The term “youngest country” can have different meanings, depending on how it is defined. It could refer to the country with the youngest population, the country that has recently gained independence, or the country that has recently been established as a sovereign state. Here are some examples of countries that could be considered the youngest in each of these categories:
- Youngest Population: Niger
Niger has the youngest population in the world, with a median age of around 15 years. This means that half of the population is below the age of 15. The country has a high birth rate and a low life expectancy, which contribute to its youthful demographic profile.
- Recently Independent Country: South Sudan
South Sudan became an independent country on July 9, 2011, making it the youngest sovereign state in the world. The country gained independence from Sudan after a long civil war that lasted for more than two decades. Since its independence, South Sudan has faced numerous challenges, including ongoing conflict, political instability, and economic hardship.
- Recently Established Sovereign State: Kosovo
Kosovo declared independence from Serbia on February 17, 2008, making it the most recent country to establish its sovereignty. Kosovo’s independence is not universally recognized, however, and is still a subject of dispute between Serbia and the international community. Despite its young age, Kosovo has made progress in establishing itself as a democratic and economically viable country.
It is worth noting that the concept of a “youngest country” is subjective and can be interpreted in different ways. For example, some people might argue that Palestine, which is not recognized as a sovereign state by all countries, should be considered the youngest country because of its ongoing struggle for independence. Similarly, some people might argue that Scotland or Catalonia should be considered the youngest countries because of their ongoing movements for independence from the United Kingdom and Spain, respectively.
In conclusion, the answer to the question “What is the youngest country in the world?” depends on how the term “youngest country” is defined. Depending on the definition, the answer could be Niger, South Sudan, Kosovo, or another country altogether.
