Germany is facing growing demographic strain after official data showed that its birth rate has fallen to its lowest level since 1946, deepening concerns over an ageing population and long-term labour shortages.
According to figures released on Tuesday by the national statistics office, Destatis, the country recorded about 654,300 births in 2025, down from 677,117 in the previous year—a decline of roughly 3.4%. The data shows that births have now fallen for four consecutive years.
Destatis also reported what it described as the largest “birth deficit” in the post-war era, with nearly 1.01 million deaths compared to just 352,000 births in 2025.
The agency attributed the trend to two key factors: a relatively small generation born in the 1990s now entering peak childbearing age, and a continued decline in the total fertility rate since 2022. The fertility rate refers to the average number of children a woman is expected to have over her lifetime.
The demographic shift is further reflected in Germany’s ageing population. In 2024, approximately 19 million people—around 23% of the population—were aged 65 or older, compared to just 15% in 1991.
The growing imbalance has intensified debate over the sustainability of Germany’s pension system. A government-appointed pensions commission is expected to present reform proposals on June 30.
The discussion was further inflamed after Chancellor Friedrich Merz suggested last week that the state pension should be viewed primarily as a “basic provision” to be supplemented by other income sources. His comments drew sharp criticism from trade unions and the centre-left Social Democratic Party (SPD), a coalition partner in government.
Merz later clarified that there would be “no cuts to statutory pensions” under the current administration, as political tensions continue over how to address the country’s demographic challenges.