The birth rates in Scotland have fallen to a historic low. This was reported by Zamin.uz.
According to official data, in 2024, only 45,763 babies were born in the country. This figure is the lowest recorded since 1855.
Thus, the birth rate has significantly decreased. Experts believe that this decline is related to long-term demographic changes.
For the population to naturally replenish itself, each woman needs to have an average of 2.1 children. However, in Scotland, this figure is only 1.25.
This leads to a decrease in the population size. The report also notes that infant mortality and stillbirth rates are at historic lows.
Additionally, it was reported that in 2023, more than 16,000 people died in Scotland than were born. Population growth is observed only due to migration.
Changes in birth rates are also clearly seen in maternal age. While in the 1960s most women gave birth around the age of 20, today the highest number of births occur between the ages of 30 and 34.
Last year, over 35 percent of births were to women in this age group. Experts emphasize that this trend is also observed globally.
According to UN data, birth rates are declining in many countries around the world. The main reasons cited are rising living costs and difficulties in family life.
Thus, there are warnings that the decline in birth rates may lead to social and economic problems.
