RIGA – The number of abortions among underage girls in Latvia has fallen significantly since 2010, according to data from the Central Statistical Bureau.

In 2023, Latvia recorded a total of 4,611 abortions, of which 2,700 were induced. Compared to 2010, when 10,820 abortions were reported, the decrease is remarkable. The number of induced abortions also dropped—from 7,443 in 2010 to 2,700 in 2023.

The trend is also visible among minors. In 2023, girls aged 15–17 had 58 abortions (43 induced), and girls under 14 had three cases. In 2010, these figures were 279 abortions in the 15–17 age group and 10 cases among those under 14. Practically, in 13 years, the number of abortions among minors has dropped almost fivefold.

At the beginning of 2025, Latvia’s population was 1.857 million, of which 344,000 (18.5%) were children under 17 years old. Since 2016, the number of children has decreased by 8,800 (approximately 2.5%).

What is the situation in Moldova?

While Latvia’s numbers show a steady decline in abortions among minors, Moldova’s reality is more complex, and the collected data is insufficient.

Although there is a general trend of reducing the total number of births to minor mothers (22.9 newborns per 1,000 women aged 14–20 in 2022, compared to 26.6 per 1,000 women in 2021), comprehensive sexuality education is missing from the national curriculum, and adolescents’ access to reproductive health services is unequal—often hindered by cultural and confidentiality barriers.

Furthermore, the 2025 ban on medical abortion via telemedicine has removed a safe and effective option, particularly for young women in rural or isolated communities.

What can we learn from Latvia’s example?

• Investing in early, age-appropriate sexual education reduces unintended pregnancies among minors.

• Easy and confidential access to reproductive health services is essential for prevention.

• Transparent and up-to-date data allows for the rapid adjustment of policies and interventions.

Source: Baltic Times – Abortion among under-age girls has significantly decreased since 2010