Italy Faces New Demographic Low as Births Set to Hit Record Decline in 2025

Rome, Oct 21, 2025: Italy is bracing for yet another historic low in birth numbers this year, deepening concerns over the country’s persistent demographic crisis. According to the national statistics bureau ISTAT, the downward trend in births is showing no sign of reversing. In 2024, Italy recorded just 370,000 newborns—the lowest figure since the country’s unification in 1861—and 2025 appears set to break this record once again. Data from the first seven months of this year shows under 198,000 births, marking a 6.3% decline compared with the same period last year. ISTAT also reported that the fertility rate, which measures the average number of children born per woman of childbearing age, dropped to 1.13 from last year’s record low of 1.18. Experts describe the trend as a national emergency. Despite repeated promises from Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and her predecessors to implement measures supporting families and increasing fertility rates, the decline continues unabated. Analysts note that Italy’s economic pressures, high costs of living, and changing social attitudes toward parenthood contribute to the persistent low birth rates. The shrinking population is also expected to have long-term consequences for Italy’s workforce and economy. ISTAT highlighted that the country is experiencing a steady aging of its population, with a growing proportion of workers in older age brackets. By 2050, the share of people aged 55-64 either employed or seeking work is projected to rise from 61% last year to 70%, while the 65-74 age group is expected to increase from 11% to 16%. This demographic shift could place additional strain on pension systems, healthcare, and social services, while also creating challenges in sustaining economic growth and productivity. The report underscores that Italy is not alone in facing demographic challenges. Across Europe, declining birth rates and aging populations are becoming critical concerns, with governments struggling to balance family support policies, employment incentives, and social welfare. Italy’s case is particularly stark because of the rapid decline over multiple decades and the cultural, economic, and social factors contributing to families having fewer children. Policy makers have explored several solutions, including financial incentives for families, subsidized childcare, and flexible working arrangements, but implementation has been inconsistent. Social experts stress that addressing Italy’s demographic crisis requires a combination of economic support, societal reforms, and cultural encouragement to make childbearing and raising families more feasible and appealing. As Italy enters 2025, the country faces a crossroads. Without significant interventions to reverse the declining birth rate, the population will continue to age, and the workforce will shrink. ISTAT’s projections signal that urgent action is needed not only to stabilize birth rates but also to prepare for the broader economic and social implications of a rapidly aging society. The coming years will be critical in determining whether Italy can chart a sustainable path forward amid its demographic challenges. Italy’s Birth Rate Hits Historic Low Amid Demographic Crisis Italy is witnessing a sharp decline in births, with 2025 expected to mark a new record low. In the first seven months, fewer than 198,000 babies were born, a 6.3% drop from 2024, and the fertility rate fell to 1.13 children per woman. Experts warn this trend deepens the country’s demographic crisis, with an aging population and shrinking workforce. By 2050, older age groups will form a larger share of the labor force, straining pensions and healthcare. Despite government pledges, reversing the decline remains a pressing challenge for Italy’s future.