In this article, we will take a look at the 5 countries with the lowest population growth in the world. If you would like to read our discussion on the population trends across the country, you can go to the 20 Countries with the Lowest Population Growth in the World.
5. Albania
Population Growth Rate: 0.19%
Albania experiences a positive yet sluggish population growth rate, estimated at approximately 0.19% as of 2023. This sluggish growth is attributed to a decline in the birth rate. In 2022, the natural increase in population amounted to only 675 people, indicating stagnation in population growth across the country. The dwindling birth rates have resulted in an aging population, creating a demographic landscape where the elderly outnumber the younger population.
4. China
Population Growth Rate: 0.18%
China is facing the challenge of stagnant population growth, with its population growth rate at 0.18%. This stagnation is primarily attributed to the low birth rate within the country. At 6.39 births per 1000 people, China’s birth rate is currently at its lowest since 1949. Furthermore, the death rate stands at 8 per 1000 individuals. China is, for these reasons, naturally dealing with the issue of an aging population.
3. Spain
Population Growth Rate: 0.12%
Spain’s population growth rate is currently very low, hovering around 0.12%. This slowdown seems to be primarily driven by a decline in birth rates. Compared to 2022, birth rates have dipped by 2%, and the decline stretches even further back, with a decrease of nearly 25% over the past decade. This trend is further emphasized by Spain’s low fertility rate, currently at 1.19 live births per woman. This fertility rate is amongst the lowest in the entire European Union.
2. North Macedonia
Population Growth Rate: 0.11%
North Macedonia, like many nations in Europe, faces the challenge of a very low population growth rate. Despite a crude birth rate of 9.9 per 1,000 people suggesting ongoing births, the death rate of 12.3 per 1,000 people results in a natural decrease in population. North Macedonia is at the second position on our list of the 20 countries with the lowest population growth in the world.
1. Czechia
Population Growth Rate: 0.1%
Despite being a vibrant country in Central Europe, Czechia is dealing with the issue of minimal population growth. This trend mirrors the challenges faced by many European countries. A key factor is the low fertility rate, which is 1.83 births per woman. According to preliminary data released by the Czech Statistical Office (CSU) in 2023, more people died than were born domestically. This means that any minimal population increase in the country is driven by migration.
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