Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the declining birth rates in Japan, South Korea, and globally, highlighting the economic and social factors contributing to this trend, and suggests measures to create a more supportive environment for families [1][2][4]. Group 1: Declining Birth Rates - Japan's newborns in 2024 are projected to be approximately 686,000, a decrease of 41,200 from 2023, marking the first time since 1899 that the number falls below 700,000, 14 years earlier than expected [1] - South Korea has declared a "population emergency" due to its own declining birth rates, reflecting a broader trend across many countries [2] - The UNFPA reports that the global average fertility rate has dropped from 3.31 children per woman in 1990 to 2.3 in 2024, with 55% of countries below the replacement level of 2.1 children [2] Group 2: Economic Factors Influencing Birth Rates - Economic constraints are a significant factor in declining birth rates, with 39% of surveyed individuals citing "financial limitations" as the primary reason for having fewer children than desired [5] - In South Korea, 58% of respondents identified financial constraints as a key reason for their reluctance to have more children [5] - Other economic concerns include job security (21%), housing issues (19%), and lack of quality childcare services (12%) [5] Group 3: Recommendations for Supporting Families - The report emphasizes the need to alleviate economic burdens to enhance fertility intentions, suggesting measures such as paid parental leave, affordable healthcare, and supportive partnerships [7] - Sweden's new law allowing grandparents to receive compensation for childcare is highlighted as an innovative approach to reduce the burden on young parents [7] - The article advocates for equitable parental leave policies to encourage shared parenting responsibilities, which can improve women's workforce participation and men's involvement in childcare [7] Group 4: Government Initiatives - Japan's government aims to increase the male parental leave rate from 30.1% in 2023 to 50% by 2025 and potentially 80% by 2030, with new benefits for immediate paternity leave [8] - South Korea has seen positive changes in birth rates due to government policies such as extended leave, tax reductions, and housing support, with a notable increase in monthly births for nine consecutive months [9] - The report calls for governments to transform into "fertility enablers" to create an environment where individuals can realize their family planning desires [9]
全球平均生育率大降！为什么不生？联合国报告这么说→
第一财经·2025-06-12 12:41