What are LESS Developed Countries?
Definition and Characteristics
A country is considered less developed if it lacks a high standard of living, economies of scale, and human development indicators. Less developed countries are typically defined by the United Nations as those with a GDP per capita of less than $1,025, life expectancy of less than 72 years, and per capita gross domestic product (GDP) of less than $10,400.
Characteristics of Less Developed Countries
The United Nations (UN) identifies several key characteristics of less developed countries:
- Low per capita GDP: A less developed country’s per capita GDP is below the world average.
- Low income: A less developed country’s Gross National Income (GNI) per capita is below the world average.
- Limited access to basic services: A less developed country’s population lacks access to basic services such as primary education, universal healthcare, and clean water and sanitation.
- High poverty rates: A less developed country has a high percentage of its population living below the poverty line.
- Stagnant economic growth: A less developed country’s economy is characterized by low growth rates, limited job creation, and poverty trap.
Examples of LESS Developed Countries
Here are some examples of less developed countries:
- Bangladesh: With a GDP per capita of $853, life expectancy of 66.6 years, and per capita GDP of $1,205, Bangladesh is one of the least developed countries in the world.
- Nepal: With a GDP per capita of $346, life expectancy of 68.2 years, and per capita GDP of $1,065, Nepal is another less developed country in the region.
- Laos: With a GDP per capita of $306, life expectancy of 68.8 years, and per capita GDP of $1,026, Laos is a less developed country in Southeast Asia.
Comparison to More Developed Countries
To understand the scale of difference, let’s compare less developed countries to more developed countries:
| Country | GDP per capita | Life expectancy | Per capita GDP |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States | $69,862 | 78.7 years | $69,146 |
| Japan | $55,460 | 87.2 years | $55,550 |
| India | $3,104 | 63.9 years | $2,555 |
| China | $10,464 | 72.6 years | $10,353 |
| Brazil | $4,378 | 65.7 years | $4,253 |
| Vietnam | $1,663 | 68.8 years | $1,677 |
Less Developed Countries: Causes and Contributing Factors
Less developed countries face a range of challenges that limit their economic growth and development. Some of the key causes and contributing factors include:
- Low population growth: A less developed country’s population is often relatively young and growing, limiting its potential for economic growth.
- Limited access to education: A less developed country’s population lacks access to quality education, limiting its potential for innovation and economic development.
- Poor governance: A less developed country’s governance system is often characterized by corruption, conflict, and inefficient use of resources.
- Conflict and violence: A less developed country’s conflict and violence can limit its economic growth and development.
- Climate change: A less developed country’s climate change can exacerbate its development challenges, including food insecurity, water scarcity, and conflict over natural resources.
Less Developed Countries: Opportunities and Challenges
Despite the challenges, there are also opportunities for less developed countries to grow and develop:
- Investment in human capital: Investing in education and health can lead to improved productivity and economic growth.
- Renewable energy: Investing in renewable energy can create new economic opportunities and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
- Agricultural development: Investing in agricultural development can create new economic opportunities and improve food security.
- Infrastructure development: Investing in infrastructure can improve access to basic services and create new economic opportunities.
However, the challenges are significant, and the opportunities must be carefully managed:
- Climate change: Addressing climate change requires a coordinated international effort, but the willingness of less developed countries to do so is uncertain.
- Sustainable development: The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) require a concerted effort from all countries, including less developed ones, to achieve sustainable development.
- Equitable distribution of benefits: The benefits of economic growth and development must be shared equitably among all members of society, including women, indigenous peoples, and marginalized groups.
Less Developed Countries: Conclusion
Less developed countries face significant challenges that limit their economic growth and development. However, there are also opportunities for growth and development if the challenges are addressed. The path to economic development requires a concerted international effort, but the willingness of all countries, including less developed ones, to work together towards a common goal is essential.
References
- United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). (2020). Human Development Index (HDI).
- World Bank. (2020). World Development Indicators (WDI).
- World Health Organization (WHO). (2020). World Health Statistics 2020.
- International Monetary Fund (IMF). (2020). World Economic Outlook.
- United Nations. (2020). The World’s Developing Countries in 2020.