Romania’s Population Expected To Decrease In Next Four Years

05.03.2011 By Ioana Tudor

The Romanian Government estimates Romania’s population will decrease by over 200,000 people in the next four years, to 21.1 million in 2015 from 21.3 million in 2011.

According to a document drawn up by the Government, the number of births will drop in 2011-2012, following the reduction of child rearing benefits.

Romania's population will decrease from 21.39 million in 2011, to 21.35 million in 2012, 21.3 million in 2013, 21.2 million in 2014 and 21.1 million in 2015.

According to the document, the number of births will drop to about 219,000 in 2011 and about 218,000 next year and will rise to about 221,000 in 2014 and 222,000 in 2015. The Government estimates the number of deceased will be bigger and the country's population will decrease by 215,000 in the next four years.

Last year, authorities decided that, starting 2011, mothers may opt for two years of leave and a child rearing aid between 600 lei (about EUR150) and RON1,200. The alternative is one year's leave, up to RON3,400 child rearing aid and RON500 per month if the mother chooses to return to work before the first year of leave is up, paid for the remainder of two years.

Romania's population decreased from 22.8 million in 1992 to 21.46 million in early 2010. The East European country is ranked seventh in the European Union by number of inhabitants. (EUR1=RON4.0860)