The 2023 census indicates that Uruguay’s population has grown by 2.5% to 3,499,451. Despite this growth, the fertility rate has fallen to 1.7 children per woman, leading to concerns about negative population growth unless offset by immigration. The capital, Montevideo, remains the largest city, accounting for 37% of the population.
According to Uruguay’s recent census conducted by the National Statistics Institute (INE), the country’s population has reached 3,499,451, reflecting a 2.5% increase since the previous census in 2011. Notably, the fertility rate has slightly decreased from 1.8 to 1.7 children per woman. The census also revealed a worrying trend with 31,385 births juxtaposed against 34,678 deaths recorded in the past year. INE director Diego Aboal indicated that without immigration to offset these numbers, Uruguay may face a negative population growth.
Uruguay has experienced a significant decline in birth rates, with 18,000 fewer births reported over the last eight years. In an interesting contrast, the number of foreign residents in the country has increased by 4% since 2011. The capital city, Montevideo, remains the most populated area, housing 1,302,954 residents, which constitutes approximately 37% of the nation’s total population.
The national census is a critical tool for understanding demographic changes in Uruguay. The results illustrate not only the growth in population but also a concerning decline in fertility and an imbalance between births and deaths. Such trends are vital for policymakers as they affect various sectors, including healthcare, education, and immigration policies. Understanding these dynamics is essential for addressing the challenges posed by an aging population and establishing sustainable growth strategies.
In conclusion, while Uruguay’s population has grown since the last census, the decline in the birth rate and the number of deaths exceeding births present significant demographic challenges. The increase in foreign residents may provide a partial solution to potential population decline, underscoring the importance of immigration in maintaining demographic balance.
Original Source: www.socialnews.xyz