Japan’s Self-Defense Forces are facing a growing recruitment crisis. As regional tensions rise and defense spending increases, fewer young people are signing up. This episode examines why enlistment is falling, how demographic decline plays a role and what it means for Japan’s security strategy.

Watch the full Japan Today Spotlight series on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyLmgel-5aDxrGswj_8hRRiUwdm5tGGTH