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Smartphones Accelerate Birth-Rate Decline, Prompt Global Ageing Alarm

6/8/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Finnish demographer Anna Rotkirch argues that smartphones and social media are accelerating the decline in birth rates.
UN population chief John Wilmoth, Oxford demographer Sarah Harper and OBR member David Miles examine ageing and shrinking populations.
Governments worldwide express concern about longer lifespans and lower fertility.
Analysts say societies and economies must adapt to an ageing, smaller populace.

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Story summary

Finnish demographer Anna Rotkirch argues that smartphones and social media are accelerating the decline in birth rates.
UN population chief John Wilmoth, Oxford demographer Sarah Harper and OBR member David Miles examine ageing and shrinking populations.
Governments worldwide express concern about longer lifespans and lower fertility.
Analysts say societies and economies must adapt to an ageing, smaller populace.