94% of asylum seekers in Latvia are men

From January to September, citizens of Afghanistan submitted 250 applications for international protection. The highest number was registered in June — 110. Citizens of Pakistan ranked second, with 195 initial applications received over nine months. Citizens of Somalia occupy the third place — 135 applications. In total, from January to September 2026, Latvia registered 1210 initial applications for international protection from citizens of third countries. It is noteworthy that the overwhelming majority of applicants are men — 1140 individuals, or about 94% of the total. A person who has left their homeland and believes that they face serious danger — persecution, human rights violations, or war — in their home country can apply for international protection. In such cases, they have the right to seek asylum in another country.