Human fertility at a crossroad

Abstract

Since the early 1970s, family planning policies aiming to reduce global population growth have been successful. Currently, more than 50% of all countries are (way) below the replacement level of 2.1 child per woman. Underpopulation causes distinct society challenges in many countries. More focus on family-building strategies (including decreasing barriers for people who would like to establish a family) is urgently needed.