In early 2026, residents in Longgang district, Shenzhen, were surprised to see public buses displaying a message: "Is dedicating the 20 most precious years of one's life to raising children truly worth it?" Alongside the question was a QR code leading to an open discussion forum.

Buses in Shenzhen display the message 'Is dedicating the 20 most precious years of one's life to raising children truly worth it?' *Photo: QQ*

The question immediately went viral on Chinese social media. Initially, many criticized authorities for 'sowing anxiety' and exacerbating pressure on young people, given the high cost of raising children in major cities like Shenzhen and Beijing.

However, public opinion later shifted. Instead of feeling coerced, many young people began to feel understood. A comment with thousands of likes on Weibo read: "Allowing citizens the right to think and decide for themselves about childbirth is a sign of civilization. They are no longer forcing us to sacrifice." This marks a significant shift in propaganda thinking in the populous nation. Previously, slogans were often imperative, such as "The nation needs" or "You should," but now Shenzhen asks, "How do you feel?" Social science experts highly commend this change from a 'command-obedience' logic to one of 'discussion-empathy.'

Beyond slogans, Shenzhen is adjusting urban design to promote gender equality and share the burden with women. In shopping centers, traditional "mother and baby rooms" are gradually being replaced by "childcare rooms" or "father and baby rooms." Inside, messages remind fathers: "We hope fathers do not become invisible," emphasizing that childcare is not solely the mother's responsibility. On LED screens in public squares, the familiar wish "May you soon have a precious son" is giving way to the more modern message, "We wish you the right to choose marriage and reproduction." The authorities publicly acknowledge the right to respect all choices: being single, married, or having children.

A public sign promoting women's right to choose marriage and reproduction. *Photo: QQ*

In parallel with public awareness campaigns, the city is implementing practical services. Pingshan district organizes free student shuttle and tutoring services. Guangming district has opened free semi-residential childcare centers to ease the burden on young couples. Public restroom doors in many areas are also being redesigned to flexibly change the ratio of male/female stalls, reducing long queues for women.

These subtle efforts occur amid a bleak demographic landscape. According to the National Bureau of Statistics of China (NBS), the number of births in 2025 reached only 7,9 million, the lowest since 1949 and comparable to 1738 (during the Qing dynasty). The number of marriage registrations in 2024 also decreased by more than 20%, to 6,1 million couples, the lowest in nearly half a century.

Bao Nhien (According to QQ)