Increase in Childless Couples in France: A Demographic Development

Paris – 09.06.2026: A recently published study by the Institut national d’études démographiques (INED) shows that 12% of French people wish not to have children. This corresponds to a doubling compared to twenty years ago. This development raises questions about the future population structure and social norms.

The INED study is based on data from 12,800 men and women aged 18 to 79. It found that the average desire for children has decreased in the last 25 years from 2.7 to 2.3. This trend is particularly noticeable among those under 30, where the desire dropped from 2.5 to 1.9 for women and from 2.3 to 1.8 for men.

These figures indicate a profound change in French family ideals. While in the past families with two children were considered ideal, today many see a family with two children more as an upper limit rather than a minimum. This shift could be attributable to various factors, including economic uncertainties, professional demands, and personal life goals.

Another notable aspect of the study is the increasing number of couples who consciously decide against having children. This trend may be influenced by changing social norms and a growing individual awareness of the impacts of parenthood on personal life. Such decisions challenge traditional notions of family and society and could have long-term effects on France’s demographic development.

INED predicts that the fertility rate in France will continue to decline, especially among generations born after 1985, who will have on average fewer than two children. This development could have significant impacts on the country’s social structures and economy, particularly regarding the financing of pension systems and the provision of social services.

In response to these demographic changes, policymakers are discussing various measures to encourage family formation. These include, among others, the creation of additional daycare spaces and the reform of parental allowance. However, concrete political actions have so far been pending.

This development raises fundamental questions about the future of French society. It remains to be seen how these trends will affect the social and economic structures of the country and what political measures will be taken to address these challenges.

Overall, the INED study shows a significant change in French family ideals, which brings both opportunities and challenges for the future of society.