Young individuals reaching working and military age play a crucial role in driving economic growth and sustaining the armed forces of a country. As countries with declining young populations struggle to maintain the size and preparedness of their military, it becomes evident that the youth demographic is a significant factor in national security and economic stability.
A large youthful population brings energy to the workforce, fosters innovation, and contributes through tax revenue to fund social programs. This phenomenon, known as the “demographic dividend,” occurs when economic development surpasses population growth, leading to overall prosperity.
However, in nations where recruitment pools are shrinking due to a declining young population, challenges arise. The military may face higher average ages among personnel, increased reliance on technology to compensate for manpower shortages, and the need to outsource certain military activities. In times of prolonged conflict, these countries may become vulnerable and strained.
Moreover, countries with diminishing young populations face economic constraints from a smaller workforce and escalating costs for elderly care and pensions. Nations like Japan and some European countries are already grappling with these issues, highlighting the urgent need to address the demographic imbalance.
A country with a steady influx of young individuals can strengthen civil-military relations and foster a sense of national pride and duty among its citizens. National youth programs and military service play a crucial role in promoting national identity, unity, and a shared sense of responsibility towards the nation-state.
However, societies with fewer young people entering military service risk losing opportunities to instill patriotism and unity in new generations. Over time, the bond between citizens and the nation-state may weaken, leading to increased division and political polarization within society.
To illustrate the impact of declining youth populations on military readiness, here are the top 10 countries with the fewest individuals reaching military age in 2025, according to Global Firepower:
1. Iceland – 1,820
2. Suriname – 3,234
3. Luxembourg – 3,356
4. Montenegro – 3,599
5. Bhutan – 4,423
6. Belize – 8,732
7. Qatar – 12,760
8. Estonia – 13,132
9. Latvia – 16,211
10. Bahrain – 17,236
These statistics underscore the importance of addressing demographic challenges to ensure the sustainability of national security and economic growth. By prioritizing policies that support the youth demographic and promote military readiness, countries can mitigate the risks associated with a declining young population.
