Vienna Yearbook of Population Research 2008, Vol. 6

The 2008 issue of the Vienna Yearbook of Population Research focuses on the question of “Can policies enhance fertility in Europe?” Traditionally, this question has also been loaded with ethical concerns and with ethno-nationalist sentiments. This volume provides a scientific, empirically grounded assessment on the existing family policies and policy options, their impact and effectiveness in supporting fertility. The empirical studies include contributions about pronatalist policy options and institutional factors influencing transition to adulthood and timing of parenthood as well as studies looking at family policies and fertility in the Nordic countries, Italy, and France. The volume also features invited “Demographic Debates” section focusing on the desirability and impact of policies enhancing fertility.