When we think of countries, we often imagine vast lands with bustling cities and millions of people. However, there exist some countries with the lowest population due to their small land size and remote location. The small populations of these countries can be attributed to their geographical isolation, limited resources, or specific historical factors. These countries have unique cultures, histories, and geographies that make them fascinating to visit and live in.
Least Populated Countries/Region
The table below presents the countries with lowst population in the world.
| Rank | Country | Most Recent Value | Continent/Region |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 🇹🇻 Tuvalu | 9,820 | Oceania |
| 2 | 🇳🇷 Nauru | 11,880 | Oceania |
| 3 | 🇵🇼 Palau | 17,730 | Oceania |
| 4 | 🇫🇷 St. Martin (French part) | 27,520 | Caribbean (Europe) |
| 5 | 🇸🇲 San Marino | 33,860 | Europe |
| 6 | 🇬🇮 Gibraltar | 38,470 | Europe |
| 7 | 🇲🇭 Marshall Islands | 38,830 | Oceania |
| 8 | 🇲🇨 Monaco | 38,960 | Europe |
| 9 | 🇬🇧 British Virgin Islands | 38,980 | Caribbean (North America) |
| 10 | 🇱🇮 Liechtenstein | 39,850 | Europe |
The data is sourced from the UN World Population Prospects 2024.
1. Tuvalu – Population: 9,820
Tuvalu is one of the smallest and least populated countries in the world within the British Commonwealth. The country is located in the Pacific Ocean and made up of 9 small islands scattered across the vast ocean. Its remote location makes it difficult for people to access, and its limited land area restricts the population size to only a few thousand.
Tuvalu has a rich Polynesian culture and a close-knit community that values traditions and cultures. The country is facing significant threats from climate change and rising sea levels, which pose a risk to its future stability.
2. Nauru – Population: 11,880
Nauru is the smallest island republic located in Micronesia, in the central Pacific. It is formerly known as Pleasant Island and does not have an official capital. Its isolation and lack of natural resources have limited its population growth.
Historically, Nauru was known for its phosphate mining, which brought significant wealth to the tiny island. However, it also poses significant environmental challenges in the island country. Today, Nauru relies heavily on foreign aid and has a small but resilient population that is working to rebuild its economy and preserve its unique culture.
Global Population Change by Generation in 2035
3. Palau – Population: 17,730
Palau is an archipelago of over 500 islands in the western Pacific Ocean. The country is a popular destination for divers and nature lovers due to its stunning coral reefs and crystal-clear waters. However, its remote location and small land area have kept its population one of the lowest globally.
Palau’s government has implemented strict environmental policies to protect its natural beauty, which limits large-scale development and urbanization in this archipelago.
4. St. Martin (French part) – Population: 27,520
The French part of St. Martin is a small island in the Caribbean Sea. It shares the island with the Dutch territory of Sint Maarten. The island nation has a relatively small population, attributable to its limited land area and resources. Its economy relies heavily on tourism, which provides jobs and income for its residents.
Despite its small population, St. Martin is a melting pot of cultures, blending French, Caribbean, and African influences. It is also one of the most popular tourist destinations globally.
5. San Marino – Population: 33,860
San Marino is one of the world’s oldest republics and a microstate entirely surrounded by Italy. It is located in the Apennine Mountains and is known for its medieval architecture and rich history, which have been preserved for centuries. The country’s small size and mountainous terrain have limited population growth. However, San Marino’s strong economy and high standard of living make it an attractive place to live.
6. Gibraltar – Population: 38,470
Gibraltar is a tiny British Overseas Territory located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula. This small territory is strategically important due to its location at the entrance of the Mediterranean Sea. Gibraltar’s economy thrives on tourism, shipping, and financial services, and its residents enjoy a high standard of living globally.
7. Marshall Islands – Population: 38,830
The Marshall Islands is a country of 29 atolls and five islands in the central Pacific Ocean. Its remote location and scattered islands have kept its population small. The Marshall Islands is known for its unique culture and history, including its role in nuclear testing during the mid-20th century. Today, the country faces challenges like rising sea levels and limited resources.
Global Workforce Change by Generation: Current and Projected 2035
8. Monaco – Population: 38,960
Monaco is a tiny city-state located on the French Riviera. It is one of the wealthiest and most densely populated countries in the world. The country is known for its luxury casinos, yacht-lined harbor, and the famous Monte Carlo district. However, its small land area limits the overall population size. Monaco’s economy is driven by tourism, banking, and real estate sectors.
9. British Virgin Islands – Population: 38,980
The British Virgin Islands is a British Overseas Territory in the Caribbean. It comprises around 60 islands and cays and is known for its white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. The British Virgin Islands is a popular destination for sailing and luxury travel. Due to small population, its residents enjoy a relaxed and laid-back lifestyle. The islands’ natural beauty and vibrant culture make it a unique place to live and visit.
10. Liechtenstein – Population: 39,850
Liechtenstein is a small landlocked country nestled between Switzerland and Austria in the Alps. It is one of the most beautiful countries in the world due to its stunning mountain scenery and medieval castles. The country’s strong economy and high quality of life make it an attractive place to live.
Why Are These Countries So Sparsely Populated?
The small populations of these countries can be attributed to several factors. Many of them are located in remote or isolated regions, such as the Pacific Ocean or the Caribbean Sea. Additionally, limited land area and natural resources also restrict population growth in these countries. Many of these nations also face challenges, such as rising sea levels and economic dependence on a single tourism industry. Despite these challenges and tiny population size, the people of these countries have built resilient communities and preserved their unique cultures and traditions.
In summary, the countries with lowest population may be small in size, but they are rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. From the remote islands of the Pacific to the glamorous city-state of Monaco, each of these nations has a unique story to tell. Their small populations are a result of their geography, isolation, and the challenges they face.
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