Total demand for family planning (Percent) 2017

Total demand for family planning measures the percentage of individuals seeking access to reproductive health services. Understanding this statistic is crucial for addressing global population growth and improving health outcomes.

199 data points•Updated 11/15/2025•World•United Nations Population Division•

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Complete Data Rankings

Rank
1	Finland	81.9 %
2	Switzerland	77.2 %
3	Canada	76.1 %
4	United Kingdom	75.9 %
5	Cuba	75.6 %
6	Brazil	72.5 %
7	Bulgaria	72.1 %
8	Norway	71.9 %
9	China	71.3 %
10	France	70.5 %
11	Ireland	70.5 %
12	Austria	69.8 %
13	Chile	69.5 %
14	Spain	68.9 %
15	Netherlands	68.7 %
16	New Zealand	68.1 %
17	Czech Republic	67.6 %
18	Denmark	67.5 %
19	Estonia	67.5 %
20	Colombia	67.2 %
21	Argentina	67 %
22	Belgium	66.5 %
23	North Korea	66.5 %
24	United States	66.3 %
25	Australia	65.2 %
26	Italy	64.5 %
27	Latvia	64.5 %
28	Sweden	64.5 %
29	Belarus	64.3 %
30	Botswana	64.2 %
31	Dominican Republic	64.2 %
32	Paraguay	63.5 %
33	Portugal	63.5 %
34	Costa Rica	63.3 %
35	Nicaragua	62.9 %
36	Germany	62.1 %
37	Namibia	62 %
38	Mexico	61.9 %
39	Uruguay	61.8 %
40	Vietnam	61.7 %
41	Barbados	61.2 %
42	Iran	61.1 %
43	Venezuela	61 %
44	Malawi	60.8 %
45	South Africa	60.8 %
46	Republic of Moldova	60.6 %
47	Slovakia	60.5 %
48	Romania	60.2 %
49	Bangladesh	59.8 %
50	Cook Islands	59.7 %
51	Poland	59.7 %
52	Ukraine	59.7 %
53	Eswatini	59.5 %
54	Panama	59.4 %
55	Réunion	59.4 %
56	Lesotho	59.2 %
57	United States Virgin Islands	58.7 %
58	Puerto Rico	58.5 %
59	Saint Lucia	58.4 %
60	Ecuador	58 %
61	Japan	57.9 %
62	Russia	57.4 %
63	El Salvador	57.3 %
64	Zimbabwe	57.1 %
65	Honduras	57 %
66	Saint Kitts and Nevis	57 %
67	Sao Tome and Principe	56.9 %
68	Peru	56.8 %
69	Saint Vincent and the Grenadines	56.8 %
70	Nepal	56.6 %
71	Taiwan	56.1 %
72	South Korea	56.1 %
73	Dominica	56 %
74	Uzbekistan	55.4 %
75	Cabo Verde	55.3 %
76	Congo	55.2 %
77	Hungary	55.2 %
78	Greece	55.1 %
79	Bolivia	55 %
80	Kenya	54.8 %
81	China, Hong Kong SAR	54.3 %
82	Belize	54.1 %
83	Serbia	54 %
84	Malta	53.9 %
85	Albania	53.6 %
86	Slovenia	53.5 %
87	Lithuania	53.1 %
88	Mongolia	53.1 %
89	India	53 %
90	Kazakhstan	53 %
91	Turks and Caicos Islands	52.9 %
92	Croatia	52.3 %
93	Bahamas	52.1 %
94	Vanuatu	52.1 %
95	Liberia	51.6 %
96	Uganda	51.5 %
97	North Macedonia	51.5 %
98	Madagascar	51.4 %
99	Montserrat	51.4 %
100	Zambia	51.4 %
101	Grenada	51.2 %
102	Indonesia	51 %
103	Turkey	50.7 %
104	Curaçao	50.6 %
105	Anguilla	50.5 %
106	Haiti	50.4 %
107	Sri Lanka	49.7 %
108	Marshall Islands	49.5 %
109	Gabon	49 %
110	Guadeloupe	49 %
111	Martinique	48.9 %
112	Antigua and Barbuda	48.8 %
113	Morocco	48.8 %
114	Egypt	48.8 %
115	Guatemala	48.4 %
116	Thailand	48.2 %
117	Trinidad and Tobago	48.2 %
118	Tanzania	48 %
119	Cambodia	47.2 %
120	Laos	46.9 %
121	Suriname	46.7 %
122	Bosnia and Herzegovina	46.1 %
123	Guyana	45.8 %
124	Papua New Guinea	45.8 %
125	Jamaica	45.7 %
126	Togo	45.7 %
127	Kosovo	45.7 %
128	Bhutan	45.6 %
129	Israel	45.6 %
130	Guam	45.5 %
131	United Arab Emirates	45.5 %
132	State of Palestine	45.2 %
133	Armenia	45.1 %
134	Rwanda	44.9 %
135	Nauru	44.8 %
136	Sierra Leone	44.8 %
137	Congo, Democratic Republic of the	44.4 %
138	Kuwait	44.4 %
139	Ghana	44.2 %
140	Mauritius	44.2 %
141	Guinea-Bissau	44 %
142	Côte d'Ivoire	43.9 %
143	Mozambique	43.9 %
144	Iraq	43.6 %
145	Bahrain	43.5 %
146	Angola	43 %
147	Philippines	43 %
148	Georgia	42.8 %
149	Samoa	42.8 %
150	Burkina Faso	42.5 %
151	Turkmenistan	42.3 %
152	Yemen	42.3 %
153	Azerbaijan	42.2 %
154	Ethiopia	41.8 %
155	Syrian Arab Republic	41.7 %
156	Malaysia	41.2 %
157	Myanmar	41 %
158	Benin	40.7 %
159	Algeria	40.5 %
160	Palau	40.5 %
161	Lebanon	40.3 %
162	Qatar	40.3 %
163	Central African Republic	40.2 %
164	Fiji	40.2 %
165	Equatorial Guinea	39.6 %
166	Cameroon	39.3 %
167	Tunisia	39.3 %
168	Jordan	38.9 %
169	Kiribati	38.4 %
170	Tuvalu	38.3 %
171	Singapore	38.1 %
172	Montenegro	37.4 %
173	Northern Mariana Islands	37.2 %
174	Burundi	36.7 %
175	Maldives	36.3 %
176	Mali	36.2 %
177	Solomon Islands	35.8 %
178	Tajikistan	35.8 %
179	Kyrgyzstan	34.7 %
180	Oman	34.6 %
181	Comoros	34.3 %
182	Senegal	34.2 %
183	Pakistan	34 %
184	Saudi Arabia	32.1 %
185	Afghanistan	32 %
186	Tonga	31.9 %
187	Timor-Leste	31.8 %
188	Mauritania	31.3 %
189	Nigeria	30.6 %
190	Guinea	29.3 %
191	Libya	29.2 %
192	Niger	28.2 %
193	South Sudan	28 %
194	Gambia	27.6 %
195	Sudan	27.3 %
196	Djibouti	26.2 %
197	Chad	25 %
198	Eritrea	23.5 %
199	Somalia	22.1 %

↑Top 10 Countries

Analysis: These countries represent the highest values in this dataset, showcasing significant scale and impact on global statistics.

↓Bottom 10 Countries

Context: These countries or territories have the lowest values, often due to geographic size, administrative status, or specific characteristics.

Analysis & Context

The Total demand for family planning (Percent) is a critical metric that measures the percentage of individuals seeking access to reproductive health services. This statistic is pivotal for understanding global population dynamics and improving health outcomes, particularly in 2017, a year marked by significant global developments in reproductive health policies. Examining the variations in demand across different regions offers insights into the successes and challenges of family planning initiatives worldwide.

Global Statistical Summary

In 2017, data on the Total demand for family planning was available from 199 countries, revealing a vast range of demand levels. The minimum value was recorded at 22.10% in Somalia, while Finland topped the chart with a remarkable 81.90%. The average global demand stood at 50.95%, with a median of 51.40%. This distribution highlights a significant disparity between countries, reflecting various socio-economic, cultural, and policy-driven factors influencing family planning accessibility and uptake.

Regional Variations and Demographic Insights

The stark contrast in family planning demand between countries such as Finland and Somalia underscores regional disparities. In high-demand countries like Finland, Switzerland (77.2%), and Canada (76.1%), extensive healthcare infrastructure and comprehensive reproductive health policies contribute to higher percentages. Conversely, countries like Eritrea (23.5%) and Chad (25.0%) face barriers such as limited healthcare access and socio-cultural constraints, hindering family planning efforts.

Moreover, demographic factors play a crucial role. In nations with younger populations or rapid population growth, the demand for family planning services often lags due to inadequate educational outreach and healthcare services. For instance, in Nigeria and India, despite significant population sizes, efforts to increase access to family planning services are ongoing but face challenges due to diverse needs across various regions and communities.

Policy Impact and Global Trends

The year 2017 witnessed substantial policy shifts impacting family planning demand. Countries like India and Uganda saw significant increases in demand, with Uganda experiencing a 2.4% rise and India a 1.9% increase, attributed to governmental initiatives promoting reproductive health and contraceptive use. These policies often align with international commitments, such as the Sustainable Development Goals, which emphasize ensuring universal access to reproductive health services.

Conversely, some regions faced declines, with Cameroon seeing a 2.5% decrease and Indonesia a 1.7% drop. These reductions may result from political instability, economic challenges, or changes in government priorities impacting public health funding and program implementation.

Public Health Implications and Outcomes

The demand for family planning is a vital component of public health, influencing maternal and child health outcomes. Increased demand correlates with lower maternal mortality rates, improved child survival, and greater educational and economic opportunities for women. Countries like Cuba (75.6%) and Brazil (72.5%) showcase how robust family planning programs contribute to broader health and societal benefits.

Conversely, low demand levels in countries such as Somalia and Chad highlight the urgent need for international support and investment. Addressing cultural and infrastructural barriers can lead to improved health outcomes and economic development by enabling families to plan their futures more effectively.

Conclusion and Future Projections

The Total demand for family planning in 2017 presents a complex landscape influenced by regional disparities, policy initiatives, and socio-economic factors. As countries strive to meet the global goals of universal access to reproductive health services, understanding these dynamics is crucial. Future projections suggest that continued investment in education, healthcare infrastructure, and policy development will be essential for addressing unmet needs and ensuring equitable access across all regions. The successes and challenges of 2017 provide a roadmap for future efforts aimed at enhancing global family planning services and improving health outcomes worldwide.

Insights by country

Bhutan

In 2017, Bhutan ranked 128th out of 199 countries regarding the total demand for family planning, with a notable 45.6% of the population expressing this demand. This statistic reflects the country's ongoing efforts to improve reproductive health services and access to family planning resources.

Factors contributing to this demand may include cultural shifts, increased awareness of family planning options, and government initiatives aimed at improving public health. Additionally, Bhutan's focus on Gross National Happiness often emphasizes health and well-being, which can lead to a greater interest in family planning.

Interestingly, this demand for family planning is part of Bhutan's larger public health strategy, which includes education on reproductive health and efforts to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates. As of recent years, there has been a gradual increase in access to contraceptive methods, indicating positive trends towards reproductive autonomy.

Maldives

The Maldives ranks 175th out of 199 countries in terms of total demand for family planning, with a reported value of 36.3% in 2017. This statistic indicates a significant portion of the population expresses a desire to use family planning methods but may face barriers in accessing these services.

Factors contributing to this low demand may include limited availability of family planning resources, cultural attitudes towards contraception, and a lack of comprehensive education regarding reproductive health. Additionally, the Maldives, as an island nation, faces challenges in healthcare delivery, which may hinder the effective implementation of family planning initiatives.

Interestingly, the overall demand for family planning is crucial for managing population growth and ensuring maternal health. In many regions, increased access to family planning services has been linked to improved economic stability and educational outcomes for women and families.

Montserrat

In 2017, Montserrat recorded a total demand for family planning at 51.4%, ranking it 99th out of 199 countries in this regard. This statistic reflects the proportion of the population that desires to plan their families but may not have access to effective contraceptive methods.

The moderate demand for family planning in Montserrat can be attributed to various factors, including cultural attitudes towards family size and reproductive health, as well as the availability of health services. The island's small population and limited healthcare resources may also impact the accessibility of family planning services.

Interestingly, the demand for family planning is influenced by educational levels, awareness of reproductive health options, and socio-economic conditions. Global trends indicate that higher demand often correlates with increased education and economic stability, factors that Montserrat continues to develop.

Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea ranked 124th out of 199 countries in terms of total demand for family planning in 2017, with a reported value of 45.8%. This statistic indicates that less than half of the population expressed a demand for family planning services, highlighting potential gaps in information, access, and resources related to reproductive health.

The relatively low demand can be attributed to various factors, including cultural attitudes towards family size, limited access to contraceptive methods, and insufficient education about family planning. In many rural areas, traditional beliefs and practices may also play a significant role in shaping attitudes towards family planning.

Further emphasizing the challenges faced, Papua New Guinea has a high maternal mortality rate, which suggests a need for improved reproductive health services. Additionally, the country has been working on various initiatives to enhance awareness and access to family planning methods, aiming to increase the percentage of women who can make informed choices about their reproductive health.

Saint Lucia

In 2017, Saint Lucia had a total demand for family planning of 58.4 percent, ranking it 59th out of 199 countries. This statistic reflects the proportion of the population that expressed a desire to control their reproductive health through family planning services.

The relatively high demand for family planning in Saint Lucia can be attributed to various factors, including increased awareness of reproductive health, access to healthcare services, and the empowerment of women in making informed choices about their bodies. The government and non-governmental organizations have made significant efforts to improve access to family planning resources, contributing to a greater public understanding of its importance.

Interestingly, this figure aligns with broader regional trends in the Caribbean, where many countries are experiencing a growing recognition of the significance of family planning in promoting public health and economic development. Effective family planning can lead to improved maternal and child health outcomes, thus enhancing the overall quality of life in communities.

Niger

Niger ranks 192 out of 199 countries in terms of total demand for family planning, with a reported value of 28.2% in 2017. This low percentage indicates that a significant portion of the population has an unmet need for family planning services, reflecting challenges in access and availability of contraceptive methods.

The statistics suggest that many women in Niger may desire to avoid or delay pregnancy but lack the necessary resources or information to do so. Contributing factors to this situation include limited healthcare infrastructure, cultural attitudes towards contraception, and high levels of poverty, which can hinder access to family planning services.

In the broader context, Niger has one of the highest fertility rates in the world, with an average of approximately 6.9 children per woman. This, combined with the low demand for family planning, underscores a critical public health issue that the country faces in managing population growth and improving maternal and child health outcomes.

Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone ranked 136th out of 199 countries in terms of total demand for family planning in the year 2017, with a reported demand of 44.8%. This indicates a significant need for family planning resources and services among the population.

The statistic reflects a combination of cultural, educational, and economic factors that influence reproductive health decisions. In Sierra Leone, challenges such as limited access to healthcare services, low levels of education, and socio-economic constraints contribute to the high demand for family planning methods.

Moreover, the aftermath of the civil war and the Ebola outbreak has adversely affected the health infrastructure, making it difficult for individuals to access family planning education and resources. Strengthening healthcare systems and increasing awareness about reproductive health could potentially enhance family planning uptake in the country.

Ethiopia

Ethiopia ranks 154th out of 199 countries regarding total demand for family planning, with a reported demand of 41.8% in 2017. This statistic indicates a significant portion of the population expresses a desire to control family size, highlighting the need for accessible family planning services.

The relatively low demand for family planning can be attributed to various factors, including cultural norms, limited access to contraceptive methods, and socioeconomic challenges. In a country where traditional values often prioritize large families, the gap between demand and provision of family planning can pose challenges for public health initiatives.

Additionally, Ethiopia has been making strides in improving reproductive health services, but barriers remain. For instance, in rural areas, there is often a lack of trained healthcare providers and essential supplies, which contributes to the unmet need for family planning. Despite these challenges, increasing awareness and education about family planning could potentially enhance the acceptance and use of contraceptive methods in the future.

United States

The United States ranks 24th out of 199 countries in total demand for family planning, with a reported demand of 66.3% in the year 2017. This statistic reflects the proportion of individuals who wish to avoid pregnancy but are not using any method of contraception, indicating a significant portion of the population seeking family planning resources.

Several factors contribute to this demand, including access to healthcare, education about reproductive health, and socioeconomic conditions. In the U.S., disparities in healthcare access, particularly in rural areas and among low-income populations, can hinder individuals from obtaining the necessary family planning services.

Additionally, the rate of unintended pregnancies in the United States has been a critical public health concern, prompting discussions about enhancing reproductive health education and accessibility to contraception. This statistic underscores the ongoing need for policies that support family planning initiatives and promote informed reproductive choices among the population.

Afghanistan

In 2017, Afghanistan had a total demand for family planning of 32%, ranking 185 out of 199 countries. This low percentage reflects significant challenges in access to reproductive health services and education in the country.

The limited availability of contraceptive methods, cultural norms favoring large families, and lack of awareness about family planning contribute to this statistic. Additionally, ongoing conflict and instability have hindered health infrastructure and the delivery of essential services.

According to the United Nations, Afghanistan has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the world, which underscores the importance of improving family planning services to enhance women's health and overall family well-being.

Data Source

United Nations Population Division

The Population Division of the Department of Economic and Social Affairs conducts demographic research, supports intergovernmental processes at the United Nations in the area of population and development, and assists countries in developing their capacity to produce and analyse population data and information. The Division brings population issues to the attention of the international community by highlighting the central role of demographic trends in all aspects of sustainable development. The Division publishes datasets on the world’s population and analyzes global demographic trends.

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Historical Data by Year

Explore Total demand for family planning (Percent) data across different years. Compare trends and see how statistics have changed over time.

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