We are many

The group of 15- to 24-year-olds accounts for just 12.8 per cent of the population in ageing Europe, compared with almost 20 per cent in Africa. Researchers talk about a ‘youth bulge’, meaning that young people make up a disproportionately large share of the population.

Growing demand for jobs

A high proportion of working-age persons can have a positive effect on a country’s economy, but it can also cause problems. In sub-Saharan Africa, the number of people aged between 15 and 64 will increase by around 150 per cent by 2050.

TOP 5 youngest and oldest countries

Niger has the youngest population in the world on average. Around two thirds of its people are under 25 years old, and the population is growing rapidly. The supply of food, jobs and education cannot keep pace.

A strong entrepreneurial spirit in South America

A lack of career prospects and an increase in independent business initiatives often go hand in hand. This is evident from a survey conducted in 2014, which asked 6,700 women and men aged between 18 and 30 what they want to achieve by 2024.

Africa’s demographic challenge

Like many African countries, Nigeria’s age structure is tilted sharply towards the younger generations. This offers opportunities as well as challenges, and contrasts with the European Union, which has a declining birth rate.

Politicians and their young constituents

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The difference in the average age of politicians and the electorate is immense – and can cause social discord.

Sources: United Nations, CIA – The World Factbook, Guardian, Telefónica

published in akzente 1/15