A comprehensive new survey by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) reveals that declining fertility rates worldwide are not due to young people rejecting marriage, children, or family life, but rather because of economic and housing constraints.

The Demographic Futures Survey, one of the largest and most geographically diverse of its kind, gathered responses from over 108,000 internet-connected adults aged 18 to 39 across 73 countries and territories. Participants were asked about their views on relationships, children, and their futures.

Across regions, respondents consistently identified financial security, stable employment, and housing as the primary obstacles to forming partnerships and becoming parents. More than two-thirds expressed a desire to marry or live with a partner, and nearly 80% indicated that partnership was an important precondition for parenthood.

However, about a quarter of those aged 25 to 39 reported wanting a partner but were single and not dating, with men more likely than women to report this status. Additionally, 57% cited economic and housing difficulties as the biggest barriers to marriage or stable cohabitation.

Among childless adults aged 35 to 39, 79% of men and 72% of women still expressed a desire to become parents.

“Young people carry an inspiring sense of hope and a clear vision for their families and futures,” said Diene Keita, Executive Director of UNFPA. “When we break down financial barriers and support their agency, they can make the choices that are right for them.”

These findings challenge myths about a global decline in interest in family life, emphasizing instead the need to address economic and housing challenges to support young people’s aspirations.

Sources