Population inequality matters

Kreyenfeld, M., di Lego, V.G., Permanyer, I., Potančoková, M. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6115-5952, & Sanchez-Romero, M. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5999-6522 (2025). Population inequality matters. Vienna Yearbook of Population Research 2025 (1) 1-14. 10.1553/p-5eef-bmjp.

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Abstract

This Special Issue features 22 contributions that examine the interplay between population diversity and social inequality, thereby addressing the causes and consequences of socio-economic status (SES) differences in demographic behaviour. Among these 22 contributions, six are invited Debate articles that discuss selected contemporary challenges linked to population inequalities, including their measurement and assessment. These articles cover topics such as digitalisation, skills gaps, household arrangements, widow-hood, mortality inequalities and subnational population dynamics. A striking example underscoring the need to consider demographic developments in conjunction with social inequality is the correlation between longevity and education, income and wealth. The observation that socio-economic status (SES) determines how long we live is not only rele-vant for understanding demographic patterns, but is also highly pertinent for policymakers aiming to reduce social inequalities. The link between demographic processes and social inequality is also evident in research on family behaviour, which, for example, explores the extent to which growing labour market inequalities shape disparities in fertility and family dynamics. Migration has an obvious connection to social inequality and social stratification research, particularly regarding the unequal opportunities in income and education migrants face within receiving societies, as well as in migrants’ demographic behaviour and its relation to SES. This Special Issue seeks to emphasise the importance of linking research on demographic diversity and social inequality. Demographic research contributes by providing hard numbers on population structure and societal change, and showing how these relate to social inequality. In doing so, this research informs policymakers about the areas where action is needed.

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