Abstract:

Discussed are pronatalist & migration policies that have been introduced in selected European countries (France, German Democratic Republic, Hungary, Romania, UK, Sweden, Switzerland, & the Federal Republic of Germany). Measures & objectives are briefly described, & the efficacy of each population policy is evaluated. The case studies show that pronatalist policies have had limited effects. Migration policies seem to have been more effective, although their aims so far have been largely nondemographic. Migration strategies will increasingly have to be considered for demographic reasons, to counterbalance population decline. Both pronatalist & migration strategies tend to conflict with other policies (socioeconomic policies, emancipation, or housing policies), & to be in competition with the demands of an aging society. Limits to the development or expansion of either strategy are outlined, & some untried mechanisms mentioned.