Why Fewer Babies? Understanding and Responding to Low Fertility in Europe

The EU population is characterised by low fertility rates, delayed motherhood and an increase in childlessness among the younger generations. All EU Member States have now a Fertility Rates below the level needed for the replacement of generations. Surveys on fertility preferences however show that desired fertility is higher than actual fertility. Aim of the paper is to evidence the main factors determining low fertility in Europe, by reviewing the abundant existing literature. It is structured in three parts. The first presents data on fertility levels in European countries. The second provides a review of both classical and contemporary theories currently still under study, which explain the emergence of low fertility. The final section analyses the possible (controversial) role of policies responding to low fertility in the European population. A reflection on possible future scenarios is offered in conclusion.