Germany Faces Historic Decline in Birth Rates Amid Demographic Challenges

Germany is experiencing a significant demographic shift marked by historically low birth rates and a shrinking population. In 2025, only between 640,000 and 660,000 children were born—the lowest number in decades and a drop from 677,100 births in 2024. The average fertility rate sits at 1.35 children per woman, continuing a downward trend that has persisted over recent years.

This drop contributes to an annual population decline, as deaths outpace births. In 2025, about one million people died in Germany, resulting in a birth deficit of approximately 340,000 to 360,000—double the deficit seen in the 2010s. Immigration, which totaled between 220,000 and 260,000 new arrivals in 2025, fell over 40% compared to 2024 and is no longer sufficient to offset the negative birth rate, leading to a net population decrease by about 100,000 people.

Projections suggest that by 2070, Germany's population will shrink from the current levels to approximately 68.8 million, a reduction of roughly 15 million. Despite a widespread desire among men and women to have children, many are delaying parenthood due to uncertainties linked to recent crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine. The average age for women having their first child has risen to 30.4 years.

This demographic decline poses serious challenges for Germany's economy and labor market. With fewer young people entering the workforce and large cohorts from older generations retiring, labor shortages are anticipated. Experts emphasize the importance of policies that support parents, particularly mothers, through measures such as improved childcare and full-day schooling to facilitate workforce re-entry.

The demographic changes underscore the urgency for Germany to adapt its social and economic policies to mitigate the impact of population decline and secure future economic stability.