Amid the hustle and bustle of modern life, Singapore’s historically low birth rate is a somber reminder of the changing priorities of young people. In 2022, the city-state’s total fertility rate (TFR) will hit an all-time low of 1.04, reflecting the reluctance of many people to embrace parenthood.
Declining birth rates: a global phenomenon
Singapore is not alone in this trend. According to a kinship study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the world is seeing a decline in birth rates, leading to a shrinking of extended family structures. By 2095, a 65-year-old person is projected to have 38% fewer living relatives than she did in 1950. This decline is most pronounced in developed countries like Canada, where in 2095 the average 15-year-old girl will have only 3.6 living cousins. A stark contrast to the 15.3 in 1950.
This shift to smaller families, such as the increase in one-child households, is often overlooked. However, extended families play an important role in many cultures around the world, providing support and fostering a sense of belonging.
Singapore’s story: Barriers to parenthood
Despite the Singapore government’s efforts to encourage raising children, including parental leave, childcare subsidies and tax incentives, many young people remain hesitant. The reasons are multifaceted and include financial security, family support, and the rising cost of living.
Sarah Lim, a 28-year-old marketing executive, agrees with many. “The cost of raising a child in Singapore is astronomical,” she says. “It’s a daunting prospect when you think about education, health care and day-to-day expenses.”
The competitive nature of Singaporean society also plays a role. “There’s a lot of pressure to succeed as a professional,” Lim says. “When you add parenthood to the mix, it can feel overwhelming.”
Expert Insights: Redefining Success and Supporting Families
To encourage child-rearing, experts suggest that governments should focus on easing the pressures of modern work and child-rearing. “It’s important to create a more family-friendly environment where individuals don’t have to choose between work and family,” said Dr Tan Mei Ling, a sociologist at the National University of Singapore.
Additionally, redefining the meaning of success and creating space to take risks and recover from failure could help Singaporeans overcome their competitive mindset. “We need to realize that success is not one-dimensional,” says Dr. Tan. “It’s about balance and fulfillment in all aspects of life, including family.”
As Singapore grapples with declining birthrates, it is clear that the solution lies in a nuanced understanding of the challenges and efforts to create a more supportive environment for families.
Declining birth rates, both in Singapore and globally, signal major changes in family relationships. The role of the family in society is evolving as large families become smaller and one-child households become the norm. The question now is how, as a global community, we will adapt to this change and support tomorrow’s families.