Summary
Many of the world's biggest economies are facing challenges because people are having fewer children than needed to replace the current population. This could lead to fewer workers and difficulties in supporting older people. Countries like China, the United States, and Germany are seeing these trends, with some trying to use immigration and support policies to help manage the problem.
Key Facts
- Fertility rates are below the replacement level of 2.1 children per woman in the world’s top economies.
- Countries like China, Germany, Japan, the United States, and India all show declining birth rates.
- Economic, cultural, and policy reasons contribute to lower birth rates, such as delayed childbirth and high living costs.
- In 2024, the U.S. fertility rate hit a record low of 1.59.
- China’s past one-child policy has continued to affect its fertility rate despite policy changes.
- Immigration is used in North America and Europe to balance aging populations.
- France and Nordic countries maintain higher birth rates with subsidized childcare and parental leave.
- Italy and Spain face youth job insecurity, discouraging families from having more children.
