The Czech Republic is witnessing an unprecedented decline in birth rates, with experts pointing to a significant shift in societal priorities. Last year, the country recorded just 91,200 births, the lowest number since 2001, marking a dramatic decrease of 10,000 births compared to 2022 – equivalent to losing the population of an entire town like Kyjov or Jeseník.
Researchers from the National Institute SYRI have identified a clear trend: women are increasingly prioritizing education and career development before starting families. The average age of first-time mothers in the Czech Republic has reached 29, increasing by one year over the past 12 years.
Demographer Jitka Slabá emphasizes a crucial biological reality often overlooked in modern family planning. While societal attitudes evolve, biological limitations remain unchanged. The ideal age for first-time motherhood is 25, with fertility declining sharply after 35 – a limitation that applies to both women and men. Dreams of starting a large family after 40 are often unrealistic.
The trend shows no signs of improvement, with only 41,600 births recorded in the first half of this year. Modern couples tend to postpone parenthood until after completing education, establishing careers, securing housing, traveling, and even “practicing” caregiving with pets.
Experts stress the urgent need for better awareness about fertility, particularly among university and high school students. Currently, public knowledge about this crucial topic in the Czech Republic is almost non-existent.