On the Regional Birth Rate Differences in Uzbekistan

Shukurov, Sobir (2015): On the Regional Birth Rate Differences in Uzbekistan.

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate, theoretically and empirically, regional variation in crude birthrates in Uzbekistan at a provincial (viloyat) level for the period 1991-2010. Also, it offers maps showing the provincial crude birth rates for this period, and probe the ways in which regional fertility differences have arisen. A panel data analysis is also carried out to explain determinants of birth rates. The findings of this study underline that increased women’s participation in the labor force, urbanization rate and poverty have all contributed to the fertility decline in all regions. Moreover, real disposable income was not found to have sizable influence on differences in regional birth rates, which can be explained by preference to traditional socio-cultural norms over opportunity costs of having children. These norms usually encourage fecundity, which can be also confirmed by the average household size that had the biggest impact on reproductive behavior of women living in these regions.

• Item Type: MPRA Paper
• Language: English
• Keywords: regional fertility differences, determinants of birth rates, panel data analysis
• Subjects: J - Labor and Demographic Economics > J1 - Demographic Economics > J11 - Demographic Trends, Macroeconomic Effects, and Forecasts; J - Labor and Demographic Economics > J1 - Demographic Economics > J18 - Public Policy; P - Economic Systems > P2 - Socialist Systems and Transitional Economies > P25 - Urban, Rural, and Regional Economics

References

Sobir Shukurov, Lecturer, Tashkent State University of Law, 35, Sayilgoh str., Tashkent, Uzbekistan, 100047