New Demographic Strategy: Women's and Children's Groups Praise Support for Work-Life Balance

Central News Agency (Taipei, 27th) President Lai Ching-te announced 18 measures under the 'New Strategy for Taiwan's Population' today. Women's and children's advocacy groups have praised the move, stating it helps parents avoid the dilemma of choosing between work and family, allowing for better compatibility. Li Ting-hsin, spokesperson for the Alliance for Childcare and Employment, welcomed the policies, noting that extending parental leave and increasing subsidies address the 'time poverty' faced by families. She also highlighted that government subsidies for companies to implement 'reduced hours without salary cuts' show an awareness of the need to change workplace environments. However, the Alliance pointed out that while Taiwan is extending paternity leave to 14 days, it still lags behind Japan and South Korea, which have extended it to 28 days. The Awakening Foundation also praised the reforms, such as raising the age limit for parental leave, but called for shorter working hours and more active efforts to achieve gender-equal childcare. Li Hung-wen of the Child Welfare League Foundation suggested expanding income tax deductions and introducing home-visit care guidance services similar to those in Japan.