‘For policy, it means shifting the question from “How can we change or reverse current trends?” to “How can societies remain prosperous, equitable, and sustainable under conditions of low fertility, population aging and, in many places, population decline?”’ Yes! That’s the right question.

Austerity policies limit the right to parent in safe and healthy environments by decoupling service provision and welfare entitlements from the level of need. Our latest paper with @jenchanfreau.bsky.social shows that they can also have knock-on effects on the right to have a child.