Definition
The United Nations defines Least Developed Countries (LDCs) as nations that exhibit the lowest indicators of socioeconomic development. These countries face significant challenges such as low income per capita, weak human resources, and economic vulnerability. The criteria for inclusion in the LDC list are based on Gross National Income (GNI) per capita, the Human Assets Index (HAI), and the Economic Vulnerability Index (EVI).
Top 10 Least Developed Countries in 2024
According to current rankings, some of the top LDCs include:
- Burundi
- South Sudan
- Central African Republic
- Haiti
- Togo
- Sierra Leone
- Liberia
- Eritrea
- Guinea-Bissau
- Lesotho(World Population Review)(UNCTAD).
These countries have extremely low GNI and face significant challenges in terms of education, healthcare, infrastructure, and governance.
Least Developed Countries in 2023
The situation in 2023 was quite similar, with many of the same countries struggling with developmental challenges. South Sudan, Burundi, and Haiti remain among the poorest, with ongoing internal conflicts and minimal industrial development(
LDCs in Asia
Asia is home to several LDCs, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh (though it is set to graduate from LDC status in the near future), Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar. These countries often face challenges such as political instability, economic dependency on agriculture, and vulnerability to natural disasters(
UNCTAD).
List of Developing Countries (2024)
In contrast to LDCs, developing countries like India, Indonesia, Brazil, and South Africa show higher levels of development but still struggle with poverty, inequality, and other issues. The UN provides a detailed list of both LDCs and developing countries, reflecting their economic progress(
UNCTAD).
For further details and the complete list of LDCs, you can explore the (
World Population Review)tps://worldpopulationreview.com/country-rankings/least-developed-countries).