Japan’s homeless population has reached its lowest level since 2003, with 2,820 individuals as of January. According to a survey conducted by the health ministry, this represents a huge 8% decrease from the previous year.
The ministry attributes this improvement to the success of various support measures implemented to address homelessness. The survey revealed that men make up the majority of the homeless population, with 2,575 individuals, while women account for 172. The gender of 73 individuals is unknown.
Japan Homeless Population Drops (Credits: LinkedIn)
The figures also show that Osaka has the highest number of homeless individuals, with 856, followed by Tokyo (624) and Kanagawa (420). The 23 wards of Tokyo and 20 ordinance-designated large cities account for approximately 80% of the national total.
The survey covered municipalities nationwide, excluding those in Ishikawa Prefecture, which was affected by a powerful earthquake in January. The health ministry’s efforts to address homelessness have focused on providing support services, including housing assistance, medical care, and counseling. The decrease in homelessness indicates that these measures have a tangible impact.
Homelessness in Japan (Credits: Izanau)
The Japanese government has been working to address homelessness through various initiatives, including providing emergency shelters, food banks, and job training programs. The decline in homelessness is a testament to the effectiveness of these efforts and highlights the importance of continued support for vulnerable populations.
