Country explorer: Japan

Japan has experienced modest economic growth with low inflation and unemployment rates compared to its high-income country peers, indicating a stable yet slow-paced economy amidst challenges like aging demographics and technological shifts.

Japan has experienced a unique demographic shift characterized by a declining population, low fertility rates well below the replacement level, and one of the world's highest life expectancies, highlighting challenges such as an aging society and shrinking workforce.

Japan has consistently ensured near-universal access to clean cooking fuels, electricity, safely managed drinking water, and sanitation facilities, demonstrating its alignment with the high standards prevalent among high-income countries in addressing basic needs.

Japan has experienced significant advancements in human development as evidenced by improvements in the Human Development Index, reductions in child mortality rate, high literacy rates, and an increase in average learning-adjusted years of schooling, highlighting its strong commitment to education and healthcare in comparison to its high-income country peers.

Japan has made significant strides in increasing its renewable energy production, particularly in solar and bioenergy, while also reducing per capita CO2 emissions, indicating an ongoing transition towards more sustainable energy sources and efforts in environmental conservation including stable forest area maintenance, despite facing challenges in freshwater resources, a trend seen among high-income countries.

Japan has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to technological advancement and innovation, as evidenced by its high internet usage, widespread mobile phone subscriptions, substantial investments in research and development, and significant output of scientific and technical articles per capita, positioning it as a leading nation in technology and innovation among high-income countries.

Japan has uniquely maintained a low share of foreign-born population and experienced significant aging, alongside moderate improvements in gender inequality and relatively stable self-reported life satisfaction, reflecting its distinct challenges and societal resilience compared to its peers.

Japan has demonstrated a consistent adherence to the rule of law, transparency, and civil liberties, positioning it favorably among high-income countries, yet faces challenges in maintaining press freedom levels.