Hungary offers tax breaks to boost birth rates

Hungary is making headlines with a bold plan to boost its declining birth rate. The country's Prime Minister, Viktor Orban, recently announced a significant tax break for mothers. If a woman has two or more children, she will no longer have to pay personal income tax, even if she returns to work. This policy aims to reverse a major demographic challenge. Hungary’s population has dropped nearly 10% in the past 50 years, bringing it to about 9.9 million. The initiative reflects a larger trend seen in many wealthier nations, where birth rates are falling. Experts warn that without enough births, societies could struggle to maintain their workforce and support systems for the elderly. Despite the enticing offer, not all women are interested in having more children, even with government incentives. Some women, like Boglarka Gaspardy-Boros, feel that career and lifestyle choices are more important than the financial benefits offered by the state. Others, like Dora Nagy, appreciate the support but are also focused on maintaining their independence. Critics of the program argue that it reinforces traditional gender roles and may exclude marginalized groups. For example, many Roma families report not receiving the same benefits as other citizens. Activists are concerned that the policy pressures women to prioritize motherhood over their own ambitions. As Hungary engages in this demographic experiment, questions arise about whether countries like Britain should adopt similar strategies. Surveys indicate that a significant portion of younger Britons are hesitant to have children, favoring personal freedom instead. This trend raises alarms about future population stability in the UK, echoing the concerns seen in Hungary.