Towards a Populous Future, Policy Solutions and Prospects in Iran's Population Sphere: A Policy Brief

The population of any country plays a crucial role in its economic, social, cultural, and political development. A young population enhances the workforce and economic dynamism of the country. Changes in lifestyle and a series of population, economic, and political policies in recent years have exposed Iran to the risk of population aging and demographic warnings from social researchers. The situation is such that population experts unanimously believe that if the current trend of increasing births and population growth continues, the country will face a major population crisis in the next 30 years. The present study examined the challenges and policy solutions in the field of Iran's population, considering a densely populated future. Considering the age pyramid between 1990 and 2000, Iran has experienced significant population growth, providing an effective and active workforce for the country. According to statistical models, Iran's population is projected to age significantly by 2030 and 2050. The complex issue of increasing fertility and population growth requires comprehensive and balanced measures. Promoting public awareness, financial support for families, social security provision, gender balance, housing facilities, population research, rural development, and collaboration with non-governmental organizations can be considered appropriate policies to increase fertility in Iran. The population issue should not be politicized, with some opposing and others supporting it; everyone should collaborate to address this significant gap. Considering the serious concerns and warnings of the Supreme Leader regarding population aging and the expressed concerns about the decline in population and the inadequacy of the current situation, policies for increasing fertility and population growth are on the agenda. However, all organizations, agencies, and individuals who can contribute to the realization of these policies must actively and seriously participate.