Pro Natalist Policy In France

Question 1

What was France’s fertility rate prior to the policy?

Answer 1

1.9, one of the highest in Europe but it still faced a declining population

Question 2

What were reasons which France faced a declining population?

Answer 2

1 Women postponing the age at which they start a family (2004 average was 29)

2. Longer gaps between births
3. Previous policies only encouraged ‘poorer’ women to have more children

Question 3

What did France’s pro natalist policy involve?

Answer 3

1. An increased monthly grant to professional women who postpone work to have a second or third child. The grant is ties to the mothers salary
2. Longer, better paid maternity leave
3. More state run/approved crèches, free child care from the age of 3
4. Tax breaks and public transport discounts for families with 3 or more children

Question 4

Was this policy (France) successful?

Answer 4

Yes France now has the second highest BR in Europe behind Ireland