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Vienna Yearbook of Population Research 2026Special issue: Delayed reproduction
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Verlag der Österreichischen Akademie der Wissenschaften Austrian Academy of Sciences Press
A-1011 Wien, Dr. Ignaz Seipel-Platz 2
Tel. +43-1-515 81/DW 3420, Fax +43-1-515 81/DW 3400 https://verlag.oeaw.ac.at, e-mail: verlag@oeaw.ac.at |
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DATUM, UNTERSCHRIFT / DATE, SIGNATURE
BANK AUSTRIA CREDITANSTALT, WIEN (IBAN AT04 1100 0006 2280 0100, BIC BKAUATWW), DEUTSCHE BANK MÜNCHEN (IBAN DE16 7007 0024 0238 8270 00, BIC DEUTDEDBMUC)
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Vienna Yearbook of Population Research 2026, pp. , 2026/07/01
Special issue: Delayed reproduction
This summary outlines the main debates from a round table discussion at the Wittgenstein Centre Conference 2024 in Vienna on the societal implications of assisted reproductive technology (ART) in the context of delayed parenthood. While ART provides new reproductive opportunities, it also raises important ethical, social and political questions concerning access, regulation, reproductive agency and the commercialisation of fertility treatment. The interdisciplinary discussion explored how reproductive technology is reshaping understandings of family formation, gender roles and biological limits. Particular attention was given to inequalities in access, the growing influence of markets, reproductive autonomy and the need for informed reproductive decision-making. The panellists also highlighted how social structures, including labour markets and gender norms, contribute to the postponement of parenthood and increase reliance on ART. Overall, the discussion emphasised the need for broader public debate, continued interdisciplinary research and values-based regulation of reproductive technology. ART was presented not only as a medical innovation, but also as a development with far-reaching consequences for society and the future of reproduction.
Keywords: Round table discussion • Assisted reproductive technology • Delayed reproduction • Fertility education • Regulation • Social structures