Entwicklungsländer

Entwicklungsländer, also known as developing countries, is a term used to describe nations with lower levels of economic development and social progress compared to more industrialized nations. These countries often exhibit characteristics such as lower per capita income, a higher proportion of their population engaged in agriculture, and less developed infrastructure. They may also face challenges related to poverty, unemployment, and access to essential services like healthcare and education.

The categorization of a country as a developing nation is not static. Many countries have experienced significant economic growth and improvements in living standards over time, leading to their reclassification. Various organizations, including the United Nations and the World Bank, use different criteria and methodologies to define and classify developing countries, which can lead to variations in these lists. Common indicators include Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita, the Human Development Index (HDI), and industrialization levels.

The term "Entwicklungsländer" itself has been subject to debate, with some preferring terms like "emerging economies" or "least developed countries" to reflect the diverse range of development levels within this broad category and to avoid potential negative connotations. The focus of international development efforts often targets these nations to support their economic growth, improve social welfare, and address global challenges.