Heihaizi

Heihaizi (Chinese: 黑孩子; pinyin: hēi háizi)

Heihaizi, literally translated as "black child," is a term used in China to refer to children born in violation of the country's former family planning policies, particularly the one-child policy. These children were often unregistered with the government and therefore lacked official documentation such as a hukou (household registration). This absence of official registration created significant challenges for them in accessing education, healthcare, employment, and other social services available to legally recognized citizens. The term carries negative connotations, highlighting their unofficial and marginalized status. Although the one-child policy has been formally abolished, the historical effects and the lingering terminology still impact some individuals and families. Heihaizi were often hidden from authorities, making it difficult to accurately estimate their numbers. Over time, the government implemented policies to allow for the registration of previously unregistered children, though challenges remain for some families in obtaining full citizenship rights.