WASHINGTON (TNND) — Generation Beta, the cohort born between 2025 and 2038, is projected to make up 18% of the world's population by 2050, according to the World Economic Forum. This generation, primarily the offspring of Millennials and Gen Z, is expected to be the most urban generation ever, with a significant shift from rural to urban living. Currently, only half of Generation Beta babies are born in cities, but this figure is anticipated to rise to 58% by 2040, surpassing both Generation Alpha and Gen Z in urban residency.
The BBC reports that Generation Beta will grow up with artificial intelligence integrated into various aspects of life, from healthcare to education. They will experience self-driving cars and virtual immersive experiences as part of their daily lives, with online gaming and consumer electronics replacing traditional toys. The World Economic Forum also suggests that Generation Beta will generally be more prosperous than their Gen Z parents at the same age. Factors contributing to this include learning from their parents' struggles, being AI natives, and having access to better mental health care.
Experts emphasize the need for businesses to prepare for Generation Beta in the workplace. These future employees will expect seamless technology, flexible work arrangements, and companies that prioritize purpose and well-being. Work-life balance, mental health, and meaningful impact will be non-negotiable expectations. According to a Forbes Magazine report, companies that adapt now will be more attractive to Generation Beta as they enter the workforce.
Meanwhile, a contrasting narrative about global birth rates has emerged, with figures like Elon Musk raising alarms about declining fertility rates. In a recent discussion, Musk claimed that "population collapse due to low birth rates is a much bigger risk to civilization than global warming" and suggested it could lead to "mass extinction." This perspective has also been echoed by various commentators, sparking a debate about the implications of low birth rates and their potential impact on society.
However, experts argue that the panic surrounding low fertility rates is unfounded. The human population continues to grow, with about 132 million births each year. Despite concerns about declining birth rates in specific regions, such as South Korea, where only 230,000 births were recorded in 2023, the overall trend indicates that the global population is on the rise.
In fact, the world population reached over 8.2 billion as of April 2025, a significant increase from 6.1 billion in 2000. The U.N. projects that this growth may peak in the 2080s before potentially declining. It’s important to note that while some areas may experience lower birth rates, the global population remains robust.
Critics of the low birth rate narrative point out that the focus on fertility rates often overlooks the broader context of human population dynamics. The argument that declining birth rates could lead to extinction is challenged by the fact that the human population has never been higher in recorded history. In fact, the notion that fewer births could result in a demographic crisis is often rooted in ideological commitments rather than empirical evidence.
As society prepares for Generation Beta, the focus should shift from fear of low birth rates to understanding the changing landscape of human existence. With advances in technology and shifts in lifestyle, the future workforce will be shaped by different expectations and realities. Companies that recognize this shift and adapt accordingly will be better positioned to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
Ultimately, both narratives—the rise of Generation Beta and the concerns over low birth rates—highlight the complexities of human existence in the 21st century. As we navigate these changes, it is essential to foster environments that support the well-being of individuals and families, ensuring a prosperous future for the next generation.
