Economic Analysis and Policy Implications of Fertility in Middle East and North African Countries (Economic ARTICLES‪)‬

ABSTRACT This paper attempts to provide an economic analysis of fertility interrelationships using pooled cross-country data from the Middle East and North African region, 1982-2000. Regression results provide strong confirmation that family planning, urbanisation and female labour force participation rates are inversely related to fertility rates. Income, infant mortality rates and female education are found to have a strong positive correlation with fertility. The results of several variables are also consistent with the results obtained in earlier studies involving countries and regions other than the Middle East and North Africa. Some policy implications are drawn.