China Rethinking One Child Policy

According to vice minister of the National Population and Family Planning Commision, Zhao Baige, government officials are realizing the need to possibly change its one-child policy. She says that whatever decisions and changes would be made, would be made very gradually. There are a few reasons that a change is desired. Although not as common as in the 80's, forced abortions are still raising concern. Also, many families have selectively aborted in order to have a son, which has resulted in a male to female ratio imbalance. Lastly, the one-child policy has created a situation where the majority of the population is made up of the aging and elderly who need services and products that the labor market cannot meet. The policy has worked a little too well, and there is a shortage of labor. However, they fear that any change in the current policy will result in an unwanted population boom. So, hopefully China can find that happy medium.