Germans increasingly refuse to have children – Deutsche Welle.

In Germany, the birth rate is decreasing. Currently, the total fertility rate is 1.35 children per woman, which is less than in 2021, when it was 1.58. This is reported by Deutsche Welle, citing a study by the Institute for Economic Research (Ifo) in Munich.

Compared to 2021, by 2023 every eighth bed in maternity departments is empty. Joachim Ragnitz, deputy director of the Ifo department, noted that the reasons for the decline in births are the coronavirus pandemic, the conflict in Ukraine, and the economic problems of the population.

These changes have significant long-term consequences, such as a reduction in childcare facilities, education, the workforce, and pension fund funding. Solving the birth rate issue requires attracting migrants.

Ragnitz emphasized that the decision to have a child is personal. The expected cost of raising a child for a family is about 180,000 euros, making it a difficult decision for the long-term perspective.

Ways to support birth rates are being discussed. There are two approaches: institutional support through childcare services and individual support, including increasing the size of child benefits.

A significant price increase is also expected in Germany. Companies from various sectors plan to raise prices, which will lead to an increase in inflation to the 2% target set by the European Central Bank.