Updates Archives

Minns Administration Push NSW Zoning Reform

The Minns administration in NSW plans to overhaul existing planning laws, targeting a significant increase in housing density. This push addresses the escalating housing crisis by lifting long-standing bans on building terraces, townhouses, and two-story apartment blocks. Overhauling Planning Laws Clearing Council

November 27, 2023

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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

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Executive Directive 7: A Step Towards Housing Reform in LA

In response to Los Angeles’ severe housing crisis—one of the worst among major U.S. cities— and state pressure, Mayor Karen Bass introduced Executive Directive 7. This surprising executive action aims to cut bureaucratic obstacles and stimulate housing development across all income brackets. Background

November 9, 2023

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Growing MKE: Milwaukee’s Clever Zoning Reform

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is making waves in YIMBY circles with its proposal known as “Growing MKE.” This bold plan, spearheaded by the Department of City Development (DCD), is set to redefine the housing development landscape in the city, making housing more accessible and

November 8, 2023

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U.S. Infant Mortality Rate Rises, Marking a Troubling Trend

Health Shift: For the first time in nearly 20 years, the U.S. has experienced an alarming uptick in infant mortality rates, according to the CDC. A concerning trend has surfaced in American public health as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

November 3, 2023

people riding bicycle or motorcycle and walking during rain

Analysis·Updates

Xi says to start a ‘new trend of family’; refuses to help new families

Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the pivotal role women play in shaping a “new trend of family” in light of the country’s ageing population and record-low birth rates. With increasing economic stagnation, the rising costs of raising children, and a trend of

October 31, 2023

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Hong Kong: New Incentives to Counter Falling Birth Rates

Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, John Lee Ka-chiu, has announced a range of new measures to try to counter the city’s declining birth rate. Notably, a HK$20,000 (US$2,556) cash incentive will be given to parents holding permanent residency in Hong Kong for every newborn.

October 26, 2023

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Italy’s Free-Fall Birth Rate: 2023’s First Half Seen 3,500 Fewer Births

Italy’s scenic coasts and rich history are overshadowed by a rapidly declining birth rate and conflicting governmental decisions. As Italy drafts its 2024 budget, one cannot help but wonder, will Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s actions start to reflect her vocal commitment to

October 26, 2023

Queen Marie Antoinette of France with her children Princess Marie Therese Charlotte of France and Dauphin Louis Joseph of France

Analysis

Dear Elon, Remote Work Boosts Productivity and Fertility Rates

On Elon Musk’s Tesla’s Q3 earnings call, he argued against the rise of remote work, asserting that people who work from home are “detached from reality.” This perspective, contrasting sharply with his concerns about falling birth rates, paints a hypocritical image and a

October 20, 2023

Updates

Telework Reform Act (S. 3015): Sign Of Senate’s Remote Work Acceptance?

Amidst a tumultuous week, the Senate introduced the Telework Reform Act (S. 3015). This initiative is led by Sens. James Lankford (R-Okla.) and Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.). Their stated goal? Weave remote work regulations into federal law and prioritize hiring military and law

October 20, 2023

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