Image: Getty Images/ For illustrative purposes
The global population reached approximately 8.156 billion in 2024, an increase of about 82 million people from the previous year’s 8.083 billion, according to estimates by the German Foundation for World Population.
The milestone highlights the world’s continued population growth, though at a slower pace than in previous decades.
The United Nations previously reported the global population surpassed the eight billion mark in November 2022 and forecasts it will exceed nine billion by 2037.
A further rise to 10 billion is projected in the second half of the century, despite declining growth rates.
Global population shows deceleration
According to the foundation, the global fertility rate, currently averaging 2.2 children per woman, has played a key role in the deceleration.
Population growth is particularly pronounced in Africa, where the population is projected to double within the next two decades. The continent’s rapid expansion underscores both opportunities and challenges, including strains on infrastructure, education, and healthcare systems.
Globally, the deceleration of growth reflects demographic shifts such as ageing populations in regions such as Europe and East Asia, which are experiencing lower birth rates and longer life expectancies.
Experts emphasise that understanding these trends is crucial for addressing global challenges such as resource allocation, urbanisation, and sustainability.
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