The Demographic Crisis in Europe and Possible Solutions

It is predicted that by 2100 the birth rate in developed countries will decrease, while the number of people aged 65 or older will rise to nearly one-third of the population. If this prediction proves true, the most developed countries will need additional labor in order to keep their economies stable and functioning. When such a large share of the population is over 65, it becomes difficult for a country to remain economically healthy.

What should be done to prepare for these expectations?

First, governments need to encourage the current generation to have more children by promoting the benefits of family life. They should also try to reduce the negative influence of adult-oriented entertainment, which, in my opinion, is one of the reasons why many young people in these countries today don't want to commit to family responsibilities. If these measures don't work, governments must be ready to increase the retirement age to around 70 and possibly invite migrants from developing countries. Although this last option is temporary, a Ministry of Migration should be created with its own minister and office responsible for keeping the process safe and controlled. In addition, the Ministry of Internal Affairs must be involved to prevent hatred and aggression from both sides — migrants and the younger generations of the host countries.

I have already seen a similar process in Russia, particularly in Moscow, and do not want to see the same outcome in other countries, where negative elements — such as ultranationalists and even some police forces — hunt poor migrants whose rights are not protected by anyone.

I hope that the lessons of these situations will be taken into account so that more humane and moral approaches can be developed to address the demographic crisis facing the most developed countries.