China kicked off a nationwide population survey on Wednesday, November 1, 2023, amidst a declining birth rate and an aging population. The survey, which is conducted once every 10 years, will collect data on household demographics, education, employment, and income.
The survey comes at a time when China is facing a number of challenges related to its population. The country’s birth rate has been declining for decades, and is now at its lowest level since the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949. This is due to a number of factors, including rising costs of living, changing gender roles, and a preference for smaller families.
China’s population is also aging rapidly. The proportion of people aged 65 and over is expected to reach 28% by 2050, up from 13% in 2010. This is putting a strain on China’s social welfare system and its economy.
The results of the population survey will be used by the Chinese government to inform its policies on population, education, and social welfare. The survey is also expected to provide insights into the challenges that China is facing related to its population.
Here are some of the ways in which China is trying to address its declining birth rate and aging population:
Relaxing the one-child policy:
In 2015, China relaxed its one-child policy, allowing couples to have two children. However, this has not been enough to reverse the decline in the birth rate.
Providing financial incentives:
Some local governments are providing financial incentives to couples who have children. For example, the city of Shenzhen offers couples a subsidy of 10,000 yuan ($1,400) for each child they have.
Making it easier for women to work:
China is making it easier for women to work by providing more childcare options and extending maternity leave.
Changing social attitudes:
The Chinese government is also trying to change social attitudes towards families and children. For example, the government is promoting the idea that having more children is a sign of patriotism.
It remains to be seen whether these measures will be enough to reverse the decline in China’s birth rate and aging population.
However, the Chinese government is committed to addressing these challenges, as they are critical to the country’s long-term economic and social development.