Dynamics of development and fertility convergence in Muslim countries

Hatam Hosseini, Bu-Ali Sina University
Nader Motie Haghshenas, Population Studies and Research Center in Asia and the Pacific

The aim of this article is to describe the Muslim differences in fertility transition during 1980-2005, and to study the role of family planning and development programs on fertility convergence. The study is based on analysis of secondary data mostly taken from UNDP and United Nations Population Division for 2007, 2008. The results show that Muslim countries differ in terms of the timing of fertility transition, the rate of fertility reduction during fertility transition period, attainment of replacement-level fertility, and continuing fertility decline. According to findings, fertility convergence in Muslim countries is a new phenomenon that appeared at the threshold of 21st century. The results indicate that this phenomenon has its roots in improvement in Human Development Index (HDI) and spread of contraception in Muslim countries. Then, it is expected that more improvements in HDI and CPR will result in more convergence with global levels in fertility in Muslim countries.