As the conditions for lifting China’s dwindling birth rate have worsened, and its population nears negative growth, swelling apathy toward starting a family is complicating an already worrisome demographic crisis.
Citizens aged 60 or over account for more than a fifth of residents in 13 of China’s 31 provincial-level jurisdictions, highlighting the challenges ahead for the country’s pension system.
Companies in Jiangsu can now claim a reimbursement for maternity leave pay provided to employees who have a second and third child, a policy that could help counter discrimination against women.