
Pakistan Poised to Become World’s Third Most Populous Country by 2050
The United Nations World Fertility Report 2024 reveals that Pakistan’s fertility rate has dropped significantly, from six births per woman in 1994 to 3.6 in 2024. Despite this reduction, Pakistan is expected to overtake several countries, becoming the third most populous nation by 2050.
In 1947, Pakistan's population stood at 31 million. By 2023, this figure had skyrocketed to 241 million. To address this rapid increase, Pakistan has implemented family planning initiatives, distributed contraceptives, and conducted educational campaigns, particularly in rural regions. International organizations, including the UN Population Fund have supported these efforts.
Nonetheless, cultural, religious, and gender-related challenges impede further reductions in population growth rates. Projections indicate that by 2050, Pakistan's population could exceed 380 million, with the fertility rate decreasing to 2.5 by 2054.
While strides have been made in controlling population growth, considerable efforts are still required to ensure sustainable development and enhance living conditions for Pakistan’s burgeoning population.
Image by Dialogue Pakistan