The reasons why Gaza's population is so young

The population density of the Gaza Strip has been disputed, but in comparison with other cities, Gaza City, with a population of around 750,000, is undoubtedly a densely populated urban area.

The median age in Gaza is 18, compared with a world average of 28. In most European countries it's about 40, and it is 30 in Israel. Only in a dozen or so African countries is the median age lower, reaching 15 in Uganda.

A study published in 2006 found that despite high educational achievement among Gazan women – all have at least nine years of schooling – and relatively low and constant infant mortality rates at around 25 per 1000 births, few chose to pursue independent careers.