A recent demographic study has highlighted the continuing decline in fertility rates across the Maghreb region, including Morocco, pointing to a long-term trend that could significantly reshape population structures and influence future economic and social development.
According to figures released by the French National Institute for Demographic Studies, Morocco’s fertility rate reached 1.97 children per woman in 2024. Tunisia recorded a rate of 1.58 in 2023, while Algeria registered 2.61 children per woman in 2024.
The study notes that fertility levels have fallen sharply compared with the 1970s, when women in the region had an average of seven to eight children.
Commenting on the findings, economist Badr Zaher Al Azraq stated that the decline in births could have important implications for labor markets, pension systems and social protection mechanisms in the coming years.
Meanwhile, social psychology specialist Mohsen Benzakour linked the trend to a combination of social and economic transformations, including later marriage, changing lifestyles and rising costs associated with education, healthcare and family life.
The study suggests that these demographic changes may contribute to an aging population structure over time, prompting renewed discussion about workforce availability, productivity and long-term social and economic planning.