Eurostat: EU population projected to decline by 53 million by 2100

Europe is entering a long phase of demographic contraction

Eurostat’s new population projections indicate that the European Union could have around 398.8 million inhabitants at the beginning of 2100. This represents a projected decrease of 53.0 million people compared with 2025.

Under the central scenario, the EU population is expected to continue growing slightly over the next few years, peaking at 453.3 million in 2029 before gradually declining.

This is not merely a statistical projection. It points to a profound transformation of European society: fewer younger generations, a smaller working-age population and a growing share of older people.

• EU population in 2025: 451.8 million.
• Projected peak: 453.3 million in 2029.
• Projected population in 2100: 398.8 million.
• Projected decrease 2025–2100: 53.0 million people.

For Slovenia, the European context is essential. Demographic challenges are not isolated national phenomena, but part of a wider European transition affecting labour markets, pension systems, healthcare, long-term care and regional development.

The Institute for Demographic Future therefore treats these projections as a signal that demographic change must be addressed with long-term, research-based and strategic thinking.