By Beyza Binnur Donmez
GENEVA (AA) - Switzerland's birth rate fell to its lowest level on record in 2024, with an average of 1.29 children per woman, according to new figures released by the Federal Statistical Office (FSO) on Monday.
The report found that births have steadily declined in recent years, particularly among families having third children. Between 2019 and 2024, first births fell 8.5%, second births 9%, and third births 13.6%, while the number of fourth and subsequent births decreased 5.8%.
The FSO noted that in the past decade women aged 35 to 39 have recorded higher fertility rates than those aged 25 to 29, underscoring the trend toward later motherhood.
The study also revealed a significant decline in the desire to have children among young adults.
In 2013, only 6% of people aged 20 to 29 said they did not want children, rising to 8% in 2018 and reaching 17% in 2023. Among 30- to 39-year-olds, the share increased from 9% to 16% over the same period.
Despite the overall decline, the two-child family model remains the most common ideal across Switzerland. The preferred number of children differs little between women and men, or by education level, language region, or whether people live in urban or rural areas. Only those without a stable partnership more frequently expressed a wish to remain childless.
The report also explored attitudes toward parenthood, finding that 41% of respondents aged 20 to 39 believed having (another) child would increase life satisfaction, while 21% feared a negative impact. However, 51% expected having children would harm their career prospects, a concern that has remained steady in recent years.
Financial conditions, relationship quality, and the division of housework and childcare between partners were cited as key factors influencing decisions about parenthood, according to the FSO.