UNFPA report finds economic security key to marriage and childbearing desires worldwide

A new United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Demographic Futures Survey covering 108,000 respondents aged 18‑39 in 73 countries shows that more than two‑thirds of young people view marriage and parenthood as desirable life goals when they have economic stability. Across most regions, a two‑child family is the most preferred household size.

Economic security is the top condition for becoming a parent (88% of respondents), followed by stable employment (87%) and mental readiness (85%). Women place greater importance on all three factors than men. The primary obstacles cited are financial hardship and lack of affordable housing (72%).

UNFPA Executive Director Diene Keita said the findings counter the narrative that today’s youth reject marriage, emphasizing that uncertainty about the future, not a lack of desire, holds many back. She called for policies that improve job prospects, housing affordability, health services and gender equality to enable young people to form families.