A recent survey in Hong Kong revealed that one-third of respondents have no plans for another child, citing financial burdens and work-life balance as key factors. Among those uninterested in a second child, reasons included stress of parenting and crowded living conditions.
To address the declining birth rate, suggestions included more parental leave options, family-friendly working conditions, and increased childcare services. The city’s fertility rate of 0.75 in 2023 was among the lowest globally, below the replacement level of 2.1.
Charity director Subrina Chow emphasized the need for government support in expanding childcare services to encourage more parents to join the workforce. While the government has offered some incentives, the demand for childcare services remains high.
Efforts to expand childcare services face challenges, including a shortage of professionals for children under two years old. Training institutions are urged to modify curriculums to meet these needs.
Families expressed a desire for more comprehensive childcare support, tax benefits for family-friendly companies, and increased respite childcare services to ease the burden on working parents.
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