þróunarríki

The Icelandic term þróunarríki translates to "developing country" in English. It refers to a sovereign state with a less developed industrial base and a lower Human Development Index (HDI) relative to other countries. These nations are often characterized by lower per capita income, higher rates of poverty, less advanced infrastructure, and lower life expectancy compared to developed nations.

The classification of a country as developing is not static and can change over time as economic and social conditions improve. Factors contributing to a country's development status include its economic productivity, its level of education and healthcare, and its overall quality of life for its citizens. International organizations like the United Nations use various metrics to assess development, though there is no single, universally agreed-upon definition or list of developing countries.

Development challenges in these nations can include political instability, reliance on primary commodity exports, limited access to technology, and vulnerability to climate change. Efforts to promote development often involve international aid, foreign investment, and internal policy reforms aimed at fostering sustainable economic growth and improving social welfare. The concept is a cornerstone of discussions in international relations, economics, and global development studies.