Aging Population and China’s Development
Introduction
Recently, the foreign media has been using China’s aging population as a way to criticize its economy. They claim that China will face the predicament of “aging before becoming rich” and that the aging population will hinder its development. However, these claims are far-fetched and illogical.
The Dynamic Process of Aging and Becoming Rich
Both aging and becoming rich are dynamic processes. In China, the process of population aging coincides with the rapid growth and high-quality development of the economy and society. This shows the characteristic of “rapidly getting rich as aging.”
The Predicament of “Aging Before Becoming Rich”
The predicament of “aging before becoming rich” refers to the insufficient accumulation of wealth by the country and society, a flawed social security system, and the lack of preparation for an aging society. However, China has gradually formed a multi-level and multi-pillar new pension insurance system and a well-functioning social welfare system. These improvements have addressed the challenges posed by an aging society.
Global Aging Population
Population aging is a global issue, not unique to China. The number and proportion of elderly people are increasing in most countries around the world. According to the United Nations’ “World Population Prospects 2022,” the proportion of the global population aged 65 and above is expected to increase from 10 percent in 2022 to 16 percent by 2050.
Aging Population in China
China has also experienced population aging due to its rapid economic development. By 2022, the number of elderly people in China had increased by 210 million, reaching an aging level of 14.9 percent. The improvement of economic development and residents’ income are fundamental guarantees for actively responding to an aging society.
Economic Development and Living Standards
China’s economic development has been remarkable. Its GDP has grown from 367.9 billion yuan ($50.8 billion) in 1978 to over 126 trillion yuan in 2023. China’s per capita disposable income and national income have also significantly increased over the years. These improvements have contributed to the enhancement of living standards and the transition from a low-income country to an upper-middle-income country.
Human Development Index (HDI)
China’s score on the Human Development Index (HDI) has increased from 0.499 in 1990 to 0.788 in 2022, ranking 75th in the world. This progress demonstrates China’s leap from a “low human development level” to a “high human development level.”
Aging Population and China’s Modernization
The aging population process aligns with China’s strategy of promoting modernization. China’s economy has transitioned from high annual growth rates to a stage of high-quality development. This shift has led to the transformation of economic dynamics, the upgrading of economic structure, and the enhancement of comprehensive strength. China is moving towards “rapid aging with wealth.”
Conclusion
China’s economic development, improvement of living standards, and establishment of a high-quality social security system have laid a solid foundation for its sustainable development. These factors not only enhance the well-being of its people but also contribute to the overall prosperity and happiness of the country. The aging population should be viewed in the context of China’s progress and future goals.
The author is a professor at Nankai University and director of the Center for Aging Development Strategy at Nankai University.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
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SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- Target 3.8: Achieve universal health coverage, including financial risk protection, access to quality essential health-care services, and access to safe, effective, quality, and affordable essential medicines and vaccines.
- Indicator 3.8.1: Coverage of essential health services (defined as the average coverage of essential services based on tracer interventions that include reproductive, maternal, newborn and child health, infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, and service capacity and access).
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SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
- Target 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion, or economic or other status.
- Indicator 10.2.1: Proportion of people living below 50 percent of median income, by age, sex, and persons with disabilities.
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SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- Target 11.7: By 2030, provide universal access to safe, inclusive, and accessible, green, and public spaces, in particular for women and children, older persons, and persons with disabilities.
- Indicator 11.7.1: Average share of the built-up area of cities that is open space for public use for all, by sex, age, and persons with disabilities.
Analysis
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
The SDGs that are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article are SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, and SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
Based on the article’s content, the specific targets under the identified SDGs are:
– Target 3.8: Achieve universal health coverage.
– Target 10.2: Empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all.
– Target 11.7: Provide universal access to safe, inclusive, and accessible public spaces.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
Yes, there are indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets:
– Indicator 3.8.1: Coverage of essential health services.
– Indicator 10.2.1: Proportion of people living below 50 percent of median income.
– Indicator 11.7.1: Average share of the built-up area of cities that is open space for public use.
These indicators can be used to measure progress towards achieving universal health coverage, reducing inequalities, and providing universal access to safe public spaces.
Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | Target 3.8: Achieve universal health coverage | Indicator 3.8.1: Coverage of essential health services |
| SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities | Target 10.2: Empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all | Indicator 10.2.1: Proportion of people living below 50 percent of median income |
| SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities | Target 11.7: Provide universal access to safe, inclusive, and accessible public spaces | Indicator 11.7.1: Average share of the built-up area of cities that is open space for public use |
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Source: globaltimes.cn
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