Japan Press Weekly

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2016 December 14 - 20 [SDF]

Number of new recruits to SDF continues to decline

During the past four years under the Abe government, the number of new recruits to the Self-Defense Forces has declined by more than 10,000 or 30%, Akahata reported on December 17.

In 2016, the SDF received 24,312 applications for enrollment, down from 34,534 in 2013. This is most likely because the Abe government has assigned more risky duties to SDF members after the enactment and the implementation of the controversial war laws in defiance of strong public opposition, Akahata pointed out.

The Defense Ministry is eagerly attracting applicants by such means as holding briefing sessions in schools or inviting students to the SDF’s “experience” programs.

In addition, the ministry is considering expanding its student loan programs for university age students under which recipients will be exempted from repayment of student loans on the condition that they will enter the SDF after graduation.