What's causing Sweden's record-low birth rate? A new inquiry is set to find out
Briefly

The Swedish government is investigating the country's historically low birth rate, which currently stands at 1.4 children per woman, far below the 2.1 needed for sustainable population growth. Social Affairs Minister Jakob Forssmed has voiced concerns over potential long-term societal problems, including an increased burden on younger generations to support a larger elderly population. The inquiry aims to uncover reasons for this decline, with factors such as financial and timing barriers, mental health issues, and the difficulty of finding partners, being considered. The report will propose concrete measures to foster a more family-friendly environment in Sweden.
The birth rate in Sweden has reached an unprecedented low of 1.4 children per woman, significantly below the 2.1 needed for population growth. Social Affairs Minister Jakob Forssmed expressed concerns that this decline could lead to a smaller labor force and increased pressure on the welfare model as fewer young people will support a growing elderly population. He stated that practical and biological barriers, as well as mental health issues, are contributing factors, necessitating an inquiry to propose measures for creating a more family-friendly society.
Social Affairs Minister Jakob Forssmed emphasized the urgency of addressing Sweden's record low birth rate, which stands at 1.4 children per woman. He warned that the current trend could result in a societal imbalance where a small number of young people would need to sustain a larger elderly population, potentially straining the Swedish welfare model. Forssmed mentioned that one in four women express a desire not to have children, pointing to complex reasons, including financial barriers, timing, and personal circumstances.
Read at www.thelocal.se
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