The population of less developed regions is projected to rise steadily from 4.9 billion in 2000 to 8.2 billion in 2050, under middle of the road estimates. This projection assumes continuing declines in fertility. In the absence of such declines, the population of less developed regions could reach 11.9 billion instead of the projected 8.2 billion. Particularly rapid growth is expected among the group of 48 countries classified as least developed. Their population is expected to nearly triple between 2000 and 2050, passing from 658 million to 1.8 billion, despite the fact that their fertility is projected to decline markedly in the future.
International migration is projected to remain high during the twenty-first century.
The more developed regions are expected to remain net receivers of international migrants, with an average gain of about two million per year over the next 50 years. Because of low fertility, this migration has a significant impact on population growth in the more developed regions. Without migration, the population of more developed regions as a whole would start declining in 2003 rather than in 2025, and by 2050 it would be 126 million less than the 1.18 billion projected under the assumption of continued migration. Recipients should seek permission to reprint the article from the source listed above. Reading on line, downloading or other use of this information signifies acceptance of these conditions, and the Full Disclaimer.