The Federal Statistical Office has published the figures on natural population movements in Switzerland for 2023. The number of births reached a historic low. Between 2021 and 2023, the number of live births fell by more than 10 % to 80,024 births. Natural population growth amounted to just 8,200 people, around half the average of the last ten years. The total fertility rate reached 1.33 – an unprecedented figure in Switzerland.
Birth trends: detailed analysis
The decline affects both children of Swiss and foreign nationality. The births of Swiss children fell by 8 %, while the births of children of foreign nationality fell by 5 %. The number of third children fell particularly sharply (over 11%). The decline mainly affects younger mothers: the drop was over 30% for teenagers and women under 25, while women over 45 gave birth to more children.
Causes of the decline in the birth rate
The causes of the decline in the birth rate in Switzerland are multi-layered and complex. One major factor is individualisation and the associated changes in lifestyles. More and more people are turning away from traditional family models and looking for meaning and fulfilment outside of parenthood.
Economic costs also play a significant role. High housing costs, childcare expenses and opportunity costs resulting from loss of income are a burden for many families. These financial burdens make it difficult for many couples to decide in favour of having children.
Another important aspect is the housing crisis. The shortage of affordable housing makes it difficult for young families to find suitable accommodation, which is an additional obstacle to starting a family.
Geopolitical uncertainties and so-called eco-anxiety are also contributing to the decline in birth rates. Many people are worried about the future and have ecological concerns that negatively influence their decision to have children.
Finally, family policy also plays a role. In an international comparison, Switzerland offers less generous family support. Other countries, such as France, support families more strongly and thus also promote the birth rate.
A decline in the birth rate has a significant impact
The decline in the birth rate could have a significant impact on various areas. One area particularly affected is the labour market. The existing labour shortage could become even more acute, making Switzerland more dependent on immigration to meet the demand for labour.
The social security system could also suffer from the decline in the birth rate. Rising life expectancy coupled with falling birth rates could lead to considerable imbalances in the social security systems. This could jeopardise the financial stability of pension and healthcare systems in the long term.
The property market would also be affected. Demand for smaller homes could increase, while large, remote houses could become less attractive. This would lead to a shift in demand, with centrally located and easily accessible small flats being favoured. At the same time, the need for public infrastructure, such as schools, could decrease, while the demand for childcare facilities may increase to better support the needs of working parents.
Rebound in births in 2024?
The initial figures on births in 2024 do not suggest a change in trend. Between January and April 2024, 24,300 babies were born, a stable figure compared to 2023. It is likely that birth rates will stabilise at this low level.
The decline in the birth rate in Switzerland is a complex phenomenon with far-reaching consequences. Comprehensive measures and forward-looking planning are required to meet the challenges. This affects not only the economy, but also social cohesion and the organisation of our living spaces.
