On January 16, Institute Social hosted Anne Goujon, a leading research scholar in demography, for a webinar in its Global Reflections series, titled Future Population Dynamics and Global Projections. The session opened with an exploration of how demographic studies analyze shifts in population structures across different age groups, particularly in relation to family dynamics, societal systems, and economic development.

Goujon examined the evolving learning capacities of individuals and their interactions with the environment. Drawing from her demographic projections, she underscored the critical role of social development, individual competencies, and environmental adaptation in shaping both global and local policymaking efforts.

Challenging the assumptions of many demographers, Goujon highlighted that rising education levels and workforce participation among women do not necessarily lead to a direct decline in birth rates. She pointed to Türkiye as an example, where birth rates have increased alongside the growing number of educated women entering the workforce. She emphasized the importance of flexible working arrangements to support women who wish to have children while maintaining sustainable careers.

Furthermore, Goujon noted that global population growth varies significantly across regions. In developed countries, declining birth rates have resulted in aging populations and substantial shifts in workforce dynamics, with far-reaching consequences. She projected that the European Union could lose 47 million workers by 2100. Similarly, if current demographic trends persist, Türkiye will also face a shrinking and aging population in the coming decades.

Another key point in Goujon’s presentation was the profound impact of rising education levels in Türkiye since the 1950s on population trends. She explained that higher education attainment has contributed to economic growth, reduced mortality rates, and promoted healthier lifestyles, all of which have significant implications for future demographic patterns.

For more information, you can watch our video.

https://youtu.be/BKA8G1EIkBU?feature=shared