Global population growth peaks as declines loom for many nations

The world’s population has grown by an extraordinary 700% over the past 200 years, from 1 billion people in 1800 to 8.2 billion today. However, this growth trajectory is not universal, with some countries poised for substantial population declines by 2050 due to low fertility rates and high emigration.

According to DevelopmentAid, Eastern Europe is a striking example, where populations are shrinking significantly. This trend is largely driven by declining birth rates that have persisted since the collapse of the Soviet Union, combined with waves of emigration to the European Union. Other nations outside Europe, such as Japan and Cuba, are also grappling with similar challenges.

Japan has one of the world’s lowest birth rates and has seen its population decline steadily since 2010. In Latin America, Cuba's fertility rate of 1.7 children per woman is the region's lowest, and unlike neighbouring countries, it experiences minimal immigration, amplifying its demographic challenges.

Global demographics are set to shift dramatically, according to United Nations projections. By 2030, the number of people aged 80 and above will surpass the number of babies born annually. By 2070, the population of those over 65 will outnumber children under 18. The overall global population is expected to peak at 10.3 billion around 2080 before beginning a gradual decline, with some countries experiencing sharp decreases in population.

These shifting trends highlight the complexities of global population dynamics, signalling significant social, economic, and policy implications for nations worldwide.