World: Highest Population Decline Rates, by country
CountryPopulation decline, compared to the previous year,
in %
Cook IslandsCook Islands2.31
American SamoaAmerican Samoa1.74
Puerto RicoPuerto Rico1.29
Saint Pierre and MiquelonSaint Pierre and Miquelon1.19
MoldovaMoldova1.14
LatviaLatvia1.13
LithuaniaLithuania1.04
RomaniaRomania1.01
EstoniaEstonia0.74
MicronesiaMicronesia0.70
BulgariaBulgaria0.66
SerbiaSerbia0.63
UkraineUkraine0.52
British Virgin IslandsBritish Virgin Islands0.49
CroatiaCroatia0.47
MontenegroMontenegro0.43
JapanJapan0.41
ArmeniaArmenia0.40
Northern Mariana IslandsNorthern Mariana Islands0.35
GreeceGreece0.35
  • Region: Worldwide
  • Time period: 2023
  • Published: Apr 2024

Data Analysis and Insights

Updated: Apr 13, 2024 | Published by: Statistico | About Us | Data sources

The Cook Islands leads in population decline

The Cook Islands experience the highest population decline rate at 2.31%, indicating a significant challenge in maintaining its demographic stability compared to other territories listed.

Top five countries with population decline

Following the Cook Islands, American Samoa (1.74%), Puerto Rico (1.29%), Saint Pierre and Miquelon (1.19%), and Moldova (1.14%) comprise the top five entities with the highest rates of population decrease, showcasing a diverse geographic spread of demographic challenges.

Eastern Europe's notable population decline

Eastern European countries such as Moldova, Latvia (1.13%), Lithuania (1.04%), Romania (1.01%), and Bulgaria (0.66%) prominently feature in the list, highlighting a regional trend of shrinking populations.

Less than 1% decline in major economies

Major economies like Japan (0.41%) and Greece (0.35%) witness a population decline rate of less than 1%, posing less immediate demographic pressure compared to the top ranking entities.

Island nations and territories face unique challenges

Island nations and territories such as the Cook Islands, American Samoa, and Puerto Rico lead the list, suggesting that smaller, isolated regions might be facing more acute demographic challenges.

Eastern European dominance in population decline

Eastern Europe exhibits a significant presence with seven countries on the list, reflecting broader regional demographic issues that may impact future economic and social structures.

Variation in decline rates

The population decline rates vary notably, ranging from 2.31% to 0.35%, indicating a wide disparity in how different regions are experiencing demographic changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which territory has the highest population decline rate?

The Cook Islands have the highest population decline rate at 2.31%.

Which are the top five territories with population decrease?

Following the Cook Islands, the top territories are American Samoa (1.74%), Puerto Rico (1.29%), Saint Pierre and Miquelon (1.19%), and Moldova (1.14%).

Which region prominently features in population decline?

Eastern European countries such as Moldova, Latvia (1.13%), Lithuania (1.04%), Romania (1.01%), and Bulgaria (0.66%) prominently feature in population decline.

Terms and Definitions

Population refers to the total number of inhabitants in a specific area. This could include a city, region, country or the entire world. In the context of this article, population likely refers to the number of people currently residing in a specific country.

Population decline, also known as negative population growth, refers to a reduction in the population over time. This can result from various factors, including a high death rate, low birth rate, migration, or any combination thereof.

Birth rate, often measured per 1,000 people, is the number of live births in a year. It's a significant factor in population growth, as a high birth rate would lead to an increase in the population assuming other factors remain constant.

Death rate, usually measured per 1,000 people, represents the number of deaths in a given year. A high death rate can lead to population decline if it exceeds the birth rate.

Fertility rate is the average number of children born to a woman over her lifetime. It is a major demographic factor that influences the growth or decline of a population. A fertility rate below 2.1 children per woman often leads to a natural decrease in population, given no immigration.
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