The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has released a report stating that global fertility rates are experiencing an unprecedented decline, affecting hundreds of millions of people worldwide. According to the survey of 14,000 individuals in 14 countries, one in five respondents stated they would not have their desired number of children due to financial limitations and lack of time.
The countries surveyed account for a third of the global population and include low, middle, and high-income nations. Financial constraints were cited as the primary reason for the decline, with South Korea reporting the highest figure at 58% and Sweden the lowest at 19%. The survey also found that only 12% of respondents cited infertility as a reason for not having more children.
UNFPA Head Dr Natalia Kanem emphasizes the gravity of the issue, stating that the world is experiencing an unprecedented crisis. Demographers like Anna Rotkirch, who has studied fertility intentions in Europe, agree that the findings are reflective of a global trend.
The survey’s limitations include insufficient sample sizes for age groups within countries. However, some key findings remain clear: financial constraints and lack of time are significant barriers to having more children.
Experts caution against overreacting to low fertility rates, urging policymakers to adopt measured approaches rather than implementing policies that may lead to nationalist or anti-migrant sentiments. Instead, UNFPA advocates for addressing the root causes of low fertility, such as limited access to education and healthcare, to promote sustainable population growth.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/clynq459wxgo