What is the MAGIC NUMBER in regards to births per mother to have a stable
population in a country
The "magic number" you are referring to is known as the replacement level fertility rate (RLFR). It is the average number of children a woman needs to have for a population to replace itself from one generation to the next, without migration. The RLFR is typically around 2.1 children per woman in countries with low mortality rates.
At this rate, each couple is replacing themselves with two children (since not all children will reach reproductive age). The 0.1 is added to account for individuals who do not reproduce or die before reaching reproductive age. With an RLFR of 2.1, the population size remains stable over time.
It's important to note that this number is an estimate that varies depending on factors such as infant mortality rates, life expectancy, and migration. In certain countries with higher mortality rates or significant emigration, the RLFR may be slightly higher to compensate for the population lost.
It's also worth mentioning that the RLFR is not a fixed or absolute target. Many countries today have fertility rates below the replacement level due to various factors such as contraception availability, women's education, and changing societal norms. Consequently, these countries often face aging populations and a declining workforce, which can have economic and social implications.