According to a new United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) report, millions of people are unable to achieve their desired family size due to various economic and health-related barriers. The fundamental finding of the study reveals that the lack of choice, rather than a declining desire for parenthood, is what hinders individuals from having children. Natalia Kanem, UNFPA’s executive director, emphasizes that reproductive agency encompasses more than just freedom from coercion or improved access to health services. It extends to the complete spectrum of conditions necessary for individuals to exercise their reproductive rights fully. This includes ensuring gender equality, economic stability, access to quality healthcare, and fostering confidence in the future.
The UNFPA, in partnership with YouGov, conducted an extensive online survey involving over 14,000 adults—both men and women—across 14 countries, which together represent more than 37% of the global population. The analysis focused on four European Union member states: Italy, Hungary, Germany, and Sweden. In these countries, a notable majority of respondents from both genders identified two children as their ideal family size. However, various barriers were identified that significantly affect their ability to realize this ideal.
Among the four countries examined, Italy faced the most pronounced challenges, with 15% of respondents citing infertility or difficulties in conceiving as major obstacles. Additional issues such as poor general health or chronic illnesses also contributed to these struggles, particularly in Italy, followed closely by Germany and Sweden. Financial constraints emerged as a critical issue across these nations, with Hungary reporting the most acute case, at 34% of respondents acknowledging financial limitations as a barrier to having more children.
Germany and Sweden also echoed concerns regarding financial limitations, indicating that economic struggles significantly impact family planning decisions. In Italy, unemployment and job insecurity were highlighted by 30% of respondents as further hurdles preventing them from having the number of children they desire. These job-related anxieties contribute to a demoralizing climate for potential parents, as economic instability heightens concerns over family welfare.
Moreover, political and social climate concerns were salient in Italy, where 19% of respondents cited these factors as barriers to parenthood. This indicates a broader apprehension that transcends individual circumstances, reflecting a societal environment that may not support family growth. Additionally, a lack of suitable partners continued to be a concern for many potential parents, particularly in Italy, Sweden, and Hungary, with 17% of respondents in these nations expressing this sentiment. In contrast, only 15% of German respondents shared similar concerns.
In summary, the UNFPA report underscores that while many people aspire to have children, numerous barriers—ranging from health issues to financial and societal constraints—significantly impede their ability to do so. The findings highlight the urgent need for comprehensive policies that address these barriers, ensuring that individuals not only have the desire to become parents but also the means and supports to achieve their ideal family size. Addressing these complex challenges could enable millions to exercise their reproductive rights fully and contribute to a healthier, more informed approach to family planning globally.
