Birth rates in Latvia continue to decline. According to preliminary data from the Central Statistical Bureau (CSB), 5,547 newborns were registered in the country in the first half of 2026, which is 262 children, or 4.5%, fewer than in the same period last year. Among the newborns were 2,827 boys and 2,720 girls. The number of boys decreased by 6.8%, while the number of girls decreased by 2% compared to the first half of 2025. This trend continued in June. In the month, 958 newborns were registered in Latvia, which is 46 fewer than a year earlier. In June, 504 boys and 454 girls were born. At the same time, the number of deaths continues to rise. In the first six months of the year, 13,384 deaths were registered — 142 more people, or 1.1%, than in the same period last year. As a result, the natural decrease in the population has increased. Over the six months, the number of deaths exceeded the number of births by 7,837 people. For comparison, a year ago this figure was 7,433 people. Statistics also show a decrease in the number of marriages. From January to June, 3,733 marriages were registered, which is 364, or 8.9%, fewer than in the same period of 2025. These data indicate that demographic trends in the country have not changed so far. Birth rates continue to decline, mortality remains significantly higher, and the natural decrease in the population is increasing. According to preliminary estimates by the CSB, as of July 1, 2026, the population of Latvia was 1.832 million people.
