The Patterns of Family Policy to Enhance Fertility: The Comparative Analysis

Abstract

Thailand has recently had fertility rates below replacement levels. Similarly, numerous OECD nations have had a low birth rate for decades and have worked to address this issue. The family policy is a realistic measure applied to address this issue. The purpose of this study is to compare the family policies of seven significant OECD nations with Thailand to determine the position and direction of Thailand's family policy. Based on Thévenon's family policy model, the pattern of chosen OECD members can be divided into three categories: promising, steady, and problematic. The study reveals that Thailand's pattern is comparable to that of the problematic group and may worsen due to the clarity of policy instruments. To improve the fertility trend, Thailand should follow the advice of the promising group, which has a clear policy direction and invests heavily in family support programs, work-life balance, and gender equality.