France's population could shrink by 3.2 million by 2070

France could see its population shrink by 3.2 million people between 2026 and 2070, a "historic" demographic shift if current trends persist, according to a report by the national statistics institute (INSEE).

The projections indicate that while the population might see a slight increase from 69.1 million to 69.8 million by 2037, this growth will be solely driven by migration. After 2037, migration is not expected to compensate for the declining birth rate, leading to a projected decrease to 65.9 million residents by 2070.

Loup Wolf, head of demographic and social studies at INSEE, described the potential population drop as unprecedented outside of wartime periods. The primary driver for this projected decline is a falling birth rate, a trend observed across many developed nations.

INSEE emphasized that these figures are projections, not definitive forecasts, as the underlying parameters are subject to change. Nonetheless, the report highlights a significant demographic challenge facing France, potentially impacting its economy, social structures, and global standing.

“

istorijski