Vietnam Abolishes Two-Child Policy to Counter Population Decline

Policy Change:

Vietnam has scrapped its two-child limit, in place since 1988.

Reason for Abolition:

To reverse declining birth rates.

To ease pressures of an ageing population.

Background:

The two-child policy aimed to increase women’s workforce participation by reducing childcare responsibilities.

Current Context:

Vietnam now faces low fertility rates, similar to Japan, South Korea, and Singapore, though it remains a developing economy.

Demographic Challenge:

An ageing population and shrinking workforce may threaten economic growth and social stability.