Fertility Decline and Birth Control in the People's Republic of China

Abstract

The main problem with assessing the Chinese effort to reduce fertility is the lack of reliable data. Vital statistics and data-gathering efforts during the pre-1949 era the 1950s and 1960s and the 1st and 2nd birth control campaigns under the Peoples Republic are summarized. The 1st campaign probably had less effect on the national birthrate than the urbanization changing age composition and the socioeconomic upheavals of that era. Figures regarding the campaign of the 1960s are even less reliable. This situation eased somewhat in the 1970s. Very low levels of fertility mortality and natural increase are reported for the 1970s but all these figures are doubtful. For 1 thing the figures do not vary as much as is normal from urban to rural areas. The organization and tactics used in the present campaign which began in 1968 are outlined. A major effort has been made to change traditional views of marriage and family to institute later marriage and 2-child families. Modern means of contraception have been introduced to facilitate this movement. Traditional views and practice persist and coercion has been necessary. Most evidence indicates progress in reducing birth and natural increase rates. Credit is given to the birth planning program.