Elon Musk warns of population collapse in EU due to low birth rates

Elon Musk has raised concerns about a significant decline in birth rates within the European Union, which has reached a record low. In 2022, the number of live births in the EU fell below 4 million for the first time since 1960, with only 3.88 million babies born. The average fertility rate in the EU has dropped to 1.46, significantly lower than the global average of 2.27. Countries like Malta, Spain, and Italy are among those with the lowest fertility rates, indicating a broader demographic crisis. Musk's warnings are part of a larger narrative regarding declining birth rates globally, which he believes poses a serious threat to civilization. He has previously stated that a collapsing birth rate is the biggest danger facing humanity. His concerns echo those of other world leaders, such as Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has encouraged families to have more children to maintain ethnic identity. The implications of these declining birth rates extend beyond demographics; they also affect economic stability. For instance, Japan has already begun to feel the economic repercussions of its low birth rate, with manufacturers shifting focus from baby products to adult markets. This trend highlights the potential for a shrinking younger population to impact various sectors of the economy. Musk has urged individuals to consider having more children to counteract the impending population collapse, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. As birth rates continue to decline, the future demographic landscape of Europe and beyond remains uncertain, raising questions about the sustainability of current economic and social structures.