The Great Gray Wave

Editor’s Note

Jonathan Tepperman

Why free societies thrive – even when they age

Jessica Ludwig

It’s often assumed that autocracies are better at dealing with social change. Don’t believe it.

The middling kingdom

Wang Feng

China’s population is on track to shrink by half by the end of the century. Beijing must choose between reform and absolute power – it can’t have both.

The great Russian brain drain

Alexandra Prokopenko

After shrinking for decades, Russia is now suffering a major exodus as well. How will that change Putin’s policies?

Europe's baby bust

Elisabeth Braw

The continent faces a grim decline – unless it starts treating its families more like the Swedes.

How Africa learned to live with HIV

Hannah Johnson

Thanks to projects like PEPFAR, HIV is no longer a death sentence. Now we must help survivors live long, prosperous lives.

How to prepare America for demographic decline

J.H. Cullum Clark

The U.S. population will soon grow older, smaller, and more diverse. The changes will impact almost every aspect of American power, society, and the economy.

The aging states of America

John Scott

Caring for an older population is going to be expensive. But we can afford it – if we start preparing now.

Why Washington must fix immigration – now more than ever

Laura Collins

Immigrants grow the economy, fill key jobs, pay their taxes, and can keep the country from shrinking, but only if the United States updates its antiquated system.

How Texas can defy the demographic odds

Justin Coppedge

As many states shrink, Texas keeps getting bigger. But growth brings its own challenges that the state must confront.

Our incredible shrinking planet

Nicholas Eberstadt

A global population crash is coming. Here’s why you shouldn’t be afraid.