IPB University Family Expert Reminds the Impact of Childfree on Indonesia’s Demographic Structure
Chairperson of the Center for Gender and Child Studies at IPB University, Dr Yulina Eva Riany, SP, MEd, expressed her views regarding the phenomenon of childfree or a couple’s decision not to have children which has recently become increasingly in the spotlight in Indonesia.
According to Dr Yulina, there are various reasons behind this choice, ranging from financial factors to cultural influences. “The increasing cost of living and the high cost of education are the main considerations for many couples to choose not to have children,” she said on Thursday (5/22).
In addition, the urge to focus on career development is also a common reason. Many couples, says Dr Eva, want to allocate their full time and energy to professional achievements.
She also mentioned other factors such as the desire for freedom without the responsibility of raising children, past trauma due to poor parenting, and health problems that make pregnancy and childbirth risky.
“The influence of Western culture that emphasizes individual freedom also plays a role in this rising trend,” she adds. Concerns about the environmental and social impacts of population growth also influence this choice.
Furthermore, Dr Eva highlighted the impact of the childfree trend, both in the short and long term. In the short term, this decision could reduce the financial burden on families and governments. However, in the long term, she warns that this phenomenon has the potential to disrupt the demographic structure.
“The experience of countries such as Japan and South Korea shows that declining birth rates can have a serious impact on the size of the working population, as well as increasing social and economic pressure on the government, especially in pension and health services,” she explains.
To anticipate negative impacts, Dr Eva encourages increased education and socialization about the importance of family and the role of children in society. She also suggests providing economic support to young couples, providing more equitable health and education services, and creating a new narrative of freedom and happiness that is compatible with family life.
In addition, family-friendly work strategies such as flexible working hours, remote working, and parental leave are also considered important. “Parenting education that involves men in parental roles and features role models of young families who continue to grow personally while raising children is also needed,” she concluded. (dh) (IAAS/LAN)
