United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean

Latin America and the Caribbean Demographic Observatory 2024

This 2024 edition of the Demographic Observatory presents the main demographic indicators for Latin America and the Caribbean according to the 2024 revision of the United Nations population estimates and projections and in comparison with the 2000 revision, with the objective of highlighting the main demographic changes that have occurred in the region since the beginning of the 21st century. Analysis of the two revisions shows that birth and death rates declined more rapidly than projected in 2000, except during the pandemic when the latter increased sharply, and that the migration balance was more negative than expected. The change in the age structure of the population resulting from the accelerated demographic transition, as well as the persistent fall in fertility to below replacement rate levels, add to the challenges already existing in the region, given its high levels of socio-economic inequality and access to government goods and services. Ageing has implications for all areas of public policy and, most notably, leads to increased demand for long-term care services. Undoubtedly, the demographics of the present and the future are key to building more productive, inclusive and sustainable societies in Latin America and the Caribbean.