China has marked the anniversary of the introduction of its one-child policy, a population control measure that shaped family life and demographics for decades before being formally ended. Introduced to curb rapid population growth, the policy had far-reaching social, economic, and demographic consequences.
The policy contributed to smaller family sizes and slower population growth but also led to unintended effects, including a rapidly ageing population, a shrinking workforce, and a gender imbalance caused by a long-standing cultural preference for sons. Many families were separated by enforcement measures that included fines and restrictions on employment and education.
Despite the policy’s repeal and subsequent efforts to encourage larger families, birth rates in China have continued to decline. Authorities have introduced incentives such as extended parental leave, childcare support, and housing benefits, but these measures have so far had limited impact.
Experts say the legacy of the one-child policy continues to influence attitudes toward marriage and parenthood, with rising living costs and changing social expectations contributing to reluctance among younger generations to have children. The anniversary has prompted renewed discussion about how China can address its demographic challenges in the years ahead.
