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Number of Foreign Children Increases in Over Half of Japanese Municipalities
Amid declining birthrates, the number of foreign children in Japan has increased in over half of the country's municipalities over the past decade, with some areas seeing an overall rise in child population due to this trend.
Increase in Foreign Children in Japan
According to an analysis by NHK, the number of foreign children has increased over the past decade in more than half of Japan's municipalities, specifically over 980 local governments, amidst a deepening decline in birthrates. In some municipalities, the rise in the foreign child population has even led to an increase in the total number of children.
Experts Call for Enhanced Japanese Language Education
An expert points out that expanding Japanese language instruction is necessary for a coexistence society. This trend of increasing foreign children is seen as a significant indicator of changes in Japan's demographic structure, underscoring the importance of social support and integration policies.
*Source: NHK (2026-03-25)*
