Overview

• The global fertility rate has fallen to less than half its 1960s level and is projected to see 76% of countries below replacement threshold by 2050.
• Nearly 20% of adults in 14 surveyed nations report they cannot have the number of children they desire.
• Economic constraints emerge as the top barrier, with respondents citing financial limitations (39%), housing insecurity (19%), inadequate childcare (12%), and job instability (21%).
• Restrictive reproductive policies, including surrogacy bans and limits on assisted reproduction, disproportionately affect same-sex couples and others in countries like France, Spain and Italy.
• Concerns over climate change, armed conflicts and pandemics contribute to decisions to postpone or forgo parenthood.