In most countries, the male-to-female population ratio is fairly balanced. But in some parts of the world, women clearly outnumber men-and not by accident.

According to 2023 data from the World Population Review, countries like Russia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Belarus have more women than men due to higher male mortality and lower life expectancy. In others like Djibouti, Moldova, and Puerto Rico, men often migrate abroad for jobs, leaving behind a larger female population.

Even in Hong Kong and The Bahamas, factors like longer female life spans and demographic shifts play a role. In smaller regions like Anguilla, minor changes in population or age distribution can show a noticeable gender gap.

These imbalances are shaped by a mix of migration trends, health issues, ageing populations, and lifestyle factors. In many places, the gap widens with age as women tend to live longer.

While these numbers may just seem statistical, they reveal deeper social and economic trends-and sometimes even policy challenges for these nations.