As an expert in demographic studies, I can provide an insightful analysis of the global fertility rates. Fertility rates are a critical indicator of population trends and can have significant implications for a country's social, economic, and political landscape. They are influenced by a multitude of factors, including socio-economic development, cultural norms, government policies, and health care systems. The fertility rate, as you mentioned, is the average number of children that would be born to a woman over her lifetime if she were to live through the age of childbearing according to a given set of age-specific fertility rates. It is an important measure used to understand the reproductive behavior of a population. In recent years, there has been a global trend towards lower fertility rates. This is partly due to the spread of education, especially for women, and the availability of family planning services. Additionally, economic pressures and the rising cost of raising children can also contribute to lower fertility rates. Regarding the specific question of which country has the lowest fertility rate in the world, it's important to note that these rates can fluctuate over time and are subject to change with new data. As of my last update, the country with the lowest fertility rate was South Korea, with a rate of 0.81 children per woman in 2020. However, the information you provided from 2017 suggests that Singapore had an exceptionally low fertility rate of 0.83 children per woman at that time. It's worth noting that a fertility rate of 2.1 is generally considered the replacement level, which means that each generation is replacing itself. Rates below this level can lead to population decline if they are sustained over time. The reasons for such low fertility rates can be complex and vary from country to country. For instance, Singapore's low fertility rate can be attributed to a variety of factors. The country has a highly developed economy with a strong focus on education and career development, which can lead to delayed marriages and childbirth. Additionally, the high cost of living and the lack of affordable housing can also be significant deterrents to larger families. South Korea, similarly, has a highly competitive job market and a strong emphasis on education, which can lead to young people delaying starting families. Furthermore, the country has faced challenges in providing adequate support for child-rearing, such as affordable childcare and parental leave policies. It's also important to consider the broader context of global fertility trends. Many developed countries are experiencing low fertility rates, including Japan, Italy, and Spain. These trends can have significant implications for the future, including labor shortages, increased pressure on social security systems, and potential economic stagnation. To address these challenges, some countries have implemented policies aimed at encouraging higher fertility rates. These can include financial incentives for having children, improved maternity and paternity leave policies, and investments in childcare infrastructure. In conclusion, while the specific country with the lowest fertility rate may change over time, the broader trend of declining fertility rates in many developed countries is a significant demographic challenge. Understanding the underlying causes and implementing effective policies to address them is crucial for the long-term health and prosperity of these nations. read more >>

In 2017, the fertility rate in Singapore was estimated to be at 0.83 children per woman, making it the lowest fertility rate worldwide. Fertility rate. The fertility rate is the average number of children born per woman of child-bearing age in a country.read more >>