The European Union would face a demographic decline after reaching a historic peak.

According to a report published by the Joint Research Centre (JRC), the European Union is approaching a historic demographic peak, with a population of 450.6 million inhabitants, expected to grow slightly until 2029, reaching 453.3 million.

However, a slow decline is anticipated, reaching 445 million by 2050 and 398.8 million by 2100, similar to levels in the 1970s. At the same time, life expectancy has increased to 81.5 years, and by 2050, nearly a third of the population will be 65 years or older.

These demographic changes pose challenges, such as labor force shortages and pressure on health and education systems. European Commissioner Dubravka Suica emphasizes the need to turn these challenges into opportunities, particularly through the development of the 'silver economy' and improving productivity.

Immigration is mentioned as a compensatory factor, but not enough to significantly change the demographic trajectory of the EU.