INCLUSIVE SOCIAL POLICIES IN JAPAN: ECONOMIC BENEFITS OF LGBTQ+

Irma Fogelberg ()
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Irma Fogelberg: European Institute of Japanese Studies, Postal: Stockholm School of Economics, P.O. Box 6501, S-113 83 Stockholm, Sweden, https://www.hhs.se/en/research/institutes/eijs/

No 246, EIJS Working Paper Series from Stockholm School of Economics, The European Institute of Japanese Studies

Abstract: Since the 1990s, Japan has faced economic decline and demographic challenges. In response, the government has implemented pro-natalist and pro-family policies to solve the issue. A prominent discourse surrounding these policies, however, attributes demographic changes to the LGBTQ+ community. Contrary to this belief, the following article explores the economic benefits of LGBTQ+ inclusive social policies in Japan, emphasizing that such measures are not only a humanitarian necessity but also align with the country’s economic self-interest. This article argues that strengthening LGBTQ+ rights and creating an inclusive society can contribute to economic growth, higher work performance, and improved foreign direct investment (FDI). Highlighting areas such as anti-discrimination laws, same-sex marriage, assisted reproductive treatment, and Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE), the article advocates for legal reforms and policy measures to promote LGBTQ+ rights and, in turn, positively influence Japan’s economic landscape and societal well-being.

Keywords: LGBTQ+ right; social policy; economic development; economic policy; creative class; demographic challenges; human rights; FDI; Japan (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: F21 J13 J16 J24 J71 J78 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Pages: 15 pages
Date: 2024-02-01
New Economics Papers: this item is included in nep-inv
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