Comparative Study on the Low Birth Rate Process in China and Japan and the Impact on University Graduates Employment

Abstract

The low birth rate is a global phenomenon that cannot be overlooked, having profound implications for the socio-economic conditions of many nations and regions. The declining birth rates in China and Japan have been a significant part of the global discourse on this topic. This paper analyzes the impact of low birth rates on the employment of university graduates, encompassing both positive effects such as an increase in employment rates, and negative effects including a decrease in innovation and increased difficulties in promotions. The study observes that there is a roughly 15-year gap in the shifts in the low birth rate phenomenon and the employment conditions of university graduates between China and Japan. The differences between the two nations mainly manifest in the timeframe and pace of the declining birth rates and the associated time lags. A commonality is that the fundamental cause for the low birth rate in both countries is the high cost of child-rearing. Lastly, the paper proposes suggestions for the Chinese government and university graduates, drawing upon the countermeasures and experiences of Japan. These suggestions helps enhance the employment competitiveness of university graduates and promote sustainable economic and social development, offering valuable references for both governments and university students.