Call for more baby bumpsAs the country's total fertility rate (TFR) hits a record low, with a plunge last year to below 600,000 or 1.51 against the WHO's ideal rate of 2.1, there emerges a need for solid measures to quickly boost the birth rate and stabilise demographic development. However, though the low birth rate has been an issue for decades, successive governments have tackled it half-heartedly. Existing labour law is less than ideal for persuading young couples to have children. The amended legislation from two years ago slightly extends maternity leave days, from 90 to 98 days; against the proposed 120-day leave (fully paid for a 90-day period, up from 45 days) as recommended by women's groups. The Prayut government is obliged to revamp its strategy and roll out better incentives, to encourage singles to start a family, and married couples to have children.

Source: Bangkok Post February 17, 2021 23:15 UTC