I actually find japanese as a very simple and logical language as far as grammar and vocabulary goes... the real problem is just as you said: hiragana, katakana and by far the worst: "kanji", the existence of multiple dialects make it harder as well.
Don't feel discouraged about japanese people not standing up to global problems and the next generation... it's the same everywhere, no one cares about the problems of the many, instead they focus on their own problems, on own to make money and provide for their family...

Well, it's true that many japanese anime and manga do keep that essence and spirit and I believe it's influenced many of us to give a hand, support each other, work harder and hope for a better tomorrow.