Does a family-friendly policy raise fertility levels?

Abstract:

The old age dependency ratio in the EU is projected to increase and the fertility rates are low. The strain this will put on public finances through increased pension payments and increased health care costs is one of Europe’s main economic challenges. The possibility to alleviate the problem by increasing fertility rates has so far received less attention. This report surveys the research on the effects of family policies on birth. The policy relevant question is if this is a causal effect from family policy to birth rates? The report offer an up-to-date overview of the best evidence available.