Factors affecting fertility in the multicultural environment of Thrace in Northern Greece

Abstract Greece is currently characterized by its low fertility levels and a postponement of childbearing toward older ages. Greek Thrace, being a part of Greek territory since the second decade of the 20th century and the study area of this analysis, follows the same national trends, without forgetting the effects of local factors that cause some unique features in its fertility characteristics. Christian and Muslim populations inhabit this area; thus, a multicultural regime prevails. Besides that, Thrace’s ecological and environmental diversity, cultural and social variability, low socioeconomic development, high unemployment, and significant social and economic disparities affect the fertility decisions of the couples solely. This study explores the influence of several factors such as education, occupation, and religion on the fertility outcomes of the population by applying bivariate and multiple regression methods. The results confirm the complex nature of the couples’ fertility decisions under the agency of the cultural and socioeconomic environment. Such findings can outline policy guidelines in addressing population issues in this area. Additionally, they may serve in the interpretation of demographic phenomena of the whole country.