HANOI - Vietnam's National Assembly has officially ended the country's two-child policy, a measure that had been in place since 1993. The decision comes as Vietnam grapples with alarmingly low birth rates and a significant gender imbalance. The previous policy, designed to curb overpopulation, is now considered a contributing factor to the current demographic concerns.
The two-child policy, while initially successful in slowing population growth, has had unintended consequences. Recent data reveals a steep decline in the number of births, raising concerns about the long-term sustainability of Vietnam's workforce and economy. Additionally, the country is experiencing a skewed sex ratio at birth, with 111 boys born for every 100 girls in 2024. This imbalance raises social and economic concerns for the future.
Experts believe the policy change reflects a broader recognition of the need to adjust to evolving demographic realities. The government hopes that removing the restrictions will encourage families to have more children, helping to stabilize the population and address the gender imbalance. The long-term effects of this policy shift remain to be seen, but it represents a significant departure from Vietnam's previous population control strategies.
Vietnam Ends Two-Child Policy Amid Falling Birth Rates
Vietnam has abandoned its decades-old two-child policy, enacted in 1993, in response to a sharp decline in birth rates. The policy, initially aimed at controlling population growth, is now seen as contributing to a concerning demographic shift. The country also faces a growing gender imbalance, with a ratio of 111 boys born for every 100 girls in 2024. This change aims to address these demographic challenges and encourage population growth.