Social policies in other countries

All countries have different laws that affect the family. The laws are always changing to fit in with different circumstances and ambitions of the leaders of the countries. Some will be seen as sensible and worthwhile whilst others will be seen as indefensible.
For example in the 1930's in Nazi Germany the government decided that only the 'racially pure' should be able to have children. Many of those who were not seen as fit to breed, such as the mentally and physically handicapped, were compulsorily sterilised. Also in Romania in the 1980's the government tried to increase the birth rate by restricting contraception and abortion. They also made marriage more financially attractive and restricted divorce. In China they have a one child policy and couples that comply get higher tax allowances and other benefits.

(Information taken from book)