The Japanese military is changing its rules to attract more young people amid a shortage of soldiers due to concerns about China and North Korea. Until now, male recruits had to have buzz cuts, and females had to have short hair.
But starting in April, troops can have longer hair, as long as it’s neat. Male troops can have short hair on the sides and longer on top. Female troops can have longer hair, but it must be tied up and not fall past their shoulders.
The Defence Minister acknowledged a serious workforce shortage and intensified competition for talent. Japan’s military has been exclusively defensive since World War Two, in line with its pacifist constitution.
The effort to increase recruitment comes as Japan faces China’s rapid military buildup and North Korea’s expanding missile and nuclear programs. Despite announcing a substantial boost in defense spending, the JSDF is struggling to meet recruitment targets, with officials citing low morale, poor pay, and allegations of sexual harassment as hindrances. The Defence Ministry is also considering allowing people with tattoos to join, as the ban has been a barrier to recruitment.
IMPORTANT VOCABULARIES:
- Concerns: Worries, anxieties, or issues that cause unease or apprehension.
- Buzz cuts: A type of haircut where the hair is clipped very short, typically using electric clippers, resulting in a uniform length all over the head.
- Troops: Members of the armed forces; soldiers or military personnel.
- Acknowledged: Recognized, admitted, or accepted as true or existing; openly declared or confessed.
- Workforce: The total number of people employed or available for work in a particular industry, company, or country.
- Intensified: Made more intense, stronger, or more severe; increased in strength or severity.
- Exclusively: Solely, only, or entirely; without any others being included or considered.
- Pacifist: Someone who believes in and advocates for peace; opposed to war or violence as a means of settling disputes.
- Substantial: Considerable in amount, size, or importance; significant or noteworthy.
- Morale: The confidence, enthusiasm, and spirit of a group of people, especially in a difficult or challenging situation.
- Allegations: Claims or assertions made without proof or evidence, often suggesting wrongdoing or misconduct.
- Hindrances: Obstacles, barriers, or impediments that slow down or obstruct progress.
- Barrier: Something that prevents or obstructs movement, progress, or access; a physical or figurative obstacle.
