65+

• Photographer
  ROB Walbers, Belgium

Japan and its government of Prime Minister Abe is facing huge
difficulties. The country with the world's longest life expectancy,
being 83 years old, is also one of the leaders in the list of
countries with the lowest birthrates. This results in a structural
shortage in the nation's workforce.
The retirement age went up from 55 to 65 over the last 30 years,
but will have to rise even more if no other solutions can be find
quickly.
Loosening up the immigration laws and big investments in the
robotic industry are a few of the measures taken, but walking
through the streets of Tokyo faces you inevitable with the harsh
reality. Old people are filling up the streets, but also in the shops
you shouldn't be too surprised if your food is served by someone
who largely crossed the retirement age already.