World Population to Increase by 2.6 Billion over Next 45 Years, with All Growth Occurring in Less Developed Regions

World population is expected to increase by 2.6 billion over the next 45 years, from 6.5 billion today to 9.1 billion in 2050. ; Almost all growth will take place in the less developed regions, where today’s 5.3 billion population is expected to swell to 7.8 billion in 2050. ; By contrast, the population of the more developed regions will remain mostly unchanged, at 1.2 billion. ; These figures are from the 2004 Revision of the official United Nations population estimates and projections, released today by the Population Division of the Department of Economic and Social Affairs. ; The report provides crucial demographic information and population figures for the coming assessment of progress made towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. ; Other key findings of the 2004 Revision, which is based on the most recent national censuses, numerous specialized population surveys, and comprehensive review of past worldwide population trends and future prospects, include: ; — By July 2005, the world will have 6.5 billion inhabitants, 380 million more than in 2000 or a gain of 76 million annually. ; Despite the lower fertility levels projected, by 2050 the world population is expected to reach 9.1 billion according to the medium