The United Nations’ World Fertility Report has revealed that Pakistan has witnessed a dramatic decline in its fertility rate, dropping from six live births per woman in 1994 to 3.6 in 2024.
The report indicated that approximately 1.8 billion people, or 22% of the global population, live in 63 countries that are undergoing demographic transitions, expecting to reach low fertility rates by 2054.
According to the report, which has not been completely released yet, Pakistan is in dire need for targeted interventions to reduce adolescent birth rates, which could bring about substantial socioeconomic benefits.
These inventions include stern laws and enforcement mechanisms to protect the rights of girls and women.
Such measures include introduction of laws to ban child marriage as well regulations that guarantee full and equal access to sexual and reproductive health care, information, and education.
Managing births effectively allows families and governments to better allocate resources, ultimately enhancing the health and well-being of children and adolescents.
Additionally, banning early childbearing for girls and young women might also give them an opportunity to pursue education, employment or other life aspirations.
Meanwhile, in countries that are already grappling with economic, social, and environmental challenges, addressing these issues can create healthier, more productive populations, the report noted.
The report also highlighted that these measures not only improve quality of life but also secure a better future for upcoming generations.
Furthermore, the report also noted a significant decline in global fertility rates, dropping from an average of 4.8 births per woman in 1970 to 2.2 in 2024.
Women today bear one child fewer, on average, than they did around 1990, when the global fertility rate was 3.3.
