The Shape of Our Future

We are in the midst of a unique demographic moment. Today’s youngest generation is the largest cohort ever. Rising conflict, economic instability, a changing climate, and pressures on biodiversity are decreasing food security and upending livelihoods in some of the most rapidly growing places. Meanwhile, many regions of the world are contending with dropping fertility rates and aging populations. These global trends are having a profound effect on policy outcomes across sectors and driving long-term shifts in countries throughout the world.

The Shape of Our Future project, led by the Stimson Center’s Environmental Security Program in partnership with the Population Institute, provides clarity on how often overlooked or misunderstood population dynamics — including fertility, mortality, migration, urbanization — are relevant to today’s foreign policy and security priorities. Through expert dialogues, deep analysis, and evidence-based storytelling, the project explores how demographic factors are shaping communities’ chances for prosperity, health, and security across every continent — and what lessons can be drawn for effective, anticipatory policymaking.