Next Five-Year Plan can help foster family-friendly society

The world marks the 35th World Population Day on Friday under the theme of "Empowering Young People to Create the Families They Want in a Fair and Hopeful World".While the United Nations-established day is focusing on the largest-ever generation of young people this year, China has its own theme, focusing on marriage and fertility, both of which require societal support.

China stands at a pivotal moment in its demographic journey as the nation prepares to close the book on its 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25) and drafts its 15th one against the backdrop of demographic change.

The numbers tell a story of contrasts: There were more than 300 million senior citizens by 2024, accounting for 21 percent of the total population. Meanwhile, the nation sees a shrinking workforce, yet with a historical surge in university graduates fueling an innovation-driven economy.