The Heritage Foundation’s new report highlights a potential “mini baby boom” due to a large cohort of women now entering their peak childbearing years. However, delayed marriage and childbearing are causing concerns that this potential increase may not materialize, leading to “forgone fertility.” The think tank argues that public policies supporting family formation are needed to help women achieve their desired family size. Failure to act now risks missing a crucial window of opportunity to address declining U.S. fertility rates.
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China’s population is projected to decrease by a staggering 51 million people over the next decade, a decline exceeding the population of California. This alarming forecast, from Bloomberg Intelligence, highlights the continued failure of government initiatives aimed at boosting birth rates. The one-child policy, implemented decades ago, profoundly altered the cultural landscape, establishing a preference for single-child families. This cultural shift, coupled with other factors, continues to defy attempts at reversal.
The significant and persistent youth unemployment rate, exceeding 20% before the government ceased public reporting, adds another layer to this complex issue. High unemployment directly impacts the financial stability needed to support a family, making parenthood a less attractive prospect for many young people.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood