North Korean families are encouraged to have large families, with parents specifically encouraged to have as many as six children, as the nation promotes accelerated population growth.
Pyongyang's approach to family size and population growth is distinct, focusing on increasing the country's population. In its public communications, the government has consistently called for a rapid increase in the population, emphasizing the importance of large families.
Understanding North Korea's Family Policies
Unlike many nations that might implement policies to manage population growth, North Korea operates with a different philosophy. According to insights from a Korean American scholar who visited North Korea in the early 1980s, the country had no birth control policies in place. This absence of restrictive measures on family planning aligns with the broader objective of fostering population growth.
The encouragement for large families is a key aspect of this demographic strategy. Parents are explicitly encouraged to raise families with as many as six children. This directive underscores the nation's desire for a larger workforce and a stronger demographic base.
Here's a summary of key aspects regarding family size in North Korea based on available information:
- Population Growth: Pyongyang publicly advocates for accelerated population growth.
- Family Size Encouragement: Parents are encouraged to have large families.
- Specific Target: There is an encouragement for families to have as many as six children.
- Birth Control Policies: The country does not have official birth control policies, indicating no state-imposed limits on the number of children a family can have.
Key Aspects of North Korea's Population Stance
| Policy Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Population Goal | Promotion of accelerated population growth to expand the nation's human resources. |
| Family Size Ideal | Encouragement for families to be large, with a specific focus on having as many as six children. |
| Birth Control Measures | Absence of official birth control policies, allowing for unrestricted family size based on encouragement. |
This approach aims to bolster the nation's demographic strength, which is often linked to economic development, military capabilities, and overall national power from the regime's perspective. The emphasis is on active encouragement rather than imposing strict limits, reflecting a pro-natalist stance.
