China has unveiled a new proposal urging cities to integrate youth development into urban planning, aiming to make urban life more supportive for young people, children, and families. The comprehensive blueprint, issued by 15 departments, seeks to deepen the construction of 'youth-development-oriented cities' with measures covering jobs, housing, healthcare, and public services.
Demographic Decline
This initiative comes as authorities strive to reverse China's demographic decline, following a record low birth rate and a fourth consecutive annual population decrease. China's population decreased by 3.39 million last year, with births falling to 7.92 million in 2025, as families cite high costs and societal pressures as reasons for not having more children.
Proposed Measures
Proposed measures include improving matchmaking and social services, expanding childcare subsidies, enhancing maternity and paediatric care, and ensuring more equal school access for children of migrant workers. The plan aims to create a more supportive environment for young families, addressing key concerns that have contributed to the declining birth rate.
By focusing on urban planning, the government hopes to alleviate the financial and social burdens that discourage couples from having children. The integration of youth development into city planning is seen as a long-term strategy to reverse the demographic trend and ensure sustainable population growth.
