Opinion | Hong Kong’s birth rate is low because raising a child in extreme competition is exhausting
- Incentives to encourage couples to have children don’t work unless they substantially reduce the costs – and stress – of raising a child
- But how could they, when our competitive modern society continually fosters a fear of falling behind?
Typical solutions include different forms of perks, such as tax cuts, direct subsidies, and cash payouts. But unless these incentives are substantial enough to significantly reduce the costs – and stress – associated with having a child, they are not going to bring more babies.
An average of 2.1 children per woman is required to maintain a stable population. But having one child is already challenging enough, not to mention two. As a parent, I share the frustrations of many Hong Kong families struggling with the mental and financial stress of bringing up children in the city.
One key factor discouraging couples of child-bearing age from having (more) children is the cost of doing so. Some families are fortunate to have domestic helpers and grandparents assisting with childcare, thus allowing parents to work full-time.
However, other expenses – for after-school tuition, interest classes, excursions and much more – are exorbitant. And why are they necessary? Because, to stay competitive in our society, a child must not only ace their exams but also be equipped with a wide range of what Hong Kong mums sarcastically call “supernatural skills”.
With their days packed with school, training of one kind or another and other activities, many of our schoolchildren are busy for more hours than adults. Parents rushing home after work to guide their children through homework has become a norm. Holidays are worse – they mean more homework, and preparation for assessments at the start of the following term.