Comparison of Fertility Indicators in the Czech Republic and Other Countries of the EU

This Bachelor thesis compares selected period and cohort characteristics of fertility for 15 chosen European countries that are divided into four groups: post-communist countries, Northern European countries, Southern European countries and Western European countries. The aim of this thesis is to find out whether differences among selected groups of countries exist and whether differences between post-communist countries and the rest of the countries still prevail. Additionally, the thesis aims to indicate the aggregate fertility rates achieved, the average age of mothers at birth, and, finally, the proportion of children born outside marriage in countries in question. Moreover, the development of completed fertility of women born after World War II is examined to reveal whether the decline in cross-period total fertility has been later compensated at least partially, or whether the total fertility rate constantly decreases. The Eurostat and the Human Fertility databases were used to acquire elementary data. The data were later analysed. According to results, the total fertility rate in all selected countries during the second half of the last century had decreased. In some cases, it had fallen even under the level necessary to ensure basic reproduction of the population. During the present century, the aggregate total fertility rates have been fairly stable; in some countries, even moderate growth can be seen. Despite the initial decline over the past decade, the mean age of women at childbirth has been increasing in most of the countries, and oscillates around the age of 30. Also, the high proportion of children born outside marriage can be seen. Currently, apart from few exceptions, the proportion of children born outside marriage ranges between 40 and 60%. Furthermore, the research results show also that the majority of selected period and cohort characteristics examined differ a lot among the selected groups of countries. It was find out that the completed cohort fertility is decreasing with time in Southern and Northern European countries. It is assumed that the completed cohort fertility is going to increase in Western European countries for generations born after the year 1980. For post-communist countries it is assumed that the figures are going to increase for the youngest generations