INS: Natural growth remained strongly negative

Our country continued to register a sharp demographic decline in April 2026, with the number of deaths being 1.8 times higher than that of births, according to data published by the National Institute of Statistics (INS). Natural growth remained negative, at minus 8,758 people, given that 10,655 births and 19,413 deaths were registered. According to the INS, in April, birth certificates were issued for 10,655 children, 27 fewer than in March 2026, which represents a decrease of 0.3%. Compared to the same month in 2025, the decline is more pronounced: the number of births was lower by 726, equivalent to a decrease of 6.4%. At the same time, the number of children under one year old who died reached 61, two cases more than in March and four above the level recorded in April 2025.

• The number of deaths decreased compared to March, but increased compared to last year

According to the INS, in April 2026, 19,413 deaths were recorded, 1,353 fewer than in the previous month, which means a reduction of 6.5%. Compared to April 2025, however, the number of deaths increased by 87 cases, respectively by 0.5%. Thus, the negative natural increase deepened compared to the same period last year, when the difference between deaths and births was 7,945 people. INS data show that 42% of the deaths in April were recorded in people aged at least 80 years, respectively 8,154 cases. Another 5,428 deaths (28%) were recorded in the 70-79 age group, and 3,098 deceased people were between 60 and 69 years old. At the opposite end, the fewest deaths were recorded among children aged 0 to 4 (81 cases), people aged 5 to 19 (45 cases) and young people aged 20 to 29 (84 cases).

• 6,693 marriages and 2,194 divorces

According to official statistics, 6,693 marriages were registered at civil status offices in April. During the same period, 2,194 divorces were pronounced, both through final court decisions and through administrative or notarial procedures.

According to the INS, 9,706 deaths were recorded in urban areas and 9,707 deaths in rural areas, the distribution being almost identical. Compared to April 2025, the number of deaths increased by 1.8% in urban areas and decreased by 0.9% in rural areas.

• The demographic decline trend is intensifying

Data published by the National Institute of Statistics confirms the continuation of the aging and shrinking trend of Romania's population. The negative natural increase has intensified compared to the same period last year, amid a decrease in the number of births and the maintenance of a high mortality rate. According to demography specialists, the decline in the birth rate and the aging of the population represent some of the most important long-term challenges for the labor market, the pension system and the socio-economic structure of Romania.