The following is from Epoch News.

Global fertility has fallen sharply over the past six decades. In 1960, women had about four to five children on average. By 2023, that figure had dropped to roughly 2.2—barely above the 2.1 replacement level. Experts warn that aging populations and shrinking workforces will strain economies worldwide.

The decline is widespread. The US fell to 1.62 in 2023. India is at about 1.9. South Korea has one of the lowest rates at 0.72. Singapore reports 0.97, Ukraine 0.977, and China under one birth per woman.

Scholars point to social and policy changes since the 1960s. These include the introduction of the birth control pill, legalization of abortion, divorce-law reforms, expanded schooling and career paths for women, and higher housing and childcare costs.

Research finds strong links between abortion legalization and lasting fertility declines in multiple countries. Divorce reforms had similar long-term effects. Some experts emphasize cultural shifts, with younger generations in many nations simply desiring fewer children.

China’s one-child policy is cited as especially damaging. Decades of forced population control left the country with a steeply imbalanced age structure and fertility rate.

Governments are trying to reverse the trend with a variety of incentives. In the US, proposals include the One Big Beautiful Bill, which raises child tax credits and creates child savings accounts. Executive action has also been taken to expand IVF access.

Other nations are pursuing aggressive measures. France, Italy, South Korea, Singapore, and Japan are offering grants, housing support, childcare subsidies, parental leave, and fertility-treatment funding. The goal is to encourage families to have more children and prevent further demographic decline.

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