What happens when a country decides to stop having children? That is a question that is becoming more pertinent each day as demographers, economists, and national leaders struggle to answer the question.
Global fertility has been declining over the past half century, from almost five live births per woman (1970-1975) to 2.5 births (2015-2020.) In 2019, close to half of the countries of the world had below replacement fertility rates (2.1 live births per woman). Examples of low fertility rates include: 0.8 in South Korea, 0.53 in China, 0.93 in Hungary. Although, 40 countries (out of 193 UN member states) still report total fertility rates higher than 4.0 births per woman, mostly in sub-Saharan Africa, it is projected that the global fertility rate will continue to decline, and the entire world may reach replacement level (2.1) shortly after the mid-century mark. As the global fertility rate declines, it brings with it relatively swift demographic transitions.
Although there are benefits to lower birth rates, such as those related to environmental impact, there is growing concern about the long-term ramifications of a nation’s inability to replace its population. Some of those negative consequences manifest themselves in the areas of economy, the geo-political, in poverty reduction and in impact to individuals, their families and their relationships.
Join us for “Exploring Global Fertility Trends, Family Dynamics, and Solutions”
On Thursday, October 28, 2021, you’ll have a chance to learn from the experts. The United Nations NGO Committee on the Family is hosting an event (both virtual and in person) and as a co-sponsor of this event, United Families International would like to extend a personal invitation to you. You can join via Zoom, or in person if you live in the New York City area, at 1:15 pm Eastern Daylight Time (12:15 pm CDT, 11:15 am MDT, 10:15 am PDT). You will need to register in advance for this free event by clicking here.
This really is an event you don’t want to miss. No one can predict the future, but you will certainly be better informed of the possibilities!