The total fertility rate (TFR) has decreased especially over the last six decadesThis was reported by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

In 1960, the average number of children per woman in OECD countries was 3.3, and in 2022 this figure has dropped to 1.5 children per woman. This rate ensures that it is below the population replacement level, which is 2.1 children per woman.

The OECD says this trend will have a significant impact on the structure of societies, communities and families, as well as on economic growth and future prosperity.

In 2022, the average age of women at birth in OECD countries was 30.9 years, a significant increase from 28.6 years recorded in 2000. This delay in childbearing, coupled with an increase in infertility, is one of the main reasons for the decline in fertility. birth rate.

In countries such as Italy and Spain, about one in four women born in 1975 were childless, but in Japan this figure rises to 28%, they note.

The OECD highlights that young people face economic and social challenges that make their transition to parenthood difficult.

economic insecurity, high housing costs and job insecurityare factors that negatively influence the decision to have children. Moreover, successive global crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the cost of living crisis have increased uncertainty among young people.

These factors, as well as greater social acceptance of the decision not to have children, contribute to low fertility rates, according to the OECD.

The OECD says that women’s ability to balance work and family life on an equal basis with men has a positive impact on fertility rates.

Policies that promote gender equality, such as paid parental leave and access to quality, affordable child care, are critical. These measures not only increase fertility rates, but also have a positive impact on economic performance, says the OECD.

What strategies can countries implement?

1. Promote gender equality and lower housing costs: The OECD recommends that countries promote a more equitable distribution of work and child-rearing by providing paid parental leave, childcare services and financial support for families, with a particular focus on housing costs.

2. Preparing for a future with lower fertility: Lawmakers and policymakers must adapt to a lower-fertility future, given the aging population and the potential for more deaths than births in the next decade.