Immigration and Family Policy in Continental Western Europe

Abstract

Current demographic concerns in European countries, resulting from a decrease in natural population growth and an increase in aging populations, are a significant focus for governments. Efficient mechanisms must be sought to resolve these issues. The article examines the impact of immigration on demographic trends. It also explores the unique characteristics and outcomes of family policies across continental Western European countries. The methodology employed in this research relies on the demographic transition theory to study population changes. It considers family policies in Western European nations from the perspective of their typology and in the context of social state models. Furthermore, the study utilizes statistical analysis methods on data obtained from international organizations. The study’s key findings are as follows: Western European nations experience severe socio-­demographic imbalances, which depend on their stage of demographic transition. While immigration increases the birth rate in the host countries, it does not even allow for the basic replacement of the population and generates negative socio-­political effects. The findings of the study make it possible to indicate the declining role of the family in the course of the European values system transformation. Besides, the results testify to the rapprochement of family policy models on the continent, as well as to the adoption of the local reproductive patterns by the migrants. The positive demographic situation in France, unlike in other states, is attributed to a unique family policy model that encourages larger families, implements pro-natal policies, and prioritizes the promotion of female employment. The experience of Western European states in developing and implementing the family policies in Russia may help improve its demographic situation.