Population Studies and Population Policy in China

Demography is developing rapidly in China. Official population data formerly withheld are now being rapidly released . Some restrictions however remain. Chinas demographers should be allowed to analyze criticize and adjust the data so that they more adequately reflect demographic realities. Chinese demography should de-emphasize theory in favor of more empirical research. In the area of population programs the success of family planning in China is due largely to administrative pressures which often amount to coercion. Officially coercion is forbidden but mandatory quotas and targets cannot be attained without it. Instead of having to justify family planning goals and policies Chinas demographers should be free to provide objective evaluations. (authors) (summaries in ENG FRE SPA)