DayofPal– The Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics (PCBS) reported on Thursday an unprecedented decline in the population of the Gaza Strip.
This shrinking is driven by increasing numbers of martyrs and missing persons, the departure of thousands from the territory, and a drop in birth rates, all as a result of the ongoing Israeli aggression.
Population estimates indicate that the number of residents has fallen to approximately 2,129,724, a 6% decrease compared to projections for mid-2024.
Furthermore, the population is estimated to have dropped to 2,114,301, representing a 10% decrease compared to the expected figures for mid-2025.
The PCBS highlighted that this decline is expected to cause a profound shift in the age and gender composition of Gaza’s population. The deliberate targeting of young age groups, especially children and youth, by the Israeli army threatens to distort the population pyramid, particularly its base, which is critical for natural population growth.
This impact is not limited to the present but is projected to extend into the medium and long term. The loss of a significant number of men and women of reproductive age is expected to lead to a further decline in birth rates, creating a widening demographic gap that will affect Gaza’s population structure for decades to come.
Demographic estimates reveal that the Palestinian population is predominantly young, with individuals under 30 years old accounting for 65% of the total population.
This percentage varies by region, with 63% in the West Bank and rising to 68% in the Gaza Strip.
Children aged 0-4 years constitute 14% of the overall population, 13% in the West Bank and 15% in Gaza. Those under 15 years old make up about 37% of the population, split as 35% in the West Bank and 40% in Gaza.
Meanwhile, children under 18 represent 43% of the total population, with 41% in the West Bank and 47% in Gaza.
This youthful demographic underscores the urgent need for investment in critical sectors such as education, health, and employment to empower this large segment of the population to contribute effectively to the future development of Palestine.
Shortlink for this post: https://daysofpalestine.ps/?p=65609
