Chinese cities promote work-life balance to boost declining birth rate

Shanghai and Qingdao have introduced new policies to support working parents and address China's declining birth rate. These initiatives encourage employers to create "childbirth-friendly" jobs with flexible hours and remote work options. Shanghai's plan includes a centralized list of employers offering these roles and dedicated sections for family-friendly jobs in recruitment platforms. Qingdao has also launched over 1,000 "mommy positions" to provide greater flexibility for mothers. These measures mark a shift in local government strategies, focusing on work-life balance to encourage families to have more children amid concerns about the low fertility rate and an aging population.