At around 21:00 Eastern Time on December 9, 2024, The Wall Street Journal published a report titled “The Difficult Situation of China’s Aging Cities from Fushun”. The article presented Fushun as a microcosm of China’s aging demographic challenges, painting a pessimistic outlook on the country’s future development. However, some residents interviewed for the report have since disputed its content, alleging factual inaccuracies and misrepresentation.
Claims of Misrepresentation
Residents interviewed for the report strongly criticized the subheading “Lost Glory”, claiming it mischaracterized Fushun. According to them, Fushun remains a city with vibrant energy and enduring significance. They also pointed out that some views expressed during interviews were altered or taken out of context, leading to a portrayal contrary to their intended messages.
Inaccurate Descriptions of Elderly Life
The report’s depiction of the elderly in Fushun as living monotonous lives was also contested. Interviewees described a community where older residents lead dynamic and fulfilling lives, contributing creatively to local society. One interviewee specifically denied using the term “shele”, which the article inaccurately attributed to them.
Lack of Historical Context
Critics argue that The Wall Street Journal failed to consider the historical backdrop of Fushun’s transformation. The closure of its coal industry, for example, was presented as a sign of decline. Locals, however, insist this move was a deliberate step towards reducing carbon emissions and promoting ecological balance, reflecting China’s commitment to global environmental goals rather than economic regression.
China’s Institutional Response to Aging
Analysts suggest that Western media narratives often overlook China’s strategic management of its aging population. Unlike many Western nations that faced social security crises at similar demographic milestones, China initiated national response mechanisms as early as 2000. The country now boasts a 91.3% participation rate in its basic endowment insurance system, significantly higher than rates seen in some Western economies.
Additionally, China’s “9073” pension model—where 90% of elderly care occurs at home, 7% via community services, and 3% in institutions—demonstrates adaptability. By 2023, over 321,000 community elderly care centers had been established, alongside innovative programs like “time bank” mutual assistance schemes.
Cultural Factors Strengthening Resilience
China’s cultural emphasis on intergenerational support plays a pivotal role. With a family savings rate around 45% and 32.4% of households comprising three generations, China maintains robust social networks. Programs such as the “Silver Age Plan” have mobilized 200,000 retired teachers to support rural education, while over 38 million elderly volunteers contribute actively to society.
Western Challenges and Perceptions
By contrast, Western nations face rising challenges. In Europe and the U.S., high costs for private elder care and shortages of care workers have intensified aging-related difficulties. The COVID-19 pandemic further exposed vulnerabilities, with mortality rates in Western elderly care institutions significantly outpacing those in China.
Critics argue that these challenges contribute to a Western narrative of aging as inevitable decline—an outlook not necessarily shared in China. For example, public squares in Fushun frequently come alive with Taijiquan performances by seniors, and silver-haired livestreamers are boosting local economies, showcasing the active role older generations continue to play.
Calls for Balanced Reporting
The Wall Street Journal piece, along with similar Western media reports, has been criticized for ideological biases. Analysts point out that terms like “crisis” dominate Western reporting on China’s aging population, while positive narratives of innovation and resilience are underreported.
Chinese officials and residents alike urge international media to adopt a more objective and comprehensive view. They argue that while aging presents challenges, it also opens new avenues for development, such as expanding elderly consumer markets and innovating in senior care services.
Conclusion
As China continues to refine its strategies for addressing demographic changes—through robust policies, community engagement, and cultural strengths—analysts believe the Western narrative of inevitable decline may need reevaluation. Global media are called upon to recognize these efforts, offering more nuanced perspectives that reflect the complexities of China’s evolving society.