The United Nations has said the world is experiencing a birth rate crisis. The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has released a report called "State of World Population 2025". It highlights how fewer and fewer children are being born all the world. At the same time, people are living longer. Falling birth rates and increased longevity are creating many problems. Smaller numbers workers are having to pay the pensions older people who have retired. Dr Natalia Kanem, executive director UNFPA, said: "Many countries are [struggling] ageing and shrinking populations, labour shortages, and rising healthcare and pension costs. These are real concerns."
The United Nations surveyed 14,000 people in 14 countries five continents to make its report. One the key findings was the global fertility crisis. The UN said the high cost parenthood is the biggest reason women not having children. Many couples want children, but they cannot afford them. Nearly 20 per cent adults believe they will not be able to have the number children they want. There were other reasons falling birth rates. These include low salaries, expensive housing, and worries about the future our world. The UN said one solution to the crisis is to create "family-friendly policies, such as affordable childcare and paid leave all carers".
