One Child Policy Flashcards
When did it start?
1979
What were the rules?
Couples must not marry until late 20’s
Must have only one successful pregnancy
Must be sterilised after the first child or abort future pregnancies
Would revive 5 to 10% salary rise for families with just 1 child
Would get priority housing, pension and family benefits including free education for the single child
What happened if a couple disobeyed?
A 10% salary cut was enforced
The fine was so large it made many bankrupt
The family would have to pay for education for both children, health care for the family
Second children born abroad would not be penalised but can never be a Chinese citizen
Who were the granny police and what did they do?
Older woman of the community entfristend with the task of keeping everyone in line.
Kept a regular check on couples of childbearing age,
Accompanied woman on contraception appointments to ensure they attended
What were the problems?
Woman we’re forced to have abortions as late as 9 months
Woman were placed under tremendous pressure
Local officials and the government had power over private lives
Chinese society preferred sons, many girls were left to die or in orphanages
Single children were often spoilt “little emperor”
Benefits of one child policy?
Population growth slowed
About 400 million fewer people were born
Standard of living increased
There were enough jobs and food
What were the changes in 1990’s -2000’s
Young couples who are both only children are allowed 2 children
Young couples were held responsible for 4 elderly people
With less time for childcare women had the opportunity to concentrate on careers and have achieved more
There is still a large gender imbalance
