Finland advocates propose baby bonus to address declining birth rates

Pauliina, 38, and Tuomas Dahllund, 40, are advocates for a proposed baby bonus of around 300 euros per month as a financial incentive to encourage families to have children. The couple recently welcomed their third child at the Women’s Clinic in Helsinki on October 8. Tuomas notes that as incomes decrease, such financial support could significantly help families.

Anna Rotkirch, the research director at the Population Association, suggested in a recent fertility study that a financial incentive could encourage having the first child before the age of 30. This proposal aims to address Finland’s record-low birth rates.

Rotkirch identifies several key reasons for declining fertility rates, notably the trend of having the first child later in life. The Dahllunds recognize this phenomenon, pointing out that many people choose to pursue long educational paths before starting a family due to concerns about balancing work and parenting.

Having their first child at ages 22 and 24, the couple felt that kids would be an integral part of their lives. Pauliina reflects on their decision: “We thought it was the right time to try for a child, and it worked out.”

Regarding encouraging those under 30 to have children, Pauliina argues against the notion that one must have everything prepared before starting a family. Instead, she believes that life can become richer with children, stating, “It’s not the end; it’s just the beginning.”

In 2023, Finland experienced a historic low in births, with a fertility rate of just 1.26 children per woman—the lowest in the Nordic countries. While the Dahllunds currently have three children, they are uncertain about adding a fourth, though financial incentives could sway their decision. They encourage those on the fence about having children to embrace parenthood, emphasizing the joy and fulfillment it brings.