AZE.US
Azerbaijan recorded one of its sharpest declines in births in recent years during the first five months of 2026.
According to the State Statistical Committee, 28,631 babies were born nationwide between January and May. That was more than 10,000 fewer than during the same period last year, representing a decline of about 26%.
Experts link the fall to a combination of economic, social, medical and demographic factors.
Doctors say a growing number of couples are postponing parenthood. One specialist said that three or four out of every 10 patients now say they do not plan to have children in the near future.
Medical professionals warn that delaying pregnancy until close to the age of 40 can increase the risk of complications and certain health problems for both mothers and babies.
Sociologists also point to changes in family patterns, including the growing preference for smaller families. They said the current decline is more severe than the decreases recorded in previous years.
Experts warned that if the trend continues for another five or six years, Azerbaijan could face serious long-term consequences, including labor shortages and greater pressure on the pension and social welfare systems.
Economists said the country may eventually struggle to meet demand for both highly skilled workers and employees in physically demanding or lower-skilled sectors.
The demographic shift is also expected to increase the share of elderly people in the population. The proportion of residents aged 65 and older currently stands at about 7% to 8%, but could rise to 20% by 2050.
That would significantly increase state spending on pensions, social assistance, healthcare and other services for older citizens.
Experts said stronger support for young families, improved living standards and more effective incentives for parents could help slow the decline.
AZE.US