Demographic trends in European Union countries during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

PURPOSE: The main aim of this study is analyse the impact of the pandemic on the demographic situation in the European Union countries between 2015 and 2023. The situation before the pandemic and its impact in 2020–2021 and 2022–2023 will be presented.

DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: Eurostat is the source of the analysed data. This study employed taxonomic analysis, a non-model method. Four key variables were analysed across the period considered: population density per 1 km2 , total dependency ratio, net migration rate per 1,000 people and natural increase rate per 1,000 people.

FINDINGS: The analysis revealed a decline in demographic development in the period considered and a statistically significant decrease in the demographic development change dynamics index during the pandemic.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The results of the study can be used as recommendations for regional development policies.

ORIGINALITY/VALUE: A comparison of the demographic development of EU countries shows a decline during the period under examination.