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View all search resultsEconomic woes hinder young people from starting families: UNFPA
Financial security emerged as the most important factor in forming a romantic relationship, with 81 percent of respondents identifying it as their top consideration.
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An illustration depicts financial planning and family security, symbolizing the economic stability many young people consider a prerequisite for marriage and parenthood. (Shutterstock/Father-Studio)
A
s headlines around the world focus on declining birth rates, a new study by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has found that economic struggles, particularly financial insecurity and unstable employment, are preventing many young people from building the families they want.
The study, published on Tuesday, surveyed more than 108,000 internet-connected men and women aged 18 to 39 across 73 countries and territories in late 2025 and early 2026. It asked respondents about relationships, children and their future family plans.
Financial security emerged as the most important factor in forming a romantic relationship, with 81 percent of respondents identifying it as their top consideration.
Around 57 percent said economic and housing constraints were the main barriers to forming a relationship, regardless of region or income level. Marriage remained the ideal form of relationship for about two-thirds of those surveyed.
When considering parenthood, 88 percent of respondents cited financial security as a precondition for having children, followed by stable employment (87 percent) and emotional readiness (85 percent).
Despite these financial constraints, the primary motivation for parenthood remained emotional. Eight in 10 respondents said they wanted children because they believed parenthood would bring joy and happiness to their lives, while 60 percent said it would strengthen their relationship with a romantic partner. By comparison, only 48 percent said government encouragement motivated them to have children.
"Young people carry an inspiring sense of hope and a clear vision for their families and futures," said Diene Keita, executive director of UNFPA, in a statement released alongside the report on Tuesday.
