Will Europe’s population shrink dramatically by the end of the century?

According to the European Statistical Office (Eurostat), the population of the European Union is likely to decline significantly between 2025 and 2100. It is estimated that during this period the population will decrease by 53 million people, or 11.7%.

According to forecasts, the EU population will reach 453.3 million by 2029. However, this figure is expected to gradually decrease in the coming decades, falling to 398.8 million by 2100.

There will also be significant changes in the demographic composition. The proportion of people under 19 years of age will decrease from 20 to 17 percent. The proportion of people aged under 64 who are of working age is projected to decrease from 58 to 50 percent.

At the same time, the number of elderly people is expected to increase: the share of people aged 65–79 is expected to increase from 16% to 17%, and those aged 80 and over from 6% to 16%.

The European demographic pyramid is currently characterized by high life expectancy, low birth rates, and low mortality rates. The bulk of the population is made up of older working-age people.