In a surprising turn of events, the Czech Republic has experienced a significant population decline in the first half of 2024. The Czech Statistical Office (ČSÚ) reported on Friday that the country’s population decreased by 21,486, bringing the total number of inhabitants to 10,879,069.
This decline is attributed to both natural changes and migration patterns. While natural population changes showed a consistent downward trend throughout the six-month period, March saw a dramatic shift in migration statistics. The country witnessed a substantial negative migration balance of 41,800 people, primarily due to the expiration of temporary protection status for many individuals, most of whom were Ukrainian citizens fleeing the Russian invasion.
Despite a decrease in mortality rates compared to the same period last year, the continuing drop in birth rates has been even more pronounced. From January to June, 41,574 children were born in the Czech Republic, while 55,503 people passed away. The number of newborns fell by 4,500 compared to the previous year, continuing a trend observed over the past two years.
Migration figures paint a complex picture. While 62,670 people immigrated to the Czech Republic in the first half of 2024, 70,227 left the country, resulting in a net migration loss of 7,557 individuals. The number of immigrants decreased by almost 14,000 compared to the same period last year, extending the decline observed in the first quarter of 2024.
Interestingly, the data also sheds light on social trends in the country. Nearly half (47%) of all children born during this period were to unmarried parents. Additionally, 18,618 couples tied the knot, while 10,459 marriages ended in divorce.
As the Czech Republic grapples with these demographic shifts, policymakers and sociologists are likely to closely monitor the long-term implications for the country’s economy, social services, and cultural landscape.