IELTS Writing Task 2 : The birth rate in most developed countries
The birth rate in most developed countries is predicted to begin to fall over the next 50 years. By 2030 it is estimated that over one-third of the population in most developed countries will be aged 65 and over:
What effects will these predictions have on developed countries if they prove true? What can be done now to deal with this situation?
Give reason for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
OR
Many developed countries now have large numbers of people over the age of 65. What problems might this cause? How can the problems be solved?
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer 01 :
The birth rate in most developed countries is predicted to begin to fall over the next 50 years. By 2030 it is estimated that over one-third of the population in most developed countries will be aged 65 and over. What effects will these predictions have on developed countries if they prove true? What can be done now to deal with this situation?
In modern Europe, the problem of birth rates has become very actual. As a result, many issues will arise, and the present generation of people will see a significant number of changes. It is essential to outline some notable aspects of this question, such as the rise in the number of new migrants and the ruin of the pension system, which can be compensated only by a decrease of pensions.
First of all, the population of every country is a working force, and the lack of it creates many problems for the economy. At the same time, there are several solutions to this problem that are appropriate in the world. For example, to attract people from developing countries to reside in Europe with the aim of filling the gap. Unfortunately, it is predictable that this tendency can make worse the relations on the cultural base, and this the reason why certain parts of society do not accept this idea.
Secondly, the stability of the pension system depends on one vital factor – the number of people who work and pay their taxes. The decline of the population always leads to a reduction of budget revenue and an economy in state spending. In this case, the government is obligated to make some unpopular decisions, for instance, to reduce pensions. This solution is regarded as negative. However, it is the most suitable answer in this situation.
In conclusion, it is important to make a remark here; that the decline of the population is a very negative trend which can bring some bad consequences, such as the problem with the workforce, or the crisis of the pension system. However, there are some unpleasant solutions to these problems, the reduction of pensions and changes in migration policy with the target of attracting new employees from foreign countries.
Model Answer 02 :
The predictions show that the birth rate in industrial nations will decline over the next half of the century. Estimations have reported that over 30% of technologically advanced societies will get 65 years old and over by 2030. This alarming trend leads to decreasing population, tax incomes and active labor.
Falling birth rate yields a plethora of hurdles. At first, the low rate of pregnancy among women results in declining the population of the country. Furthermore, this hitch causes the reduction of taxable incomes, so the government must spend a huge amount of budget for medical care and social services in order to support old people. Finally, the third obstacle of this condition is the plunge of active work force.
On the other hand, economic experts have suggested a host of solutions for this upheaval. The first effective solution is fortifying incentive policies for rising fertility rate among young couples. As a prime example, the government can pay a subsidy for any newborn kids. In addition, the second technique of problem solving that can reform this dilemma is expediting immigration of young skilled workers and experienced engineers from less developed countries. Nowadays, a wide spectrum of states implements this policy. As an outstanding instance, Australia has facilitated the entrance of migrants. Thus the government publishes a list of required labor in certain fields based on specific criteria annually.
In conclusion, the drop of birth rate escalates an amounting number of challenges such as shortage of labor forces, the peak of old age group and the exacerbate of social services and health-cares. These disastrous crises can be modified by executing beneficial methods like financial support of couples for raise of fertility and accelerating of immigration processes.
