China’s top health body urges marriage, childbirth at ‘appropriate ages’
China’s National Health Commission (NHC) is intensifying efforts to encourage marriage and childbirth at “appropriate ages” as part of a broader strategy to counteract the nation’s shrinking population, an official announcement revealed Thursday.
Yu Xuejun, deputy head of the NHC, outlined plans to advocate for shared parenting responsibilities and guide young people towards more favorable views on marriage, childbirth, and family life. This initiative aims to cultivate a “new culture of marriage and childbearing,” according to the state-backed Global Times.
Currently, Chinese law permits men to marry only after the age of 22 and women after the age of 20. The NHC’s renewed focus comes in response to a concerning demographic trend: China’s population fell for the second consecutive year in 2023, and the number of births reached an all-time low.
A significant factor contributing to this decline is the reluctance of many women to have children due to high childcare costs, career pressures, and traditional societal expectations that still place a disproportionate caregiving burden on women. Additionally, ongoing gender discrimination and the high cost of education further discourage larger families.
Official data shows that marriage rates in the first half of this year hit their lowest point since 2013. This downturn is partly attributed to the long-term effects of China’s one-child policy, which was in effect from 1980 to 2015, and the increasing costs associated with raising children.
Yu acknowledged that the current demographic shifts—characterized by low birth rates and a rapidly aging population—are a natural outcome of economic and social development. However, he emphasized the need for continued and concerted efforts across all levels of government to promote sustainable demographic development.
The NHC’s new strategies reflect a broader effort to address these pressing demographic challenges and stimulate a more supportive environment for families in China.
