SOCIODEMOGRAPHIC VULNERABILITY AND POPULATION DYNAMICS IN ARGENTINA, 1997-2016

Abstract

This article describes the demographic dynamic since 1997 in Argentina and one province by region, to consider the consequences produced by the 2001-2002 economic crisis and the next periods until 2016. Demographic transition and sociodemographic vulnerability are the theoretical concepts chosen, in order to indentify population profiles that difficult the improvement of welfare (Torrado, 1995; Rodríguez Vignoli, 2001; CEPAL, 2002). Mortality (life expectancy at birth, infant and maternal mortality rates) and fertility indicators (total and teenager fertility rates) are obtained through population forecasts with vital records (births and deaths), to 1997 and yearly to 2001-2016 period. The main contribution to population studies is the calculation and analysis of demographic indicators to each year in Argentina, since National Institute of Statistics and Census just publishes provincial fertility and mortality indexes after each population census.

Results show a positive evolution of demographic indicators in the country, from 1997 and after 2001-2002 crisis, although with persistence of structural differences between regions. Life expectancy at birth increased in all jurisdictions until 2015, when started to decrease in all populations. Infant mortality declined quickly in Argentina, especially in the provinces less developed. Maternal mortality also decreased in these provinces, but it’s unstable in more developed populations.

Total fertility recorded a mild decline, while the adolescent fertility just decreased in the provinces with higher rates.

Advances in Argentine demographic transition coexists with situations of social vulnerability in the whole country, especially in Northeast region. We warn about sensibility of mortality to all economic crisis produced since 2008.