The death of Peng Peiyun, a former head of China’s Family Planning Commission, has reignited public anger over the country’s long-abandoned one-child policy, with social media users criticising the policy rather than offering tributes.

State media described Peng, who led the commission from 1988 to 1998, as an “outstanding leader” for her work related to women and children. However, the response on Weibo, China’s largest micro-blogging platform, was sharply critical following her death in Beijing on Sunday, just days before her 96th birthday.

Anger replaces condolences online

Several users used the moment to reflect on the human cost of the One-child policy, which was enforced nationwide from 1980 to 2015. One widely shared post read, “Those children who were lost, naked, are waiting for you over there,” referring to forced abortions and sterilisations carried out during the policy’s enforcement.

Another post lamented that had the policy been relaxed earlier, China’s population decline may not have reached its current severity.

Policy born of fear, ended in crisis

The one-child policy was introduced amid fears that unchecked population growth would strain China’s resources. Over time, however, the policy contributed to a sharp demographic imbalance. Preference for male heirs in rural areas led to female foeticide and abandonment of infant girls, leaving lasting social consequences.

By the 2010s, Peng herself publicly supported easing the policy. It was eventually scrapped in 2015, followed by a two-child and later a three-child policy.

Population decline worries Beijing

China’s population fell below India’s in 2023 and declined for a third consecutive year in 2024, dropping to about 1.39 billion. Experts warn the downturn will accelerate, with official 2025 data expected next month.

The shrinking and ageing population has raised concerns about labour shortages, slower economic growth and rising costs linked to elderly care and pensions. In response, Beijing is now offering childcare subsidies, longer maternity leave and tax incentives to encourage births.

For many online, Peng’s death has become a symbol of unresolved trauma, highlighting how deeply the policy’s legacy continues to shape China’s present and future