Belarus, an Eastern European nation with a complex demographic history, has experienced both steady growth in the mid-20th century and a significant population decline since the 1990s. The country reached its peak population of 10.2 million in 1993, but since then has faced continuous decreases due to low birth rates, high mortality, and emigration.
In 2024, the population of Belarus is estimated at 9.06 million, and projections suggest a steep decline to just 4.35 million by 2100 — cutting the population by more than half over the next 75 years.
Belarus’ Historical Population Growth (1950–2024)
Following World War II, Belarus’s population grew steadily:
- 1950: 7.1 million
- 1970: 9.0 million
- 1990: 10.18 million
- 1993 (Peak): 10.24 million
The Soviet era brought industrialization and urbanization, which supported population growth. However, by the early 1990s, fertility rates dropped below replacement level while mortality rose, marking the beginning of long-term decline.
Table: Belarus Population Milestones
| Year | Population (millions) |
|---|---|
| 1950 | 7.1 |
| 1970 | 9.0 |
| 1990 | 10.18 |
| 1993 | 10.24 (peak) |
| 2000 | 9.99 |
| 2024 | 9.06 |
Since its peak in the early 1990s, Belarus’s population has steadily fallen:
- 1995: 10.2 million
- 2010: 9.49 million
- 2020: 9.35 million
- 2024: 9.06 million
The main reasons include:
- Low fertility: Birth rates remain well below replacement (about 1.3 children per woman).
- High mortality: Life expectancy is lower than in many European countries, with significant health challenges.
- Emigration: Many Belarusians move abroad, particularly to Russia, Poland, and Western Europe.
Belarus’ Future Population Projections (2025–2100)
The decline is expected to accelerate, with the population dropping below 7 million by 2050 and halving by 2100.
Population Projections for Belarus
| Year | Population (millions) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | 8.99 |
| 2050 | 7.45 |
| 2075 | 5.72 |
| 2100 | 4.35 |
FAQ
The population of Belarus in 2024 is about 9.06 million.
Belarus peaked in 1993 at 10.24 million people.
Low birth rates, high mortality, and emigration are the main causes.
By 2050, Belarus’s population is projected to fall to 7.45 million.
The population is expected to shrink to just 4.35 million by 2100.
Source:
United Nations. World Population Prospects 2024.
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