The results remained negative in all regions of the country, in a year in which 79,582 children were born to mothers residing in Portugal. “This value reflects a decrease of 5.9% (4,948 fewer live births) compared to the previous year”, indicated the INE.
“Of the total number of live births, 60.0% were born out of wedlock, that is, they were children of parents not married to each other”, the institute said.
40,762 boys and 38,820 girls were born, that is, for every 100 female children, around 105 male children were born, according to INE.
Deaths
Last year, there were 124,802 deaths of people residing in the national territory, 1.2% more (1,444 more) than in 2020.
“The increase in the number of deaths and the decrease in the number of live births again determined a strong worsening of the natural balance, from -38,828 in 2020 to -45,220 in 2021”, reads the communication.
In 2021, 191 children under one year old died, 14 fewer than in 2020, keeping the infant mortality rate at 2.4 deaths per thousand live births.
Marriages
After the “strong drop in the number of marriages” celebrated in 2020 (18,902, 43.2% less than in 2019), the number of marriages last year increased to 29,057 (53.7% more).
In about two thirds of marriages (66.2%), the couple already had a previous common residence.
And the Government policies promoting the settlement of foreigners, high housing prices, and elevated inflation don't help at all!
By Tony Fernandes from Other on 27 Apr 2022, 15:30
We have transcended natural limits, we have mechanised our food production and exploded our numbers about 8 times in 200 years. We are now hitting the tipping points that will render the future untenable by yesterdays expectations. We know we must resolve to lower our numbers through education and dedicated effort to widen acceptability of family planning and access to contraception. A reduction in our numbers is to be welcomed!
By Richard P Beauchamp from UK on 27 Apr 2022, 15:52
The bibliical enjoinment to "Go forth and multiply" is entirely inept for 21st century society and the pending catastrophes which will result from uninhibited over-population. Firstly, stabalise by encouraging birth control ; secondly reduce numbers systematically by incentives . The eventual reduction in GDP will lead to a more responsible , socially productive world community.
By Cavaleiro R. from Other on 28 Apr 2022, 09:39
we need less people in the world. people should be celebrating declining populations. when I was horn, the world population was barely 3 billion! in 60 years we are now approaching 8 billion. that is the real driver of global warming!
By Ian from Other on 29 Apr 2022, 09:23
Who wants to have children in a country where instead of a constructive, positive vision for the future, the existing population is forced to live in increasing poverty and only look back at the past?
By K from Other on 29 Apr 2022, 13:42