The two line graphs illustrate population trends in Southern Pacific Ocean countries from 1950 to projections for 2040, showing changes by settlement type (urban and rural) and by age group.
Overall, total population growth is driven overwhelmingly by urban expansion, while rural populations remain largely stable across the period. At the same time, the population structure is projected to age considerably, with strong growth in the working-age group and a gradual rise in the elderly population, whereas the proportion of children remains comparatively low and stable.
Looking first at settlement patterns, the total population increased steadily from around 11 million in 1950 to just under 30 million by 2000, before accelerating more sharply thereafter. This rise closely mirrors urban growth, which expanded continuously from approximately 6 million to nearly 37 million by 2040. In contrast, rural populations fluctuated only marginally, remaining below 7 million throughout the entire period and contributing little to overall growth.
A similar imbalance is evident in the age structure. The population aged 15-65 experienced the most dramatic increase, climbing from roughly 6 million in 1950 to about 35 million by 2040, making it the dominant age group. By comparison, the number of people under 15 showed only modest growth, stabilising at around 5 to 6 million toward the end of the period. The over-65 population, although the smallest group, rose gradually from about 2 million to approximately 6 million, indicating a slow but persistent ageing trend.