Population And Settlement

* **Italy and Japan** are often cited as prime examples of countries with rapidly ageing populations and **very low birth rates**. Both countries have been grappling with the economic and social consequences of these demographic trends for several years. * **South Korea** has also emerged as a country with significant demographic concerns. Its fertility rate is one of the lowest in the world, and its population is projected to start declining in the coming years.  * Nigeria and South Africa, while facing their own set of demographic challenges, are generally not highlighted for low birth rates or declining populations. Nigeria has a very young and rapidly growing population. South Africa’s population growth has slowed in recent years, but it is not yet experiencing a decline.