While many countries around the world experience economic growth and development, some nations continue to struggle with extreme poverty, weak infrastructure, and lack of basic services. These underdeveloped countries face severe economic hardship, political instability, and health crises, making daily life incredibly difficult for their populations.
So, which is the most underdeveloped country in the world? Several nations compete for this unfortunate title based on economic indicators, human development indices, and quality of life factors. This topic explores the most underdeveloped country, the reasons behind its struggles, and what can be done to improve its future.
What Defines an Underdeveloped Country?
A country is considered underdeveloped if it faces severe challenges in economic, social, and political stability. The main indicators of underdevelopment include:
- Low Gross Domestic Product (GDP) – The economy is weak, and most people live in poverty.
- High Poverty Rate – A large portion of the population struggles to afford basic necessities.
- Poor Infrastructure – Limited access to roads, electricity, and clean water.
- Low Literacy and Education Levels – Lack of proper schools and education systems.
- Weak Healthcare System – High infant mortality rates and limited medical services.
- Political Instability – Frequent conflicts, corruption, and weak governance.
Based on these factors, Burundi is often considered the most underdeveloped country in the world.
The Most Underdeveloped Country: Burundi
Where Is Burundi?
Burundi is a small, landlocked country in East Africa, bordered by Rwanda, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Despite its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, Burundi remains one of the poorest and least developed nations in the world.
Why Is Burundi So Underdeveloped?
- Extreme Poverty
- Burundi has one of the lowest GDP per capita in the world, with most citizens living on less than $2 per day.
- Over 65% of the population lives below the poverty line.
- Poor Infrastructure
- Many areas lack paved roads, clean water, and reliable electricity.
- Only a small percentage of the population has access to modern sanitation facilities.
- Weak Education System
- The literacy rate is low, and many children cannot afford to go to school.
- Schools often lack basic resources such as books, desks, and trained teachers.
- Healthcare Crisis
- High infant mortality rates due to malnutrition and lack of medical facilities.
- Limited access to doctors and hospitals, with many rural areas having no healthcare services at all.
- Political Instability and Corruption
- Burundi has faced civil wars, military coups, and political violence for decades.
- Government corruption prevents aid and development funds from reaching those who need it most.
- Hunger and Malnutrition
- Over 50% of children in Burundi suffer from chronic malnutrition.
- The country relies heavily on subsistence farming, which is vulnerable to droughts and climate change.
Due to these challenges, Burundi continues to struggle with economic and social development, making it one of the least developed countries on Earth.
Other Severely Underdeveloped Countries
While Burundi is often considered the most underdeveloped country, several other nations face similar struggles.
1. South Sudan
Location: East-Central Africa
Why Is It Underdeveloped?
- Recent Independence – Gained independence from Sudan in 2011 but remains politically unstable.
- Civil War and Ethnic Conflicts – Ongoing violence has displaced millions of people.
- Severe Hunger Crisis – One of the highest levels of food insecurity in the world.
- Minimal Infrastructure – Roads, hospitals, and schools are almost nonexistent in many areas.
South Sudan’s development has been severely hindered by conflict, corruption, and economic instability.
2. The Central African Republic (CAR)
Location: Central Africa
Why Is It Underdeveloped?
- Constant Armed Conflicts – Civil wars and violent militias control large parts of the country.
- Weak Economy – Heavy dependence on agriculture, with minimal industrial growth.
- Poor Health Conditions – Life expectancy is among the lowest in the world.
- Lack of Basic Services – Electricity, clean water, and education are scarce.
Despite its rich natural resources, the CAR remains one of the poorest and most unstable nations.
3. Chad
Location: Central Africa
Why Is It Underdeveloped?
- Harsh Desert Climate – Frequent droughts and extreme heat limit farming.
- High Child Mortality Rate – One of the highest rates of infant deaths in the world.
- Limited Economic Growth – The country relies on oil exports, but profits do not benefit the people.
- Widespread Corruption – Government funds are often misused or stolen.
With poor education, limited healthcare, and harsh living conditions, Chad remains one of the least developed countries.
4. Haiti
Location: Caribbean (North America)
Why Is It Underdeveloped?
- Natural Disasters – Frequent earthquakes, hurricanes, and floods devastate the economy.
- Political Unrest – Instability and corruption prevent economic progress.
- Lack of Healthcare – Hospitals and medical resources are scarce.
- Widespread Poverty – Over 60% of the population lives below the poverty line.
Haiti is the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere, struggling with both economic and environmental challenges.
5. Afghanistan
Location: South Asia
Why Is It Underdeveloped?
- Decades of War – Ongoing conflict has destroyed much of the country’s infrastructure.
- Weak Economy – Heavy dependence on foreign aid and limited industrial growth.
- Poor Healthcare and Education – Many people lack access to doctors and schools.
- Political Instability – Frequent changes in government and extremist groups create instability.
Despite international aid, Afghanistan remains one of the hardest places to live.
Can These Countries Develop?
While these nations face severe challenges, there are ways to improve their future:
- Investing in Education – More schools and trained teachers can help build a stronger workforce.
- Strengthening Healthcare – Better medical services can reduce disease and child mortality.
- Reducing Corruption – Transparent governments can ensure that aid reaches the people.
- Improving Agriculture – Sustainable farming techniques can help reduce hunger.
- Encouraging Foreign Investment – Economic development can create jobs and infrastructure.
Although change takes time, long-term strategies and international support can help these countries escape poverty and underdevelopment.
Burundi remains the most underdeveloped country in the world, facing extreme poverty, poor infrastructure, weak healthcare, and political instability. However, other nations like South Sudan, the Central African Republic, Chad, Haiti, and Afghanistan also struggle with severe underdevelopment.
Despite these hardships, there is hope for the future. With the right investments in education, healthcare, and governance, these countries can improve and provide a better life for their citizens. Development is slow, but with global efforts and sustainable policies, progress is possible.