Emerging population issues

It is quite alarming that population issues in Bangladesh are becoming more diverse and multifaceted. The country is currently experiencing significant opportunities due to changes in its age structure. In 2022, around 65.5 per cent of the population was of working age (15-64), a notable increase from just 49 per cent in 1974, according to the Census. However, at the same time, the ageing population is rising, from 3.4 per cent in 1974 to 5.89 per cent in 2022. This presents an emerging challenge for the future. Additionally, the process of urbanisation is intensifying. In 2022, around 31.5 per cent of the population lived in urban areas, compared to just 8.78 per cent in 1974, although the definition of "urban" has since evolved. The issue of decentralising larger cities like Dhaka and Chattogram remains unaddressed. As a result, population management requires more focused attention.
Moreover, several challenges continue to affect maternal and child health, including child marriage, teenage pregnancy, unmet needs for family planning services, high rates of C-sections, illegal and unsafe abortions, under-five mortality, maternal mortality, and malnutrition. Both maternal and child malnutrition and the double burden of malnutrition are pressing concerns. Non-communicable diseases, the resurgence of communicable diseases, and a poor healthcare system remain significant obstacles to ensuring a healthy population in the future.
Another critical issue is the potential future burden posed by the growing youth population, particularly in terms of increasing youth unemployment and the prevalence of an unskilled labour force. According to the 2022 Bangladesh Census, nearly one-third of the youth population is not engaged in education, employment, or training. The unemployment rate was 3.53 per cent in 2022, down from 4.6 per cent in 2010, according to the Labour Force Survey 2022. To address these issues, greater emphasis must be placed on quality education and skill-based vocational training. Emerging concerns regarding the physical and psychological health of students also need attention. A healthy socialisation process, the reduction of psychological stress, and the promotion of digital literacy are essential for the younger generation.
An equally important issue is the need to ensure good governance and political stability. Without the proper functioning of government and a well-structured legal process, many problems will continue to arise in the future. Population dynamics are constantly evolving, and it is crucial to focus on these emerging issues to prevent them from hindering long-term development.
By addressing its multifaceted challenges, Bangladesh has the potential to become a universal example of sustainable development.

Md. Idris Ali
Student
Department of Population Sciences
University of DhakaEmail: [email protected]