Japan's Self-Defence Forces face record low recruitment amidst challenges

Japanese Self-Defecse Forces (SDF) are grappling with a serious problem: a chronic shortage of personnel, reports Portal Nikkei Asia. Last year, the number of new recruits joining the SDF was barely over half the planned number, the worst result in history.

The Japanese Ministry of Defence stated that in the fiscal year 2023, which ended in March this year, only 9,959 individuals joined the Self-Defense Forces (SDF). Meanwhile, the plan was to recruit 19,598 recruits.

The Ministry points out that many factors contribute to the low recruitment rate. First, Japan has a low birth rate, and second, there is intense competition from the private sector.

Additionally, potential recruits have a more realistic perception of the threat of war due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the possible outbreak of armed conflict in Taiwan, as reported by "Asahi Shimbun". Officials from the ministry also emphasise that issues related to harassment and sexual scandals recorded since 2010 also affect the situation.

Although formally Japan does not have an army due to its pacifist constitution, the Japanese Self-Defense Forces, established in 1946, are currently considered one of the military powers. The country's defence budget for the fiscal year 2024 is 54.6 billion pounds.

According to data, the Japanese Self-Defense Forces, based on voluntary enlistment, should have 247,154 soldiers at the end of the fiscal year. However, as the media reports, the SDF faces a personnel shortage of about 20,000 individuals.

Since 2014, the SDF has not been able to meet its recruitment targets. Therefore, it has begun employing various tactics to attract potential new recruits. Currently, increasing soldiers' salaries and benefits is being considered.