Bar-Ilan Professor Links High Birth Rates to Regional Conflicts in Controversial Remarks

At a recent demography conference held at Tel Aviv University, Professor Elis Barzilai, a senior lecturer at Bar-Ilan University and chair of Israel's Macroeconomic Forum, sparked debate by asserting that high birth rates in Israel contribute significantly to regional wars. She stated, "Too many children equals more wars," advocating for a substantial reduction in birth rates. Barzilai expressed approval of the recent slight decline in Israel's fertility rates.

The conference, organized by a new research institute at Tel Aviv University focused on demography, addressed Israel's population growth and its societal structure. Barzilai's comments were among the most striking, linking demographic trends to conflict through factors such as population density and poverty.

In response, Bar-Ilan University clarified that Barzilai's lecture was based on research findings connecting demography, economics, and social factors to conflict zones worldwide. The data indicated that high fertility and poverty increase tensions and conflicts, but also that a sizable population can drive innovation, technological progress, and economic growth. The university emphasized Barzilai's status as a leading economist with extensive macroeconomic research.