Countries Struggling With Extreme Poverty Globally

As of 2024, the world remains deeply divided by economic disparities, with several countries continuing to grapple with extreme poverty. This issue is particularly pronounced in certain regions, where a combination of factors such as political instability, inadequate infrastructure, environmental challenges, and limited access to education and healthcare exacerbates the situation. Below is an overview of some of the countries that are currently facing the most severe levels of poverty worldwide.

1. Burundi

Burundi remains one of the poorest countries in the world, with a GDP per capita of just $230. The East African nation is heavily reliant on agriculture, which employs the majority of its population. However, the sector is underdeveloped, and the country is prone to environmental challenges such as droughts and floods. Political instability and ethnic conflicts have further undermined economic progress, leaving a large portion of the population living in extreme poverty. Despite international aid, Burundi struggles to provide basic services such as healthcare, education, and clean water to its citizens.

2. South Sudan

South Sudan, with a GDP per capita of around $815, continues to face extreme poverty due to ongoing civil conflict and political instability. Since gaining independence in 2011, the country has been mired in violence, which has severely hampered its economic development. South Sudan is rich in oil, but the benefits of this resource have not trickled down to the general population due to corruption and mismanagement. The healthcare system is in shambles, and many people lack access to necessities, including clean water and adequate food.

3. Central African Republic (CAR)

The Central African Republic (CAR) is another country struggling with extreme poverty, with a GDP per capita of $933. The nation is rich in natural resources like diamonds and gold, but ongoing conflicts and weak governance have prevented these resources from contributing to economic growth. The majority of the population relies on subsistence agriculture, which is insufficient to meet their needs. Access to education and healthcare is severely limited, and the country ranks low on the Human Development Index (HDI).

4. Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)

Despite being one of the most resource-rich countries in the world, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has a GDP per capita of $1,550 and remains one of the poorest nations globally. The country's wealth is concentrated in the hands of a few, while the majority of the population lives in poverty. The DRC is plagued by corruption, political instability, and ongoing conflict, particularly in the eastern regions. These challenges have stifled economic development, leaving many people without access to basic services such as healthcare and education.

5. Niger

Niger is one of the poorest countries in West Africa, with a GDP per capita of $1,670. The country faces numerous challenges, including a rapidly growing population, political instability, and environmental challenges such as frequent droughts. Over half of Niger's population lives below the international poverty line, and the country has one of the lowest literacy rates in the world. The agricultural sector, which employs the majority of the population, is vulnerable to climate change, further exacerbating poverty.

6. Mozambique

Mozambique, with a GDP per capita of $1,650, is another country struggling with extreme poverty. The nation is frequently hit by natural disasters such as cyclones, which devastate infrastructure and homes, pushing many into poverty. Despite recent discoveries of natural gas reserves, the benefits have not yet reached the broader population. Political instability and corruption have hindered economic progress, and a large portion of the population remains dependent on subsistence agriculture.

7. Madagascar

Madagascar, with a GDP per capita of $1,480, is heavily reliant on agriculture, particularly the export of vanilla. However, the majority of its population lives in poverty, with limited access to education, healthcare, and clean water. The country is prone to frequent natural disasters such as cyclones, which further exacerbate poverty levels. Political instability and corruption have also hindered economic development, leaving many people struggling to meet their basic needs.

8. Liberia

Liberia, with a GDP per capita of $1,880, continues to struggle with economic recovery following years of civil war and the Ebola outbreak. The country is rich in natural resources, including rubber and iron ore, but these have not been fully exploited due to corruption and poor governance. High levels of poverty, unemployment, and limited access to healthcare and education persist, making Liberia one of the most economically challenged nations in the world.

9. Yemen

Yemen is one of the most impoverished countries in the Middle East, with a GDP per capita of $570. The ongoing civil war, which began in 2015, has devastated the country’s infrastructure and economy. The conflict has led to widespread hunger, with many people living in extreme poverty. The healthcare system has collapsed, and access to necessities such as food and clean water is severely limited. Yemen’s poverty crisis has been further exacerbated by international sanctions and blockades, making it one of the most challenging environments for survival.

10. Afghanistan

Afghanistan, with a GDP per capita of $531, remains one of the poorest countries in the world. Decades of war and instability have left the country’s economy in shambles. The recent return of the Taliban has further destabilized the region, leading to a significant withdrawal of international aid. The majority of Afghans live in poverty, with limited access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. The country’s reliance on agriculture, which is vulnerable to climate change and droughts, has further deepened the poverty crisis.

Conclusion

These countries, among others, are grappling with extreme poverty due to a combination of factors such as conflict, political instability, environmental challenges, and inadequate infrastructure. Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach, including international aid, improved governance, and investment in critical sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure. While the path to economic recovery is challenging, with sustained efforts and support from the global community, these nations can begin to overcome the barriers to development and lift their populations out of poverty.