Demographic Megatrends | Megatrends Watch Institute

Demographic Megatrends

Population Growth

The world's population will rise to 9.7 billion in 2050 from the current level of 7.7 billion, and India is set to overtake China to become the most populous nation by 2030 with 1.5 billion people. The focus of demographic growth will be on developing countries, as their populations will grow 6 times faster than that of developed countries.

Declining Growth

Global population is currently growing at a rate of 1.14% per year, which means that still increases by about 80 million people per year. Globally, the growth rate has been declining since peaking in 1962 and 1963 at 2.20% per annum. Currently, it is estimated that it will become less than 1% by 2020 and less than 0.5% by 2050.

Urbanized World

Urban population in 2018 accounted for 55% of the world's population, up from 29% in 1950, and is set to grow. It is estimated that by 2050, two out of three people will be living in cities.

Ageing Societies

In almost every country, the proportion of people aged over 60 years is growing faster than any other age group, as a result of both longer life expectancy and declining fertility rates. By 2050, it is estimated that 15.8% of people will be aged 65 or over, up from just 7.6% in 2010.

Megatrends 2050

Mega Urbanization

Population Growth