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Bhutan’s fertility rate currently stands at 2.0 children per woman, down from 6.6 in 1971, indicating a demographic shift that could have far-reaching consequences. This fertility rate is below the replacement level of 2.1, raising concerns about the stability of our population in the future. While the recent rise to around 1.2 children per woman offers some hope, this figure is nowhere near enough to offset decades of decline. Immediate strategic interventions are needed to mitigate the impacts and ensure a sustainable demographic future.
One of the most effective ways to encourage higher fertility rates may be to provide strong economic incentives for families. Financial support such as direct subsidies, tax cuts and childcare benefits can ease the burden of raising children. We are talking about all of these measures. But we need to choose wisely.
Look at countries like France and Sweden that have successfully implemented generous family benefits, which have boosted fertility rates. Can we adopt those models? If not, what can we do differently to be able to cope with such dramatic and rapid demographic change?
Looking closely at the issue, accessible and affordable childcare appears to be vital in enabling parents, especially women, to balance work and family life. High-quality childcare enables parents to pursue their careers without sacrificing their desire for a large family. Government investment in a nationwide network of affordable childcare centres will provide support to working parents. This will create jobs and significantly boost economic growth in the long run.
Perhaps more importantly, work-life balance policies are essential to making it easier for families to grow. Flexible work schedules, remote work options, and extended parental leave can help parents manage their professional and personal responsibilities. Research and surveys suggest that encouraging employers to adopt family-friendly policies and ensuring legal protections for parental leave can create a supportive environment for families.
Additionally, and importantly, investing in women’s health and empowerment is essential to addressing fertility issues. Ensuring access to comprehensive reproductive health care, including family planning and fertility treatments, can help women make informed reproductive choices. Empowering women through education and economic opportunities can lead to better family planning and higher fertility rates.
Some people think immigration is the solution. But that is not the case for us. The impact of immigration can be very far-reaching. The real solution may lie in incentives and creating a welcoming environment for young couples to raise a family.
Falling fertility rates require immediate action. Countries must provide economic incentives, improve childcare services, promote work-life balance, launch educational campaigns, and support women’s health and empowerment.
Of course, we can do more. We need to be more adaptive and responsive.
Low fertility rates lead to an aging population, resulting in labor shortages, economic pressures, and unbearable medical and pension costs. As a small but forward-looking country, we cannot remain indifferent. The decline in fertility rates urgently requires wise policies.
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