Question

Explain the consequences of the one-child policy adopted by China in the 1970s.

Hint:

Strict population policies can have unintended consequences, including labor shortages and aging demographics.

Answer 1

Understanding China's One-Child Policy:
- China implemented the one-child policy in 1979 to control population growth. Consequences of the One-Child Policy:
1. Aging Population: - The policy led to a declining birth rate, increasing the proportion of elderly people, creating a demographic imbalance.
2. Labor Shortages: - With fewer young workers entering the workforce, economic productivity faced long-term challenges.
3. Gender Imbalance: - Cultural preference for male children led to gender-selective practices, resulting in a skewed sex ratio.
4. Policy Reversals: - Recognizing these consequences, China later relaxed the policy, allowing two children (2015) and three children (2021).
Conclusion: While the one-child policy helped in short-term population control, its long-term demographic and economic consequences prompted policy reforms.