The United Nations Population Fund has said worsening economic conditions, rather than feminism or a declining interest in family life, are the major factors behind falling fertility rates across the world.
The position is contained in the UNFPA’s latest Demographic Futures Survey, which gathered responses from more than 108,000 internet-connected adults between the ages of 18 and 39 across 73 countries and territories.
According to the report, public discussions on declining birth rates have often focused on the wrong issues by questioning whether young people still value having families instead of addressing the conditions that enable them to form relationships and raise children.
The report noted that the global average number of births per woman has dropped significantly—from about five births in the 1950s and 1960s to just over two in 2024—and is projected to decline further to 1.8 births per woman by the end of the century.
It added that more than half of countries and territories now record fertility rates below the replacement level of 2.1 births per woman.
Despite the trend, the survey found that the desire to become parents remains strong among young adults.
Among respondents aged 35 to 39 who do not yet have children, 79 per cent of men and 72 per cent of women said they still hope to become parents.
The report also dismissed claims that feminism is responsible for declining fertility, stressing that many women around the world still lack the freedom to make decisions about their reproductive health.
According to the UNFPA, about one in every ten women cannot independently decide whether to use contraception, while roughly one-quarter are unable to make decisions about their own healthcare or refuse sex.
The survey further revealed that men and women generally shared similar views on family-related issues, although women were more likely to identify financial hardship, infertility and chronic health conditions as major obstacles to having children.
The report emphasised that young people are not rejecting parenthood out of selfishness.
It stated, “Most people are not selfishly refusing to become parents, nor are they waiting for babies to promise a better return on investment.”
Instead, respondents identified the happiness and fulfilment children bring as the main motivation for wanting to have families.
Speaking on the findings, UNFPA Executive Director Diene Keita said young people remain optimistic about building families despite growing economic challenges.
“Young people carry an inspiring sense of hope and a clear vision for their families and futures,” Keita said.
She added that removing financial barriers and expanding opportunities would enable more people to achieve their family aspirations.
“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,” she said.
