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IMMIGRATION

Population up despite financial crisis: report

Sweden's population increased to almost 9.3 million people during the first half of 2009, new figures indicate.

Population up despite financial crisis: report

Fewer people emigrating from Sweden and a continued high birthrate are the reasons behind the increase – despite the economic crisis.

Historically the birthrate has often closely followed the economic cycle.

During the crisis-hit 1930s and 1990s the birthrate declined and statisticians had expected the same pattern to develop this time around. But as yet the effects of the credit crunch have not filtered through to the bedroom.

During the first half of 2009 56,251 were born in Sweden, 216 more than during the corresponding period of last year, according to Statistics Sweden (SCB).

One of the factors behind the trend is that many prospective parents may have already delayed the decision to have children. During recent years the average age of first-time parents has increased significantly and it is argued that many simply do not have the luxury of waiting in the good times.

The first half of 2009 also experienced a low death rate relative to births, with 46,857 passing away.

Furthermore only 3,881 people moved overseas, resulting in a immigration surplus of 27,097.

By June 30th the Swedish population amounted to 9,292,359 people.

It is primarily emigration to the UK and the USA that has declined, by around 30 percent in comparison to the corresponding period of last year. Fewer are also making the move to Finland and Norway, while emigration to Denmark is increasing.

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