Despite previous concerns about overpopulation, current demographic trends indicate the opposite: in many countries, the population has already begun to decline. This was stated by Maksim Oreshkin, Deputy Chief of Staff of Russia’s Presidential Executive Office.

He moderated the session “Shaping a New Platform for Global Growth” at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF). According to Oreshkin, the population may not even exceed 9 billion people, and the peak will be reached in 20 years. Africa has the greatest demographic potential today, according to the Deputy Chief of Staff of Russia’s Presidential Executive Office.

“By 2050, 25 per cent of the world’s working-age population will be located in Africa. […] While one part of the world is in a demographic crisis, with declining populations, low birth rates and ageing populations, Africa is now truly taking on global demographic leadership,” he stressed.

A similar view was expressed by Francois Ndengwe, Chairman of the African Advisory Council. In his opinion, Africa has significant demographic and economic potential and can become a driver of global growth. He noted that to achieve this, it is important to promote pan-African unity, develop education, especially in science and technology, make effective use of natural resources, and achieve more equitable participation in international institutions.

“Africa is a unique region in human history. Never before have we seen such rapid population growth since humans began to populate the Earth. […] According to UN statistics, by the end of the century, every third inhabitant of the planet will be a representative of the African continent,” said Ndengwe.

Speaking about the demographic crisis, Eduard Mihalas, Regional Adviser on Population and Development at the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), pointed out that the world is facing unprecedented ageing and declining birth rates. He stressed that demographic challenges require comprehensive policies. In particular, it is necessary to create conditions for women to return to the labour market after maternity leave, to develop mechanisms to support the elderly, and to adapt the economy to new realities.

Mihalas also noted the importance of a people-centred approach. He recalled that since 2021, UNFPA has been implementing a programme for sustainable demographic growth.

The SPIEF is taking place from 18 to 21 June. The main theme of this year’s forum is “Shared Values: The Foundation of Growth in a Multipolar World.”

Photo:
SPIEF