French Birth Rates Decline Spurs Calls for Family Policy Overhaul

France has witnessed a steady decline in birth rates over the past 15 years, with 644,000 babies born in 2025—a 2.1% drop from 2024 and 24% less than in 2010, according to the latest data from the National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies (Insee). This trend has raised significant concern among policymakers and led to a recent parliamentary report calling for a complete reform of family policies to better encourage childbirth.

Hélène Périvier, an economist and president of the High Council for Family, Childhood, and Age, highlighted that while the desire for children remains strong in France, many economic, professional, and social barriers hinder people from fulfilling this wish. She pointed out that current policies, many dating back to the post-World War II era, have not demonstrated a clear causal effect on increasing birth rates. Furthermore, the burden of childcare continues to disproportionately affect women, a factor discouraging larger families.

The average ideal family size has shrunk from three children in previous generations to around two today, reflecting the pressures young women face regarding parenting and career balance. Although France maintains a fertility rate of 1.50—higher than many European countries—it remains below the replacement level and exhibits a continuing downward trajectory.

The parliamentary report also noted that even countries with generous family support systems, such as Nordic nations, are experiencing similar declines, underscoring the complex societal changes affecting family dynamics and parenting expectations.

Périvier emphasized the urgency of updating family policies to reflect modern realities, stating, "The arrival of a baby imposes greater burdens on women, who no longer wish to bear these alone." The report suggests that policy reform must consider evolving social norms and seek innovative solutions beyond simply expanding existing benefits.

With demographic challenges expected to impact France's socio-economic landscape profoundly, this parliamentary call marks a pivotal moment for rethinking how the nation supports families amid shifting societal and economic contexts.