Falling fertility rates worldwide are not driven by young people rejecting marriage, children or family life, but by economic and housing constraints, according to a new survey by the UN reproductive and sexual health agency, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), released on 7 July 2026, as reported by UN News. The Demographic Futures Survey polled more than 108,000 Internet-connected adults aged 18 to 39 across 73 countries and territories. Respondents shared their views on relationships, children and the future. The findings challenge myths surrounding the so-called "global baby bust". They also reveal that most young people still aspire to partnership and parenthood.