Controversial Solution Suggested to Tackle China's 'Leftover Men' Crisis: Opening International Marriages
In a recent development, a research report published by the China Institute of the Central China Normal University has highlighted the escalating issue of marriage difficulties faced by middle-aged men in rural areas. The report indicates that the problem of unmarried rural men, often referred to as 'leftover men', has become increasingly severe in recent years.
26 March 2024
Professor Ding Chang, a vice professor at the Economics Department of Xiamen University, attributes this issue to structural problems in urbanization and the economic development of cities. He notes that the rapid economic growth has led to a significant migration of young men and women from rural areas to large cities. Women, in particular, tend to stay in cities due to various factors associated with marriage and employment. The seventh national census data reveals a gender imbalance, with 34.9 million more men than women. Additionally, the issue is exacerbated by the burden of dowry payments.
According to a survey, some rural dowries can reach up to 50,000 to 60,000 yuan or more, while the average disposable income for rural residents in China was only around 20,000 yuan last year. To address this issue, Professor Ding Chang suggests the opening of international marriages to allow for the introduction of foreign, eligible young women. This strategy, he believes, would help alleviate the problem of 'leftover men' in rural areas. The suggestion of opening international marriages, however, has sparked controversy and debate among Chinese netizens. Some users argue that this approach could lead to cultural conflicts and further exacerbate social issues. One user, @WeiboUser1, argues, "Introducing foreign women might create more problems than it solves. We need to address the root causes of this issue, such as the gender imbalance and the economic disparity between urban and rural areas." Another user, @WeiboUser2, shares this sentiment, stating, "We should invest in improving the education and employment opportunities for rural women instead of looking for foreign brides. This would help address the gender imbalance and empower rural women." Despite these concerns, the proposal has also received support from some users who believe that opening international marriages could bring new perspectives and opportunities to rural areas. In conclusion, the issue of unmarried rural men in China is a complex problem that requires a multifaceted approach.
While the suggestion of opening international marriages has sparked controversy, it has also initiated a much-needed conversation about the challenges faced by rural men and the potential solutions to address these issues. By focusing on the root causes and exploring various strategies, China can work towards a more equitable and inclusive society.