1983 Rate of Natural Increase

In 1983, the global rate of natural increase (RNI)—the difference between birth and death rates, excluding migration—stood at approximately 1.8% per year, reflecting the momentum of the post-World War II baby boom and declining mortality rates worldwide. Africa exhibited the highest RNI among all continents, with many countries such as Nigeria and Kenya experiencing rates above 3%, driven by high fertility and improving healthcare. Asia, home to over half the world’s population, had a slightly lower RNI, around 2%, with rapid growth in countries like India, Indonesia, and Pakistan, while China’s RNI was beginning to decline due to the implementation of the one-child policy. Latin America also saw high RNI, often above 2%, particularly in Central America and the Andean region. In contrast, Europe’s RNI was near zero or even negative in some Eastern European countries, as low birth rates and aging populations offset modest mortality declines. North America and Oceania had moderate RNI levels, generally below 1%, with the United States and Australia experiencing slower natural growth compared to developing regions. This period marked a clear demographic divide: developing countries faced rapid population growth, while developed countries approached demographic stability or even decline.

Data from US Census International Database