Overpopulation - Bangladesh

Where is Bangladesh located, and what are 3 general facts about its population?

• Located in South Asia, bordering India and Myanmar

• Population: 174 million, ~60% live in rural areas

• Population density: 1350 people/km²

What is Bangladesh's rate of natural increase and what does it imply?

• Natural increase: 1.5% annually

• Indicates a high birth rate, contributing to rapid population growth

Why does poverty in Bangladesh cause high population growth?

• Poor families need children for agricultural labour to generate income

• Children = economic assets

How does infant mortality rate affect population growth in Bangladesh?

• 24 per 1000 infants die

• Families have more children to compensate for child mortality

How does early marriage contribute to Bangladesh's population growth?

• Girls marry young, leading to longer reproductive years

• Results in larger families

How does education affect population growth in Bangladesh?

• Female literacy rate is only 70.09%

• Lack of sex education & family planning knowledge

• No compulsory education system

How do religious beliefs influence birth rates in Bangladesh?

• Some communities oppose contraceptives

• Children are seen as “God’s gift”

How does overpopulation affect cities like Dhaka?

• Traffic congestion due to high population

• Uncontrolled slum growth (47.2% of urban population in slums – 2018)

What are the health impacts of overpopulation in Bangladesh?

• 3.3 million lack access to clean water

• Increases disease spread and poor hygiene

How does overpopulation affect employment and GDP in Bangladesh?

• ~9 million unemployed

• Limited land means less work and income

• Increased pressure on government services

• GDP suffers