UN Sounds Alarm: Global Birthrate Crisis Threatens Future

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has released a report warning of a sharp decline in birthrates worldwide.

Millions of people across the globe are choosing to forego having children due to financial hardships, social instability, and a lack of support. This alarming trend is highlighted in the new UNFPA report, published amid record lows in global fertility rates.

The study, which surveyed 14,000 individuals across 14 countries—including the United States, India, Brazil, Germany, and South Africa—revealed a troubling pattern: one in five respondents cannot afford to have the number of children they desire. The primary reasons cited are the high cost of living, difficulties balancing work and childcare, and weak demographic policies. Political instability and health concerns also play a significant role.

"Birthrates are declining substantially because many people feel they cannot establish the family they want, and this truly constitutes a crisis," stated UNFPA Executive Director Natalia Kanem, emphasizing that the world has entered a phase of widespread fertility decline.

According to UN forecasts, over the next 90 years, the planet’s population is expected to grow by 3.1 billion people, driven by high birthrates in Africa, Asia, Oceania, and Latin America. However, by 2050, population decline is anticipated in Europe and Japan. Experts are urging urgent measures to address this crisis, including improving economic conditions and providing greater support to families.