A growing number of countries are seeing a rise in female populations. This demographic trend is not only reshaping societies but also contributing to greater peace and social stability. Vietnam, like other nations, is experiencing a gradual shift in the sex ratio, reflecting broader socioeconomic developments and improvements in gender equity.
MIAMI, FL (MERXWIRE) – In recent years, the world’s gender balance has begun to shift gradually. While most countries still maintain a higher number of males than females, some nations are witnessing a notable increase in the female population. This trend carries long-term implications for education, labour, and social development.
The sex ratio—defined as the number of males per 100 females—is a key demographic indicator. A sex ratio above 100 indicates a predominance of males; below 100 indicates a predominance of females. According to statistics from the United Nations and the World Bank as of 2023, the countries with the highest sex ratios are Qatar (248), the United Arab Emirates (177), Oman (165), Bahrain (155), and the Maldives (153). The extremely high ratios in these nations are primarily attributed to the influx of male migrant workers.
Conversely, several countries are showing a gradual movement toward gender parity and, in some cases, a slight female majority. In South Korea, data from the National Statistical Office shows that the birth sex ratio in 2023 dropped to 104.7 males per 100 females—a 45-year low since the 1977 figure of 104.2. This marks a significant milestone in a country that has historically been known for its preference for sons.
Vietnam is also observing a subtle shift. While the national sex ratio at birth remains high—hovering above 110 for more than a decade—recent public campaigns, legal reforms, and educational efforts have started to moderate this imbalance. Local experts note that greater awareness of gender equality and broader access to education and healthcare have contributed to a slow but encouraging change in societal attitudes toward girls.
According to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), societies where women have greater access to education and employment opportunities tend to be more accepting of daughters. Moreover, women are increasingly recognised as equal contributors to caregiving and family responsibilities, particularly in ageing societies.
While it is premature to conclude that a rise in the female population directly leads to a more peaceful world, there is a growing consensus that societies with better gender balance tend to exhibit higher levels of social cohesion, reduced violence, and improved governance.
In the long term, the shift toward a more balanced gender ratio is expected to influence policy-making in areas such as social welfare, eldercare, education, and labour force participation. Countries like Vietnam, which are undergoing demographic transition, may also experience broader gains in human development and social harmony.