What is the primary characteristic that defines a developing country in relation to developed countries?

A developing country is defined as a nation with a less-developed industrial base and a lower Human Development Index (HDI) compared to developed countries. The HDI is a composite statistic used to rank countries into categories of human development.

Is there a universally agreed-upon definition for a 'developing country,' and do all sources agree on which countries fall into this category?

No, the definition of a developing country is not universally agreed upon, and there is no clear consensus on which specific countries fit this classification. Different organizations and sources may use varying criteria.

What are alternative terms often used interchangeably with 'developing country,' and what do they specifically refer to?

Terms like 'low- and middle-income country' (LMIC) and 'newly emerging economy' (NEE) are often used interchangeably, but they specifically refer to the economic aspects of these countries, such as their income levels or stage of economic growth.

How does the World Bank classify the world's economies, and what are the main categories?

The World Bank classifies economies into four groups based on gross national income (GNI) per capita: high-income, upper-middle-income, lower-middle-income, and low-income countries. This classification helps in understanding global economic disparities.

What are some sub-groupings of developing countries mentioned in the text?

Sub-groupings of developing countries include least developed countries (LDCs), landlocked developing countries (LLDCs), and small island developing states (SIDS). These categories highlight specific challenges faced by these nations.

What is the 'Global South,' and how is it used as an alternative term?

The 'Global South' is used by some as an alternative term for developing countries, often referring to regions with interconnected histories of colonialism and neo-imperialism, leading to significant inequalities in living standards and access to resources. It's a geopolitical and economic grouping rather than strictly a geographical one.

What criticism has been raised regarding the use of the term 'developing country'?

The term 'developing country' is criticized for potentially implying inferiority compared to developed countries and for assuming a desire to follow a traditional Western model of economic development, which not all countries may wish to pursue. Some argue it perpetuates an outdated 'us' and 'them' dichotomy.

According to the World Bank, why has the 'developing/developed world categorization' become less relevant?

The World Bank declared the 'developing/developed world categorization' less relevant in 2015, citing worldwide improvements in indices like child mortality, fertility rates, and extreme poverty. They now favor data aggregations for regions and income groups.

What are some common characteristics that developing countries tend to share due to their histories or geographies?

Developing countries commonly exhibit lower access to safe drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene; energy poverty; higher levels of pollution; a greater prevalence of tropical and infectious diseases; more road traffic accidents; and generally poorer quality infrastructure. These factors often stem from historical circumstances and geographical factors.

What are some socio-economic challenges frequently observed in developing countries?

Developing countries often face high unemployment rates, widespread poverty and hunger, child labor, malnutrition, homelessness, substance abuse, prostitution, overpopulation, civil disorder, human capital flight, large informal economies, high crime rates, low education levels, economic inequality, school desertion, inadequate family planning services, informal settlements, and corruption.

How does access to healthcare typically differ between developing and developed countries?

Access to healthcare is often lower in developing countries, leading to lower life expectancies compared to developed nations. This reflects both lower income levels and poorer public health conditions, impacting overall well-being.

What is the general trend regarding life expectancy in developing countries compared to developed countries?

People in developing countries generally have lower life expectancies than those in developed countries, a difference attributed to lower income levels and poorer public health systems, including higher burdens of infectious diseases and mortality rates.

How are the effects of climate change expected to impact developing countries differently from high-income countries?

Developing countries are expected to be more severely affected by the effects of climate change due to their higher climate vulnerability and lower climate resilience, despite often contributing less to greenhouse gas emissions. This disparity raises issues of climate justice.

What is 'development aid,' and what is its purpose?

Development aid, or development cooperation, is financial assistance provided by foreign governments and agencies to support the economic, environmental, social, and political development of developing countries. It aims to help these nations improve their standards of living and infrastructure.

What are the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and how do they relate to developing countries?

The Sustainable Development Goals, set by the UN for 2030, aim to overcome many problems faced by developing countries, with SDG 6 specifically calling for clean water and sanitation for all, which is particularly relevant for these nations. These goals provide a framework for global development efforts.

How does the World Bank categorize economies by income groups, and what were the thresholds for the 2022 fiscal year?

For the 2022 fiscal year, the World Bank defined income groups as follows: low-income (GNI per capita less than $1,045), lower-middle-income ($1,046-$4,095), upper-middle-income ($4,096-$12,695), and high-income (GNI per capita over $12,696). These thresholds are adjusted annually.

What is the IMF's classification system for economies, and what criteria does it use?

The IMF classifies countries as advanced, emerging, or developing based on three criteria: per capita income level, export diversification (to avoid classifying high-GDP oil exporters as advanced), and degree of integration into the global financial system. This classification helps in analyzing global economic trends.

What are 'newly industrialized countries' (NICs), and how do they fit into the development spectrum?

Newly industrialized countries are those that have made significant progress in industrialization and economic growth, outperforming other developing nations, but have not yet reached the status of developed countries. They represent a middle tier in the development spectrum.

What are 'emerging markets' and 'frontier markets' in the context of economic development?

Emerging markets and frontier markets represent stages of economic development and integration into global financial systems, with emerging markets being more developed than frontier markets but still considered developing. They are characterized by potential for high growth but also higher risk.

How are Small Island Developing States (SIDS) characterized in terms of their development challenges?

SIDS are developing countries that share common sustainable development challenges, including small populations, limited resources, remoteness, susceptibility to natural disasters, vulnerability to external shocks, dependence on international trade, and fragile environments. These factors make them particularly susceptible to global changes.

What are Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs), and what economic disadvantages do they often face?

LLDCs are developing countries that lack direct access to the sea, which often results in economic and logistical disadvantages due to increased transportation costs and reliance on transit through neighboring countries. This geographical constraint can hinder trade and economic growth.

What is the 'Heavily Indebted Poor Countries' (HIPC) initiative?

HIPC is a definition used for countries that are eligible for special debt relief programs administered by the IMF and World Bank, indicating a severe debt burden that hinders their development efforts. These programs aim to alleviate poverty by reducing external debt.

What is a 'transition economy'?

A transition economy is one that is moving from a centrally planned economic system towards a market-driven economy. This process often involves significant economic and institutional reforms.

How do scholars categorize developing countries using a multi-dimensional clustering system?

Scholars have categorized developing countries into five distinct groups based on factors like poverty and inequality levels, productivity and innovation, political constraints, and dependence on external financial flows. This approach aims for a more nuanced understanding than simple binary classifications.

What is the significance of 'self-declaration' of developing country status, particularly in the context of the WTO?

In the WTO, countries can generally self-declare their status as 'developing,' which can entitle them to preferential treatment. However, some countries that have achieved developed economic metrics still maintain this status, drawing criticism for potentially exploiting the system.

What statistical indices are used to measure a country's development?

Development is measured using indices such as income per capita, gross domestic product (GDP) per capita, life expectancy, literacy rates, and freedom indices. These indicators provide a snapshot of a nation's progress.

What is the Human Development Index (HDI), and what does it aim to gauge?

The HDI is a composite indicator developed by the UN that combines statistics on income, life expectancy, and literacy to gauge the level of human development in countries where data is available. It offers a broader perspective than just economic measures.

What were the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), and what succeeded them?

The MDGs were a set of development targets set by the UN for the year 2015, which aimed to address global poverty and improve human well-being. They have since been succeeded by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

How has the sectoral composition of a country's economy been linked to its development?

Countries with a significant contribution from the secondary sector (manufacturing) or a strong tertiary sector tend to show higher rates of economic development. This shift reflects industrialization and the growth of service-based economies.

What are the main theoretical frameworks used to understand the concept of developing nations?

Key theories include Modernization theory, Dependency theory, Development theory, and Postdevelopment theory, each offering different perspectives on the processes and causes of development or underdevelopment. These theories help analyze global economic and social structures.

What is the core idea behind Dependency Theory?

Dependency theory posits that resources flow from less developed, peripheral states to wealthy, core states, thereby enriching the latter at the expense of the former. It suggests that underdevelopment is a consequence of integration into the global capitalist system.

What is the central argument of Postdevelopment theory?

Postdevelopment theory argues that the entire concept and practice of international development is a reflection of Western and Northern hegemony over the rest of the world. It critiques the imposition of Western models and values on diverse societies.

What are the primary criticisms leveled against the term 'developing country'?

Criticisms include the implication of inferiority, the assumption of a desire to follow the Western development model, the term being outdated, and the lack of a clear, universally accepted definition. These criticisms highlight the term's potential for bias and imprecision.

How has the term 'developing' been described as potentially problematic in terms of its dynamic implication?

The term 'developing' refers to a current situation rather than a dynamic or expected direction of progress. Its binary nature is criticized for not accurately reflecting the diverse realities and varied progress of the countries it encompasses.

What alternative measurements or classifications have been suggested to address the limitations of the 'developing country' label?

Alternatives include using regional or income-based categories, and concepts like 'gross national happiness' have been suggested as important indicators alongside or instead of traditional economic measures. These aim for more accurate and nuanced descriptions.

What political characteristics are often associated with developing countries, particularly concerning their governance structures post-independence?

Many developing countries gained self-determination and democracy later in the 20th century, often after decolonization. While most established democratic governments, they experienced varying degrees of success and political liberty, sometimes facing challenges from oligarchic control and political instability.

How has foreign investment impacted the infrastructure and industry development in developing countries post-independence?

Following independence, many developing countries relied on foreign investment to improve infrastructure and industry, but this often led to systemic exploitation, where raw materials were exported cheaply and Western companies used cheaper labor, leaving the developing countries themselves underdeveloped. This arrangement is sometimes termed neocolonialism.

What is 'neocolonialism' in the context of economic relations between developed and developing countries?

Neocolonialism describes a system where less-developed countries are exploited by developed countries, not necessarily through direct political control, but through economic means that resemble colonial exploitation. It highlights how economic relationships can perpetuate dependency.

What are some of the 'global issues' most often discussed by developing countries?

Developing countries commonly focus on issues such as globalization, global health governance, health needs, and prevention, contrasting with the focus on technological innovation often seen in developed nations. These priorities reflect their immediate development challenges.

What are the UN's criteria for identifying a 'least developed country' (LDC)?

LDCs are identified based on high levels of poverty (measured by GNI per capita), human resource weakness (indicators of nutrition, health, education, literacy), and economic vulnerability (instability of agricultural production and exports, economic smallness, and displacement by natural disasters). These criteria aim to identify countries most in need of international support.

What percentage of the urban population in the developing world lived in slums in 2012, and which regions had the highest proportions?

In 2012, approximately 33% of the urban population in the developing world, totaling about 863 million people, lived in slums. Sub-Saharan Africa had the highest proportion at 62%, followed by South Asia (35%) and Southeast Asia (31%).

What are the common causes contributing to the formation and growth of urban slums in developing countries?

Slums form due to rapid rural-to-urban migration, economic stagnation, high unemployment, poverty, the informal economy, forced ghettoization, poor planning, political factors, natural disasters, and social conflicts. These factors often create housing shortages and informal settlements.

What specific forms of violence against women are noted as being more prevalent in developing countries?

Forms of violence against women more prevalent in developing countries include acid throwing (Southeast Asia), honor killing (Middle East, Indian Subcontinent), marriage by abduction (Ethiopia, Central Asia, Caucasus), and abuse related to bride price (Sub-Saharan Africa, Oceania). These practices highlight significant gender-based inequalities.

Which countries have the highest rates of female genital mutilation (FGM), and where is it primarily practiced?

FGM is primarily practiced in Africa, with Somalia (98%), Guinea (96%), Djibouti (93%), Egypt (91%), and Eritrea (89%) having the highest rates among women. It is also found in the Middle East and parts of Asia, though globalization and migration are spreading it to other regions.

What is the estimated global percentage of women who have experienced physical or sexual violence by an intimate partner or sexual violence by a non-partner?

It is estimated that 35% of women worldwide have experienced either physical and sexual violence by intimate partners or sexual violence by a non-partner (excluding sexual harassment) at some point in their lives. This statistic underscores the global scale of gender-based violence.

How does undernutrition, particularly in children, impact developmental potential in developing countries?

Undernutrition, especially in children under five, is common in developing countries, leading to malnutrition and stunted growth, which prevents millions of children from reaching their full developmental potential. This has long-term consequences for individual well-being and national development.

What are some significant environmentally-related causes of illness or disease in developing countries?

Environmentally-related causes include malaria, tuberculosis, AIDS, tropical and infectious diseases (like neglected tropical diseases), unsafe drinking water, poor sanitation and hygiene, indoor air pollution, general pollution (air and water), motor vehicle collisions, unintentional poisoning, and non-communicable diseases exacerbated by weak healthcare systems.

What is the scale of the problem of open defecation in developing countries, and which countries have the highest numbers?

In 2016, about 892 million people, or 12% of the global population, practiced open defecation. Seventy-six percent of these people live in just seven countries: India (348 million), Nigeria (38.1 million), Indonesia (26.4 million), Ethiopia (23.1 million), Pakistan (19.7 million), Niger (14.6 million), and Sudan (9.7 million).

What is the significance of renewable energy for developing countries, particularly in rural areas?

Renewable energy is suitable for developing countries, especially in rural areas where extending fossil fuel-based energy grids is difficult and expensive. Local renewable energy production offers a viable alternative and can contribute to poverty alleviation by powering businesses and improving living conditions.

What is the primary source of indoor air pollution in developing nations, and who is most affected?

The burning of biomass fuels like wood, charcoal, dung, and crop residue for domestic cooking is a major source of indoor air pollution in developing countries. Millions of people, primarily poor women and children, face serious health risks due to cooking indoors in poorly ventilated environments.

What is the estimated annual death toll attributed to indoor air pollution in developing countries?

In 2012, it was estimated that 4.3 million deaths globally were attributed to indoor air pollution exposure, with the vast majority occurring in low and middle-income countries. This highlights a significant public health challenge.

Developing Country Wiki: Global Development Spectrum: An Overview of Developing Nations

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

Defining Development

Core Concept

A developing country is generally characterized by a less-developed industrial base and a lower Human Development Index (HDI) compared to developed nations. However, precise definitions and classifications remain subjects of debate and vary across different international bodies.^[3]^[4]^[5]

Terminology Nuances

Terms like Low- and Middle-Income Country (LMIC) and Newly Emerging Economy (NEE) are often used interchangeably, focusing primarily on economic metrics. The World Bank categorizes economies by gross national income (GNI) per capita into high, upper-middle, lower-middle, and low-income groups. Sub-classifications include Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Landlocked Developing Countries, and Small Island Developing States (SIDS).^[23]

Conceptual Critiques

The terminology itself faces criticism for potentially implying inferiority or imposing a Western-centric model of development. Some scholars advocate for alternative metrics like Gross National Happiness or emphasize the diversity within the "developing" category, suggesting the binary classification is outdated and imprecise.^[6]^[41]

Classifying Nations

Income Groups (World Bank)

Economies are classified based on GNI per capita (Atlas method, current US$):

Low Income: < $1,045
Lower-Middle Income: $1,046 - $4,095
Upper-Middle Income: $4,096 - $12,695
High Income: > $12,696

The first three groups are collectively termed Low and Middle Income Countries (LMICs).^[24]

Market & Growth

Classifications often focus on market characteristics and economic growth trajectories:

Developed Markets
Newly Industrialized Countries (NICs)
Emerging Markets
Frontier Markets
Least Developed Countries (LDCs)

The IMF also classifies countries as advanced, emerging, or developing based on income, export diversification, and financial integration.^[29]

Geographic & Other Parameters

Geographic and specific economic conditions also inform classifications:

Small Island Developing States (SIDS)
Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs)
Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC)
Transition Economies

Multi-dimensional clustering systems attempt a more nuanced categorization based on poverty, inequality, productivity, and political factors.^[30]

Common Traits & Conditions

Basic Needs & Infrastructure

Developing nations often exhibit lower access to essential services like safe drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH). They frequently face challenges with energy poverty, inadequate infrastructure (transport, utilities), higher pollution levels (air, water, waste), and greater prevalence of tropical and infectious diseases.^[68]

Socioeconomic Indicators

Common socioeconomic features include widespread poverty, high unemployment rates, significant informal economies, food insecurity, malnutrition (including stunting in children), and lower levels of education and literacy. Economic inequality and human capital flight are also frequently observed.^[34]

Governance & Stability

Political landscapes can be marked by instability, corruption, and challenges in establishing robust democratic institutions or effective governance. This can manifest as weak rule of law, nepotism, and limited political liberty, often stemming from histories of colonialism.^[57]^[132]

Urbanization & Housing

Rapid rural-to-urban migration often leads to the proliferation of informal settlements and slums, where a significant portion of the urban population resides due to economic stagnation, unemployment, and inadequate housing policies.^[68]

Persistent Issues

Climate Change Vulnerability

Despite contributing minimally to greenhouse gas emissions, developing countries are disproportionately vulnerable to climate change impacts like extreme weather, sea-level rise, and reduced agricultural productivity. Limited financial resources and infrastructure hinder adaptation efforts.^[110]^[115]

Health Disparities

Lower life expectancies and higher rates of maternal, infant, and child mortality are common. Access to healthcare services and essential medical supplies, including vaccines, is often limited. Infectious diseases and non-communicable diseases pose significant burdens, exacerbated by weak healthcare systems.^[8]

Violence & Inequality

Forms of violence against women, such as acid throwing, honor killings, and female genital mutilation (FGM), are more prevalent in certain regions. Societal issues like child marriage and systemic economic inequality contribute to vulnerability.^[75]^[77]

Environmental Degradation

Industrialization and resource exploitation often lead to significant water and air pollution. Indoor air pollution from biomass fuel use is a major health hazard, particularly for women and children. Unsustainable resource management practices can deplete natural capital.^[99]^[106]

Pathways to Progress

Human Capital Development

Investing in education and skills development is crucial for building a capable workforce. Enhancing human capital can drive innovation, productivity, and economic growth, enabling countries to better address complex challenges.^[136]

Trade & Investment

Open trade policies and increased investment are strongly correlated with faster economic growth. Initiatives like "Aid for Trade" aim to help developing countries build trade capacity, improve market access, and reduce poverty.^[133]^[137]

Innovation & Technology

Access to and adoption of new technologies, particularly in areas like renewable energy, can significantly improve living standards and economic opportunities. Global partnerships supporting technological advancement are vital.^[138]

Sustainable Practices

Focusing on sustainable development, including renewable energy adoption and effective environmental policies, can mitigate climate change impacts and foster long-term economic resilience. Countries like Bangladesh are pioneering national adaptation programs.^[123]

The Global South Perspective

Defining the South

The term "Global South" broadly refers to developing countries across Africa, Latin America, Asia (excluding developed nations), and Oceania (excluding Australia/NZ). It emphasizes interconnected histories of colonialism, neo-imperialism, and resulting socioeconomic inequalities.^[44]^[47]

Geography vs. Socioeconomics

Crucially, the Global South designation is not strictly geographical (i.e., Southern Hemisphere) but rather socioeconomic and political. It contrasts with the "Global North," encompassing developed economies.^[48]

Alternative to Outdated Terms

Often used as a more value-neutral alternative to "Third World," the "Global South" concept acknowledges shared challenges while potentially avoiding the hierarchical implications of older terminology.^[53]

Historical Context

Cold War Origins

The term "Third World" emerged during the Cold War to describe nations not aligned with either the Western Bloc (First World) or the Eastern Bloc (Second World). Initially a political classification, its meaning evolved over time.^[55]

Post-Colonial Era

Following decolonization in the mid-20th century, many newly independent nations faced significant challenges in establishing infrastructure, industrial bases, and stable economies, often relying on foreign investment which sometimes led to neocolonial exploitation.^[61]

Shifting Classifications

The relevance of the "developed/developing" divide has been questioned due to global improvements in indices like child mortality and poverty. Organizations like the World Bank are phasing out this binary categorization in favor of regional and income-based data aggregations.^[5]^[7]

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "Developing Country" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about developing_country while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

indian police service

vermont

religious vows

national park service southwest regional office

tascam

References

Grantham-McGregor, Sally et al., the International Child Development Steering Group. "Developmental Potential in the First 5 Years for Children in Developing Countries." Lancet 369.9555 (2007): 60â70. PMC. Web. 28 November 2014.

Russel S. The economic burden of illness for households in developing countries: a review of studies focusing on malaria, tuberculosis, and human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2004

Edwards, S. "Trade Orientation, Distortions and Growth In Developing Countries." (n.d.): n. pag. 1â37

A full list of references for this article are available at the Developing country Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional economic, social, political, or development consultation. Always refer to official documentation and consult with qualified professionals for specific needs. Never disregard professional advice because of something you have read on this website.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Global Development Spectrum

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Defining Development ℹ️

📊 Core Concept

⚖️ Terminology Nuances

💬 Conceptual Critiques

Classifying Nations 🗂️

💰 Income Groups (World Bank)

📈 Market & Growth

🗺️ Geographic & Other Parameters

Common Traits & Conditions 🌐

💧 Basic Needs & Infrastructure

📉 Socioeconomic Indicators

🏛️ Governance & Stability

🏙️ Urbanization & Housing

Persistent Issues ⚠️

🌡️ Climate Change Vulnerability

👩‍⚕️ Health Disparities

⚖️ Violence & Inequality

🏭 Environmental Degradation

Pathways to Progress 🚀

🎓 Human Capital Development

🤝 Trade & Investment

💡 Innovation & Technology

🌱 Sustainable Practices

The Global South Perspective 🌏

🔗 Defining the South

≠ Geography vs. Socioeconomics

🔄 Alternative to Outdated Terms

Historical Context ⏳

⚔️ Cold War Origins

🏛️ Post-Colonial Era

➡️ Shifting Classifications

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Defining Development

Core Concept

Terminology Nuances

Conceptual Critiques

Classifying Nations

Income Groups (World Bank)

Market & Growth

Geographic & Other Parameters

Common Traits & Conditions

Basic Needs & Infrastructure

Socioeconomic Indicators

Governance & Stability

Urbanization & Housing

Persistent Issues

Climate Change Vulnerability

Health Disparities

Violence & Inequality

Environmental Degradation

Pathways to Progress

Human Capital Development

Trade & Investment

Innovation & Technology

Sustainable Practices

The Global South Perspective

Defining the South

Geography vs. Socioeconomics

Alternative to Outdated Terms

Historical Context

Cold War Origins

Post-Colonial Era

Shifting Classifications

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice