A new global population projection has shown that the vast majority of babies expected in 2026 will be born in Asia and Africa, underlining a major demographic shift across the world.
According to the data, 85% of babies worldwide will be born in the two continents. The projection is based on estimates from the United Nations, which analysed population trends across different regions.
Asia alone is expected to lead by a wide margin, with about 64.9 million births projected in 2026. This figure represents roughly 49% of all global births. Despite falling fertility rates in countries such as China, Japan, and South Korea, the continent remains dominant due to its large population size. This means nearly one out of every two babies born in 2026 will come from Asia.
Africa follows closely, with an estimated 47.6 million births, accounting for 35.9% of the global total. The high number is linked to higher fertility rates and a relatively young population across many African countries. Population growth on the continent continues to rise and is expected to increase further in the coming decades.
Other parts of the world are projected to record significantly lower shares. Latin America and the Caribbean are expected to contribute about 7% of global births, while Europe accounts for 4.6%. North America is projected at 3%, reflecting lower fertility levels despite population growth driven by migration. Oceania will contribute about 0.5%, while Antarctica records no births due to the absence of a permanent population.
Experts note that where a person is born can influence access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. The latest figures highlight how global population growth is increasingly concentrated in specific regions, particularly Asia and Africa.
