What you probably already know: A new United Nations Population Fund survey debunks the common narrative that falling global fertility rates are caused by women rejecting family life or embracing feminism. In one of the largest global studies ever conducted on relationships and family planning, UNFPA — the United Nations’ sexual and reproductive health agency — cited severe economic constraints and housing costs as the main barriers to having children. The survey “suggests that public debate on the issue is often rooted in misconceptions, speculation and misogyny. Instead, it shows why so many young people cannot realize their aspirations.” The Demographic Futures Survey gathered data from more than 108,000 internet-connected adults aged 18 to 39 across 73 countries and territories.
Why it matters: Fertility rates are falling across the globe, with UN data showing that the average number of births per woman has declined from around five in the 1950s and 1960s to slightly more than two in 2024. They are projected to fall even further, to 1.8, by the year 2100. Fifty-five percent of all countries and areas now have fertility levels below 2.1 live births per woman, which is considered the level for a population to replace itself over time. UN notes that the survey asked young people what conditions were necessary for them to build families rather than simply asking if they valued family life.
What it means: UN says the report busted several myths, including that falling teen birth rates are a problem; that young adults are too selfish to have children; and that people aren’t sufficiently incentivized to become parents. Respondents cited financial security, stable employment and emotional readiness as their top three preconditions for becoming parents. More than two-thirds said they want to marry or live with a partner, and nearly 80% said having a partner was important in becoming a parent. As one young man from Paraguay said: “Bringing a child into the world is only one step. The real challenge is raising them.”
What happens next: By reframing the demographic decline as an economic hurdle rather than a cultural shift, UNFPA notes that public pressure campaigns are unlikely to reverse declining birth rates. Instead, the agency urges governments to adopt supportive social policies (think fair pay, robust parental leave or affordable housing initiatives). “Young people carry an inspiring sense of hope and a clear vision for their families and futures,” UNFPA Executive Director Diene Keita says. “When we break down financial barriers and support their agency, they can make the choices that are right for them.”
