If you survey women born in 1965, who are today nearing the end of their childbearing years, you will find that that majority are mothers; however:

  • in France, about 1 woman in 10 has never had a child;
  • in Germany, nearly 3 women in 10 have never had a child.

I think that the difference between these European neighbors has more to do with personal choices than with public policies. (Of course, some women would like to have children but cannot because of medical conditions or unfulfilled social criteria, such as supportive partner or approving family.) The difference, however, is real, and will have repercussions for the next century.