EY Y04 L25 Unemployment

Is unemployment a big problem where you live now? For which generation or sector? Please illustrate with someone you know or friend-of-a-friend you have heard about.
Do you think employment in Japan goes boom and bust like it does in other countries or do you think having a job in Japan is more secure than overseas? Why do you think that?
Have you or has anyone in your family ever quit a job? Have you or has anyone in your family ever lost a job? What happened?
Do you think unemployed people in Japan get the support they need?
Japan is suffering from an aging population. Tell us about one way that has impacted either the local economy or a sector (or business) you know about. Does this benefit young people or is it a burden?
What impact, if any, do you think the COVID-19 crisis has had on the unemployment rate?

Question 1

In my mere observation, I don't think unemployment is a big problem in Japan now. I can see a lot of job hiring postings and I've heard of businesses having to shorten their operation hours just because they don't have staff to work on the night shift. Yes, landing a job can be competitive in certain industries. Job mismatch is also another dilemma but overall I think Japan has a steady employment rate even during the height of the pandemic.

Question 2

Yes, just like how the employment rate in other countries is mainly influenced by economic conditions, Japan's employment rate also goes boom and bust. However, I do think they have more stringent labor laws here that protect employees from getting the pink slip without any solid grounds.

Question 3

My father retired when he was in his 50's. He was self-employed at that time and was running a fish shop. We made the decision because it was taking a toll on his health. The job requires that he needs to be up by the wee hours of the morning and he needs to travel constantly from the fish port to fish markets.

Question 4

I think they can get by. However, with the surge of commodity prices now they might have to cut back on some expenses. On a different note, if they are having a hard time looking for a job, the government should provide basic training or programs to equip them with the necessary skills. Hopefully, they'll be more competitive and can join the workforce when they graduate from the program.

Question 5

This has been a controversial debate. The younger workforce has been complaining of high taxes and blames it on the aging population. However, I think that this is just an inevitable cycle. We will all eventually get old and we wouldn't want the younger generation to make us feel like a burden when that time comes.

Question 6

The pandemic has stretched out for almost two years. In the first few months, businesses were in a state of shock. Some were initially hopeful and made some adjustments to keep their business afloat. However, as this unprecedented crisis continues, some business owners have decided to cut their losses and just close their shops.