This is according to a new report by the United Nations (UN) Population Fund (UNFPA).

Released on Tuesday, the flagship State of World Population report, titled The real fertility crisis, The pursuit of reproductive agency in a changing world, highlights how rising living costs, persistent gender inequality and growing insecurity about the future are restricting people's ability to start families.

Based on a survey conducted by UNFPA and YouGov across 14 countries representing 37% of the world’s population, the findings point to a global reproductive agency crisis. The report states that financial limitations are the most cited reason for having fewer children than desired, named by 39% of respondents. Other major concerns include job insecurity (21%) and fear for the future, including climate change and conflict (19%).

Gender dynamics within the home also emerged as a contributing factor. According to the report, 13% of women and 8% of men said that the unequal division of domestic responsibilities discouraged them from having more children.

The data further revealed that one in three adults have experienced an unintended pregnancy, while one in four felt unable to have a child at their preferred time. Alarmingly, one in five reported feeling pressured into parenthood against their wishes.

UNFPA warns against reactionary policies such as fertility targets or cash incentives, arguing these often ignore the complex realities that shape reproductive decisions and risk infringing on human rights. Instead, the agency is calling on governments to tackle the root causes through policies that expand real choices.

These include making parenthood more affordable by investing in decent employment, accessible housing, paid parental leave, and comprehensive reproductive health services. The report stresses that the true crisis lies not in low fertility itself, but in the widening gap between people’s aspirations and the resources available to fulfil them.

--UN/ChannelAfrica--