TedM(UK)

Social change takes a long time. The parents and grand-parents of today can still be stuck in the traditional attitudes. Women in a modern society deserve equality with men in all things, but a Chinese woman has to be strong to counter the encouragements to marry young. It is encouraging to see some women following a career and enjoying life, rather than dreaming of being looked after all their lives by a rich husband. Also encouraging is seeing more men enjoying cooking for the family, and taking an active role in child care.

A female worker walks on a busy Beijing street during the morning commute on Dec. 19, 2014. Women account for 45 percent of China's workforce but lag far behind men in pay and promotion.