Parents in Japan attending matchmaking events amid plummeting birth and marriage rates

In a bid to combat Japan's declining marriage and birth rates, parents in Osaka have gathered for an unconventional matchmaking event organised by the Association of Parents of Marriage Proposal Information. CNN reports that around 60 parents have paid 14,000 yen ($96) each to attend the event, where they discuss the prospects of finding suitable partners for their adult, still-single children.

Parental involvement on the rise

Japan, a nation known for its demanding work culture and rising living costs, is facing a crisis of dwindling marriages and births. Government data reveals a record decline in the population, with newly registered marriages dropping to the lowest level since World War II in 2021. The average age for marriage has also risen significantly, making it challenging for couples to start families.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has unveiled incentives to encourage childbearing, but experts like James Raymo from Princeton University argue that boosting the marriage rate should be the primary focus.

Sociologist Shigeki Matsuda from Chukyo University emphasises that economic factors, such as poor employment prospects and high living costs, are major deterrents to marriage. Japan's long working hours further hinder young people from forming relationships.

Challenges for Women

For women, societal expectations and the persistent belief that they should primarily take on caregiving roles in marriage contribute to the reluctance to wedding. This gender imbalance continues despite legal equality efforts.

Matchmaking for the next generation

At the Osaka event, parents armed with questionnaires and profile pictures discuss potential matches for their adult children, ranging from doctors to civil servants. Some parents attend at the request of their offspring who are anxious about their single status.

The Association of Parents of Marriage Proposal Information reports that approximately 10% of matches lead to marriage, though the actual figure might be higher. Parents value their involvement in the process, as it allows them to express their children's preferences more openly.

CNN spoke to a mother whose daughter found her match through the service. She highlighted the advantage of parental involvement, citing that it eliminates awkward conversations often remembered in relationships.

The Grandchild Factor

Many parents attend these matchmaking events with the hope of becoming grandparents. Some are looking for younger partners for their adult children, while others consider factors like education and family background.

Matchmaker Noriko Miyagoshi emphasises the importance of children's willingness to have children themselves, believing in the Japanese concept of "go-en," where romance sprouts from meeting the right person at the right time.

As Japan grapples with these demographic challenges, parents in Osaka are taking an active role in reshaping the country's marriage landscape, driven by their desire to see their children find love and happiness.