Influences of Origin and Destination on Migrant Fertility in Europe

Eleonora Mussino , Stockholm University
Stefano Cantalini, Università degli Studi di Milano

Theories of migrant fertility were developed with migration from high- to low-fertility contexts in mind. Although some of the same explanations are applicable to migration from low- to low- fertility or low- to high- fertility contexts, they may take on a different character. By focusing on immigrants from low-fertility countries (Poland and Romania) that live in a context with comparatively high fertility (UK and Sweden) as well as low (Italy), and using a multi origin/destination approach that includes also stayers at origin, we will be able to distinguish between the role of culture and social norms and that of institutional and social policy context in childbearing behavior. Testing the main hypotheses related to fertility of migrants with this innovative perspective, the paper will produce valuable input to policy makers in Europe about potential remedies for declining fertility. The paper also covers issues of immigrant integration, a topic that has emerged as increasingly pressing on the political agenda in several European countries, through the lens of family demographic change.

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 Presented in Session 118. Fertility of Migrants