Japan plans to loosen up its coiffure laws for the protection power this yr in an effort to extend recruitment amidst a declining delivery fee.
Under the brand new pointers, ladies will not be required to chop their hair and may have lengthy hair so long as it’s tied again and doesn’t intrude with sporting a hat or helmet. Men may even not be required to shave their heads, and trendy hairstyles will likely be allowed.
The Ministry of Defense intends to ease strict coiffure guidelines in 2024 for brand spanking new floor, naval, and air self-defense power (SDF) officers.
Last yr, an skilled panel from the ministry mentioned recruitment methods and highlighted the necessity for modifications to the “irrational guidelines” relating to the bodily look of the nation’s service forces.
This transfer is aimed toward attracting extra candidates amidst powerful competitors and a declining delivery fee.
The choice to loosen up coiffure laws comes after the protection power reconsidered a ban on tattoos to spice up recruitment. There is ongoing debate throughout the ministry about permitting totally different hair colours, as opinions differ on this matter.
Officials reported that the nation’s SDF forces have been working at 10 % lower than their power capability and failed to fulfill their recruitment goal final April.
The declining delivery fee has additionally led to a scarcity of younger folks coming into army jobs.