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Beyond Economic Incentives: The Role of Social Factors in Youth Population: A Policy Brief
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Kianoosh Yavarmanesh1    , Fahimeh Pourhaji *2 |
1- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran
2- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran & Kashmar School of Medical Sciences, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran , pourhajif@mums.ac.ir |
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Abstract: (70 Views) |
Background and Objectives: Population aging and declining fertility rates have become critical socio-economic challenges for governments. In Iran, population aging is accelerating rapidly, with projections indicating that more than 30% of the population will be elderly by 2050. Although addressing social determinants is essential for effective population policymaking, this dimension remains considerably underrecognized within Iran’s health and policy systems. This policy brief emphasizes the necessity of investigating the role of social factors in promoting population youthfulness and provides evidence-based policy recommendations.
Materials and Methods: This study, presented as a policy brief, employs an analytical-review approach based on relevant documents and literature on population policy-making from 2011 to 2024. Proposed operational solutions were prioritized based on criteria including effectiveness, feasibility, cost, speed of impact, and sustainability.
Results: The findings indicate that relying solely on economic incentives is insufficient for overcoming the demographic crisis. The proposed policies were prioritized across eight key domains: strengthening maternal identity, consolidating family foundations, enhancing intra-family vitality, combating the “only-child” culture, preventing induced abortions, promoting timely marriage, facilitating marriage, and communicating the benefits of a youthful population.
Conclusion: Achieving the goal of a youthful population requires a shift from unidimensional incentives toward comprehensive and integrated social policies. For sustainable demographic outcomes, simultaneous synergy across cultural, educational, economic, health, and policy-making dimensions is essential. A systemic approach to these factors can create the necessary infrastructure to harness the potential of the younger generation for the nation’s scientific and economic progress. |
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| Keywords: Social Factors, Population Youthfulness, Fertility Rate, Population Policy |
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Full-Text [PDF 590 kb]
(24 Downloads)
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Type of Study: Research Article |
Subject:
health
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