Most W. European countries experienced a birth rate increase during 1921-1936 except Ireland, which during the same period suffered a decrease. Belgium and France had a sharp reversal from 1936 to 1946 followed by a rapid recovery during the next 5 years.

France conspicuously retained a moderate, though high, birth rate from 1946 to 1971 since when there has been some reduction. Meanwhile UK, Netherlands and Belgium had the 'flowerpower' period until about 1971 which later declined into a time of more uncertain prospects

Ireland underwent its own period of higher expectations after joining the EU.

See how these compare with the age profiles of the other countries