As all the issues people have with China come to the fore more regularly than usual in the run up to the Olympics, it is inevitable that we think of the one child policy. I myself mentioned it a couple of days ago as one of the issues that have shaped this current generation. It is clearly an issue for informed prayer, and no better than today with these headlines appearing:
China plans the end of hated one-child policy in the Times
China's political leadership is considering ending the country's hated "one-child" policy because it is damaging the economy and creating a demographic timebomb, a senior minister admitted today. Zhao Baige, Vice Minister of the National Population and Family Planning Commission, revealed that there is concern at the highest levels that the policy is already tearing apart the fabric of society. "This has become a big issue among decision makers," Ms Zhao told reporters at a routine government press conference in Beijing. "We want incrementally to have this change. I cannot answer at what time or how."
I have had conversations with various people in China over the years on the subject - academics, church leaders, young people. The Time article says it right: no one likes it. They are though very concerned about their population. And I believe they are right to be. As we pray its right to pray for change; but horrible as the policy and sometimes its implementation is, in our concern as outsiders lets not judge without understanding the heart of those responsible to ensure the welfare of the society.
Ther is some mre background on the extension page.
Continue reading "(162) Population and the one child policy" »
