So what are the causes, implications and problems, if any, that are likely to arise, and what should or could governments do about this?

One factor suggested for low fertility rates is high housing costs in the urban environment many people now live in. Would-be parents might also be discouraged by the fear that any children they have would face intense competitive pressure in education. Women might be deterred from childbearing by the challenges of striking a reasonable work-life balance in an era when many are in formal employment. They now have a variety of choices.