In Europe, birth rates are declining, and fears of economic collapse are growing.

According to the publication “Tegraph,” in 2024, for the first time in the history of the European Union, the number of newborns was less than in the United States.

In the EU, 3.5 million children were born, while in America — 3.6 million, despite a population difference of 110 million. The birth rate situation is worsening: the average fertility rate in the region has fallen to 1.35 children per woman, and half of Europe’s population has reached the age of 44 and older.

Crossing the Demographic Bridge

As “Tegraph” notes, when it comes to Europe, without immigration, the population could halve by the end of the century, especially in countries like Spain and Italy. Experts warn of severe economic consequences. Studies show that a 10% increase in the share of the population over 60 years old can reduce GDP per capita by 5.7% due to a decrease in the working-age population.

Demographic Challenges

Birth rate problems are worsening in countries like France, where the working youth must support a rapidly growing number of elderly people. This trend risks leading to a generational conflict, which, in turn, threatens to reduce pension system funding and decreases the competitiveness of French companies on the international stage. In a few decades, there will be less than one and a half workers per retiree, and then the socialist model will be under serious pressure.

Long-term Problems in Britain

Despite leaving the European Union, the United Kingdom suffers from similar demographic changes, still influenced by low birth rates. The aging electorate increases the likelihood that politicians will care more about retirees than parents. The response to the problem has been an increase in migration levels, however, as “Tegraph” warns, current migration legislation attracts low-skilled workers, which only exacerbates the situation.

Ukraine’s Security Under Threat

For Ukraine, low birth rates also have serious consequences for national security, severely limiting the ability to recruit young people aged 20-30. The fear of further demographic decline complicates the resolution of the country’s most important issues.

The Emergence of New Views on Birth Rates

What is behind this demographic catastrophe? Demographers worldwide find it difficult to give a definitive answer. In their studies, they mention the influence of smartphones and changing social norms but link high birth rate expectations with current figures. For example, in the United Kingdom, surveys showed that women dream of an average of 2.35 children, while the actual birth rate was only 1.41 children in 2024.

Shifting Focus at the State Level

The observed gap, which is seen in many EU countries, should become central in the policies of European states. For many years, discussing birth rate issues was considered unacceptable among Europeans, but in the past five years, the situation has begun to change.

Mentions of State Responsibility

In 2024, French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized that “demographic armament” should become a state priority. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni appointed a minister for birth rate issues and noted in 2023 that it is necessary to restore the residents’ sense of the value of parenthood.

Worrying Trends in the West

“Tegraph” emphasizes that in the United States, positive trends cannot be spoken of either, with a birth rate of 1.6 children per woman. Americans have more favorable conditions with a median age of 39 years — six years younger than in Europe. However, this only indicates problems on the continent. All of Europe will soon face the bitter consequences of a declining population, which will become not only older and poorer but also lonely and unhappy.