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Photo: Caitlin from Hertfordshire, UK derivative work: Jjtkk · CC BY 2.0 · via Wikimedia Commons, shown in greyscale
Eswatini
Eswatini places highest on Average Time to Clear Exports Through Customs (top 1% worldwide) and lowest on Unemployment Rate (bottom 1%).
Eswatini in the Nations Inquiry Country Index
At a glance
Population
1,230,506
people
since 1950
Land area
17,200
km²
since 1961
GDP per person
10,707
international $, PPP
since 1990
Life expectancy
64.12
years at birth
since 1950
Human development
0.695
HDI, 0–1
since 1990
Unemployment
34.2
% of the labour force
since 1991
The newest published figure for each, the year it describes and who published it, with a line showing how it has moved.
01The country
About Eswatini
Key facts about Eswatini
- Capitals
- Mbabane, Lobamba
- Official languages
- English, Swazi
- Currency
- lilangeni (SZL)
- ISO code
- SWZ · SZ
- Domain · dialling
- .sz · +268
As Wikidata records them. Official languages are the least consistent — some countries list only a national language, others every regional one. Sources and licences.
02Country Index 2026
Where it stands, topic by topic
Strongest first. Each position is Eswatini’s place among the countries with a standing on that topic, built from a few key statistics chosen to measure different things.
62ndof 193
From 3 of 3 key statistics
90thof 192
From 3 of 3 key statistics
81stof 171
From 3 of 4 key statistics
joint93rdof 181
From 3 of 3 key statistics
joint99thof 175
From 4 of 4 key statistics
112thof 176
From 4 of 4 key statistics
114thof 177
From 4 of 4 key statistics
130thof 196
From 3 of 3 key statistics
joint133rdof 198
From 2 of 3 key statistics
136thof 183
From 3 of 4 key statistics
156thof 194
From 4 of 4 key statistics
joint165thof 200
From 4 of 4 key statistics
178thof 198
From 3 of 3 key statistics
174thof 182
From 4 of 4 key statistics
157thof 159
From 2 of 2 key statistics
No standing — Eswatini holds too few of this subject’s key statistics to be placed on it.
Each standing is built from a few key statistics chosen to measure different things. Select a subject for Eswatini’s readings on it, or see every statistic held for Eswatini in the table further down this page.
03Highs and lows
Where Eswatini stands out
The two ends of its own record: every statistic on which Eswatini sits within ten places of the best or worst in the world, plus its strongest and weakest readings overall. Each is turned into a percentile — its place among every country measured — which is what lets a hunger score and a press-freedom rank be compared at all.
Where Eswatini does best6
In the top third of all countries measured. 2 are within ten places of the best in the world, in a field of at least 50 countries — marked with that place.
- 1st
Position · derived 174th of 174 · 1 = worst · 1 · 2025
world median 4.456 (better)
- 3rdDeaths in Organized Violencebottom 29%
Position · derived 57th of 59 · 1 = worst · 1 · 2025
world median 0 (worse) · ▼ 35 pts since 2015
Position · derived 13th of 190 · 96.72 · 2024
world median 31.14 (better)
Position · derived 15th of 190 · 96.72 · 2024
world median 35.66 (better)
Position · derived 15th of 179 · 33.95 · 2025
world median 19.16 (better)
- Child Marriagetop 8%
Position · derived 133rd of 143 · 1 = worst · 1.9 · 2025
world median 17.1 (better)
Where Eswatini struggles most5
In the bottom third of all countries measured. 5 are within ten places of the worst in the world, in a field of at least 50 countries — marked with that place.
- 1stUnemployment Ratebottom 1%
Position · derived 1st of 182 · 1 = worst · 34.2 · 2025
world median 5.084 (worse) · ▼ 3 pts since 2015
- 3rdYouth Unemployment Ratebottom 1%
Position · derived 3rd of 182 · 1 = worst · 54.33 · 2025
world median 12.83 (worse)
- 7thEgalitarian Democracy Indexbottom 3%
Position · derived 170th of 176 · 0.077 · 2025
world median 0.321 (worse)
- 8thEmployment-to-Population Ratiobottom 4%
Position · derived 175th of 182 · 33.68 · 2025
world median 57.72 (worse) · ▼ 5 pts since 2015
- 10thWomen, Business and the Lawbottom 4%
Position · derived 181st of 190 · 46.25 · 2024
world median 81.25 (worse) · ▼ 5 pts since 2014
A band is a place among the countries each publisher scores, so Eswatini can move because other countries moved. See the Country Index for the full method.
04Over time
Which way it is moving
The published rank in widely quoted reports, edition by edition — each end with the size of that year’s field — and the statistics, not already named above, on which it has gained or lost the most ground.
Human Development Index
UNDP Human Development Report Office
93rd
of 141 · 1990
126th
of 193 · 2023
Ranked in 34 of 34 editions
Corruption Perceptions Index
Transparency International
87th
of 173 · 2012
153rd
of 181 · 2025
Ranked in 12 of 14 editions
Gender Inequality Index
UNDP Human Development Report Office
127th
of 160 · 2015
124th
of 172 · 2023
Ranked in 9 of 34 editions
Economic Complexity Index
Growth Lab at Harvard University
60th
of 144 · 2000
65th
of 145 · 2024
Ranked in 25 of 30 editions
Government AI Readiness Index
Oxford Insights
152nd
of 172 · 2020
137th
of 195 · 2025
Ranked in 6 of 6 editions
Gaining ground
Where Eswatini has climbed against the rest of the world, in percentile points.
- Cost of Sending Remittances+83 pts since 2016
- Organic Agricultural Area+45 pts since 2014
- Agriculture Orientation Index+42 pts since 2014
Losing ground
Where Eswatini has slipped against the rest of the world, in percentile points.
- Livestock Production Index-56 pts since 2012
- Corruption Perceptions Index-36 pts since 2017
05In context
Eswatini and its neighbours
A position reads best beside the countries around it. Every position below is a place in the world ranking of 178, not within the region.
Shares a land border with
Placed either side in the Country Index 2026
Across Southern Africa
Every country in the sub-region, by its position in the world (of 178 placed).
- 102
South Africa - =108
Namibia - =116
Botswana - =132
Lesotho - =140Eswatini
06The evidence
Every statistic we hold for Eswatini
Grouped by topic. Each row gives the newest edition’s rank or position, the published value and the year the numbers describe — select a row for the world median, the best in the world and the trend.
Governance & Institutions29
Agriculture Orientation Index19th of 132position · derived0.89Agriculture orientation index (1.0 = spending matches sector size)2024
top 14% of 132 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Agriculture orientation index (1.0 = spending matches sector size)
Eswatini 0.89 · world median 0.305 (better)
Best in the world 5.38 (Singapore)
▲ +42 percentile points since 2014
Central Bank Independence Indexbottom 9%0.361CBI index (0–1, where 1 is the most statutory independence)2023
bottom 9% of 191 countries measured
Ana Carolina Garriga, University of Essex · CBI index (0–1, where 1 is the most statutory independence)
Eswatini 0.361 · world median 0.608
Highest 0.974 (Bosnia and Herzegovina)
▼ -2 percentile points since 2013
Civic Space Ratings173rd of 198position · derived15.43Civic space score (0–100)2025
bottom 13% of 198 countries measured
CIVICUS · Civic space score (0–100)
Eswatini 15.43 · world median 50.46 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (Kiribati)
No earlier reading to compare
Climate Readiness (ND-GAIN)146th of 192rank0.301ND-GAIN Readiness (0–1, where 1 is the most ready)2024
bottom 24% of 192 countries measured
Notre Dame Global Adaptation Initiative (ND-GAIN), University of Notre Dame · ND-GAIN Readiness (0–1, where 1 is the most ready)
Eswatini 0.301 · world median 0.387 (worse)
Best in the world 0.749 (Singapore)
▼ -7 percentile points since 2014
Completeness of Birth Registrationbottom 14%65.7Children under 5 whose birth is registered (%)2025
bottom 14% of 185 countries measured
UNICEF · Children under 5 whose birth is registered (%)
Eswatini 65.7 · world median 98.4 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (53 countries tied)
No earlier reading to compare
Control of Corruption162nd of 211position · derived-0.8Control of Corruption (−2.5 to 2.5)2025
bottom 23% of 211 countries measured
World Bank Group · Control of Corruption (−2.5 to 2.5)
Eswatini -0.8 · world median -0.197 (worse)
Best in the world 2.259 (Denmark)
▼ -25 percentile points since 2015
Corruption Perceptions Index153rd of 181rank23CPI score (0–100, where 100 is very clean)2025
bottom 15% of 182 countries measured · 182 share 181 positions
Transparency International · CPI score (0–100, where 100 is very clean)
Eswatini 23 · world median 39 (worse)
Best in the world 89 (Denmark)
▼ -36 percentile points since 2017
Country Policy and Institutional Assessment43rd of 78position · derived3.133IDA Resource Allocation Index (1 = low to 6 = high)2025
bottom 45% of 78 countries measured
World Bank Group · IDA Resource Allocation Index (1 = low to 6 = high)
Eswatini 3.133 · world median 3.246 (worse)
Best in the world 4.225 (Rwanda)
No real change since 2024
Debt Service on External Debt87th of 109position · derived · 1 = worst7.672Total debt service (% of exports of goods, services and primary income)2024
top 20% of 109 countries measured
World Bank Group · Total debt service (% of exports of goods, services and primary income)
Eswatini 7.672 · world median 12.93 (better)
Best in the world 0.285 (Iran)
▲ +33 percentile points since 2014
External Debt Stocks (% of GNI)87th of 110position · derived · 1 = worst27.75External debt stocks (% of GNI)2024
top 21% of 110 countries measured
World Bank Group · External debt stocks (% of GNI)
Eswatini 27.75 · world median 43.94 (better)
Best in the world 2.213 (Iran)
▼ -16 percentile points since 2014
Government AI Readiness Index137th of 195rank27.7AI readiness score (0–100)2025
bottom 30% of 195 countries measured
Oxford Insights · AI readiness score (0–100)
Eswatini 27.7 · world median 40.19 (worse)
Best in the world 88.36 (United States)
▲ +18 percentile points since 2020
Government Effectiveness173rd of 209position · derived-0.84Governance estimate (−2.5 weak to 2.5 strong)2025
bottom 17% of 209 countries measured
World Bank Group · Governance estimate (−2.5 weak to 2.5 strong)
Eswatini -0.84 · world median 0.101 (worse)
Best in the world 2.092 (Singapore)
▼ -21 percentile points since 2015
Government Spending on Education31st of 123position · derived5.004Government expenditure on education (% of GDP)2023
top 25% of 123 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Government expenditure on education (% of GDP)
Eswatini 5.004 · world median 3.709 (better)
Best in the world 16.39 (Kiribati)
▲ +6 percentile points since 2013
GovTech Maturity Index125th of 196position · derived0.459GTMI score (0–1)2025
bottom 36% of 196 countries measured
World Bank Group · GTMI score (0–1)
Eswatini 0.459 · world median 0.63 (worse)
Best in the world 0.997 (South Korea)
▲ +2 percentile points since 2022
Judicial Constraints on the Executive Index121st of 175position · derived0.315Judicial constraints on the executive index (0–1)2025
bottom 31% of 176 countries measured · 176 share 175 positions
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Judicial constraints on the executive index (0–1)
Eswatini 0.315 · world median 0.676 (worse)
Best in the world 0.988 (Australia)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2015
Liberal Democracy Index146th of 176position · derived0.097Liberal democracy index (0–1)2025
bottom 17% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Liberal democracy index (0–1)
Eswatini 0.097 · world median 0.353 (worse)
Best in the world 0.884 (Denmark)
▲ +5 percentile points since 2015
Open Data Inventory154th of 168rank34ODIN overall score (0–100)2024
bottom 8% of 168 countries measured
Open Data Watch · ODIN overall score (0–100)
Eswatini 34 · world median 59 (worse)
Best in the world 90 (2 countries tied)
▲ +6 percentile points since 2015
Political Corruption Index85th of 176position · derived · 1 = worst0.554Political corruption index (0–1; higher = more corrupt)2025
bottom 48% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Political corruption index (0–1; higher = more corrupt)
Eswatini 0.554 · world median 0.518 (worse)
Best in the world 0.004 (Denmark)
▼ -10 percentile points since 2015
Public Sector Employment59th of 135position · derived17.66Public sector employment (% of total employment)2022
top 43% of 135 countries measured
World Bank Group · Public sector employment (% of total employment)
Eswatini 17.66 · world median 15.01
Highest 47.1 (Maldives)
No earlier reading to compare
Public Sector Wage Bill35th of 168position · derived11.35Public sector wage bill (% of GDP)2022
top 20% of 168 countries measured
World Bank Group · Public sector wage bill (% of GDP)
Eswatini 11.35 · world median 7.975
Highest 42.65 (Nauru)
No real change since 2012
Regulatory Quality155th of 209position · derived-0.676Regulatory Quality (−2.5 to 2.5)2025
bottom 26% of 209 countries measured
World Bank Group · Regulatory Quality (−2.5 to 2.5)
Eswatini -0.676 · world median -0.093 (worse)
Best in the world 2.113 (Singapore)
▼ -15 percentile points since 2015
Rule of Law154th of 211position · derived-0.779Rule of Law estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)2025
bottom 27% of 211 countries measured
World Bank Group · Rule of Law estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)
Eswatini -0.779 · world median -0.102 (worse)
Best in the world 2.012 (Finland)
▼ -9 percentile points since 2015
Statistical Performance Indicators129th of 188position · derived60.97SPI overall score (0–100)2024
bottom 32% of 188 countries measured
World Bank Group · SPI overall score (0–100)
Eswatini 60.97 · world median 69.3 (worse)
Best in the world 94.14 (Norway)
▲ +6 percentile points since 2016
Trade Union Density42nd of 139position · derived23.88Employees who are trade union members (%)2020
top 30% of 139 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employees who are trade union members (%)
Eswatini 23.88 · world median 16.68 (better)
Best in the world 91.42 (Iceland)
No earlier reading to compare
V-Dem Electoral Democracy Index166th of 176position · derived0.128Electoral democracy index (0–1)2025
bottom 5% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Electoral democracy index (0–1)
Eswatini 0.128 · world median 0.497 (worse)
Best in the world 0.913 (Denmark)
No real change since 2015
Voice and Accountability180th of 206position · derived-1.454Voice and Accountability estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)2025
bottom 13% of 206 countries measured
World Bank Group · Voice and Accountability estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)
Eswatini -1.454 · world median -0.022 (worse)
Best in the world 1.825 (Norway)
▲ +5 percentile points since 2015
Women, Business and the Law181st of 190position · derived46.25WBL Index (0–100, where 100 is full legal parity)2024
bottom 4% of 190 countries measured
World Bank Group · WBL Index (0–100, where 100 is full legal parity)
Eswatini 46.25 · world median 81.25 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (14 countries tied)
▼ -5 percentile points since 2014
Economy & Innovation18
Account Ownership at a Financial Institution80th of 139position · derived65.12Adults with an account (% of population aged 15+)2024
bottom 43% of 139 countries measured
World Bank Group · Adults with an account (% of population aged 15+)
Eswatini 65.12 · world median 72.83 (worse)
Best in the world 99.85 (Iceland)
No real change since 2011
Adjusted Net Savings78th of 118position · derived4.671Adjusted net savings, including particulate emission damage (% of GNI)2021
bottom 34% of 118 countries measured
World Bank Group · Adjusted net savings, including particulate emission damage (% of GNI)
Eswatini 4.671 · world median 8.389 (worse)
Best in the world 32.18 (Bangladesh)
▲ +30 percentile points since 2011
Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing Value Added (% of GDP)81st of 158position · derived6.408Agriculture, forestry and fishing value added (% of GDP)2025
bottom 49% of 158 countries measured
World Bank Group · Agriculture, forestry and fishing value added (% of GDP)
Eswatini 6.408 · world median 6.572
Highest 47.59 (Niger)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2015
Crop Production Index89th of 195position · derived107.49Crop production index (2014–2016 = 100)2022
top 45% of 195 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Crop production index (2014–2016 = 100)
Eswatini 107.49 · world median 106.23 (better)
Best in the world 189.93 (Senegal)
▼ -12 percentile points since 2012
Economic Complexity Index65th of 145rank0.271ECI score (standardised, roughly −3 to +3)2024
top 44% of 145 countries measured
Growth Lab at Harvard University · ECI score (standardised, roughly −3 to +3)
Eswatini 0.271 · world median 0.131 (better)
Best in the world 1.729 (Japan)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2014
Firms with a Bank Loan or Line of Credit152nd of 179position · derived13.56Firms with a bank loan or line of credit (%)2025
bottom 15% of 179 countries measured
World Bank Group · Firms with a bank loan or line of credit (%)
Eswatini 13.56 · world median 35.95 (worse)
Best in the world 88.52 (Israel)
No earlier reading to compare
Food Production Index100th of 195position · derived105.96Food production index (2014–2016 = 100)2022
bottom 49% of 195 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Food production index (2014–2016 = 100)
Eswatini 105.96 · world median 106.08 (worse)
Best in the world 177.49 (Senegal)
▼ -27 percentile points since 2012
Foreign Direct Investment Inflowsbottom 25%0.865FDI inflows (% of GDP)2025
bottom 25% of 202 countries measured
UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) · FDI inflows (% of GDP)
Eswatini 0.865 · world median 1.968
Highest 2,221 (British Virgin Islands)
▼ -2 percentile points since 2015
GDP Growth69th of 186position · derived4.194GDP growth (annual %)2025
top 37% of 186 countries measured
World Bank Group · GDP growth (annual %)
Eswatini 4.194 · world median 3.396 (better)
Best in the world 19.34 (Guyana)
▲ +31 percentile points since 2015
GDP per Capita (PPP)121st of 185position · derived10,707GDP per capita (constant 2021 international $, PPP)2025
bottom 35% of 185 countries measured
World Bank Group · GDP per capita (constant 2021 international $, PPP)
Eswatini 10,707 · world median 17,265 (worse)
Best in the world 139,593 (Singapore)
No real change since 2015
Gross Savings (% of GDP)100th of 146position · derived17.66Gross savings (% of GDP)2024
bottom 32% of 146 countries measured
World Bank Group · Gross savings (% of GDP)
Eswatini 17.66 · world median 22.06
Highest 47.82 (Macau)
▼ -51 percentile points since 2014
Industry Value Added including Construction (% of GDP)33rd of 158position · derived33.58Industry, including construction, value added (% of GDP)2025
top 20% of 158 countries measured
World Bank Group · Industry, including construction, value added (% of GDP)
Eswatini 33.58 · world median 24.65
Highest 75.09 (Guyana)
▼ -10 percentile points since 2015
Livestock Production Index136th of 194position · derived100.16Livestock production index (2014–2016 = 100)2022
bottom 30% of 194 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Livestock production index (2014–2016 = 100)
Eswatini 100.16 · world median 107.06 (worse)
Best in the world 190.08 (Malawi)
▼ -56 percentile points since 2012
Manufacturing Value Added (% of GDP)4th of 132position · derived28.06Manufacturing value added (% of GDP)2025
top 2% of 132 countries measured
World Bank Group · Manufacturing value added (% of GDP)
Eswatini 28.06 · world median 11.26
Highest 43.97 (Puerto Rico)
No real change since 2015
Researchers per Million Inhabitants108th of 145position · derived137.92Researchers per million inhabitants (full-time equivalent)2024
bottom 26% of 145 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Researchers per million inhabitants (full-time equivalent)
Eswatini 137.92 · world median 701.95 (worse)
Best in the world 18,130 (Liechtenstein)
No earlier reading to compare
Tariff Rate, Applied, Weighted Mean, All Productsbottom 46%2.98Applied tariff rate, trade-weighted mean (%)2022
bottom 46% of 143 countries measured
World Bank Group · Applied tariff rate, trade-weighted mean (%)
Eswatini 2.98 · world median 3.66
Highest 29.52 (Bermuda)
▼ -9 percentile points since 2012
Total Natural Resources Rents (% of GDP)82nd of 180position · derived2.999Natural resources rents (% of GDP)2021
top 41% of 197 countries measured · 197 share 180 positions
World Bank Group · Natural resources rents (% of GDP)
Eswatini 2.999 · world median 1.708
Highest 61.03 (Libya)
▲ +8 percentile points since 2011
World Energy Trilemma Index79th of 99rank51.1Trilemma score (0–100)2023
bottom 18% of 126 countries measured · 126 share 99 positions
World Energy Council · Trilemma score (0–100)
Eswatini 51.1 · world median 63.8 (worse)
Best in the world 83.2 (Denmark)
No earlier reading to compare
Work & Labour17
Average Weekly Hours Worked65th of 182position · derived41.21Average weekly hours actually worked per employed person2025
top 35% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Average weekly hours actually worked per employed person
Eswatini 41.21 · world median 38.89
Highest 54.7 (Bhutan)
▼ -27 percentile points since 2015
Employment in Agriculture91st of 182position · derived14.55Employment in agriculture (% of total employment)2025
top 50% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employment in agriculture (% of total employment)
Eswatini 14.55 · world median 14.38
Highest 85.34 (Burundi)
▲ +7 percentile points since 2015
Employment in Industry29th of 182position · derived26.73Employment in industry (% of total employment)2025
top 15% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employment in industry (% of total employment)
Eswatini 26.73 · world median 18.88
Highest 39.44 (Oman)
▲ +10 percentile points since 2015
Employment in Services93rd of 182position · derived58.72Employment in services (% of total employment)2025
bottom 49% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employment in services (% of total employment)
Eswatini 58.72 · world median 59.51
Highest 92.17 (Djibouti)
▼ -7 percentile points since 2015
Employment-to-Population Ratio175th of 182position · derived33.68Employed share of the population aged 15+ (%)2025
bottom 4% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employed share of the population aged 15+ (%)
Eswatini 33.68 · world median 57.72 (worse)
Best in the world 86.9 (Qatar)
▼ -5 percentile points since 2015
Female Labour Force Participation Rate122nd of 182position · derived48.52Women aged 15+ in the labour force (%)2025
bottom 33% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Women aged 15+ in the labour force (%)
Eswatini 48.52 · world median 53.36 (worse)
Best in the world 82.91 (Madagascar)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2015
Firms with a Female Top Manager15th of 179position · derived33.95Firms with a female top manager (%)2025
top 8% of 179 countries measured
World Bank Group · Firms with a female top manager (%)
Eswatini 33.95 · world median 19.16 (better)
Best in the world 62.9 (Kiribati)
No earlier reading to compare
GDP per Person Employed84th of 168position · derived47,440GDP per person employed (constant 2021 international $)2025
top 50% of 168 countries measured
World Bank Group · GDP per person employed (constant 2021 international $)
Eswatini 47,440 · world median 47,384 (better)
Best in the world 262,554 (Luxembourg)
▲ +2 percentile points since 2015
Informal Employment Rate42nd of 97position · derived · 1 = worst52.37Informal employment (% of total employment)2025
bottom 43% of 97 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Informal employment (% of total employment)
Eswatini 52.37 · world median 36.83 (worse)
Best in the world 0.857 (Hungary)
No earlier reading to compare
Labour Force Participation Rate156th of 182position · derived51.19Population aged 15+ in the labour force (%)2025
bottom 14% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Population aged 15+ in the labour force (%)
Eswatini 51.19 · world median 61.66 (worse)
Best in the world 87.01 (Qatar)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2015
Labour Productivity per Hour Worked91st of 182position · derived22.16Output per hour worked (constant 2021 international $ at PPP)2025
top 50% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Output per hour worked (constant 2021 international $ at PPP)
Eswatini 22.16 · world median 22.16 (better)
Best in the world 164.65 (Ireland)
▲ +9 percentile points since 2015
Self-Employment Rate99th of 182position · derived30.22Self-employed (% of total employment)2025
bottom 46% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Self-employed (% of total employment)
Eswatini 30.22 · world median 31.84
Highest 91.56 (Chad)
▼ -7 percentile points since 2015
Unemployment Rate1st of 182position · derived · 1 = worst34.2Unemployment (% of labour force)2025
bottom 1% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Unemployment (% of labour force)
Eswatini 34.2 · world median 5.084 (worse)
Best in the world 0.13 (Qatar)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2015
Vulnerable Employment92nd of 182position · derived · 1 = worst28.38Vulnerable employment (% of total employment)2025
top 50% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Vulnerable employment (% of total employment)
Eswatini 28.38 · world median 28.67 (better)
Best in the world 0.456 (Qatar)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2015
Working Poverty Ratebottom 23%32.94Employed people living in extreme poverty (%)2025
bottom 23% of 113 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employed people living in extreme poverty (%)
Eswatini 32.94 · world median 4.885 (worse)
Best in the world 0.007 (Bhutan)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2015
Youth Unemployment Rate3rd of 182position · derived · 1 = worst54.33Unemployment, ages 15-24 (% of youth labour force)2025
bottom 1% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Unemployment, ages 15-24 (% of youth labour force)
Eswatini 54.33 · world median 12.83 (worse)
Best in the world 0.457 (Niger)
No real change since 2015
Education & Knowledge10
Academic Freedom Index148th of 176position · derived0.179Academic freedom index (0–1)2025
bottom 16% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Academic freedom index (0–1)
Eswatini 0.179 · world median 0.619 (worse)
Best in the world 0.978 (Czechia)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2015
Adult Literacy Rate101st of 172position · derived90.75Adults 15+ who can read and write (%)2024
bottom 42% of 172 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Adults 15+ who can read and write (%)
Eswatini 90.75 · world median 93.99 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (3 countries tied)
No earlier reading to compare
Expected Years of Schooling64th of 195position · derived15.25Expected years of schooling2023
top 32% of 195 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · Expected years of schooling
Eswatini 15.25 · world median 13.34 (better)
Best in the world 21.69 (Monaco)
▲ +21 percentile points since 2013
Female Share of Researcherstop 40%41.39Researchers who are women (% of headcount; 50 = parity)2024
top 40% of 153 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Researchers who are women (% of headcount; 50 = parity)
Eswatini 41.39 · world median 38.17
Highest 76.54 (Myanmar)
No earlier reading to compare
Harmonized Test Scores62nd of 172position · derived440.3Harmonized test score (TIMSS-equivalent points; 300 = minimum, 625 = advanced attainment)2020
top 36% of 172 countries measured
World Bank Group · Harmonized test score (TIMSS-equivalent points; 300 = minimum, 625 = advanced attainment)
Eswatini 440.3 · world median 414.32 (better)
Best in the world 575.27 (Singapore)
▲ +25 percentile points since 2010
Learning-Adjusted Years of School156th of 172position · derived4.525Learning-adjusted years of school (0–14)2020
bottom 9% of 172 countries measured
World Bank Group · Learning-adjusted years of school (0–14)
Eswatini 4.525 · world median 7.941 (worse)
Best in the world 12.81 (Singapore)
▲ +5 percentile points since 2010
Mean Years of Schooling120th of 193position · derived8.685Mean years of schooling (adults 25+)2023
bottom 38% of 193 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · Mean years of schooling (adults 25+)
Eswatini 8.685 · world median 9.933 (worse)
Best in the world 14.3 (Germany)
▲ +6 percentile points since 2013
Primary Completion Rate122nd of 165position · derived82.51Primary completion rate (%)2025
bottom 26% of 165 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Primary completion rate (%)
Eswatini 82.51 · world median 97.43 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (5 countries tied)
No real change since 2015
Upper Secondary Completion Rate113th of 164position · derived37.73Upper secondary completion rate (%)2025
bottom 31% of 164 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Upper secondary completion rate (%)
Eswatini 37.73 · world median 64.87 (worse)
Best in the world 99.27 (South Korea)
▼ -9 percentile points since 1981
Youth Literacy Ratetop 47%98.6615–24 year-olds who can read and write (%)2024
top 47% of 174 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · 15–24 year-olds who can read and write (%)
Eswatini 98.66 · world median 98.22 (better)
Best in the world 100 (6 countries tied)
No earlier reading to compare
Health & Wellbeing20
Children with Functional Difficultiesbottom 46%12.7Children aged 5-17 with a functional difficulty (%)2024
bottom 46% of 62 countries measured
UNICEF · Children aged 5-17 with a functional difficulty (%)
Eswatini 12.7 · world median 13
Highest 35.2 (Afghanistan)
No earlier reading to compare
Dietary Energy Supply122nd of 155position · derived2,589Dietary energy supply (kcal per person per day)2024
bottom 21% of 155 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Dietary energy supply (kcal per person per day)
Eswatini 2,589 · world median 2,982 (worse)
Best in the world 3,962 (United States)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2014
Exclusive Breastfeeding Under Six Months34th of 136position · derived54.01Infants under 6 months exclusively breastfed (%)2024
top 24% of 136 countries measured
UNICEF · Infants under 6 months exclusively breastfed (%)
Eswatini 54.01 · world median 40.74 (better)
Best in the world 83.3 (Burundi)
No earlier reading to compare
Gender Inequality Index124th of 172rank0.484GII (0 = full equality, 1 = maximum inequality)2023
bottom 28% of 172 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · GII (0 = full equality, 1 = maximum inequality)
Eswatini 0.484 · world median 0.351 (worse)
Best in the world 0.003 (Denmark)
▲ +7 percentile points since 2015
Global Multidimensional Poverty Index58th of 109position · derived · 1 = worst0.033MPI (0–1)2025
top 47% of 109 countries measured
Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI) · MPI (0–1)
Eswatini 0.033 · world median 0.039 (better)
Best in the world 0 (Serbia)
▼ -2 percentile points since 2018
Global Report on Food Crises17th of 44position · derived · 1 = worst25In IPC Phase 3+ (% of analysed population)2024
bottom 38% of 44 countries measured
Food Security Information Network (FSIN) · In IPC Phase 3+ (% of analysed population)
Eswatini 25 · world median 22 (worse)
Best in the world 3 (El Salvador)
▲ +23 percentile points since 2016
Global Violent Deaths32nd of 206position · derived · 1 = worst18.45Violent deaths per 100,000 people2021
bottom 15% of 209 countries measured · 209 share 206 positions
Small Arms Survey · Violent deaths per 100,000 people
Eswatini 18.45 · world median 4.02 (worse)
Best in the world 0 (4 countries tied)
No real change since 2011
Human Capital Index160th of 172position · derived0.373HCI score (0–1)2020
bottom 7% of 172 countries measured
World Bank Group · HCI score (0–1)
Eswatini 0.373 · world median 0.564 (worse)
Best in the world 0.879 (Singapore)
▲ +5 percentile points since 2010
Human Development Index126th of 193rank0.695HDI score (0–1)2023
bottom 35% of 193 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · HDI score (0–1)
Eswatini 0.695 · world median 0.762 (worse)
Best in the world 0.972 (Iceland)
▲ +11 percentile points since 2013
Infant Mortality Rate24th of 200position · derived · 1 = worst42.22Deaths before age one (per 1,000 live births)2024
bottom 12% of 200 countries measured
UN Inter-agency Group for Child Mortality Estimation (UN IGME) · Deaths before age one (per 1,000 live births)
Eswatini 42.22 · world median 12.26 (worse)
Best in the world 1.214 (San Marino)
▲ +2 percentile points since 2014
INFORM Severity Index61st of 81position · derived · 1 = worst2.4INFORM Severity (1–5, most severe crisis)2025
top 24% of 81 countries measured
ACAPS · INFORM Severity (1–5, most severe crisis)
Eswatini 2.4 · world median 3.1 (better)
Best in the world 1.3 (Trinidad and Tobago)
No real change since 2020
Life Expectancy at Age 65165th of 222position · derived14.24Further years a 65-year-old would live at current death rates2023
bottom 26% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Further years a 65-year-old would live at current death rates
Eswatini 14.24 · world median 16.39 (worse)
Best in the world 23.21 (Monaco)
▲ +20 percentile points since 2013
Life Expectancy at Birth197th of 222position · derived64.12Years a newborn would live at current death rates2023
bottom 11% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Years a newborn would live at current death rates
Eswatini 64.12 · world median 74.63 (worse)
Best in the world 86.37 (Monaco)
▲ +10 percentile points since 2013
Maternal Mortality Ratio61st of 195position · derived · 1 = worst117.93Maternal deaths per 100,000 live births2023
bottom 31% of 195 countries measured
UN Maternal Mortality Estimation Inter-Agency Group (MMEIG) · Maternal deaths per 100,000 live births
Eswatini 117.93 · world median 46.65 (worse)
Best in the world 0.11 (Cook Islands)
▲ +20 percentile points since 2013
Pesticide Use per Hectare44th of 178position · derived6.15Pesticide use (kg per hectare of cropland)2024
top 24% of 181 countries measured · 181 share 178 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Pesticide use (kg per hectare of cropland)
Eswatini 6.15 · world median 1.73
Highest 37.72 (Antigua and Barbuda)
▲ +12 percentile points since 2014
Prevalence of Severe Food Insecurity19th of 127position · derived · 1 = worst22.2Population in severe food insecurity (%)2023
bottom 14% of 133 countries measured · 133 share 127 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Population in severe food insecurity (%)
Eswatini 22.2 · world median 4.7 (worse)
Best in the world 0 (7 countries tied)
▼ -9 percentile points since 2020
Prevalence of Undernourishment39th of 104position · derived · 1 = worst14.7Population undernourished (%)2023
bottom 23% of 165 countries measured · 165 share 104 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Population undernourished (%)
Eswatini 14.7 · world median 5.2 (worse)
Best in the world 2.5 (62 countries tied)
▲ +7 percentile points since 2013
Stunting Prevalence in Children Under Five60th of 162position · derived · 1 = worst20.03Children under 5 who are stunted (%)2024
bottom 37% of 162 countries measured
UNICEF, WHO and World Bank Group (Joint Malnutrition Estimates) · Children under 5 who are stunted (%)
Eswatini 20.03 · world median 13.8 (worse)
Best in the world 0.518 (Latvia)
No earlier reading to compare
Under-Five Mortality Rate35th of 200position · derived · 1 = worst45.12Deaths before age five (per 1,000 live births)2024
bottom 17% of 200 countries measured
UN Inter-agency Group for Child Mortality Estimation (UN IGME) · Deaths before age five (per 1,000 live births)
Eswatini 45.12 · world median 14.54 (worse)
Best in the world 1.26 (San Marino)
No real change since 2014
Violent Discipline of Children40th of 90position · derived · 1 = worst79.4Children aged 1-14 experiencing violent discipline (%)2025
bottom 44% of 90 countries measured
UNICEF · Children aged 1-14 experiencing violent discipline (%)
Eswatini 79.4 · world median 75.8 (worse)
Best in the world 37.6 (Qatar)
No earlier reading to compare
Development & Human Capital7
Access to Electricitybottom 25%89.3Population with electricity access (%)2024
bottom 25% of 215 countries measured
World Bank Group · Population with electricity access (%)
Eswatini 89.3 · world median 100 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (122 countries tied)
▲ +2 percentile points since 2014
Cereal Yield150th of 179position · derived1,228Cereal yield (kg per hectare)2023
bottom 16% of 179 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Cereal yield (kg per hectare)
Eswatini 1,228 · world median 3,072 (worse)
Best in the world 29,147 (Oman)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2013
Child Marriage133rd of 143position · derived · 1 = worst1.9Women 20–24 married before 18 (%)2025
top 8% of 145 countries measured · 145 share 143 positions
UNICEF · Women 20–24 married before 18 (%)
Eswatini 1.9 · world median 17.1 (better)
Best in the world 0 (3 countries tied)
No earlier reading to compare
Coefficient of Human Inequality23rd of 169position · derived · 1 = worst35.05Coefficient of Human Inequality (%)2023
bottom 13% of 169 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · Coefficient of Human Inequality (%)
Eswatini 35.05 · world median 17.05 (worse)
Best in the world 4.865 (Slovenia)
No real change since 2013
Gender Development Index96th of 184position · derived0.964Gender Development Index (1.000 = parity)2023
bottom 47% of 184 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · Gender Development Index (1.000 = parity)
Eswatini 0.964 · world median 0.971 (worse)
Best in the world 1 (2 countries tied)
▲ +11 percentile points since 2015
Inequality-adjusted Human Development Index127th of 169position · derived0.431IHDI (0–1)2023
bottom 25% of 169 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · IHDI (0–1)
Eswatini 0.431 · world median 0.609 (worse)
Best in the world 0.923 (Iceland)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2013
Net Official Development Assistance Received66th of 130position · derived2.56Net ODA received (% of GNI)2023
bottom 50% of 130 countries measured
OECD Development Assistance Committee · Net ODA received (% of GNI)
Eswatini 2.56 · world median 2.579
Highest 101.78 (Tuvalu)
No real change since 2013
Environment & Sustainability23
Agricultural Emissions145th of 193position · derived1,183Farm-gate emissions (kt CO₂eq)2023
bottom 27% of 198 countries measured · 198 share 193 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Farm-gate emissions (kt CO₂eq)
Eswatini 1,183 · world median 8,635
Highest 1,044,508 (India)
No real change since 2013
Agricultural Irrigated Land60th of 121position · derived3.663Irrigated share of agricultural land (%)2023
top 49% of 121 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Irrigated share of agricultural land (%)
Eswatini 3.663 · world median 3.66
Highest 89.04 (Bangladesh)
No earlier reading to compare
Agricultural Land24th of 209position · derived69.48Agricultural land (% of land area)2023
top 11% of 209 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Agricultural land (% of land area)
Eswatini 69.48 · world median 37.96
Highest 86.48 (Côte d’Ivoire)
No real change since 2013
Arable Land per Person86th of 206position · derived0.144Arable land (hectares per person)2023
top 41% of 206 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Arable land (hectares per person)
Eswatini 0.144 · world median 0.109
Highest 1.459 (Kazakhstan)
No real change since 2013
Carbon Intensity of Electricity164th of 193position · derived · 1 = worst119.67Carbon intensity (gCO₂e per kWh generated)2024
top 15% of 193 countries measured
Ember · Carbon intensity (gCO₂e per kWh generated)
Eswatini 119.67 · world median 468.81 (better)
Best in the world 23.49 (Ethiopia)
No real change since 2014
Climate Vulnerability (ND-GAIN)122nd of 190rank0.482ND-GAIN Vulnerability (0–1, where 1 is the most vulnerable)2024
bottom 35% of 190 countries measured
Notre Dame Global Adaptation Initiative (ND-GAIN), University of Notre Dame · ND-GAIN Vulnerability (0–1, where 1 is the most vulnerable)
Eswatini 0.482 · world median 0.45 (worse)
Best in the world 0.263 (Norway)
▲ +10 percentile points since 2014
CO₂ Emissions per Capita160th of 210position · derived · 1 = worst0.841Fossil CO₂ (tonnes per person)2024
top 24% of 210 countries measured
Global Carbon Project · Fossil CO₂ (tonnes per person)
Eswatini 0.841 · world median 3.21 (better)
Best in the world 0.054 (DR Congo)
No real change since 2014
Ecological Footprint75th of 126position · derived · 1 = worst1.822Ecological Footprint (global hectares per person)2025
top 41% of 126 countries measured
Global Footprint Network · Ecological Footprint (global hectares per person)
Eswatini 1.822 · world median 2.296 (better)
Best in the world 0.514 (Yemen)
▲ +14 percentile points since 2015
Energy Intensity of GDP (PPP)top 32%2.131Energy use per dollar of GDP (thousand Btu per US$ at PPP)2024
top 32% of 192 countries measured
U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) · Energy use per dollar of GDP (thousand Btu per US$ at PPP)
Eswatini 2.131 · world median 2.738 (better)
Best in the world 0.666 (Chad)
▼ -6 percentile points since 2014
Fertilizer Consumption per Hectare98th of 188position · derived80.95Fertilizer consumption (kg per hectare of arable land)2023
bottom 49% of 191 countries measured · 191 share 188 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Fertilizer consumption (kg per hectare of arable land)
Eswatini 80.95 · world median 87.36
Highest 2,926 (Malaysia)
▲ +7 percentile points since 2013
Forest Area111th of 210position · derived29.14Forest area (% of land area)2023
bottom 48% of 213 countries measured · 213 share 210 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Forest area (% of land area)
Eswatini 29.14 · world median 31.08
Highest 94.45 (Suriname)
No real change since 2013
Internal Displacements by Disaster124th of 160position · derived · 1 = worst420New displacements by disaster (people)2024
top 23% of 160 countries measured
Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC) · New displacements by disaster (people)
Eswatini 420 · world median 4,750 (better)
Best in the world 1 (Serbia)
▼ -9 percentile points since 2018
Land Under Cereal Production139th of 179position · derived71,001Land under cereal production (hectares)2023
bottom 23% of 180 countries measured · 180 share 179 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Land under cereal production (hectares)
Eswatini 71,001 · world median 689,278
Highest 103,715,108 (India)
No real change since 2013
Livestock Density142nd of 188position · derived0.29Livestock units per hectare of agricultural land2023
bottom 25% of 188 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Livestock units per hectare of agricultural land
Eswatini 0.29 · world median 0.535
Highest 43.97 (Singapore)
▼ -6 percentile points since 2013
Low-Carbon Share of Electricity Generation15th of 190position · derived96.72Low-carbon sources (% of electricity generated)2024
top 7% of 193 countries measured · 193 share 190 positions
Ember · Low-carbon sources (% of electricity generated)
Eswatini 96.72 · world median 35.66 (better)
Best in the world 100 (7 countries tied)
No real change since 2014
ND-GAIN Country Index139th of 190rank40.95ND-GAIN Index (0–100, where 100 is best placed to adapt)2024
bottom 27% of 190 countries measured
Notre Dame Global Adaptation Initiative (ND-GAIN), University of Notre Dame · ND-GAIN Index (0–100, where 100 is best placed to adapt)
Eswatini 40.95 · world median 47.44 (worse)
Best in the world 71.85 (Norway)
No real change since 2014
Organic Agricultural Area82nd of 150position · derived0.63Organic share of agricultural land (%)2024
bottom 48% of 156 countries measured · 156 share 150 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Organic share of agricultural land (%)
Eswatini 0.63 · world median 0.725 (worse)
Best in the world 86.38 (Samoa)
▲ +45 percentile points since 2014
Renewable Internal Freshwater Resources per Capita102nd of 181position · derived2,166Renewable internal freshwater (cubic metres per person)2022
bottom 44% of 181 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Renewable internal freshwater (cubic metres per person)
Eswatini 2,166 · world median 2,528 (worse)
Best in the world 445,023 (Iceland)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2012
Renewable Share of Electricity Generation13th of 190position · derived96.72Renewables (% of electricity generated)2024
top 6% of 193 countries measured · 193 share 190 positions
Ember · Renewables (% of electricity generated)
Eswatini 96.72 · world median 31.14 (better)
Best in the world 100 (7 countries tied)
No real change since 2014
Water Stress23rd of 177position · derived · 1 = worst77.56Freshwater withdrawal as a share of available resources (%)2023
bottom 13% of 177 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Freshwater withdrawal as a share of available resources (%)
Eswatini 77.56 · world median 10 (worse)
Best in the world 0.03 (Republic of the Congo)
No real change since 2013
Water Withdrawal by Sector11th of 171position · derived94.19Freshwater withdrawn for agriculture (% of total)2022
top 6% of 173 countries measured · 173 share 171 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Freshwater withdrawn for agriculture (% of total)
Eswatini 94.19 · world median 62.14
Highest 99.48 (Somalia)
No real change since 2012
Wind and Solar Share of Electricity Generationbottom 45%4.918Wind and solar (% of electricity generated)2024
bottom 45% of 193 countries measured
Ember · Wind and solar (% of electricity generated)
Eswatini 4.918 · world median 5.769 (worse)
Best in the world 69.12 (Denmark)
▲ +26 percentile points since 2014
World Risk Index159th of 193position · derived · 1 = worst1.76WorldRiskIndex score (0–100, where 100 is the most at risk)2025
top 18% of 193 countries measured
Institute for International Law of Peace and Armed Conflict (IFHV), Ruhr University Bochum · WorldRiskIndex score (0–100, where 100 is the most at risk)
Eswatini 1.76 · world median 4.17 (better)
Best in the world 0.18 (Monaco)
No real change since 2015
Gender & Equality2
Sex Ratio at Birthbottom 7%102.9Male births per 100 female births2023
bottom 7% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Male births per 100 female births
Eswatini 102.9 · world median 105.1
Highest 116.3 (Liechtenstein)
No real change since 2013
Women's Political Empowerment Index163rd of 176position · derived0.391Women's political empowerment index (0–1)2025
bottom 7% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Women's political empowerment index (0–1)
Eswatini 0.391 · world median 0.772 (worse)
Best in the world 0.954 (Denmark)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2015
Democracy & Civil Liberties8
Deliberative Democracy Index156th of 176position · derived0.064Deliberative democracy index (0–1)2025
bottom 11% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Deliberative democracy index (0–1)
Eswatini 0.064 · world median 0.339 (worse)
Best in the world 0.867 (Denmark)
No real change since 2015
Egalitarian Democracy Index170th of 176position · derived0.077Egalitarian democracy index (0–1)2025
bottom 3% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Egalitarian democracy index (0–1)
Eswatini 0.077 · world median 0.321 (worse)
Best in the world 0.876 (Denmark)
No real change since 2015
Freedom of Expression and Alternative Sources of Information Index158th of 176position · derived0.113Freedom of expression index (0–1)2025
bottom 10% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Freedom of expression index (0–1)
Eswatini 0.113 · world median 0.693 (worse)
Best in the world 0.98 (Denmark)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2015
Government Censorship of the Media155th of 176position · derived-1.784Original latent estimate (≈ −3 to +3.5); higher = less censorship2025
bottom 12% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Original latent estimate (≈ −3 to +3.5); higher = less censorship
Eswatini -1.784 · world median 0.565 (worse)
Best in the world 3.489 (Belgium)
▼ -7 percentile points since 2015
Government Internet Shutdowns157th of 176position · derived-1.432Original latent estimate (≈ −4 to +2); higher = fewer shutdowns2025
bottom 11% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Original latent estimate (≈ −4 to +2); higher = fewer shutdowns
Eswatini -1.432 · world median 1.023 (worse)
Best in the world 2.081 (Spain)
▼ -14 percentile points since 2015
Military Dimension Indexbottom 34%0.167Military dimension index (0–1; higher = larger military role)2025
bottom 34% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Military dimension index (0–1; higher = larger military role)
Eswatini 0.167 · world median 0.1 (worse)
Best in the world 0 (76 countries tied)
▼ -9 percentile points since 2015
Participatory Democracy Index142nd of 176position · derived0.11Participatory democracy index (0–1)2025
bottom 19% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Participatory democracy index (0–1)
Eswatini 0.11 · world median 0.298 (worse)
Best in the world 0.785 (Switzerland)
No real change since 2015
Physical Violence Index165th of 176position · derived0.132Freedom from political killings and torture (0–1)2025
bottom 6% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Freedom from political killings and torture (0–1)
Eswatini 0.132 · world median 0.79 (worse)
Best in the world 0.989 (2 countries tied)
▼ -20 percentile points since 2015
Peace & Security6
Deaths in Organized Violence57th of 59position · derived · 1 = worst1Deaths in organized violence (people)2025
bottom 29% of 196 countries measured · 196 share 59 positions
Uppsala Conflict Data Program (UCDP) · Deaths in organized violence (people)
Eswatini 1 · world median 0 (worse)
Best in the world 0 (138 countries tied)
▼ -35 percentile points since 2015
Global Militarisation Index115th of 149rank · 1 = worst69.82GMI score (higher means a heavier military weight)2023
top 23% of 149 countries measured
Bonn International Centre for Conflict Studies (BICC) · GMI score (higher means a heavier military weight)
Eswatini 69.82 · world median 100.66 (better)
Best in the world 3.512 (Haiti)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2022
INFORM Risk Index75th of 191position · derived · 1 = worst4.3INFORM Risk score (0–10, where 10 is the highest risk)2025
bottom 40% of 191 countries measured
European Commission Joint Research Centre, with the Inter-Agency Standing Committee · INFORM Risk score (0–10, where 10 is the highest risk)
Eswatini 4.3 · world median 3.7 (worse)
Best in the world 0.7 (Singapore)
▼ -13 percentile points since 2016
Political Stability and Absence of Violence164th of 211position · derived-0.571Political Stability estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)2025
bottom 22% of 211 countries measured
World Bank Group · Political Stability estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)
Eswatini -0.571 · world median 0.171 (worse)
Best in the world 1.563 (Andorra)
▼ -12 percentile points since 2015
Political Violence by Non-State Actors82nd of 171position · derived · 1 = worst-0.588Original latent estimate (≈ −3.5 to +4); higher = more violence2025
bottom 48% of 171 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Original latent estimate (≈ −3.5 to +4); higher = more violence
Eswatini -0.588 · world median -0.661 (worse)
Best in the world -3.182 (Luxembourg)
▼ -28 percentile points since 2015
Refugees by Country of Originbottom 33%220Refugees under UNHCR's mandate from this country, end of year (people)2025
bottom 33% of 202 countries measured
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency · Refugees under UNHCR's mandate from this country, end of year (people)
Eswatini 220 · world median 1,272
Highest 5,224,131 (Ukraine)
No real change since 2015
Risk & Resilience2
Asylum-Seekers by Country of Asylumtop 44%3,511Asylum-seekers awaiting a decision, end of year (people)2025
top 44% of 177 countries measured
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency · Asylum-seekers awaiting a decision, end of year (people)
Eswatini 3,511 · world median 1,836
Highest 3,718,945 (United States)
▲ +12 percentile points since 2015
Refugee Population by Country of Asylumbottom 32%1,414Refugees under UNHCR's mandate hosted, end of year (people)2025
bottom 32% of 177 countries measured
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency · Refugees under UNHCR's mandate hosted, end of year (people)
Eswatini 1,414 · world median 12,269
Highest 2,655,191 (Germany)
No real change since 2015
Mobility & Trade4
Average Time to Clear Exports Through Customs174th of 174position · derived · 1 = worst1Average time to clear exports through customs (days)2025
top 1% of 175 countries measured · 175 share 174 positions
World Bank Group · Average time to clear exports through customs (days)
Eswatini 1 · world median 4.456 (better)
Best in the world 1 (2 countries tied)
No earlier reading to compare
Cereal Import Dependency Ratiotop 33%67.5Share of the cereal supply that is imported (%)2022
top 33% of 161 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Share of the cereal supply that is imported (%)
Eswatini 67.5 · world median 42.8
Highest 100 (16 countries tied)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2012
Cost of Sending Remittances78th of 93position · derived · 1 = worst1.82Average cost of sending $200 home (% of the amount)2023
top 16% of 93 countries measured
World Bank Group · Average cost of sending $200 home (% of the amount)
Eswatini 1.82 · world median 3.225 (better)
Best in the world -49.69 (Malawi)
▲ +83 percentile points since 2016
Net Migration Ratebottom 9%-6.948Net migrants per 1,000 population2023
bottom 9% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Net migrants per 1,000 population
Eswatini -6.948 · world median -0.133
Highest 39.62 (South Sudan)
No real change since 2013
Poverty & Inequality1
Poverty Headcount at National Poverty Linestop 4%58.9Population below the national poverty line (%)2025
top 4% of 160 countries measured
World Bank Group · Population below the national poverty line (%)
Eswatini 58.9 · world median 21.8
Highest 82.3 (South Sudan)
No earlier reading to compare
Money & Public Finance1
Short-Term Share of External Debttop 35%5.64Short-term debt (% of total external debt)2024
top 35% of 118 countries measured
World Bank Group · Short-term debt (% of total external debt)
Eswatini 5.64 · world median 9.376 (better)
Best in the world 0 (5 countries tied)
▼ -5 percentile points since 2014
Energy3
Net Electricity Imports (share of generation)top 3%170.49Net electricity imports (% of domestic generation)2024
top 3% of 193 countries measured
Ember · Net electricity imports (% of domestic generation)
Eswatini 170.49 · world median 0
Highest 707.07 (Palestine)
No real change since 2014
Nuclear Share of Electricity Generationbottom 41%0Nuclear (% of electricity generated)2024
bottom 41% of 183 countries measured
Ember · Nuclear (% of electricity generated)
Eswatini 0 · world median 0
Highest 67.4 (France)
No real change since 2014
Primary Energy Consumption per Capitabottom 32%19.13Energy use per person (million Btu)2024
bottom 32% of 192 countries measured
U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) · Energy use per person (million Btu)
Eswatini 19.13 · world median 49.5
Highest 766.07 (Qatar)
No real change since 2014
Digital & Technology2
Mobile Phone Ownership97th of 140position · derived86.19Adults who own a mobile phone (% of population aged 15+)2024
bottom 31% of 140 countries measured
World Bank Group · Adults who own a mobile phone (% of population aged 15+)
Eswatini 86.19 · world median 91.68 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (Libya)
No earlier reading to compare
Smartphone Ownership112th of 140position · derived49Adults whose main mobile phone is a smartphone (% of population aged 15+)2024
bottom 20% of 140 countries measured
World Bank Group · Adults whose main mobile phone is a smartphone (% of population aged 15+)
Eswatini 49 · world median 78.78 (worse)
Best in the world 97.36 (Sweden)
No earlier reading to compare
People & Population10
Crude Birth Ratetop 25%24.07Births per 1,000 population2023
top 25% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Births per 1,000 population
Eswatini 24.07 · world median 13.79
Highest 46.36 (Central African Republic)
No real change since 2013
Crude Death Ratetop 43%7.7Deaths per 1,000 population2023
top 43% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Deaths per 1,000 population
Eswatini 7.7 · world median 7.303
Highest 25.58 (Vatican City)
▼ -37 percentile points since 2013
Median Age of the Populationbottom 25%22Median age (years)2023
bottom 25% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Median age (years)
Eswatini 22 · world median 31.52
Highest 59.63 (Vatican City)
▲ +5 percentile points since 2013
Population Aged 65 and Overbottom 25%4.147Share of the total population aged 65 and over (%)2023
bottom 25% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Share of the total population aged 65 and over (%)
Eswatini 4.147 · world median 8.32
Highest 44.7 (Vatican City)
▲ +5 percentile points since 2013
Population Densitybottom 38%70.87People per square kilometre of land2023
bottom 38% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · People per square kilometre of land
Eswatini 70.87 · world median 96.92
Highest 26,145 (Monaco)
No real change since 2013
Population Growth Ratetop 49%0.943Population growth (% per year)2023
top 49% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Population growth (% per year)
Eswatini 0.943 · world median 0.888
Highest 5.862 (South Sudan)
▲ +19 percentile points since 2013
Population Under Age 15top 26%33.67Share of the total population aged 0–14 (%)2023
top 26% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Share of the total population aged 0–14 (%)
Eswatini 33.67 · world median 22.71
Highest 49.17 (Central African Republic)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2013
Sex Ratio of the Total Populationbottom 31%96.41Males per 100 females2023
bottom 31% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Males per 100 females
Eswatini 96.41 · world median 98.48
Highest 251.08 (Qatar)
▲ +12 percentile points since 2013
Total Dependency Ratiotop 32%60.81People aged 0–14 and 65+ per 100 people aged 15–642023
top 32% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · People aged 0–14 and 65+ per 100 people aged 15–64
Eswatini 60.81 · world median 54.73
Highest 105.18 (Central African Republic)
▼ -7 percentile points since 2013
Total Fertility Ratetop 28%2.752Live births per woman2023
top 28% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Live births per woman
Eswatini 2.752 · world median 1.962
Highest 6.132 (Somalia)
No real change since 2013
Not currently covered
The newest edition of these reports does not include Eswatini. Usually the publisher does not cover it; sometimes it has dropped out of a ranking it used to appear in.
- Births Attended by Skilled Health Staff · last seen 2014
- Business Ready: Operational Efficiency
- Business Ready: Public Services
- Business Ready: Regulatory Framework
- Container Port Traffic
- Digitally-Deliverable Services Exports · last seen 2023
- Exports of Goods and Services (% of GDP) · last seen 2024
- Fatal Occupational Injuries
- Female Genital Mutilation Prevalence
- Female Share of Senior and Middle Management · last seen 2023
- Gender Social Norms Index
- General Government Consumption · last seen 2024
- Gini Index · last seen 2016
- Global Innovation Index
- GNI per Capita (PPP) · last seen 2024
- Government Funding per Primary Student · last seen 2014
- Gross Capital Formation (% of GDP) · last seen 2024
- Household Consumption · last seen 2024
- ICT Goods Exports · last seen 2023
- ICT Services Exports · last seen 2023
- Imports of Goods and Services (% of GDP) · last seen 2024
- Inbound Mobility Rate, Tertiary · last seen 2013
- Income Share Held by Lowest 20% · last seen 2016
- Income Share Held by Richest 10% · last seen 2016
- Learning Poverty
- Liner Shipping Connectivity Index
- Logistics Performance Index
- Median Daily Income or Consumption per Person · last seen 2016
- Out-of-School Rate, Primary · last seen 2022
- Outbound Mobility Ratio, Tertiary · last seen 2013
- Palma Ratio · last seen 2016
- PISA Mathematics Performance
- PISA Reading Performance
- PISA Science Performance
- Planetary pressures-adjusted HDI
- Poverty Gap at $3.00 a Day · last seen 2016
- Poverty Headcount Ratio at $3.00 a Day · last seen 2016
- Poverty Headcount Ratio at $8.30 a Day · last seen 2016
- Pre-Primary Net Enrolment Rate · last seen 2011
- Prosperity Gap · last seen 2016
- Research and Development Spending · last seen 2015
- RISE Energy Efficiency Policy Score
- RISE Renewable Energy Policy Score
- School Life Expectancy · last seen 2013
- Secondary School Enrolment · last seen 2016
- Social Institutions and Gender Index
- Societal Poverty Rate · last seen 2016
- Tertiary Enrolment Ratio · last seen 2013
- Trade (% of GDP) · last seen 2024
- Upper Secondary Attainment · last seen 2022
- Youth Not in Education, Employment or Training · last seen 2023
07Keep reading
Explore further
08Method
Sources and how to read them
How to read this page
- The scores and ranks belong to their publishers. Nothing is adjusted, rescaled or re-ranked; each is reproduced from the edition named beside it. Where a row says position · derived, the publisher ranks nobody on that measure and the position is ours, made by ordering the published score.
- Each statistic shows its newest edition, which is not always the edition the Country Index uses: the index pins every source to one data year so its average compares like with like.
How a standing is built from percentiles, why Eswatini can move because other countries moved, and why publishers measure between 120 and 215 countries each are set out in full in how a standing is made and what a standing cannot tell you.
Sources
- Statistics: 35 publishers, each named beside its numbers, with every edition and licence on the datasets pages.
- Capital, languages, currency, codes: Wikidata, public domain (CC0).
- Map and land borders: Natural Earth, public domain. Borders are de facto — where administration actually changes — not claimed.
Photographs
The photograph of Eswatini on this page comes from Wikimedia Commons and is shown in greyscale. The photographer and the licence are named beside each one.
Cite this page
Nations Inquiry (2026). Eswatini: country statistics, rankings and trends. https://nationsinquiry.com/countries/eswatini