In recent years, the debate over whether or not to have children has gained momentum in Colombia. Factors such as the economic situation, educational and employment opportunities, as well as cultural changes surrounding family, have led more people to question the decision of traditional motherhood and fatherhood.
According to data from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), nearly 50% of pregnancies in the country are unplanned, reflecting the difficulties in accessing contraceptive methods and the lack of sufficient information about family planning. These indicators have fueled the discussion about reproductive autonomy and the importance of public policies that guarantee sexual and reproductive health rights.
Experts point out that younger generations tend to delay or even forgo having children, prioritizing financial stability and personal development. Added to this are environmental concerns and the impact of having children in a context of climate change and resource crises, arguments that are increasingly common in this debate.
In the face of these trends, academic institutions and social organizations insist on the need to expand access to comprehensive sexuality education, guarantee contraceptive coverage, and foster open dialogue about the different ways of living family life. The debate is not solely focused on whether or not to have children, but on the right of every person to make informed and free decisions about their own life plans.