As birth rates plummet and populations age across multiple continents, countries are scrambling to address what could become one of this century's defining challenges.
China, the world's second most populous nation, reported its third consecutive year of population decline in 2024, dropping by 1.4 million to 1.408 billion residents. This trend mirrors similar patterns emerging in other Asian nations and Europe.
Japan continues to witness a steep demographic decline, with births hitting a historic low of 730,000 in 2023. The nation's population, which peaked at 128 million in 2008, has already shrunk to 125 million. Young Japanese citizens increasingly shy away from marriage and parenthood, citing economic pressures and challenging work environments.
In South Korea, only an increase in foreign residents prevented further population decline in 2023. The country's birthrate continues to fall as younger generations break from traditional family expectations. High education costs and gender inequality in childcare responsibilities deter many from starting families.
Italy faces similar challenges, with births falling below 400,000 for the first time since the 19th century. Despite government initiatives and papal encouragement, factors like limited childcare access and low wages continue to discourage family expansion.
According to UN data, 63 countries have already reached their population peak, with another 48 expected to follow in the next three decades. While the global population of 8.2 billion continues to grow, projections suggest it will begin declining after reaching 10.3 billion in approximately 60 years.
Governments are responding with various measures. China is gradually raising retirement ages, while Japan's administration warns that the next six years represent the "last chance" to reverse their demographic decline. However, these initiatives face substantial challenges in changing deeply rooted social and economic factors affecting family planning decisions.
The implications extend beyond population numbers. Nations grapple with supporting aging populations while their workforce shrinks, potentially impacting economic growth and social security systems. Some sectors adapt to these changes - in Beijing, for instance, businesses targeting elderly education and recreation are emerging, recognizing the growing senior demographic's distinct needs and preferences.