Romania faces demographic crisis amid population decline

Romania faces a significant demographic challenge characterized by a declining population, falling birth rates, and an aging society. Projections suggest the country could have 3.4 million fewer inhabitants by 2080, with a quarter of the population aged over 65.

Sociologist Dumitru Sandu notes that while these issues are serious, they are not unique to Romania. However, the impact is visible in the decline of small and medium-sized towns, particularly former industrial and mining hubs. These locations often suffer from high unemployment and a lack of investment, leading to a risk of becoming “ghost towns.”

Data from the National Institute of Statistics shows that for the third consecutive year, the number of immigrants has exceeded the number of emigrants by over 70,000 people. Experts suggest that European funds should be utilized to create conditions that encourage citizens to remain in or return to the country to mitigate these shifts.