Introduction
“Third World” is a term that was used during the Cold War to describe countries that were not aligned with either the capitalist First World or the communist Second World. The term has since fallen out of use as it was deemed derogatory and simplistic.
Nonetheless, some countries that were historically referred to as “Third World” include Afghanistan, Angola, Argentina, Bangladesh, Bolivia, Burkina Faso, Cambodia, Chad, China, Congo, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jamaica, Kenya, Laos, Lebanon, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Morocco, Mozambique, Nepal, Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Rwanda, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, Vietnam, Yemen, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Countries in the Third World
Country | Third Word Country | Human Development Index | HDI Tier |
---|---|---|---|
Afghanistan | Yes | 0.48 | Low Human Development |
Angola | Yes | 0.59 | Medium Human Development |
Bangladesh | Yes | 0.66 | Medium Human Development |
Benin | Yes | 0.53 | Low Human Development |
Bhutan | Yes | 0.67 | Medium Human Development |
Burkina Faso | Yes | 0.45 | Low Human Development |
Burundi | Yes | 0.43 | Low Human Development |
Cambodia | Yes | 0.59 | Medium Human Development |
Cameroon | Yes | 0.58 | Medium Human Development |
Cape Verde | Yes | 0.66 | Medium Human Development |
Central African Republic | Yes | 0.4 | Low Human Development |
Chad | Yes | 0.39 | Low Human Development |
Comoros | Yes | 0.56 | Medium Human Development |
Democratic Republic of the Congo | Yes | 0.48 | Low Human Development |
Djibouti | Yes | 0.51 | Low Human Development |
East Timor | Yes | 0.61 | Medium Human Development |
El Salvador | Yes | 0.68 | Medium Human Development |
Equatorial Guinea | Yes | 0.6 | Medium Human Development |
Eritrea | Yes | 0.49 | Low Human Development |
Ethiopia | Yes | 0.5 | Low Human Development |
Federated States of Micronesia | Yes | 0.63 | Medium Human Development |
Ghana | Yes | 0.63 | Medium Human Development |
Guatemala | Yes | 0.63 | Medium Human Development |
Guinea | Yes | 0.47 | Low Human Development |
Guinea-Bissau | Yes | 0.48 | Low Human Development |
Haiti | Yes | 0.54 | Low Human Development |
Honduras | Yes | 0.62 | Medium Human Development |
India | Yes | 0.63 | Medium Human Development |
Ivory Coast | Yes | 0.55 | Medium Human Development |
Kenya | Yes | 0.58 | Medium Human Development |
Kiribati | Yes | 0.62 | Medium Human Development |
Laos | Yes | 0.61 | Medium Human Development |
Lesotho | Yes | 0.51 | Low Human Development |
Liberia | Yes | 0.48 | Low Human Development |
Madagascar | Yes | 0.5 | Low Human Development |
Malawi | Yes | 0.51 | Low Human Development |
Mali | Yes | 0.43 | Low Human Development |
Marshall Islands | Yes | 0.64 | Medium Human Development |
Mauritania | Yes | 0.56 | Medium Human Development |
Mozambique | Yes | 0.45 | Low Human Development |
Myanmar | Yes | 0.59 | Medium Human Development |
Namibia | Yes | 0.62 | Medium Human Development |
Nepal | Yes | 0.6 | Medium Human Development |
Nicaragua | Yes | 0.67 | Medium Human Development |
Niger | Yes | 0.4 | Low Human Development |
Nigeria | Yes | 0.54 | Low Human Development |
Pakistan | Yes | 0.54 | Low Human Development |
Papua New Guinea | Yes | 0.56 | Medium Human Development |
Republic of the Congo | Yes | 0.57 | Medium Human Development |
Rwanda | Yes | 0.53 | Low Human Development |
Senegal | Yes | 0.51 | Low Human Development |
Sierra Leone | Yes | 0.48 | Low Human Development |
Solomon Islands | Yes | 0.56 | Medium Human Development |
South Sudan | Yes | 0.39 | Low Human Development |
Sudan | Yes | 0.51 | Low Human Development |
Syria | Yes | 0.58 | Medium Human Development |
São Tomé and Príncipe | Yes | 0.62 | Medium Human Development |
Tanzania | Yes | 0.55 | Low Human Development |
The Gambia | Yes | 0.5 | Low Human Development |
Togo | Yes | 0.54 | Low Human Development |
Tuvalu | Yes | 0.64 | Medium Human Development |
Uganda | Yes | 0.53 | Low Human Development |
Vanuatu | Yes | 0.61 | Medium Human Development |
Yemen | Yes | 0.46 | Low Human Development |
Zambia | Yes | 0.57 | Medium Human Development |
Zimbabwe | Yes | 0.59 | Medium Human Development |
Eswatini | Yes | 0.6 | Medium Human Development |
Third World Countries vs Developing Countries
It’s important to note that the term “Third World countries” is a controversial term because it is often used to categorize nations based on their economic, social, and political status. The term has its origins in the Cold War era when countries were classified as either capitalist first-world nations, communist second-world nations, or non-aligned third-world nations. However, since then, the term has taken on a negative connotation and is seen as stigmatizing and demeaning to developing countries. It reinforces the idea of a hierarchy of nations, with developed countries at the top and developing countries at the bottom. Instead of using the term “Third World,” it is preferred to use terms like “developing countries,” “less developed countries,” or “low- and middle-income countries” to avoid reinforcing negative stereotypes and to acknowledge the diversity and complexity of these nations.
Third World Countries
Third world countries are often characterized by their low levels of economic development, political instability, and poor infrastructure. These countries are typically located in regions of the world such as sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America, and are frequently associated with poverty, undernourishment, and disease. While there is no single definition of what constitutes a third world country, the term is generally used to describe nations that are struggling to catch up with the more prosperous and developed nations of the world.
One of the main challenges facing third world countries is the issue of poverty. These nations often lack the necessary resources and infrastructure to provide their citizens with basic needs such as food, shelter, and healthcare. Poverty in these countries is often compounded by issues such as conflict, corruption, and weak governance, which can make it difficult for these nations to develop and grow economically. Despite these challenges, many third world countries have made significant strides in recent years, with some experiencing steady economic growth and improving living standards.
Another key issue facing third world countries is the lack of access to education and healthcare. Many of these nations struggle to provide their citizens with basic education and healthcare services, which can have a long-term impact on their ability to break the cycle of poverty.
Additionally, access to clean water and sanitation remains a major challenge in many parts of the world, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia.
Countries by HDI
Afghanistan
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#12
HDI Tier
Low Human Development
Afghanistan is a developing nation that was formally classified as a third world country during the Cold War. It has faced significant challenges related to political instability, poverty, and insecurity in the past, including decades of conflict and the recent Taliban takeover. The country's economy has been largely dependent on agriculture and the illegal drug trade, with limited infrastructure and low levels of education and healthcare access. The recent Taliban takeover has further complicated Afghanistan's path towards development, with many concerns around human rights and the prospects for peace and stability in the country. While the future of Afghanistan remains uncertain, the country will need to address a range of economic, social, and political challenges in order to move towards greater stability and development in the years ahead.
Angola
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#44
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
Bangladesh
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#63
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
Benin
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#25
HDI Tier
Low Human Development
Bhutan
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#65
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
Burkina Faso
Burundi
Cambodia
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#45
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
Cameroon
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#41
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
Cape Verde
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#64
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
Central African Republic
Chad
Comoros
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#35
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#13
HDI Tier
Low Human Development
Djibouti
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#21
HDI Tier
Low Human Development
East Timor
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#50
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
El Salvador
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#67
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
El Salvador is a Central American country that was considered a third world country during the Cold War. Today, it is classified as a developing nation and has made significant progress in economic and social development over the past decades. However, El Salvador still faces challenges such as inequality, poverty, and crime rates that hinder its development. The country is also vulnerable to natural disasters, which can have severe consequences on its economy and population.
Equatorial Guinea
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#47
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
Eritrea
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#16
HDI Tier
Low Human Development
Eswatini
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#48
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
Ethiopia
Ethiopia was a third world country during the Cold War. The country's economy was heavily dependent on agriculture, which was often affected by droughts and other environmental factors. In addition, Ethiopia was plagued by political instability, civil unrest, and conflict with neighboring countries. However, since the end of the Cold War, Ethiopia has made significant progress in terms of economic development and political stability. The country has diversified its economy and made strides in areas such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Federated States of Micronesia
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#58
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
Ghana
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#59
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
Guatemala
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#57
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
Guatemala is a country located in Central America that was categorized as a third world country during the Cold War. Today, Guatemala is considered a developing nation and has made progress in areas such as economic growth and poverty reduction. However, the country still faces significant challenges, including high levels of inequality, violence, and corruption. Guatemala has a large indigenous population that has historically faced discrimination and exclusion from political and economic participation. Additionally, the country is prone to natural disasters, which can have a severe impact on its economy and society.
Guinea
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#10
HDI Tier
Low Human Development
Guinea-Bissau
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#15
HDI Tier
Low Human Development
Haiti
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#28
HDI Tier
Low Human Development
Haiti is a Caribbean nation that was classified as a third world country during the Cold War. Today, Haiti is considered one of the least developed countries in the world, and is still facing significant challenges such as political instability, extreme poverty, environmental degradation, and natural disasters. The country has a troubled history of political instability, with numerous coups and political crises that have hindered economic growth and social development. The 2010 earthquake and Hurricane Matthew in 2016 have also left a lasting impact on the country's infrastructure and economy. Haiti has made some progress in recent years in terms of improving access to education and healthcare, but much work remains to be done to overcome the country's numerous challenges and achieve sustainable development.
Honduras
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#55
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
During the Cold War, Honduras was part of the group of countries referred to as the Third World. Today, it is classified as a developing country, with a mixed economy that is heavily reliant on agriculture and manufacturing. The country has made progress in reducing poverty and improving its human development indicators, but it still faces challenges such as inequality, political instability, and high levels of violence and crime.
India
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#60
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
India was commonly categorized as a third world country during the Cold War, due in part to its position as a non-aligned nation in the global power struggle. However, since then, India has undergone significant economic and social changes, and is now considered to be a rapidly developing nation with one of the world's fastest-growing economies. The country has made strides in reducing poverty, improving healthcare, and expanding access to education, and has emerged as a major player in industries such as information technology, manufacturing, and services. Despite these advancements, India still faces challenges related to income inequality, infrastructure development, and environmental sustainability, among other issues. Nevertheless, India's growing middle class and dynamic entrepreneurial culture continue to drive economic growth and innovation, positioning the country as a key player in the global economy.
Ivory Coast
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#33
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
Kenya
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#40
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
Kiribati
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#56
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
Laos
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#51
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
Lesotho
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#24
HDI Tier
Low Human Development
Liberia
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#14
HDI Tier
Low Human Development
Madagascar
Malawi
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#23
HDI Tier
Low Human Development
Mali
Marshall Islands
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#61
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
Mauritania
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#34
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
Mozambique
Myanmar
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#43
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
Namibia
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#53
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
Nepal
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#49
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
Nicaragua
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#66
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
Niger
Nigeria
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#29
HDI Tier
Low Human Development
Nigeria was considered a third world country during the Cold War. Today, it is the largest economy in Africa and classified as a developing nation by the World Bank. The country has a rapidly growing population and is rich in natural resources, including oil and gas. However, Nigeria faces a number of challenges that can hinder development, such as corruption, political instability, poverty, and a lack of basic infrastructure. The government has implemented various policies and initiatives to address these issues, such as expanding access to education and healthcare, improving infrastructure, and increasing investment in agriculture and manufacturing. Nigeria is also working to diversify its economy beyond its reliance on oil exports and promote entrepreneurship and innovation. While progress has been made in some areas, Nigeria still faces significant challenges related to inequality, security, and environmental sustainability, which must be addressed in order to achieve sustained economic growth and development.
Pakistan
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#31
HDI Tier
Low Human Development
Pakistan was a member of the Non-Aligned Movement during the Cold War and was therefore considered a Third World country. Today, Pakistan is classified as a developing country, with a rapidly growing economy that is heavily reliant on agriculture and textiles. Despite its recent economic growth, however, Pakistan still faces challenges such as poverty, corruption, and political instability.
Papua New Guinea
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#36
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
Republic of the Congo
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#39
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
Rwanda
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#27
HDI Tier
Low Human Development
São Tomé and Príncipe
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#54
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
Senegal
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#22
HDI Tier
Low Human Development
Sierra Leone
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#11
HDI Tier
Low Human Development
Solomon Islands
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#37
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
South Sudan
Sudan
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#20
HDI Tier
Low Human Development
Syria
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#42
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
Tanzania
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#32
HDI Tier
Low Human Development
The Gambia
Togo
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#30
HDI Tier
Low Human Development
Tuvalu
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#62
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
Uganda
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#26
HDI Tier
Low Human Development
Vanuatu
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#52
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
Yemen
Zambia
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#38
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
Zimbabwe
Third Word Country
Yes
Ranked in the World
#46
HDI Tier
Medium Human Development
FAQs
What is a third world country ?
A third world country is a term used to describe countries that were not aligned with either the capitalist First World or the communist Second World during the Cold War. These countries tend to be located in regions of the world such as sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America, and are often characterized by their low levels of economic development, political instability, and poor infrastructure.
Is Mexico a third world country ?
During the Cold War era, Mexico was commonly categorized as a third world country due to its position as a non-aligned nation in the global power struggle between the United States and the Soviet Union. Today, Mexico is considered to be a developing nation, with a diversified economy and a growing middle class.
Is India a third world country ?
India was classified as a third world country during the Cold War, but today it is considered to be a rapidly developing nation, with one of the fastest-growing economies in the world and a rapidly expanding middle class.
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