and childcare is within reach for most. Not in Japan."

Indeed, work hours need to be enforced in Japan. If people are not allowed to go home or are driven to linger till the boss decides to leave, the nation simply won't rise the birthrate.

My mother is a Civil Engineer, happily married to my dad, who is also a Civil Engineer. She worked till retirement age, now is a Consultant. Four daughters, all attended university (Three Civil Engineers, one Architect). Our father was fully engaged in our education as well. No, we are not an exception in our country. Why does this seem impossible to achieve in Japan?

It is not as simple as getting women back into work. I agree with the above. It is a bunch of things - work hours, lack of child care, men who think that by giving money their parenting is done, women who don't want their husbands to help with parenting... All this needs to be addressed as well. THEN things will change.

it is true that lack of child care won't help boost Japan natality. There's lots of job to create there.. that could be one good thing right now

Why does this seem impossible to achieve in Japan?

Maybe not impossible but I do think it is very difficult. More difficult than many first world nations.