Birth rates in Scotland have fallen to a record low. According to official data, only 45,763 babies were born in 2024. This is the lowest figure recorded since 1855.
Experts say this decline is linked to long-term demographic changes. For a population to naturally replace itself, each woman needs to have an average of 2.1 children. However, in Scotland this figure is only 1.25.
The report also noted that infant mortality and stillbirth rates were at historic lows. At the same time, last year more than 16,000 more people died in Scotland than were born. The population is growing only due to migration.
Changes in birth trends are also visible in maternal age. In the 1960s, most women had children in their 20s, whereas today the highest number of births is among those aged 30–34. Last year, more than 35% of all births were to women in this age group.
Experts say this trend is also observed globally. According to the UN, birth rates are declining in many countries around the world. The reasons include rising living costs and difficulties in family life.
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