India is the most populous country in the world – with a population of more than 140 crore. But there are nations which are facing opposite circumstances – declining populations. In response, governments in these countries are providing incentives to people to have more children. These are the countries in which high ambitions and busy lives have left no space for parenthood. But an old population, with little youth to support it, will bring an economic crisis to these nations. Some even risk vanishing from the global landscape.
Some such countries include South Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Mauritius, Spain, Poland, Ukraine, Belarus, Greece, Italy, and Macau. Recently, Russia was also in news for its declining population, especially the number of females. Ukraine has been identified as the fastest-shrinking country in the world, driven by the ongoing conflict between Russia.
Also read: Russia’s Population Crisis: Population on Decline, Government Tries Various Stabilising Measures
Japan has Negative Population Growth
The total population of the country stood at around 12 crore 30 lakh as of 1st October, 2024. The rate of population growth is -0.8%.
One significant initiative introduced by the Japanese government to combat low birth rates is the adoption of a four-day workweek. The aim is to provide couples with more leisure time to focus on family life, fostering a better work-life balance. The government allows more time for personal and family development. They hope this policy will positively influence the birth rate. Ultimately, they aim for population growth.
Taiwan‘s Population Growth is almost Zero
Taiwan also has a near zero population growth rate, i.e., -0.05%. The nation’s population last year stood at 2,34,00,220 a decrease of 20,222 individuals compared to 2023. Taiwan is soon to pass the threshold of a “super-aged society.” In this society, 20 percent of the population is 65 and above.
Over the years, the Taiwanese government has allocated over $3 billion. This funding supports the development and implementation of various plans and policies. These efforts aim at encouraging higher birth rates. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Taiwan introduced several family-friendly policies to support and incentivize new parents. It has introduced six months of paid parental leave for new parents. Initially, this policy provided compensation equal to 60% of the parent’s salary during the leave period. However, the government took further steps to promote childbirth. They aimed to ensure financial security. As a result, the government later increased this figure to 80%.
Taiwan has also introduced a series of tax relief measures designed to ease the financial burden on families. New parents are eligible for tax reductions, making it more financially feasible to raise children.
Bulgaria Grapples with Mounting Migration Challenges
Mass outbound migration is the largest contributor towards Bulgaria’s population decline. With a population of merely 64.5 lakhs and a -3% rate of population growth, Bulgaria is shrinking fast.
It has adopted various incentives to encourage childbirth. It provides allowances for childbirth and upbringing, with a particular emphasis on the second childbirth. Monthly allowances for children are also provided until they complete secondary education, but no later than age 20. Paid maternity leave has been extended from 135 to 315 days per child. A paid paternity leave has been introduced to encourage shared parental responsibilities. Further, Bulgaria is working to improve and expand childcare services, with a focus on promoting responsible parenting.
Lithuania Also Confronts Rising Migration Pressures
Lithuania has a population of just 28.7 lakhs and a population growth rate of 1.4%. The core issue is the same as Bulgaria – outwards migration of the masses.
The government offers lower taxes for families with children, designed to reduce the financial burden of raising dependents. It has focused on reducing costs or free access to childcare, healthcare, and other services that support families with children. It provides financial assistance to families, including lump-sum payments or regular allowances. Further, the nation promotes flexible work arrangements, such as remote work, part-time work, and flexible hours, to help parents manage their work and family responsibilities.
Latvia has Multiple Challenges
Latvia’s population loss is caused by economic migration and low birth rates. It has a population of 18.8 lakhs and a population growth rate of -0.1%. Latvia has government policies focused on financial support for families, improved access to housing and healthcare, and promoting remigration. It provides financial aid upon the birth of a child and parental leave for childcare. Additionally, the government is tackling housing affordability by offering subsidies and loan guarantees for families. It also promotes initiatives to develop family-friendly housing. Healthcare access and quality, and educational policies aimed at improvement, are also part of the demographic strategy. Finally, efforts to encourage the return of individuals of Latvian descent living abroad are being pursued through various remigration initiatives.
Ukraine‘s Population Growth is Worst
Ukraine’s population has significantly decreased in recent years. Ukraine’s population is 3.77 crore and population growth rate is -8.4%.
The Ukrainian government has developed a National Demographic Strategy. It aims at addressing the crisis. The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) supported its development. The strategy, adopted on September 30, 2024, focuses on strengthening human capital rather than solely increasing birth rates.
The country is focused on promoting gender equality through policies like parental leave for fathers, and enabling family-friendly work arrangements. To encourage the return of millions who have emigrated, the nation aims to improve domestic living conditions and opportunities. Furthermore, the government aims to enhance healthcare and social service accessibility. It plans to rebuild critical infrastructure and invest in education. The government also intends to stimulate economic growth. This includes potentially offering monetary incentives for rebuilding homes and businesses.
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