Pakistan's fertility rate drops significantly
1. Managing births effectively ultimately enhances health and well-being of children and adolescents, report notes
The latest World Fertility Report by the United Nations reveals a notable decline in Pakistan's fertility rate, which has decreased from six live births per woman in 1994 to 3.6 in 2024.
The report highlights that approximately 1.8 billion people, or 22% of the global population, live in 63 countries undergoing demographic transitions, with these nations expected to see low fertility rates by 2054.
Despite this decline, Pakistan faces pressing challenges, especially concerning adolescent birth rates, which demand targeted interventions to improve socioeconomic outcomes. Key measures include implementing strong laws and enforcement mechanisms to protect the rights of girls and women.
These initiatives include legislation to ban child marriage, as well as regulations ensuring full and equal access to sexual and reproductive health care, education, and information. Effectively managing births helps families and governments allocate resources more efficiently, contributing to the health and well-being of children and adolescents.
Additionally, preventing early childbearing for girls and young women can provide them with opportunities to pursue education, employment, and other aspirations.
In countries already facing economic, social, and environmental difficulties, addressing these issues can help create healthier, more productive populations. The report emphasizes that such measures not only improve the quality of life but also secure a brighter future for future generations.
The report also notes a significant global decline in fertility rates, dropping from an average of 4.8 births per woman in 1970 to 2.2 in 2024. On average, women today have one child fewer than they did in 1990 when the global fertility rate was 3.3.
