Record-low birth rate. Data show where population is shrinking in Czechia

Czechia is recording its lowest birth rate in at least 250 years, with the number of children born continuing to fall since 2021. Data analysed by SeznamZpravy.cz show that in 2024 fewer children were born than at any time since 1785, when systematic records began. According to the Czech Statistical Office, large cities such as Prague, Brno and Ostrava have seen the sharpest declines in recent years. Experts say most Czechs still consider two children the ideal family size, but high housing costs, job pressures, difficulties finding partners and infertility are leading many to delay or forgo parenthood, accelerating population ageing.