ReproUnion is proud to contribute to Sweden’s national inquiry Framtid med Barn (A Future with Children), which is a comprehensive initiative addressing the societal, economic and demographic implications of declining birth rates in Sweden.
As part of a dedicated working group, experts from ReproUnion are contributing a forthcoming report focusing on involuntary childlessness, which brings together extensive clinical experience and research-based knowledge to include important biological aspects.
The contribution examines involuntary childlessness from multiple perspectives: biological factors in both women and men as well as couple-related factors; the influence of lifestyle and environmental exposures; and the psychosocial dimensions of undergoing fertility treatment. By combining clinical insight with population-based research, the report aims to ensure that infertility and its implications are included in the broader debate on why Swedes are having too few children.
“It has been a privilege for us in ReproUnion to contribute to the work on “Framtid med barn”. The dialogue with Åsa Hansson, head of the committee at the Ministry of Health and Social Affairs, has made it possible for our experts to share clinical and research perspectives developed through many years of cross-border collaboration. We have also found it very valuable to gain insight into the broader areas that the inquiry is exploring,” says Kristine, Project Director of ReproUnion.
The national inquiry has already published two reports: Den tysta krisen, addressing the long-term economic consequences of declining birth rates, and Från höga till sjunkande fruktsamhetstal, examining the demographic shifts behind falling fertility. Together, they frame the societal structural challenges associated with a lower birth rate. Kristine emphasizes: “If we want to understand declining birth rates, we must also address why many people who wish to have children face reproductive challenges. Involuntary childlessness is a key piece of that puzzle and needs to be central to the discussion going forward.”
The launch of the third report is expected later this spring, and ReproUnion looks forward to following the continued process. Åsa Hansson will also present the Swedish inquiry at the upcoming ReproUnion Summit in April, where the intersection between research, policy and innovation in reproductive health will be in focus.
By contributing to Framtid med Barn, ReproUnion continues to strengthen the bridge between science and society, ensuring that knowledge on reproductive health and infertility plays a central role in shaping future policy discussions in Sweden and beyond.
