Fertility encouragement cannot only focus on the two-child policy
The recent release of population birth data by the National Health Commission of China (NHCSSC) has sparked debate among Chinese netizens regarding fertility encouragement. According to the 'Statistical Bulletin of China's Health and Medical Development in 2022', there were 9.56 million births recorded in 2022, with a population proportion of children at 38.9%, and 15% for those having more than three children.
13 October 2023
While the numbers suggest an overall positive trend, netizens are also highlighting several issues in their reactions on social media platforms like Weibo. One key point is the suggestion that retirement age should be adjusted for those giving birth to one, two, three, or more than four children. This proposal includes benefits such as early retirement at the age of 50 for parents with more than four children, indicating a need for comprehensive policy support beyond just encouraging higher birth rates.
One interesting observation is that first-time births accounted for only 45% of the total births in 2022, while the gender ratio of births has reached an awkwardly high level of 111.1, up from 108.3 last year. This suggests that a significant reason behind the current fertility demand is male preference for having male children, leading to more births of boys than girls.
When combined with another hot search about the government's call for higher birth rates without substantive policies, netizens are questioning whether people are still considering childbearing in light of these circumstances. While some commenters are joking about rewards such as cars and houses for having children, others are pointing out more serious issues like the lack of financial support for raising children and the need to address gender equality.
In addition to these social issues, netizens are also discussing the idea of developing artificial wombs or studying how men can give birth. This innovative approach could potentially revolutionize childbirth, eliminating the gender bias associated with current reproductive systems and offering a solution for those who face challenges such as infertility or financial constraints.
However, some netizens argue that not everyone is solely focused on getting married and having children. They point out that family income plays a significant role in raising children and that the society should bear responsibility for supporting families. Furthermore, the idea of forcing someone to have a child when they do not want it is also being criticized as it disrespects individual choices and personal responsibilities.
Despite these challenges, netizens are generally calling for more comprehensive policies that respect individual desires while also considering social responsibilities. This includes addressing the easier process of having a first child compared to second or third ones, providing well-being support for first children, and encouraging equality among all siblings.
Moreover, netizens are discussing the current socioeconomic situation in China, with the latest GDP growth rate at 5.8% in the first quarter of this year, a decrease from last year's 6.4%. Some commenters suggest that this economic slowdown might also affect family planning decisions, leading to fewer births in the future.
In conclusion, while the data suggests positive trends in population growth and overall health development in China, netizens have raised several issues and concerns regarding fertility encouragement policies. They emphasize the need for more comprehensive support systems that respect individual choices and address social responsibilities, ultimately promoting a balanced approach towards childbearing.