Global Population Growth Slows but Challenges of Aging and Fertility Persist, UNFPA Warns

The global population continues to grow, albeit at a slower pace, with the UN Population Fund (UNFPA) projecting a 20-30% increase by 2050, reaching nearly 10 billion people, an interview published by Anadolu Agency revealed. Population growth is expected to level off around 2100. UNFPA representative Mariam Khan explained that population dynamics depend on three factors: fertility, mortality, and migration, all of which are constantly changing.

While life expectancy has increased worldwide, fertility rates have declined significantly—from an average of five children per woman in the 1950s to 2.3 today. By 2050, fertility is projected to reach the replacement level of 2.1 children per woman. Currently, two-thirds of the global population lives in low-fertility contexts, with many choosing to have fewer children.

Khan highlighted that many governments still operate under outdated growth-focused models that do not reflect current demographic realities. She emphasized the need to adapt to slower population growth, aging societies, and environmental concerns by promoting sustainable consumption and social policies.

A persistent gap exists between the number of children people desire and the number they actually have, due largely to economic and social barriers such as high housing and education costs, unequal caregiving responsibilities, and limited access to reproductive health services. Unpaid care work, predominantly performed by women, further restricts family planning choices.

Short-term incentives like cash bonuses have proven ineffective in reversing fertility declines. Instead, UNFPA advocates for comprehensive, gender-equal policies that support reproductive rights, economic security, and family-friendly work environments. Countries making progress have implemented workplace equality, accessible childcare, flexible work, and shared parental leave.

As populations age and working-age groups shrink, Khan urged countries to prepare by reforming pensions, healthcare, and retirement policies. She stressed that aging is not a crisis but a challenge requiring vision and adjustment. Global cooperation and knowledge sharing are vital for developing effective, evidence-based policies that respect individuals’ rights and dignity worldwide.