China's One Child Policy, implemented from 1979 to 2015, was a drastic measure designed to curb rapid population growth. Driven by fears of resource depletion and economic strain, the policy restricted most families to a single child.
Enforcement varied across regions, with urban areas facing stricter penalties than rural communities. The policy's consequences were profound, including a skewed sex ratio due to a cultural preference for sons, forced abortions, and sterilizations. It also led to a rapidly aging population and a shrinking workforce.
While the One Child Policy is credited with contributing to China's economic growth by reducing the strain on resources, it came at a significant human cost. Its legacy continues to shape China's demographics and social landscape today, prompting ongoing debates about its long-term effects and ethical implications. With the introduction of the Two-Child Policy and now a Three-Child Policy, China is actively attempting to reverse the demographic imbalances created by its past policies.
