Only six low-income nations may achieve middle-imcome status by 2050: World Bank

The World Bank warns that just six of the world’s 26 low-income countries are on track to reach middle-income status by 2050 without significant improvements in economic growth, Anadolu Agency said on Friday.

The findings, part of the Global Economic Prospects Report set for release in January 2025, highlight that over 40% of the population in these nations lives on less than $2.15 a day. The report notes that progress in reducing extreme poverty has stagnated, with conflicts, economic crises, and weak growth stalling development.

While 39 low-income countries advanced to middle-income status since 2000, including India and Indonesia, others, such as Syria and South Sudan, have regressed. Over the past 15 years, GDP per capita in these nations has grown by less than 0.1% annually, underscoring the urgent need for sustained reforms.