China's new push for early marriage to tackle birth crisis
The authorities in Luliang, China, are offering financial rewards to couples who marry before the woman turns 35. This is in response to the demographic crisis in the country.
27 November 2024 07:11
The authorities of the city of Luliang in northern China are introducing a new initiative to encourage young women to marry earlier.
Starting in 2025, financial rewards are planned for couples who decide to marry before the woman reaches the age of 35. This move is aimed at boosting the birth rate in the country, which is struggling with serious demographic issues.
The existing family policy is to blame
China is experiencing an alarming decline in birth rates and an ageing population. The "one family, one child" policy introduced in the 1970s has contributed to the current situation.
Now, for the first time in six decades, China's population is beginning to decline, prompting the authorities to take measures to stimulate birth rates.
To benefit from the new programme, couples must meet certain criteria. The reward is only available to those entering their first marriage. The reward amount is 1,500 yuan, which is approximately £165. The programme is set to start at the beginning of 2025.
Demographic forecasts for China are not optimistic. It is estimated that by 2035, over 30% of China's citizens will be over 60 years old. This is a challenge that Chinese authorities must address to ensure the country's social and economic stability in the future.
The introduction of initiatives such as the one in Luliang is a signal that China is ready to take radical steps to reverse negative demographic trends. However, whether financial incentives will prove effective in the long term remains an open question.
