Decline in Live Births from 2009 to 2022
Live births in the EU experienced a consistent decline over the 14-year period from 2009 to 2022, with the number dropping from
4.62 million in 2009 to
3.89 million in 2022. This represents a significant decrease of approximately
16%.
2020 and 2021: Stability Amidst Decline
Despite the overall downward trend, live
births in the EU remained stable at
4.07 million in both 2020 and 2021. This stability is notable given the broader context of a consistent decrease in live births over the years.
Historical Peak in the Last 14 Years
The highest number of live births within the observed timeframe occurred in 2009, with
4.62 million births. This year stands out as the period with the most live births before a persistent decline set in.
Lowest Recorded Live Births in 2022
The year 2022 marked the lowest point in live births during the last 14 years, with only
3.89 million live births recorded. This represents the culmination of the downward trend observed over the years.
Comparing Recent Years: A Sudden Drop
A significant drop in live births was observed from 2021 to 2022, decreasing from
4.07 million to
3.89 million. This sudden decrease of approximately
4.4% in just one year underscores the accelerating pace of decline in recent years.
Average Annual Live Births
Analyzing the data from 2009 to 2022, the average number of live births per year in the EU is approximately
4.27 million. This figure provides a benchmark for assessing the fluctuation in birth rates over the years.
Period of Least Decline
Between 2015 and 2016, live births exhibited the smallest decline in the dataset, slightly decreasing from
4.33 million to
4.38 million. This period contrasts with the overall trend, showcasing a brief moment of near stability or minor increase.
2010-2011: Minimal Change Marks Stability
Between 2010 and 2011, the EU saw one of the smallest changes in the number of live births, with a slight decrease from
4.60 million to
4.46 million. This minor adjustment indicates a momentary period of relative stability in
birth rates before the continuation of the general downward trend.