Sex-selective abortions in Armenia

Abstract

This paper examines sex-selective abortions in Armenia. Sex-selection is observed in Armenia since 190s. There are a number of factors that contribute to increase of the rates of sex-selective abortions, namely the interconectednes of desired number, gender of children and birth order. The research design is mixed: both primary and secondary data are used. The primary data is acquired by means of the interviews with doctors and experts. It is proved that the birth order, number of desired children and fertility rate influence sex-selective abortions. Reasons behind sex-selection in Armenia are mainly of socio-cultural and economic origin.