The demographic consequences of gender discrimination: simulation based on public policies

Quanbao Jiang, Xi'an Jiaotong University
Liu Huijun, Institute for Population and Development Studies of Xi’an Jiaotong University

The “missing girls” phenomenon caused by gender discrimination exerts a profound influence on China’s population development. This paper analyses the causes of China’s gender discrimination in terms of system, culture, economics and policy. Then, combined with the measures taken by the Chinese government to reduce gender discrimination, we offer additional suggestions. Utilizing a demographic simulation model, we simulate public policies, and quantitatively analyze the different impacts of gender discrimination at different levels on population development in China. The study reveals that gender discrimination reduces the size of the population and the number of laborers, accelerates the speed of aging, and exacerbates the marriage squeeze. Based on the results of the policy simulation, the paper offers suggestions on policy-making to mitigate son preference and eliminate gender discrimination.