DS Population > Pop Proj > Intro EN REVAMP

This subsection provides information, demographic data and indicators on population projections.

What are population projections?

Population projections are ‘what-if’ scenarios that aim to show hypothetical developments of the population size and structure. These projections are based on a set of assumptions for future levels of fertility, mortality, and migration. They are presented for a long-term period, covering more than 50 years.

They provide information about how the population size and structure of European Union (EU) and European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries would change if the assumptions made regarding fertility, mortality, and migration remained true over the entire projection period.

Why are population projections useful?

Even although they are hypothetical ‘what-if’ exercises, population projections help the public, statisticians and policymakers to understand population dynamics. The usual projection time period spans over several decades, sometimes up to a century. Therefore, they contribute to an informed debate on demographic and societal changes, which affect our everyday lives.

They are used as input for various policies, such as the assessment of the long-term sustainability of public finance, the analysis of the impact of ageing populations on the labour market and potential economic growth, as well as for the European semester. For example, in the European context, demographic projections enable the analysis of the long-run economic and fiscal implications of Europe's ageing population.