Japan Scraps Controversial Marriage Subsidy Plan

The Japanese government has scrapped a controversial plan to incentivize Tokyo women to marry men in rural areas by offering cash payments and train tickets, aimed at addressing a gender gap and depopulation crisis in these regions. The proposed payments of up to 600,000 yen ($4,140) for women who moved and married outside Tokyo faced widespread ridicule and criticism, particularly for being viewed as outdated and patriarchal. Hanako Jimi, the minister for regional revitalization, stated the plan would be reviewed after backlash from the public and political figures, who deemed it nonsensical. Critics argued that the initiative fails to understand the motivations of educated women in urban areas. With over 40% of municipalities at risk of disappearing due to declining populations, the government continues to seek solutions to the rural exodus caused by younger generations pursuing better opportunities in cities. The withdrawal of the plan reflects ongoing tensions in Japan’s approach to gender roles and rural revitalization efforts.