Chile launches “Chile Renace” plan to confront historic low birthrate

Chile’s fertility rate fell to 0.99 children per woman in 2025, the lowest level recorded in the country and among the world’s lowest. Government officials warned that if the trend continues, deaths will outnumber births as early as 2028 and the total population could begin a permanent decline from 2036.

President José Antonio Kast presented the “Chile Renace” advisory commission, composed of 16 experts, and outlined an eight‑point strategy aimed at boosting fertility. The measures focus on reducing the cost of living, improving access to housing, expanding childcare and nursery facilities, promoting gender‑shared responsibilities, enhancing work‑family balance, strengthening reproductive health services, reinforcing family ties, and fostering a pro‑family cultural shift.

Analysts attribute the demographic slump to a mix of high living costs, unaffordable housing, precarious employment and insufficient childcare. One columnist wrote, “If the country wants to create favorable conditions for those who wish to form a family, the path is clear: improve housing access, strengthen care systems, expand nursery coverage, promote shared parenting responsibilities, and advance labor conditions compatible with family life.” The situation mirrors trends seen in South Korea and Singapore.