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How Falling Birth Rates Reshape National Defense Spending
Description
Episode 19 of The Demographics Podcast explores the overlooked link between shrinking birth rates and military readiness. Lucas and Luna examine how Japan, South Korea, and Germany are grappling with smaller pools of military-age recruits, leading to policy shifts like extending service terms, opening combat roles to women, and investing in defense automation. A 2025 RAND study showed a 30% drop in eligible recruits in South Korea since 2010. The hosts discuss how demographic trends are forcing defense ministries to compete with the private sector for young talent, and why some nations are turning to robotic systems as a strategic hedge. The episode also touches on the economic ripple effects: reduced defense spending as a share of GDP could weaken alliance commitments, while automation manufacturers like Palantir and Anduril see new demand. A timely angle on how demographics quietly rewrite national security strategy. Includes a brief, natural donation appeal mid-episode.