BERLIN: The global population has surged to an estimated 8.156 billion in 2024, marking an increase of around 82 million people compared to last year’s figure of 8.083 billion, according to the German Foundation for World Population. This marks a steady rise since the world’s population surpassed 8 billion in November 2022.

The United Nations projects that the global population will surpass 9 billion by 2037, with the possibility of reaching a staggering 10 billion in the second half of the century. While these numbers reflect substantial growth, the pace of population increase has slowed significantly in recent years. The global fertility rate now averages 2.2 children per woman, down from previous decades.

Despite this overall slowdown, population growth is still concentrated in certain regions, particularly Africa, where the population is expected to double in the next two decades. This rapid growth presents unique challenges for the continent, including demands on resources, infrastructure, and social services.

The population growth rate is projected to decline globally over the coming years as many countries face demographic shifts, including aging populations in developed nations. In contrast, younger populations in developing regions will continue to drive growth, shaping future global trends.

The continued rise in the global population brings both opportunities and challenges. While it could drive economic growth in certain regions, it also underscores the need for sustainable solutions to manage resources, address inequalities, and plan for the future.