Spain Appoints 'Sex Tsar' to Combat Declining Birthrate and Population Decline

Spain has appointed a new 'sex tsar' to address its declining birthrate, which has become a significant demographic concern. Following a record number of deaths surpassing births in 2015, the government aims to develop a national strategy to encourage higher fertility rates. Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy designated Edelmira Barreira to lead efforts in reversing the population decline. Spain's birthrate is among the lowest in Europe, with recent data indicating an average of only 1.3 children per woman aged 18-49—below the EU average of 1.58. Projections suggest that within 15 years, a considerable portion of the population may be single and unmarried, reflecting shifting social dynamics. Experts cite factors such as demanding work schedules and fatigue as barriers to family formation. This initiative follows a trend seen in other countries attempting to boost fertility through unconventional measures. For instance, a Swedish politician suggested providing employees with paid time off for sex, while Russia established a "Day of Conception" to promote childbirth, offering incentives like refrigerators for women who give birth exactly nine months later. The Spanish government's move...