Least developed countries: UN classification Population 2026

As of 2025, the combined population of the countries classified by the United Nations as least developed countries (LDCs) stands at approximately 1,187,777,591. This aggregate figure represents the total inhabitants across all nations designated under this UN classification, reflecting a demographic scale that continues to expand rapidly.

Population
1,187,777,591
Estimate for 2026
1-year growth
+2.32%
10-year avg growth
+2.36%

Population Trend

Overview

The population of the UN-classified least developed countries has reached 1,187,777,591 in 2025, with a one-year growth rate of 2.32%. This annual increase is slightly below the 10-year average growth rate of 2.36%, indicating a sustained but marginally decelerating pace of demographic expansion over the past decade. These growth rates are among the highest globally, driven by factors such as high fertility rates and declining mortality in many of these nations. The LDC aggregate encompasses a diverse set of regions, including Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and parts of Southeast Asia and the Pacific, with Sub-Saharan Africa accounting for the majority of the population. The 2.32% growth in 2025 translates to an addition of over 27 million people in a single year, placing significant pressure on infrastructure, healthcare, and educational systems in these countries. Despite the slight dip from the 10-year average, the overall trend underscores a persistent demographic boom that is characteristic of the world's most economically vulnerable nations.

FAQ

What is the population of least developed countries according to the UN classification in 2025?
The total population of all countries classified as least developed by the United Nations is 1,187,777,591 as of 2025.
What is the current population growth rate for least developed countries?
The one-year population growth rate for the UN classification of least developed countries in 2025 is 2.32%.
How does the 2025 growth rate compare to the 10-year average for least developed countries?
The 2025 growth rate of 2.32% is slightly lower than the 10-year average growth rate of 2.36% for these countries.
Which regions are included in the UN least developed countries classification?
The UN classification of least developed countries includes nations primarily from Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and parts of Southeast Asia and the Pacific, though the exact list is determined by the United Nations based on economic and social indicators.
Why is the population growth rate so high in least developed countries?
The high growth rate of 2.32% in 2025 is typical of least developed countries due to elevated fertility rates, declining infant mortality, and a young population structure, though specific causes vary by country.

Data sources & terms