A new study conducted by the Maldives National University (MNU) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has identified the rising cost of living and inadequate living conditions as key factors driving the country’s declining fertility rate.
The findings were formally unveiled at a ceremony held at MNU, attended by several Cabinet ministers, including Minister of Social and Family Development Dr Aishath Shiham, Minister of Sports, Fitness and Recreation Abdulla Rafiu, and Minister of Higher Education, Employment and Skills Development Dr Ali Haider Ahmed.
UNFPA Maldives Country Director Kunle Adeniyi, speaking at the launch, drew attention to the changing demographic landscape both in the Maldives and globally. He highlighted the importance of supporting youth and women to lead healthy lives, noting the ongoing initiatives led by UNFPA to encourage that outcome.
The research was presented by UNFPA consultant Dr Tatiana Karabchuk, a specialist in labour and demographic research. A panel discussion followed the presentation, with experts reflecting on the implications of the study for national policy.
According to UNFPA Maldives Head of Office Shadiya Ibrahim, the research clearly points to the economic burdens and lack of adequate housing as central reasons families are having fewer children. She noted in an interview with PSM News that these conditions have created an environment where people increasingly delay or decide against having children.
The fertility rate in the Maldives has seen a steady decline over the years, mirroring trends observed in other parts of the world. Fewer children are being born per woman of reproductive age, with social shifts, greater prioritisation of education and careers, and limitations in accessing reproductive health services also contributing to this demographic change.
Both MNU and UNFPA have voiced optimism that the study will spark deeper national conversations on how to address the issue through data-driven policymaking.
