ABSTRACT

This chapter discusses the determinants of fertility and population growth and the impact of policies. It explores that fast population growth exacerbates development problems, particularly the ability to provide adequate education and employment for the young. The chapter shows that rapid population growth may have retarded the development process in some countries. It explains why in the recent past poverty stagnated and inequality increased while at the same time aspirations were rising, contributing to the social frustrations that fueled the 2011 Arab uprisings. The chapter concludes that the high population growth has often overwhelmed the capacities of economies and administrations to provide good health, education, and infrastructure in much of the region. It also concludes that the better health and education can make people more productive, such enhancements can materialize only if labor markets can match these healthier, better-trained individuals with jobs that utilize their skills.