Other small states Population 2026

The World Bank aggregate category 'Other small states' comprises a diverse group of nations and territories with relatively small populations and economies. As of 2025, the total population of this aggregate is estimated at 12,931,878. This figure reflects a modest global demographic footprint, with growth patterns shaped by varied economic and social conditions across member states.

Population
12,931,878
Estimate for 2026
1-year growth
+0.86%
10-year avg growth
+1.10%

Population Trend

Overview

The population of 'Other small states' reached 12,931,878 in 2025, representing a 1-year growth rate of 0.86%. This moderate annual increase suggests a stable demographic trajectory, though it may mask significant variation among individual states within the aggregate. Over the past decade, the average annual growth rate was 1.10%, indicating a slight deceleration in recent years, possibly due to factors such as emigration, aging populations in some states, or lower fertility rates in others. The 10-year average remains positive, however, pointing to overall population expansion driven by natural increase or migration in certain member states. Regionally, these states span multiple continents and ocean basins, including Caribbean and Pacific island nations, as well as smaller European and Asian territories. Their demographic patterns are influenced by unique local factors such as tourism-driven migration, climate change impacts, and economic dependency on external markets. The aggregate's growth rate of 0.86% in 2025 is slightly below the global average, reflecting the challenges small states face in maintaining population stability amidst global mobility and environmental pressures. The 1.10% decade average suggests that recent slowdowns may be part of a longer-term trend, with implications for labor markets, social services, and political representation within international bodies.

FAQ

What is the population of other small states in 2025?
The population of other small states in 2025 is 12,931,878, according to World Bank aggregate data.
What is the population growth rate of other small states?
The 1-year growth rate for 2025 is 0.86%, while the 10-year average annual growth rate is 1.10%.
Which countries are included in the World Bank 'other small states' aggregate?
The 'other small states' aggregate includes small nations and territories identified by the World Bank, typically those with small populations and economies, such as many Caribbean and Pacific island states, but excludes larger small-state categories like microstates.
How does the population of other small states compare to previous years?
The population has grown from an estimated 12.82 million in 2024 to 12.93 million in 2025, reflecting a growth rate of 0.86%. Over the past decade, the average annual growth was 1.10%, indicating a recent slowdown.
Why is the growth rate of other small states important?
The growth rate is important for understanding demographic pressures on resources, infrastructure, and economic sustainability in these often vulnerable small states, especially given their exposure to climate change and global market fluctuations.

Data sources & terms