The question whether someone wants children one day has come down to a yes or no answer. Disregarding family lifestyle, adoption prospects, and other factors that may interfere with parenthood, most of us have some inkling of whether we would like to raise a child down the line.

Some choose not to have children at all. However, for those who desire a child, each person has a certain number in mind. Immediately, the person may imagine a traditional lifestyle with a spouse, children, and potentially a pet. For those who long for a large family, imagine being told you could only have one child. Up until the end of October, China's one-child policy had been used since the 1970s as a form of population control.

Regardless of certain exceptions, the government enforced this policy through fines, abortions, sterilizations, and other regulations. To understand the extent of such fines, the family planning policy may charge an estimated three to ten times the family’s income, according to the Los Angeles Times. At least in the U.S., the average cost to raise a child, up until eighteen, estimates a quarter of a million dollars. Imagine being charged over five times your annual income to raise a second child, prior to these expenses. Most families in China have opted to take great preventive measures. Millions of abortions and sterilizations have occurred since this policy the implementation of this policy. Whether from reliable sources remains questionable, however, endless horror stories exist regarding such events and some do not seem unlikely due to the circumstances. Certain families desire a male child and without the ability to conceive another possible child, they may abort the baby girls in order to try for a boy.

This policy came into effect as a way to alleviate economic pressure and limit the demand for resources. According to certain demographers and economists, this has relieved population pressure. However, to deem such a policy beneficial remains up for debate. Many argue whether such implementation infringes on human rights, The New York Times

declares that the government coerced violators into unwilling procedures and threatened their current jobs. This has led to a diminishing workforce, with adults living longer lives with a significantly smaller number of children. If pregnant for a second time, a woman must decide between her career and the prospect of another child. The issue of morality comes into play with whether the government has the ability to regulate the amount of children in your household.

In late 2013, officials issued a reform that if a parent did not have siblings, the family may have a second baby. Ethnic minorities also had exceptions if the couple conceived a girl as their first child. However, this reform did not lead to a huge rise in birth rates, for many said they did not have the financial capability to support another child.

In late October, rumors arose regarding a new two-child policy. As of October 28 2015, married couples have the ability to have two children. Undeniably, China remains the most populated region. But as humans, we have to consider whether this policy will make a difference. Some claim that many women in their mid to late forties will rush to take advantage of this law, having a second child before their body does not allow them. Although, any woman of a certain age giving birth has potential health risks.

Officials claim that this policy will bring a huge increase to the labor force, increase consumption, and expand the economy. While others argue that potential for this new law will not take effect for years to come, given a child will not join the labor force, for quite some time. Now we have to question whether this will help the economy and whether this will cease forced abortions.

Regardless, these crimes against humanity will remain a persistent problem across the region. This does not insinuate these women will now have greater freedom because the government still continues to violate women’s rights. Unless any of us have a better solution, we have to admit this remains a step in the right direction for China.