Birth rates in Sweden have been falling. According to Statistics Sweden (SCB), 98,451 children were born in 2024 — 1,600 fewer than in 2023. This trend is seen across all societal groups and regions. Research shows that one in four young women today hesitates to have children, compared to just one in ten a decade ago. In 2024, the average fertility rate in Sweden was 1.43 children per woman — the lowest figure ever recorded.
In response, the government has launched an inquiry to examine the factors that may be preventing people from starting families. Åsa Hansson has been appointed to lead the investigation.
Hi Åsa, and congratulations on your new government assignment! Can you tell us more about what it involves?
“I’ll be investigating why fertility rates are declining and what the consequences might be, for example our society relies heavily on the working population to support the elderly. I’ll also look at measures to reduce any existing barriers to having children. I have less than a year to complete the inquiry, but I’m supported by a very skilled and competent reference group. Among its members is Maria Stanfors, from the Department of Economic History.”
Economics is an analytical approach that can be applied to a wide range of issues.
How can your economics background contribute to this work?
“I work broadly within public economics and I am used to evaluating different types of policy measures — even though my core field is taxation. Much of my research in tax policy focuses on behavioural changes and incentives, as well as impact assessments of various reforms, which I believe will be highly relevant here. In general, economics is an analytical approach that can be applied to a wide range of issues — from fertility to investment behaviour. But I also believe it’s important to stay open to knowledge from other research fields. A lot of work has already been done in this area.”
Can you already point to a few economic factors that may discourage young people from starting families?
“Some research suggests that economic incentives may not be as significant as one might expect. Other factors could be more important. For instance, there is evidence that forming couples has become more difficult. Housing market issues, gender equality, and the challenge of balancing family life with career ambitions also play a role. Another partial explanation may be that parenting has become more demanding — the intensity of parenthood has increased, possibly as a result of growing inequality in society. And of course, global uncertainty and declining mental well-being among young people likely contribute as well.”
“It’s important to stress that this is not about the state deciding anything but if there are barriers, they should be addressed — and in any case, it’s essential to evaluate the consequences of a declining birth rate.”
The investigation process will start in early August.