Peking University, Jan 14, 2016: On January 13th, the second Stanford-Peking University TeleSummit held by FACES (Forum of American/Chinese Exchange at Stanford) brought scholars and students from the two universities together to explore women’s rights and related demographic issues in both countries.
Kim Meredith, Executive Director of the Stanford Center on Philanthropy and Civil Society, Zheng Zhenzhen, professor at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, and Qiao Xiaochun, professor at the Institute of Population Research at Peking University attended the TeleSummit.
This year’s topic is inspired by the recent change from a one-child policy to a two-child policy in China and the development of the Planned Parenthood Federation of America. Ms. Meredith and Professor Zheng pointed out the importance of women’s role in the process of birth control. They observed that birth control can ease women’s burden and raise women’s employment rate. Ms. Meredith also pointed out that free access to contraception and abortion is a way to protect women’s rights and let women have control of their bodies.
Another important issue brought up by the scholars is sex education. Both sides reflected that the lack of sex education is a major cause of teen pregnancy and requires more attention from governments and schools.
Afterwards, students from both sides asked questions and exchanged comments.
The TeleSummit was a huge success. It brought the two geographically distant universities closer, enhanced mutual understanding and allowed exchanges of useful information. All the attendees expressed their eagerness for further communication in the future.
Reported by: Xu Penghang
Edited by: Xu Liangdi
