Core Viewpoint - The new regulation in Sichuan extending marriage leave to 20 days has faced significant implementation challenges, with many companies refusing to comply, highlighting a disconnect between policy announcement and actual enforcement [1][2]. Group 1: Policy Implementation Challenges - Many enterprises misunderstand the new policy or deliberately evade responsibility, clinging to the outdated notion of a 3-day marriage leave, ignoring local regulations that allow for extended leave [2]. - The lack of effective communication and enforcement mechanisms at the grassroots level has resulted in companies relying on "higher-level notifications," leading to a vacuum in policy implementation [2][3]. - Workers are hesitant to take marriage leave due to fears of negative repercussions on promotions and job security, creating a culture where companies exploit this anxiety to avoid granting leave [3]. Group 2: Recommendations for Improvement - There is a need for enhanced policy promotion and enforcement, including the issuance of policy interpretation guides and targeted inspections of non-compliant companies [3]. - Clear execution standards and retroactive rights for employees who have not taken leave before the new regulation should be established to prevent the invalidation of their rights [3]. - A streamlined process for workers to assert their rights and lower the burden of proof is essential, alongside encouraging companies to integrate marriage and parenting support into their corporate social responsibility evaluations [3].

Core Viewpoint - The number of marriage registrations in China has rebounded in the first three quarters of 2025, with a total of 5.152 million couples registered, an increase of 405,000 compared to the same period last year, indicating a potential turning point in marriage trends [2][10]. Group 1: Marriage Registration Trends - The marriage registration numbers have been declining since reaching a historical high of 13.469 million in 2013, dropping to a low of 6.106 million in 2024 [2][11]. - Experts predict that the total number of marriage registrations for 2025 will exceed that of 2024, with estimates ranging between 6.52 million and 7.16 million [11]. Group 2: Innovative Marriage Registration Services - Various regions are implementing innovative marriage registration services, such as night-time registration experiences and temporary registration points at events like music festivals [3][4][5]. - The integration of marriage registration with cultural and entertainment events is attracting younger couples, enhancing the appeal of the marriage process [3][4]. Group 3: Government Incentives for Marriage - Many local governments are introducing financial incentives for marriage, including cash rewards and consumption vouchers for newlyweds [6][7]. - For instance, in Hunan Province, newlyweds may receive cash bonuses or vouchers, while cities like Ningbo and Hangzhou are offering consumption vouchers worth 1,000 yuan [6][7]. Group 4: Extended Marriage Leave Policies - As of now, 29 provinces have extended marriage leave, with Shanxi offering the longest at 30 days [8]. - The extension of marriage leave is seen as a supportive measure to encourage marriage among young couples [8]. Group 5: Societal Attitudes Towards Marriage - A report indicates that younger generations prioritize experiential value over traditional wedding formats, with many preferring intimate ceremonies [6][12]. - Economic pressures and the high costs associated with marriage and child-rearing are significant factors influencing young people's decisions regarding marriage [13][14]. Group 6: Long-term Marriage Trends - Despite the short-term increase in marriage registrations, demographic trends suggest a long-term decline due to decreasing birth rates and changing societal values regarding marriage [12][15]. - The younger population entering marriage age is smaller, and many express lower interest in marriage, influenced by economic and social factors [12][15].