Adoptions from an international country follow predictable cycles of popularity and growth.

As new countries open up their borders to adoption waiting families often move their decision to that country.

Over a few years time this country may change their laws or polices to meet the demand or to slow the release of their children.

Many factors play into this decision and for some countries their decision is based upon cultural issues, political reasons, fear for these children and for some (i.e. Guatemala) legitimate concerns of illegal activity.

As you view the table below, you will see different countries take the “top spot” for adoptions in any given year. More importantly, you will see the total number of adoptions DECREASE in total for each year. Even though the orphan population is growing from year to year, the number of adoptions is decreasing. There are many challenging  reasons for the decrease and our response should not be one of frustration but of fervent prayer for the children who are left behind.

That is one of the reasons why an orphan care model is necessary – to care for those who remain in their countries without the love, care or necessities needed to thrive. To learn more what can be done, please see our Orphan Care model.

If interested in adoption from the Top 20 Countries or from any country that allows inter-country adoption please see our list of International Adoption Agencies where you can search by country, agency name, faith based, etc.