UN blames economic hardship, not feminism, for declining global fertility

A comprehensive global survey by the UN Population Fund (UNFPA) is reframing the conversation around declining fertility rates, attributing the trend primarily to economic constraints rather than a societal shift away from family values or the influence of feminism. The Demographic Futures Survey, which gathered responses from over 108,000 adults aged 18 to 39 across 73 countries, suggests that public debate has focused on the wrong questions.

Instead of questioning whether young people still value family life, the UNFPA report argues for examining the conditions necessary for them to form relationships and raise children. Global fertility rates have significantly dropped from around five births per woman in the 1950s and 1960s to just over two in 2024, with projections indicating a further fall to 1.8 by 2100. Currently, over 55 percent of countries have fertility levels below the replacement rate of 2.1 births per woman.

“

Young people carry an inspiring sense of hope and a clear vision for their families and futures.

Despite these trends, the survey found that the desire for parenthood remains high. Among adults aged 35 to 39 without children, a substantial majority, 79 percent of men and 72 percent of women, still expressed a wish to become parents. The report directly challenges the notion that feminism is a primary driver of lower fertility, pointing out that many women still lack autonomy over their reproductive lives. Data indicates that roughly one in ten women cannot make decisions about contraception, about a quarter cannot decide on their own healthcare, and a similar proportion cannot refuse sex.

While men and women generally agreed on family decisions, women more frequently cited financial concerns, infertility, and chronic health conditions as significant barriers. The UNFPA emphasizes that young adults are not "selfishly refusing to become parents" or waiting for a "better return on investment." Instead, the most common reason cited for wanting children is the joy and happiness they bring. "Young people carry an inspiring sense of hope and a clear vision for their families and futures," stated Diene Keita, Executive Director of UNFPA. "When we break down financial barriers and support their agency, they can make the choices that are right for them."

“

When we break down financial barriers and support their agency, they can make the choices that are right for them. By investing in their dreams today, we are building a more resilient and thriving tomorrow.