La transición demográfica en América Latina. Algunas consideraciones sobre el caso mexicano

Abstract

The concept of demographic transition (DT) explains the relationship between demographic and social, economic and cultural changes. DT is the process during which a country reduces its high mortality and fertility rates. Two stages can be identified in this process: first there is a decrease in mortality rates, leading to an increase in population’s growth rate; but then comes a reduction in the fertility rate, and an ensuing decline of population growth. Latin American countries, in average, are going through the second stage, though in some of them mortality and fertility rates are still high (Bolivia and Haiti, for instance). The main consequence of DT is the alteration of the population pyramid’s shape, according to age groups, since there is a decline in the proportion of children and, in increase in the adult and aged population. This situation entails advantages and challenges that Latin American governments must face: the drop in child population could allow a shift in public policies for education and health from assuring reach to improving quality and efficiency; on the other side, the rise in adult and aged population could mean higher employment demand and the need to develop and implement new health services an professionals to take care of the elderly. It is, thus, imperative for Latin American leaders to understand this process and keep in mind that the state’s intervention is crucial so that large sectors of the population, who require special conditions and support, may play a part in the social and economic development of the region.

La transición demográfica en América Latina. Algunas consideraciones sobre el caso mexicano