The UN reports Pakistan’s fertility rate declined from 6 live births per woman in 1994 to 3.6 in 2024. Cultural, educational, and gender barriers still pose challenges despite efforts to improve family planning. By 2050, the population may exceed 380 million, emphasizing the need for continued interventions and policies to manage growth sustainably.
The United Nations World Fertility Report 2024 indicates that Pakistan’s fertility rate has declined from six live births per woman in 1994 to 3.6 live births per woman by 2024. Despite implementing family planning initiatives since the 1950s, Pakistan still lags in effective population control compared to other nations. The country’s population soared from 31 million in 1947 to approximately 241 million in 2023, presenting significant challenges for family planning efforts.
In recent years, various government initiatives have been launched to curb population growth, including family planning programs, contraceptive distribution, and educational campaigns aimed at rural communities. Collaborations with international organizations like the UN Population Fund have also contributed by increasing funding for population control programs. Nevertheless, cultural and religious barriers, along with issues such as gender inequality, continue to pose significant challenges.
UN projections estimate that Pakistan’s population could exceed 380 million by 2050, surpassing that of the United States and other major countries. The report notes that while the fertility level in Pakistan has dropped to 3.6, countries like Ethiopia and Nigeria remain above 4 live births per woman. By 2054, live births in Pakistan are expected to decrease further to 2.5 per woman.
Countries such as Pakistan, Ethiopia, and Nigeria remain in an early stage of fertility transition, with fertility rates still above replacement levels. The UN suggests that targeted interventions to reduce adolescent birth rates could yield socioeconomic benefits and further accelerate declines in fertility rates, allowing for more efficient resource allocation to health and education for children.
The UN emphasizes the need for initiatives to end child marriage and improve access to sexual and reproductive health services. It advocates for stronger laws to safeguard girls’ rights and ensure equal access to information and healthcare. Approximately 1.8 billion individuals, or 22% of the global population, currently reside in countries experiencing demographic transitions, with fertility rates expected to lower significantly by 2054.
Population control in Pakistan has been a concern since the country’s inception, with an increasing population stressing resources and services. The significant rise in population from 31 million in 1947 to 241 million in 2023 highlights the urgency of effective family planning. Despite the introduction of various programs over the years, numerous cultural, educational, and policy-related challenges hinder successful implementation, leading to a prolonged fertility transition that necessitates targeted interventions and international cooperation.
In summary, Pakistan’s fertility rate has seen a significant decline, but challenges in cultural, educational, and gender-related domains persist. Government and international efforts to enhance family planning services and education are crucial. Continued focus on reducing adolescent birth rates, improving healthcare access, and strengthening legal protections for women will play vital roles in sustaining the trend towards lower fertility rates in the future.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
