Flexibility Hybrid working touted as cure for global birthrate slump Time reclaimed from trains and traffic may translate into more children – a narrative unlikely to delight hustle-culture leaders iStock.com/Prostock-Studio Image John van der Luit-Drummond Editor-in-Chief Friday 27 February 2026 A curious theory has been doing the rounds this week: letting people work from home might do more than cut commuting costs – it could reverse falling birthrates. Get AccessContinue reading International Employment LawyerAlready have access? Login now Email Enter your email address. Password Enter the password that accompanies your email address. Reset your passwordLog in Need access? Find out how to enjoy unlimited accessGet access You might also like... Remote Working Is male fertility the RTO magic bullet? Benefits Lack of fertility benefits a deal breaker for some employees Pregnancy Staff undergoing fertility treatment protected before treatment begins Remuneration Breaking the “rabenmutter” stereotype: German mothers face heavy financial toll