The production and analysis of quantitative and qualitative data is central to the study of demographic dynamics. Most of the research conducted in DEMO is based on the use of quantitative methods, applied to sources as diverse as survey and census data, large databases from population registers and the National Register, or longitudinal data generated by continuous observation of populations residing in Health and Demographic Sites. A particular focus is on data triangulation and method validation.
Demographic dynamics are also linked to environmental contexts and issues, both regionally (e.g. parasitic and infectious diseases) and globally, such as climate change. At the Demographic Research Centre, several studies are part of this axis and focus on water-related diseases in Dakar, the influence of extreme events linked to global warming (floods, cyclones, drought) on fertility and fertility intentions in Bangladesh, or on the measurement of energy poverty in Belgium and its impact on the health and well-being of the households.
Families' choices, in their organization and functioning, both in their daily lives and in the longer term, are made between economic constraints and value systems. Research conducted in DEMO concerns the economic and social determinants of demographic events such as the formation of the couple and the birth of a child. Among these determinants, gender relations, which are at the heart of family relations and their evolution, are of particular interest. Do parents have preferences regarding the gender composition of children?
International migration is an important component of demographic change. Migrations play an increasing role in the dynamics and diversity of populations in Western societies. Issues of integration of migrants - especially in the labour market - are also central to the study of migration, both from the perspective of host societies and of migrants themselves. Research conducted in DEMO covers both the estimation of migration flows and the analysis of the determinants and consequences of migration.
Health transitions in low- and middle-income countries are among the most important global demographic challenges. DEMO has been conducting research in this field since its inception and has trained many researchers from these countries. DEMO participates in both data collection and analysis, with an increasing emphasis on retrospective surveys and prospective longitudinal studies (HDSS).
The ageing of the population of Western countries is characterized by an increasing growth rate of population aged 65 years and over, an increasing life expectancy after that age and an ageing population of working age. This demographic context sparks debate and research to better identify and characterize the issues facing these societies.
Format of articles
The Quetelet Journal publishes both standard scientific articles and scientific contributions in an unconventional format - as long as they deal with demographic or population-related issues - such as:
Demographic Transitions and spatial-temporal approaches:
Historical and contemporary perspectives