Agency Failures and Reproductive Mismatch in Latin America: A Comparative Analysis of Bolivia, Mexico, and Peru (2023-2024)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.20947/S0102-3098a0331%20Keywords:
Agencia reproductiva, Desajuste reproductivo, Fecundidad deseada, América Latina, Enfoque de capacidades, Reproductive agency, Reproductive mismatch, Desired fertility, Latin America, Capability approach, Agência reprodutiva, Desajuste reprodutivo, Fecundidade desejada, América Latina, Abordagem das capacidades.Abstract
Within the context of the advanced demographic transition in Latin America, this paper analyzes reproductive mismatch—the gap between actual and desired fertility—through the lens of the capability approach and the concept of reproductive agency (UNFPA, 2025). Using microdata from the most recent Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) for Bolivia, Mexico, and Peru (2023-2024), we examine mismatch among women aged 40–49 using probit (single and multinomial) and ordinary least squares models. The results reveal that reproductive equilibrium is a minority status and that mismatch is an asymmetrical phenomenon: while fertility excess is associated with structural vulnerability and infant mortality, fertility deficit emerges as an agency failure among sectors with greater material and educational resources. A global non-linear pattern ("crescent shape") between desired fertility and mismatch is identified, suggesting that the gap intensifies during intermediate stages of the transition. The study concludes that low aggregate fertility in the region conceals persistent constraints on reproductive freedom, emphasizing the importance of enabling environments for the realization of life ideals.
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