Updates - Page 3

road between brown houses

Japan’s Health Ministry Panel Proposes 100% Paternity Leave

Japan’s health ministry panel has recommended a significant enhancement to the country’s paternity leave benefits to encourage parents, especially fathers, to take more paid leave and spend more time with early child care. The proposed plan, announced Monday, is set to increase
November 14, 2023
South Korea

Korea’s Birthrate Hits Another Record Low

The Big Picture: Korea’s birthrate in July dropped to an all-time low, further highlighting the country’s swift transition into an aging society. By the numbers: 19,102 births were reported in July, a 6.7% decline from last year. This year has seen record-low
September 28, 2023
illuminated parliament building in quebec

Quebec Aims for 80,000 New Homes by 2040 with Limited Reform

Quebec has settled on doubling its housing construction target. The city aims to add 5,000 units annually, hoping to achieve 80,000 units by 2040. Mayor Bruno Marchand expressed deep concern regarding the current housing scenario. “We’re grappling with a significant crisis. People
September 27, 2023
Seattle, Washington, USA

Seattle Loosen Downtown Zoning Regulations

The Big Picture: The Seattle City Council approved a new ordinance that paves the way for taller residential towers along Third Avenue, showcasing City Hall’s ongoing efforts to rejuvenate dormant downtown areas. Details: Height Surge: The newly approved bill permits the construction
September 27, 2023
architectural photography of playground

Gallup: Americans want bigger families

Americans’ views on the ideal family size are shifting, with a recent Gallup poll revealing a rebound to leaning towards larger ones. But historical, socioeconomic, and demographic lenses shed light on a deeper, more nuanced story. By the Numbers: 47% of respondents
September 27, 2023
the auckland harbour bridge in new zealand

Auckland Zoning Reforms: Lower Price Increases & Increased Density

Auckland’s 2016 decision to allow higher-density housing presents intriguing data on moderating house price and rent growth, offering insights for cities grappling with housing affordability. Why it matters: In a world where skyrocketing housing prices are the norm, Auckland’s zoning policy offers
September 26, 2023
person coloring art with crayons

“Childcare Cliff” Puts Millions at Risk

As the end of September draws near, a significant challenge is rising for America’s working families: the prospective termination of crucial federal childcare support, leading America to the edge of a “childcare cliff.” Flashback: COVID-19 Insights: During the pandemic, Congress was forced
September 25, 2023
green leafed plants inside greenhouse

Singapore’s Unions Push For Mandatory Paid Leave

What’s new: The National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) in Singapore urged mandatory paid caregiving leave and more flexible work arrangements on Wednesday. This is to support workers balancing employment with caregiving responsibilities. Why it matters: Singapore faces a rapidly ageing population. By
September 20, 2023