According to a local media source, the EU recorded 229 million women and 220 million men as of January 1, 2024. This translates to a ratio of 104.4 women for every 100 men, indicating a surplus of 4.4% more women.
All EU countries, except Malta, Sweden, Luxembourg, and Slovenia, have more women than men. Latvia has the highest ratio, boasting 15.5% more women than men, which is over three times the EU average.
This shortage is particularly acute among seniors—those aged 65 and older—where women outnumber men two to one, according to the World Atlas report. “This gender gap after 65 is attributed to poorer health outcomes for men, leading to a significantly lower life expectancy,” the report noted.
The demographic disparity is evident in daily life, influencing aspects from workplaces to social interactions.
Dania, a 29-year-old festival worker, noted that 98% of her colleagues are women. “There’s nothing wrong with that… but for a better balance, it would be nice to have more men to flirt or chat with. It makes things more interesting,” she told The Sun.
“That’s why all my friends have gone abroad to find boyfriends,” her friend Zane remarked.
To address this gap, platforms like Komanda24 and
Remontdarbi.lv are emerging. Komanda24 offers ‘Men With Golden Hands’ who take care of tasks like plumbing, carpentry, and TV mounting throughout the country for a few Euros, all without any uncomfortable pickup lines or dating scenarios, according to The New York Post.
Meanwhile, Remontdarbi.lv lets women hire a ‘husband for an hour’ online or via phone, ensuring they arrive within an hour.
Experts link the gender imbalance to men’s shorter life expectancy, caused by health issues and lifestyle choices.
“Men are nearly three times more likely to smoke, with 31% of males engaging in the habit compared to just 10% of females. Additionally, men are somewhat more likely to be overweight or obese, with 62% of men falling into these categories compared to 57% of women,” the World Atlas stated.
Consequently, Latvian women are devising innovative strategies to navigate their household tasks and daily lives.
How to migrate to Latvia
Recognized for its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and lively cultural scene, Latvia is becoming a more attractive destination. The country accepts both EU and non-EU citizens, with varying processes. EU/EEA individuals enjoy simpler procedures, while non-EU applicants must fulfill specific visa requirements.
For EU citizens, relocating to Latvia permits living, working, or studying without a visa; however, registration of your address with local authorities is required, along with a residence certificate application if your stay exceeds 90 days.
Non-EU citizens, on the other hand, must obtain a particular visa or residence permit based on their reason for relocation. A Latvia Golden Visa also provides an avenue for international citizens to gain residency through investment.
