Fig. 1 – Advanced, in transition, less and least developed countries according to IMF and UN definitions
Characteristics of Developing Countries
Examining the characteristics commonly associated with developing countries can help shed light on the various facets of their socio-economic realities. While these characteristics are by no means universal, they are prevalent enough to warrant discussion. Here are some common traits, each presented with examples to clarify the concept.
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Low Per Capita Income
Developing countries often exhibit low per capita income, which refers to the average income per person in a given country. For instance, in countries like Nepal or Malawi, the GDP per capita is significantly lower than in high-income countries, such as Switzerland or Norway. This gap in income levels is often a result of a variety of factors, including lower levels of industrialization, technological advancement, and human capital.
High Levels of Poverty
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Higher levels of poverty are another characteristic associated with developing countries. A substantial portion of the population in these nations lives below the international poverty line. Take, for example, Zambia, where over 50% of the population is considered to be living in poverty. This poverty can often be traced back to systemic issues like unequal wealth distribution and limited access to quality education and healthcare.
Dependence on Agriculture
Developing nations often exhibit a higher reliance on the agricultural sector for their economic output and employment. For example, in Bangladesh, a significant proportion of the population is engaged in farming, contributing to a large share of the country’s GDP. However, this dependence can expose these economies to risks such as volatile global commodity prices and climatic uncertainties.
Rapid Population Growth
Another characteristic of developing countries is a higher rate of population growth. Countries like Nigeria and Pakistan have seen their populations surge over the past decades, placing pressure on resources and infrastructure. Rapid population growth can strain public services like education and healthcare, thereby posing challenges to sustainable development.
Weak Infrastructure
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Lastly, developing countries often grapple with weak or underdeveloped infrastructure. Whether it’s road networks in rural areas of India or electricity supply in parts of sub-Saharan Africa, infrastructure deficits are a common challenge. Such infrastructural gaps can hinder economic development and limit access to essential services.
Health Challenges
Developing countries often face significant health challenges, including higher rates of infectious diseases and lower life expectancy. In many Sub-Saharan African countries, for instance, health issues such as HIV/AIDS and malaria continue to be major public health crises. Additionally, limited access to clean water and sanitation facilities can exacerbate health issues, as seen in parts of Yemen, where water scarcity has contributed to a severe cholera outbreak.
Limited Human Capital
Human capital, measured by factors such as education and skills training, is often limited in developing countries. For instance, countries like Afghanistan have low literacy rates, particularly among women, impacting the workforce’s skill level and the economy’s productivity. Limited human capital can be attributed to various factors, including inadequate education systems, lack of investment in skills training, and limited access to quality health care, which affects the population’s overall well-being and capacity to contribute productively to society.
While these characteristics are common among many developing nations, it’s crucial to remember that there’s considerable variation within this category. As such, these traits should be viewed as general patterns rather than definitive markers of all developing countries.
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