European Union report projects population decline and aging

A report by the European Commission's Joint Research Centre indicates that the European Union's population of 450.6 million is approaching its historic peak. The population is expected to grow slightly to 453.3 million by 2029 before beginning a steady decline. By 2050, the population is projected to be 445 million, dropping to 398.8 million by 2100. Life expectancy in 2024 has reached 81.5 years, with projections suggesting it could exceed 90 years for women and 86 for men by 2100. Currently, one in five residents is aged 65 or older, a figure expected to rise to one in three by 2050. The European Union acknowledges that these demographic shifts will cause labor shortages, financial strain on public budgets, and increased pressure on healthcare and education systems. Additionally, children born in the EU in 2023 can expect to live 75.3 years in good health.