Brazil's aging population pressures INSS pension system

Brazil is facing a rapid demographic shift as the share of people aged 60 and over rose to 34.1 million (16.1 % of the population) in 2024, accelerating an already ongoing inversion of the age pyramid. The total fertility rate fell from 2.32 children per woman in 2000 to 1.57 in 2023, below the replacement level of 2.1, while life expectancy continues to increase.

Consequently, 76 % of INSS beneficiaries are now seniors. The pension system, which relies on contributions from a shrinking workforce, is under growing fiscal strain. Retired professor Lyris Maria, 79, warned that “the pension amount does not meet my needs.” Economists note that many retirees must keep working because benefits are insufficient, highlighting the urgent need for reforms to ensure the long‑term sustainability of Brazil’s social security system.