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Exploring the puzzle of human reproduction: Register data based evidence from France and Germany

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Listed:
  • Lipowski, Cäcilia
  • Wilke, Ralf A.
  • Koebel, Bertrand M.

Abstract

Birth rates differ strongly across European states, despite the deep economic harmonisation process related to European integration. This study uses large scale administrative data from France and Germany to analyse and directly compare fertility patterns in two major European economies over a period of 15 years. Strong evidence is found that opportunity costs play a role in fertility decisions, and for a positive income effect for females with high earnings. Females in Germany adapt their fertility behaviour more strongly in response to economic incentives than their counterpartsin France. This is explained by pronounced differences in the national approaches to childcare support.

Suggested Citation

  • Lipowski, Cäcilia & Wilke, Ralf A. & Koebel, Bertrand M., 2020. "Exploring the puzzle of human reproduction: Register data based evidence from France and Germany," ZEW Discussion Papers 20-025, ZEW - Leibniz Centre for European Economic Research.
    • Handle: RePEc:zbw:zewdip:20025
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • J13 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Fertility; Family Planning; Child Care; Children; Youth
    • J11 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Demographic Trends, Macroeconomic Effects, and Forecasts
    • C23 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Single Equation Models; Single Variables - - - Models with Panel Data; Spatio-temporal Models
    • C25 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Single Equation Models; Single Variables - - - Discrete Regression and Qualitative Choice Models; Discrete Regressors; Proportions; Probabilities

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