Transformation of fertility in Slovakia in the context of differences between center and hinterland

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to analyze the progress of postponement and recuperation of fertility in the context of the differences between functional urban regions and their centers and hinterlands in Slovakia. In addition to the standard indicators for expressing the change in fertility tempo and quantum, we will also analyze the postponement fertility transition by postponement and recuperation rate and the index of recuperation. In the main findings it can be noted that postponement fertility transition contributed to spatial differentiation especially in the 1990s and at the beginning of the 21st century. In recent years, we can identify a certain reduction in differences. The second important finding is that the spread of changes in the character of fertility progressed largely in the west–east direction. The hierarchical element of the diffusion of new reproductive behavior was secondary. Centers have been affected by changes in selected fertility indicators earlier, and these have been more intensive.