China’s Desperate Bid to Boost Birth Rates: A Glimmer of Hope for a Fertility-Friendly Society

In a shocking move, health authorities in China’s southwestern Sichuan province are proposing to extend marriage leave up to 25 days and maternity leave up to 150 days. This drastic measure aims to create a "fertility-friendly society" that can help boost the country’s dwindling population. The move comes as China’s government struggles to come to terms with the harsh reality of a rapidly aging population and a birth rate that has been in free fall for decades.

A Crisis of Epic Proportions

China’s population fell for a third consecutive year in 2024, and experts warn that the downturn will only continue to worsen. The country’s one-child policy, which was in place from 1980 to 2015, has had a devastating impact on the population. Rapid urbanization, the high cost of childcare and education, and job uncertainty have all contributed to a perfect storm that has discouraged many young Chinese from getting married and starting a family.

Sichuan Province Takes the Lead

Sichuan province, with a population of 84 million, has emerged as one of the more progressive regions in China. The province has allowed unmarried women to access IVF treatment and has announced that unmarried individuals will be eligible for benefits reserved for married couples. The proposed extension of marriage leave and maternity leave is a bold move that aims to support young couples and encourage them to start a family.

A 400% Increase in Marriage Leave

The proposed extension of marriage leave from five days to 25 days is a staggering 400% increase. This move is designed to give young couples the time and space they need to start their new life together. The extended maternity leave period, which will increase from 60 days to 150 days, will provide new mothers with the support and care they need during this critical period.

Paternity Leave Gets a Boost

Sichuan province also plans to extend paternity leave from 20 days to 30 days. This move is designed to facilitate the care of men for their wives after childbirth and to help advocate for couples to share the responsibility of raising children. By giving fathers more time to bond with their newborns, the province hopes to create a more supportive and sharing environment for young families.

A Series of "Fertility Friendly" Measures

In 2024, authorities rolled out a series of "fertility friendly" measures to minimize the challenge of having roughly 300 million Chinese expected to enter retirement in the coming decade. These measures include urging China’s colleges and universities to provide "love education" to emphasize positive views on marriage, love, fertility, and family. The government has also rallied local governments to direct resources towards fixing China’s population crisis and to spread respect for childbearing and marriages "at the right age."

A Glimmer of Hope

While the proposed extension of marriage leave and maternity leave is a step in the right direction, it remains to be seen whether these measures will be enough to boost China’s birth rates. With over 2.6 million couples filing for divorce last year, the country’s population crisis is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach. However, by taking bold steps to support young families and create a fertility-friendly society, Sichuan province is offering a glimmer of hope for a brighter future.

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Conclusion

China’s population crisis is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach. While the proposed extension of marriage leave and maternity leave is a step in the right direction, it’s essential to continue exploring new and innovative ways to support young families and boost birth rates. By working together and staying informed, we can create a brighter future for China and for generations to come.

Content originally published by health.economictimes.indiatimes.com