Pakistan’s Fertility Rate Declines – A Changing Demographic Landscape

Posted on February 4, 2025 by News Desk

Pakistan’s Fertility Rate Declines – A Changing Demographic Landscape

Pakistan’s demographic landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, as highlighted in the World Fertility Report 2024 by the United Nations (UN). Over the past three decades, the country’s fertility rate has dropped from six live births per woman in 1994 to 3.6 births per woman in 2024. While this decline suggests progress in family planning and health awareness, the nation is still on track to become the third most populous country in the world by 2050.

Fertility Rate Trends: A Global Perspective

According to the UN report, Pakistan is one of 63 countries currently in the early or intermediate stages of demographic transition. The decline in fertility rates worldwide is a reflection of better healthcare, family planning initiatives, and increased educational opportunities, particularly for women.

However, Pakistan’s adolescent birth rate remains relatively high at 39 per 1,000. This means that while early childbearing is less prevalent in Pakistan compared to some other nations, the country still faces challenges in controlling rapid population growth. If the fertility rate continues to decline as projected, it could drop to 2.5 births per woman by 2054.

The Population Boom: What’s Ahead for Pakistan?

Despite the decline in fertility rates, Pakistan’s population is still expected to exceed 380 million by 2050, surpassing major nations like the United States, Indonesia, Brazil, and Russia. The 2023 Population and Housing Census also showed a rise in the overall population growth rate to 2.55%—a noticeable increase compared to previous years.

Challenges & Opportunities

This population boom presents serious challenges, including:

  • Strain on Resources: A rapidly growing population means increased pressure on water, food, healthcare, and education systems.
  • Economic Struggles: The country must generate millions of jobs to cater to the expanding workforce.
  • Women’s Empowerment & Family Planning: Ensuring access to contraception, reproductive healthcare, and education for women is key to sustainable population control.

On the other hand, if managed well, a youthful population could provide a demographic dividend, driving economic growth through a skilled and productive workforce.

A Call for Action

The UN urges governments to take proactive steps in controlling population growth while ensuring the health and well-being of children and adolescents. The protection of women’s rights and strict enforcement of family planning laws are also recommended strategies.

With strategic planning and policy implementation, Pakistan can turn this population challenge into an opportunity, ensuring a prosperous and sustainable future for the next generations.

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