Low Fertility in Canada: The Nordic Model in Quebec and the U.S. Model in Alberta

Among the factors that are responsible for low fertility, the risksexperienced by young people are particularly relevant. In that context, itis noteworthy that fertility is rising most in Alberta and Quebec, that is inprovinces where young families have had the security of either good jobopportunities or supportive social policy. The fertility trend in Canadahas seen a low point of 1.51 in 2002, rising to a total fertility rate of 1.66in 2007. The trends and differences are placed in the context of familyand work questions, including the division of paid and unpaid work bygender. By marital status, family structure and work orientation, fertilityis highest for women and men who are married, with no step childrenand intermediate work orientation. We summarize the changing policycontext, proposing that social policy has become more supportive offamilies with young children, especially in Quebec but also in the rest ofCanada.