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Photo: Laxman Thapa from Nepal derivative work: Inkey · CC BY-SA 2.0 · via Wikimedia Commons, shown in greyscale
Nepal
Nepal places highest on Carbon Intensity of Electricity (top 1% worldwide) and lowest on Labour Force Participation Rate (bottom 4%).
Nepal in the Nations Inquiry Country Index
At a glance
Population
29,694,614
people
since 1950
Land area
143,350
km²
since 1961
GDP per person
5,277
international $, PPP
since 1990
Life expectancy
70.35
years at birth
since 1950
Human development
0.622
HDI, 0–1
since 1990
Unemployment
10.46
% 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 Nepal
Key facts about Nepal
- Capital
- Kathmandu
- Official language
- Nepali
- Currency
- Nepalese rupee (NPR)
- ISO code
- NPL · NP
- Domain · dialling
- .np · +977
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 Nepal’s place among the countries with a standing on that topic, built from a few key statistics chosen to measure different things.
39thof 181
From 3 of 3 key statistics
42ndof 159
From 2 of 2 key statistics
joint54thof 193
From 3 of 3 key statistics
96thof 198
From 3 of 3 key statistics
88thof 177
From 4 of 4 key statistics
107thof 198
From 3 of 3 key statistics
joint93rdof 171
From 4 of 4 key statistics
97thof 176
From 4 of 4 key statistics
114thof 192
From 3 of 3 key statistics
joint117thof 175
From 4 of 4 key statistics
130thof 194
From 4 of 4 key statistics
joint125thof 183
From 4 of 4 key statistics
143rdof 200
From 4 of 4 key statistics
145thof 196
From 3 of 3 key statistics
171stof 182
From 4 of 4 key statistics
No standing — Nepal 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 Nepal’s readings on it, or see every statistic held for Nepal in the table further down this page.
03Highs and lows
Where Nepal stands out
The two ends of its own record: every statistic on which Nepal 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 Nepal does best6
In the top third of all countries measured. 5 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 1st of 190 · 100 · 2024
world median 35.66 (better)
- 1st
Position · derived 1st of 190 · 100 · 2024
world median 31.14 (better)
- 3rd
Position · derived 191st of 193 · 1 = worst · 23.99 · 2024
world median 468.81 (better)
- 3rdDeaths in Organized Violencebottom 29%
Position · derived 57th of 59 · 1 = worst · 1 · 2025
world median 0 (worse) · ▼ 35 pts since 2015
- 5thAdjusted Net Savingstop 3%
Position · derived 5th of 118 · 24.42 · 2021
world median 8.389 (better) · ▲ 4 pts since 2011
Position · derived 17th of 194 · 144.45 · 2022
world median 107.06 (better) · ▲ 60 pts since 2012
Where Nepal struggles most6
In the bottom third of all countries measured. 4 are within ten places of the worst in the world, in a field of at least 50 countries — marked with that place.
- 8thLabour Force Participation Ratebottom 4%
Position · derived 175th of 182 · 39.24 · 2025
world median 61.66 (worse)
- 9th
- 9th
Position · derived 78th of 86 · 77.2 · 2019
world median 98.8 (worse) · ▲ 8 pts since 2011
- 10thEmployment-to-Population Ratiobottom 5%
Position · derived 173rd of 182 · 35.14 · 2025
world median 57.72 (worse)
- Gender Development Indexbottom 7%
Position · derived 171st of 184 · 0.858 · 2023
world median 0.971 (worse) · ▼ 16 pts since 2013
- Vulnerable Employmentbottom 8%
Position · derived 15th of 182 · 1 = worst · 76.98 · 2025
world median 28.67 (worse)
A band is a place among the countries each publisher scores, so Nepal 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
117th
of 141 · 1990
145th
of 193 · 2023
Ranked in 34 of 34 editions
Corruption Perceptions Index
Transparency International
138th
of 173 · 2012
109th
of 181 · 2025
Ranked in 14 of 14 editions
Gender Inequality Index
UNDP Human Development Report Office
76th
of 79 · 1990
125th
of 172 · 2023
Ranked in 34 of 34 editions
Global Innovation Index
World Intellectual Property Organization
111th
of 132 · 2022
107th
of 139 · 2025
Ranked in 4 of 4 editions
Economic Complexity Index
Growth Lab at Harvard University
101st
of 140 · 1995
88th
of 145 · 2024
Ranked in 30 of 30 editions
Government AI Readiness Index
Oxford Insights
146th
of 172 · 2020
106th
of 195 · 2025
Ranked in 6 of 6 editions
Gaining ground
Where Nepal has climbed against the rest of the world, in percentile points.
- Women, Business and the Law+36 pts since 2014
- Government Spending on Education+33 pts since 2013
Losing ground
Where Nepal has slipped against the rest of the world, in percentile points.
- ICT Services Exports-56 pts since 2014
- Digitally-Deliverable Services Exports-36 pts since 2014
05In context
Nepal 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 Asia
Every country in the sub-region, by its position in the world (of 178 placed).
- 44
Bhutan - 79
Maldives - 86
Sri Lanka - =88
India - =100Nepal
- =132
Bangladesh - =145
Iran - 149
Pakistan - 172
Afghanistan
06The evidence
Every statistic we hold for Nepal
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 & Institutions33
Agriculture Orientation Index80th of 132position · derived0.25Agriculture orientation index (1.0 = spending matches sector size)2024
bottom 40% of 132 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Agriculture orientation index (1.0 = spending matches sector size)
Nepal 0.25 · world median 0.305 (worse)
Best in the world 5.38 (Singapore)
▼ -16 percentile points since 2014
Business Ready: Operational Efficiency11th of 50position · derived72.21Operational efficiency score (0–100)2024
top 20% of 50 countries measured
World Bank Group · Operational efficiency score (0–100)
Nepal 72.21 · world median 65.82 (better)
Best in the world 87.33 (Singapore)
No earlier reading to compare
Business Ready: Public Services27th of 50position · derived49.29Public services score (0–100)2024
bottom 47% of 50 countries measured
World Bank Group · Public services score (0–100)
Nepal 49.29 · world median 50.13 (worse)
Best in the world 73.31 (Estonia)
No earlier reading to compare
Business Ready: Regulatory Framework37th of 50position · derived59.3Regulatory framework score (0–100)2024
bottom 27% of 50 countries measured
World Bank Group · Regulatory framework score (0–100)
Nepal 59.3 · world median 66.8 (worse)
Best in the world 78.34 (Hungary)
No earlier reading to compare
Central Bank Independence Indexbottom 43%0.574CBI index (0–1, where 1 is the most statutory independence)2023
bottom 43% of 191 countries measured
Ana Carolina Garriga, University of Essex · CBI index (0–1, where 1 is the most statutory independence)
Nepal 0.574 · world median 0.608
Highest 0.974 (Bosnia and Herzegovina)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2013
Civic Space Ratings106th of 198position · derived47.55Civic space score (0–100)2025
bottom 47% of 198 countries measured
CIVICUS · Civic space score (0–100)
Nepal 47.55 · world median 50.46 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (Kiribati)
No earlier reading to compare
Climate Readiness (ND-GAIN)134th of 192rank0.327ND-GAIN Readiness (0–1, where 1 is the most ready)2024
bottom 29% 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)
Nepal 0.327 · world median 0.387 (worse)
Best in the world 0.749 (Singapore)
▼ -7 percentile points since 2014
Completeness of Birth Registrationbottom 17%73.2Children under 5 whose birth is registered (%)2025
bottom 17% of 185 countries measured
UNICEF · Children under 5 whose birth is registered (%)
Nepal 73.2 · world median 98.4 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (53 countries tied)
No earlier reading to compare
Control of Corruption157th of 211position · derived-0.773Control of Corruption (−2.5 to 2.5)2025
bottom 26% of 211 countries measured
World Bank Group · Control of Corruption (−2.5 to 2.5)
Nepal -0.773 · world median -0.197 (worse)
Best in the world 2.259 (Denmark)
No real change since 2015
Corruption Perceptions Index109th of 181rank34CPI score (0–100, where 100 is very clean)2025
bottom 39% of 182 countries measured · 182 share 181 positions
Transparency International · CPI score (0–100, where 100 is very clean)
Nepal 34 · world median 39 (worse)
Best in the world 89 (Denmark)
▲ +17 percentile points since 2015
Country Policy and Institutional Assessment26th of 78position · derived3.367IDA Resource Allocation Index (1 = low to 6 = high)2025
top 32% of 78 countries measured
World Bank Group · IDA Resource Allocation Index (1 = low to 6 = high)
Nepal 3.367 · world median 3.246 (better)
Best in the world 4.225 (Rwanda)
▲ +6 percentile points since 2015
Debt Service on External Debt57th of 109position · derived · 1 = worst12.39Total debt service (% of exports of goods, services and primary income)2024
top 48% of 109 countries measured
World Bank Group · Total debt service (% of exports of goods, services and primary income)
Nepal 12.39 · world median 12.93 (better)
Best in the world 0.285 (Iran)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2014
External Debt Stocks (% of GNI)93rd of 110position · derived · 1 = worst23.27External debt stocks (% of GNI)2024
top 16% of 110 countries measured
World Bank Group · External debt stocks (% of GNI)
Nepal 23.27 · world median 43.94 (better)
Best in the world 2.213 (Iran)
No real change since 2014
General Government Consumption122nd of 132position · derived8.385General government final consumption expenditure (% of GDP)2025
bottom 8% of 132 countries measured
World Bank Group · General government final consumption expenditure (% of GDP)
Nepal 8.385 · world median 16.21
Highest 38.94 (Ukraine)
No real change since 2015
Government AI Readiness Index106th of 195rank38.5AI readiness score (0–100)2025
bottom 46% of 195 countries measured
Oxford Insights · AI readiness score (0–100)
Nepal 38.5 · world median 40.19 (worse)
Best in the world 88.36 (United States)
▲ +31 percentile points since 2020
Government Effectiveness166th of 209position · derived-0.77Governance estimate (−2.5 weak to 2.5 strong)2025
bottom 21% of 209 countries measured
World Bank Group · Governance estimate (−2.5 weak to 2.5 strong)
Nepal -0.77 · world median 0.101 (worse)
Best in the world 2.092 (Singapore)
▲ +9 percentile points since 2015
Government Spending on Education55th of 123position · derived3.956Government expenditure on education (% of GDP)2023
top 44% of 123 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Government expenditure on education (% of GDP)
Nepal 3.956 · world median 3.709 (better)
Best in the world 16.39 (Kiribati)
▲ +33 percentile points since 2013
GovTech Maturity Index116th of 196position · derived0.517GTMI score (0–1)2025
bottom 41% of 196 countries measured
World Bank Group · GTMI score (0–1)
Nepal 0.517 · world median 0.63 (worse)
Best in the world 0.997 (South Korea)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2022
Judicial Constraints on the Executive Index67th of 175position · derived0.764Judicial constraints on the executive index (0–1)2025
top 38% of 176 countries measured · 176 share 175 positions
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Judicial constraints on the executive index (0–1)
Nepal 0.764 · world median 0.676 (better)
Best in the world 0.988 (Australia)
▼ -7 percentile points since 2015
Liberal Democracy Index64th of 176position · derived0.505Liberal democracy index (0–1)2025
top 36% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Liberal democracy index (0–1)
Nepal 0.505 · world median 0.353 (better)
Best in the world 0.884 (Denmark)
No real change since 2015
Open Data Inventory110th of 168rank50ODIN overall score (0–100)2024
bottom 34% of 168 countries measured
Open Data Watch · ODIN overall score (0–100)
Nepal 50 · world median 59 (worse)
Best in the world 90 (2 countries tied)
▼ -19 percentile points since 2015
Political Corruption Index83rd of 176position · derived · 1 = worst0.561Political corruption index (0–1; higher = more corrupt)2025
bottom 47% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Political corruption index (0–1; higher = more corrupt)
Nepal 0.561 · world median 0.518 (worse)
Best in the world 0.004 (Denmark)
▲ +6 percentile points since 2015
Public Sector Employment114th of 135position · derived4.371Public sector employment (% of total employment)2022
bottom 16% of 135 countries measured
World Bank Group · Public sector employment (% of total employment)
Nepal 4.371 · world median 15.01
Highest 47.1 (Maldives)
No earlier reading to compare
Public Sector Wage Bill161st of 168position · derived2.848Public sector wage bill (% of GDP)2022
bottom 4% of 168 countries measured
World Bank Group · Public sector wage bill (% of GDP)
Nepal 2.848 · world median 7.975
Highest 42.65 (Nauru)
No real change since 2012
Regulatory Quality153rd of 209position · derived-0.653Regulatory Quality (−2.5 to 2.5)2025
bottom 27% of 209 countries measured
World Bank Group · Regulatory Quality (−2.5 to 2.5)
Nepal -0.653 · world median -0.093 (worse)
Best in the world 2.113 (Singapore)
No real change since 2015
Rule of Law121st of 211position · derived-0.306Rule of Law estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)2025
bottom 43% of 211 countries measured
World Bank Group · Rule of Law estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)
Nepal -0.306 · world median -0.102 (worse)
Best in the world 2.012 (Finland)
▲ +11 percentile points since 2015
Statistical Performance Indicators133rd of 188position · derived60.37SPI overall score (0–100)2024
bottom 29% of 188 countries measured
World Bank Group · SPI overall score (0–100)
Nepal 60.37 · world median 69.3 (worse)
Best in the world 94.14 (Norway)
No real change since 2016
Trade Union Density22nd of 139position · derived30.16Employees who are trade union members (%)2020
top 15% of 139 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employees who are trade union members (%)
Nepal 30.16 · world median 16.68 (better)
Best in the world 91.42 (Iceland)
No earlier reading to compare
V-Dem Electoral Democracy Index61st of 176position · derived0.656Electoral democracy index (0–1)2025
top 34% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Electoral democracy index (0–1)
Nepal 0.656 · world median 0.497 (better)
Best in the world 0.913 (Denmark)
▲ +5 percentile points since 2015
Voice and Accountability112th of 206position · derived-0.168Voice and Accountability estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)2025
bottom 46% of 206 countries measured
World Bank Group · Voice and Accountability estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)
Nepal -0.168 · world median -0.022 (worse)
Best in the world 1.825 (Norway)
▲ +9 percentile points since 2015
Women, Business and the Law97th of 190position · derived80.63WBL Index (0–100, where 100 is full legal parity)2024
bottom 48% of 190 countries measured
World Bank Group · WBL Index (0–100, where 100 is full legal parity)
Nepal 80.63 · world median 81.25 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (14 countries tied)
▲ +36 percentile points since 2014
Economy & Innovation27
Account Ownership at a Financial Institution90th of 139position · derived59.99Adults with an account (% of population aged 15+)2024
bottom 36% of 139 countries measured
World Bank Group · Adults with an account (% of population aged 15+)
Nepal 59.99 · world median 72.83 (worse)
Best in the world 99.85 (Iceland)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2014
Adjusted Net Savings5th of 118position · derived24.42Adjusted net savings, including particulate emission damage (% of GNI)2021
top 3% of 118 countries measured
World Bank Group · Adjusted net savings, including particulate emission damage (% of GNI)
Nepal 24.42 · world median 8.389 (better)
Best in the world 32.18 (Bangladesh)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2011
Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing Value Added (% of GDP)26th of 158position · derived21.56Agriculture, forestry and fishing value added (% of GDP)2025
top 16% of 158 countries measured
World Bank Group · Agriculture, forestry and fishing value added (% of GDP)
Nepal 21.56 · world median 6.572
Highest 47.59 (Niger)
▼ -8 percentile points since 2015
Crop Production Index58th of 195position · derived116.66Crop production index (2014–2016 = 100)2022
top 29% of 195 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Crop production index (2014–2016 = 100)
Nepal 116.66 · world median 106.23 (better)
Best in the world 189.93 (Senegal)
▲ +19 percentile points since 2012
Digitally-Deliverable Services Exports92nd of 170position · derived23.51Digitally-deliverable services exports (% of services exports)2024
bottom 46% of 170 countries measured
UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) · Digitally-deliverable services exports (% of services exports)
Nepal 23.51 · world median 25.42 (worse)
Best in the world 87.15 (Ireland)
▼ -36 percentile points since 2014
Economic Complexity Index88th of 145rank-0.102ECI score (standardised, roughly −3 to +3)2024
bottom 40% of 145 countries measured
Growth Lab at Harvard University · ECI score (standardised, roughly −3 to +3)
Nepal -0.102 · world median 0.131 (worse)
Best in the world 1.729 (Japan)
▼ -8 percentile points since 2014
Exports of Goods and Services (% of GDP)136th of 138position · derived8.828Exports of goods and services (% of GDP)2025
bottom 1% of 138 countries measured
World Bank Group · Exports of goods and services (% of GDP)
Nepal 8.828 · world median 36.34
Highest 199.76 (Hong Kong)
▼ -2 percentile points since 2015
Firms with a Bank Loan or Line of Credit19th of 179position · derived57.85Firms with a bank loan or line of credit (%)2025
top 10% of 179 countries measured
World Bank Group · Firms with a bank loan or line of credit (%)
Nepal 57.85 · world median 35.95 (better)
Best in the world 88.52 (Israel)
No earlier reading to compare
Food Production Index37th of 195position · derived123.18Food production index (2014–2016 = 100)2022
top 19% of 195 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Food production index (2014–2016 = 100)
Nepal 123.18 · world median 106.08 (better)
Best in the world 177.49 (Senegal)
▲ +30 percentile points since 2012
Foreign Direct Investment Inflowsbottom 11%0.1FDI inflows (% of GDP)2025
bottom 11% of 202 countries measured
UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) · FDI inflows (% of GDP)
Nepal 0.1 · world median 1.968
Highest 2,221 (British Virgin Islands)
No real change since 2015
GDP Growth58th of 186position · derived4.431GDP growth (annual %)2025
top 31% of 186 countries measured
World Bank Group · GDP growth (annual %)
Nepal 4.431 · world median 3.396 (better)
Best in the world 19.34 (Guyana)
No real change since 2015
GDP per Capita (PPP)147th of 185position · derived5,277GDP per capita (constant 2021 international $, PPP)2025
bottom 21% of 185 countries measured
World Bank Group · GDP per capita (constant 2021 international $, PPP)
Nepal 5,277 · world median 17,265 (worse)
Best in the world 139,593 (Singapore)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2015
Global Innovation Index107th of 139rank20.21GII score (0–100)2025
bottom 23% of 139 countries measured
World Intellectual Property Organization · GII score (0–100)
Nepal 20.21 · world median 28.52 (worse)
Best in the world 65.96 (Switzerland)
▲ +7 percentile points since 2022
GNI per Capita (PPP)75th of 102position · derived5,351GNI per capita (constant 2021 international $, PPP)2025
bottom 27% of 102 countries measured
World Bank Group · GNI per capita (constant 2021 international $, PPP)
Nepal 5,351 · world median 14,273 (worse)
Best in the world 116,633 (Singapore)
▲ +11 percentile points since 2015
Gross Capital Formation (% of GDP)25th of 131position · derived29.4Gross capital formation (% of GDP)2025
top 18% of 131 countries measured
World Bank Group · Gross capital formation (% of GDP)
Nepal 29.4 · world median 22.93
Highest 45.27 (Algeria)
No real change since 2015
Gross Savings (% of GDP)14th of 146position · derived36.05Gross savings (% of GDP)2024
top 9% of 146 countries measured
World Bank Group · Gross savings (% of GDP)
Nepal 36.05 · world median 22.06
Highest 47.82 (Macau)
No real change since 2014
Household Consumption13th of 131position · derived84.73Household and NPISH final consumption expenditure (% of GDP)2025
top 9% of 131 countries measured
World Bank Group · Household and NPISH final consumption expenditure (% of GDP)
Nepal 84.73 · world median 62.04
Highest 133.34 (Somalia)
No real change since 2015
ICT Services Exports73rd of 118position · derived6.104ICT services exports (% of services exports)2024
bottom 38% of 118 countries measured
UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) · ICT services exports (% of services exports)
Nepal 6.104 · world median 7.474 (worse)
Best in the world 56.25 (Ireland)
▼ -56 percentile points since 2014
Imports of Goods and Services (% of GDP)84th of 138position · derived33.72Imports of goods and services (% of GDP)2025
bottom 39% of 138 countries measured
World Bank Group · Imports of goods and services (% of GDP)
Nepal 33.72 · world median 41.72
Highest 196.89 (Hong Kong)
▼ -2 percentile points since 2015
Industry Value Added including Construction (% of GDP)147th of 158position · derived12.05Industry, including construction, value added (% of GDP)2025
bottom 7% of 158 countries measured
World Bank Group · Industry, including construction, value added (% of GDP)
Nepal 12.05 · world median 24.65
Highest 75.09 (Guyana)
▼ -6 percentile points since 2015
Livestock Production Index17th of 194position · derived144.45Livestock production index (2014–2016 = 100)2022
top 8% of 194 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Livestock production index (2014–2016 = 100)
Nepal 144.45 · world median 107.06 (better)
Best in the world 190.08 (Malawi)
▲ +60 percentile points since 2012
Manufacturing Value Added (% of GDP)115th of 132position · derived4.982Manufacturing value added (% of GDP)2025
bottom 13% of 132 countries measured
World Bank Group · Manufacturing value added (% of GDP)
Nepal 4.982 · world median 11.26
Highest 43.97 (Puerto Rico)
▼ -6 percentile points since 2015
Researchers per Million Inhabitants122nd of 145position · derived59.66Researchers per million inhabitants (full-time equivalent)2024
bottom 16% of 145 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Researchers per million inhabitants (full-time equivalent)
Nepal 59.66 · world median 701.95 (worse)
Best in the world 18,130 (Liechtenstein)
No earlier reading to compare
Tariff Rate, Applied, Weighted Mean, All Productstop 15%11.2Applied tariff rate, trade-weighted mean (%)2022
top 15% of 143 countries measured
World Bank Group · Applied tariff rate, trade-weighted mean (%)
Nepal 11.2 · world median 3.66
Highest 29.52 (Bermuda)
▼ -9 percentile points since 2012
Total Natural Resources Rents (% of GDP)127th of 180position · derived0.499Natural resources rents (% of GDP)2021
bottom 36% of 197 countries measured · 197 share 180 positions
World Bank Group · Natural resources rents (% of GDP)
Nepal 0.499 · world median 1.708
Highest 61.03 (Libya)
No real change since 2011
Trade (% of GDP)115th of 138position · derived42.55Exports plus imports (% of GDP)2025
bottom 17% of 138 countries measured
World Bank Group · Exports plus imports (% of GDP)
Nepal 42.55 · world median 79.68
Highest 396.65 (Hong Kong)
No real change since 2015
World Energy Trilemma Index91st of 99rank40.5Trilemma score (0–100)2023
bottom 7% of 126 countries measured · 126 share 99 positions
World Energy Council · Trilemma score (0–100)
Nepal 40.5 · world median 63.8 (worse)
Best in the world 83.2 (Denmark)
No earlier reading to compare
Work & Labour17
Average Weekly Hours Worked66th of 182position · derived41.14Average weekly hours actually worked per employed person2025
top 36% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Average weekly hours actually worked per employed person
Nepal 41.14 · world median 38.89
Highest 54.7 (Bhutan)
▲ +7 percentile points since 2015
Employment in Agriculture75th of 182position · derived22.91Employment in agriculture (% of total employment)2025
top 41% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employment in agriculture (% of total employment)
Nepal 22.91 · world median 14.38
Highest 85.34 (Burundi)
No real change since 2015
Employment in Industry14th of 182position · derived31.28Employment in industry (% of total employment)2025
top 7% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employment in industry (% of total employment)
Nepal 31.28 · world median 18.88
Highest 39.44 (Oman)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2015
Employment in Services140th of 182position · derived45.81Employment in services (% of total employment)2025
bottom 23% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employment in services (% of total employment)
Nepal 45.81 · world median 59.51
Highest 92.17 (Djibouti)
▼ -5 percentile points since 2015
Employment-to-Population Ratio173rd of 182position · derived35.14Employed share of the population aged 15+ (%)2025
bottom 5% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employed share of the population aged 15+ (%)
Nepal 35.14 · world median 57.72 (worse)
Best in the world 86.9 (Qatar)
No real change since 2015
Female Labour Force Participation Rate166th of 182position · derived27.47Women aged 15+ in the labour force (%)2025
bottom 9% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Women aged 15+ in the labour force (%)
Nepal 27.47 · world median 53.36 (worse)
Best in the world 82.91 (Madagascar)
▼ -2 percentile points since 2015
Firms with a Female Top Manager141st of 179position · derived10.31Firms with a female top manager (%)2025
bottom 21% of 179 countries measured
World Bank Group · Firms with a female top manager (%)
Nepal 10.31 · world median 19.16 (worse)
Best in the world 62.9 (Kiribati)
No earlier reading to compare
GDP per Person Employed122nd of 168position · derived20,874GDP per person employed (constant 2021 international $)2025
bottom 28% of 168 countries measured
World Bank Group · GDP per person employed (constant 2021 international $)
Nepal 20,874 · world median 47,384 (worse)
Best in the world 262,554 (Luxembourg)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2015
Informal Employment Rate19th of 97position · derived · 1 = worst80.77Informal employment (% of total employment)2025
bottom 19% of 97 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Informal employment (% of total employment)
Nepal 80.77 · world median 36.83 (worse)
Best in the world 0.857 (Hungary)
No earlier reading to compare
Labour Force Participation Rate175th of 182position · derived39.24Population aged 15+ in the labour force (%)2025
bottom 4% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Population aged 15+ in the labour force (%)
Nepal 39.24 · world median 61.66 (worse)
Best in the world 87.01 (Qatar)
No real change since 2015
Labour Productivity per Hour Worked132nd of 182position · derived9.74Output per hour worked (constant 2021 international $ at PPP)2025
bottom 28% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Output per hour worked (constant 2021 international $ at PPP)
Nepal 9.74 · world median 22.16 (worse)
Best in the world 164.65 (Ireland)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2015
Self-Employment Rate18th of 182position · derived78.58Self-employed (% of total employment)2025
top 9% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Self-employed (% of total employment)
Nepal 78.58 · world median 31.84
Highest 91.56 (Chad)
No real change since 2015
Unemployment Rate33rd of 182position · derived · 1 = worst10.46Unemployment (% of labour force)2025
bottom 18% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Unemployment (% of labour force)
Nepal 10.46 · world median 5.084 (worse)
Best in the world 0.13 (Qatar)
▼ -8 percentile points since 2015
Vulnerable Employment15th of 182position · derived · 1 = worst76.98Vulnerable employment (% of total employment)2025
bottom 8% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Vulnerable employment (% of total employment)
Nepal 76.98 · world median 28.67 (worse)
Best in the world 0.456 (Qatar)
No real change since 2015
Working Poverty Ratetop 39%1.876Employed people living in extreme poverty (%)2025
top 39% of 113 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employed people living in extreme poverty (%)
Nepal 1.876 · world median 4.885 (better)
Best in the world 0.007 (Bhutan)
▲ +10 percentile points since 2015
Youth Unemployment Rate44th of 182position · derived · 1 = worst20.56Unemployment, ages 15-24 (% of youth labour force)2025
bottom 24% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Unemployment, ages 15-24 (% of youth labour force)
Nepal 20.56 · world median 12.83 (worse)
Best in the world 0.457 (Niger)
▼ -12 percentile points since 2015
Education & Knowledge16
Academic Freedom Index44th of 176position · derived0.831Academic freedom index (0–1)2025
top 25% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Academic freedom index (0–1)
Nepal 0.831 · world median 0.619 (better)
Best in the world 0.978 (Czechia)
▲ +12 percentile points since 2015
Adult Literacy Rate143rd of 172position · derived68.71Adults 15+ who can read and write (%)2024
bottom 17% of 172 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Adults 15+ who can read and write (%)
Nepal 68.71 · world median 93.99 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (3 countries tied)
No earlier reading to compare
Expected Years of Schooling92nd of 195position · derived13.75Expected years of schooling2023
top 47% of 195 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · Expected years of schooling
Nepal 13.75 · world median 13.34 (better)
Best in the world 21.69 (Monaco)
▲ +9 percentile points since 2013
Female Share of Researchersbottom 1%7.788Researchers who are women (% of headcount; 50 = parity)2024
bottom 1% of 153 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Researchers who are women (% of headcount; 50 = parity)
Nepal 7.788 · world median 38.17
Highest 76.54 (Myanmar)
No earlier reading to compare
Harmonized Test Scores138th of 172position · derived368.56Harmonized test score (TIMSS-equivalent points; 300 = minimum, 625 = advanced attainment)2020
bottom 20% of 172 countries measured
World Bank Group · Harmonized test score (TIMSS-equivalent points; 300 = minimum, 625 = advanced attainment)
Nepal 368.56 · world median 414.32 (worse)
Best in the world 575.27 (Singapore)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2017
Learning-Adjusted Years of School99th of 172position · derived7.227Learning-adjusted years of school (0–14)2020
bottom 43% of 172 countries measured
World Bank Group · Learning-adjusted years of school (0–14)
Nepal 7.227 · world median 7.941 (worse)
Best in the world 12.81 (Singapore)
▲ +2 percentile points since 2017
Mean Years of Schooling176th of 193position · derived4.504Mean years of schooling (adults 25+)2023
bottom 9% of 193 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · Mean years of schooling (adults 25+)
Nepal 4.504 · world median 9.933 (worse)
Best in the world 14.3 (Germany)
No real change since 2013
Out-of-School Rate, Primary80th of 121position · derived · 1 = worst2.034Out-of-school rate, primary age (%)2024
top 34% of 121 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Out-of-school rate, primary age (%)
Nepal 2.034 · world median 3.691 (better)
Best in the world 0.004 (United Arab Emirates)
▼ -18 percentile points since 2014
Outbound Mobility Ratio, Tertiarytop 17%18.69Outbound mobility ratio, tertiary (% of tertiary enrolment at home)2023
top 17% of 117 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Outbound mobility ratio, tertiary (% of tertiary enrolment at home)
Nepal 18.69 · world median 5.279
Highest 1,724 (Cook Islands)
▲ +17 percentile points since 2013
Pre-Primary Net Enrolment Rate65th of 120position · derived62.31Net enrolment rate, pre-primary (%)2024
bottom 46% of 120 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Net enrolment rate, pre-primary (%)
Nepal 62.31 · world median 65.93 (worse)
Best in the world 99.85 (Moldova)
▲ +11 percentile points since 2014
Primary Completion Rate105th of 165position · derived90.83Primary completion rate (%)2025
bottom 37% of 165 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Primary completion rate (%)
Nepal 90.83 · world median 97.43 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (5 countries tied)
▲ +7 percentile points since 2015
School Life Expectancy50th of 77position · derived13.57School life expectancy, primary to tertiary (years)2024
bottom 36% of 77 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · School life expectancy, primary to tertiary (years)
Nepal 13.57 · world median 14.59 (worse)
Best in the world 21.01 (Monaco)
▲ +8 percentile points since 2014
Secondary School Enrolment68th of 109position · derived90.39Gross secondary enrolment ratio (%)2024
bottom 38% of 109 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Gross secondary enrolment ratio (%)
Nepal 90.39 · world median 93.19 (worse)
Best in the world 158.55 (Monaco)
▲ +16 percentile points since 2014
Tertiary Enrolment Ratio76th of 95position · derived21.29Gross enrolment ratio, tertiary (%)2024
bottom 20% of 95 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Gross enrolment ratio, tertiary (%)
Nepal 21.29 · world median 52.77 (worse)
Best in the world 141.86 (Macau)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2014
Upper Secondary Completion Rate105th of 164position · derived42.48Upper secondary completion rate (%)2025
bottom 36% of 164 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Upper secondary completion rate (%)
Nepal 42.48 · world median 64.87 (worse)
Best in the world 99.27 (South Korea)
▲ +19 percentile points since 2015
Youth Literacy Ratebottom 36%94.2415–24 year-olds who can read and write (%)2024
bottom 36% of 174 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · 15–24 year-olds who can read and write (%)
Nepal 94.24 · world median 98.22 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (6 countries tied)
No earlier reading to compare
Health & Wellbeing19
Births Attended by Skilled Health Staff78th of 86position · derived77.2Births attended by skilled health staff (%)2019
bottom 9% of 86 countries measured
UNICEF · Births attended by skilled health staff (%)
Nepal 77.2 · world median 98.8 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (11 countries tied)
▲ +8 percentile points since 2011
Children with Functional Difficultiestop 49%13.2Children aged 5-17 with a functional difficulty (%)2024
top 49% of 62 countries measured
UNICEF · Children aged 5-17 with a functional difficulty (%)
Nepal 13.2 · world median 13
Highest 35.2 (Afghanistan)
No earlier reading to compare
Dietary Energy Supply84th of 155position · derived2,935Dietary energy supply (kcal per person per day)2024
bottom 46% of 155 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Dietary energy supply (kcal per person per day)
Nepal 2,935 · world median 2,982 (worse)
Best in the world 3,962 (United States)
▲ +12 percentile points since 2014
Exclusive Breastfeeding Under Six Months28th of 136position · derived56.4Infants under 6 months exclusively breastfed (%)2024
top 20% of 136 countries measured
UNICEF · Infants under 6 months exclusively breastfed (%)
Nepal 56.4 · world median 40.74 (better)
Best in the world 83.3 (Burundi)
No earlier reading to compare
Gender Inequality Index125th of 172rank0.487GII (0 = full equality, 1 = maximum inequality)2023
bottom 27% of 172 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · GII (0 = full equality, 1 = maximum inequality)
Nepal 0.487 · world median 0.351 (worse)
Best in the world 0.003 (Denmark)
▼ -2 percentile points since 2013
Global Multidimensional Poverty Index45th of 109position · derived · 1 = worst0.085MPI (0–1)2025
bottom 41% of 109 countries measured
Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI) · MPI (0–1)
Nepal 0.085 · world median 0.039 (worse)
Best in the world 0 (Serbia)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2018
Global Violent Deaths130th of 206position · derived · 1 = worst2.41Violent deaths per 100,000 people2021
top 38% of 209 countries measured · 209 share 206 positions
Small Arms Survey · Violent deaths per 100,000 people
Nepal 2.41 · world median 4.02 (better)
Best in the world 0 (4 countries tied)
No real change since 2011
Human Capital Index107th of 172position · derived0.505HCI score (0–1)2020
bottom 38% of 172 countries measured
World Bank Group · HCI score (0–1)
Nepal 0.505 · world median 0.564 (worse)
Best in the world 0.879 (Singapore)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2017
Human Development Index145th of 193rank0.622HDI score (0–1)2023
bottom 25% of 193 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · HDI score (0–1)
Nepal 0.622 · world median 0.762 (worse)
Best in the world 0.972 (Iceland)
▲ +2 percentile points since 2013
Infant Mortality Rate64th of 200position · derived · 1 = worst22.24Deaths before age one (per 1,000 live births)2024
bottom 32% of 200 countries measured
UN Inter-agency Group for Child Mortality Estimation (UN IGME) · Deaths before age one (per 1,000 live births)
Nepal 22.24 · world median 12.26 (worse)
Best in the world 1.214 (San Marino)
▲ +5 percentile points since 2014
Life Expectancy at Age 65179th of 222position · derived13.86Further years a 65-year-old would live at current death rates2023
bottom 19% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Further years a 65-year-old would live at current death rates
Nepal 13.86 · world median 16.39 (worse)
Best in the world 23.21 (Monaco)
No real change since 2013
Life Expectancy at Birth153rd of 222position · derived70.35Years a newborn would live at current death rates2023
bottom 31% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Years a newborn would live at current death rates
Nepal 70.35 · world median 74.63 (worse)
Best in the world 86.37 (Monaco)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2013
Maternal Mortality Ratio52nd of 195position · derived · 1 = worst142.01Maternal deaths per 100,000 live births2023
bottom 26% of 195 countries measured
UN Maternal Mortality Estimation Inter-Agency Group (MMEIG) · Maternal deaths per 100,000 live births
Nepal 142.01 · world median 46.65 (worse)
Best in the world 0.11 (Cook Islands)
▲ +5 percentile points since 2013
Pesticide Use per Hectare137th of 178position · derived0.6Pesticide use (kg per hectare of cropland)2024
bottom 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)
Nepal 0.6 · world median 1.73
Highest 37.72 (Antigua and Barbuda)
▲ +8 percentile points since 2014
Prevalence of Severe Food Insecurity35th of 127position · derived · 1 = worst12.8Population in severe food insecurity (%)2023
bottom 26% of 133 countries measured · 133 share 127 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Population in severe food insecurity (%)
Nepal 12.8 · world median 4.7 (worse)
Best in the world 0 (7 countries tied)
No real change since 2015
Prevalence of Undernourishment81st of 104position · derived · 1 = worst5.3Population undernourished (%)2023
bottom 49% of 165 countries measured · 165 share 104 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Population undernourished (%)
Nepal 5.3 · world median 5.2 (worse)
Best in the world 2.5 (62 countries tied)
▲ +14 percentile points since 2013
Stunting Prevalence in Children Under Five46th of 162position · derived · 1 = worst24.81Children under 5 who are stunted (%)2024
bottom 28% of 162 countries measured
UNICEF, WHO and World Bank Group (Joint Malnutrition Estimates) · Children under 5 who are stunted (%)
Nepal 24.81 · world median 13.8 (worse)
Best in the world 0.518 (Latvia)
No earlier reading to compare
Under-Five Mortality Rate66th of 200position · derived · 1 = worst25.12Deaths before age five (per 1,000 live births)2024
bottom 33% of 200 countries measured
UN Inter-agency Group for Child Mortality Estimation (UN IGME) · Deaths before age five (per 1,000 live births)
Nepal 25.12 · world median 14.54 (worse)
Best in the world 1.26 (San Marino)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2014
Violent Discipline of Children32nd of 90position · derived · 1 = worst82Children aged 1-14 experiencing violent discipline (%)2025
bottom 35% of 90 countries measured
UNICEF · Children aged 1-14 experiencing violent discipline (%)
Nepal 82 · world median 75.8 (worse)
Best in the world 37.6 (Qatar)
No earlier reading to compare
Development & Human Capital8
Access to Electricitybottom 34%97.9Population with electricity access (%)2024
bottom 34% of 215 countries measured
World Bank Group · Population with electricity access (%)
Nepal 97.9 · world median 100 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (122 countries tied)
▲ +7 percentile points since 2014
Cereal Yield86th of 179position · derived3,344Cereal yield (kg per hectare)2023
top 48% of 179 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Cereal yield (kg per hectare)
Nepal 3,344 · world median 3,072 (better)
Best in the world 29,147 (Oman)
▲ +7 percentile points since 2013
Child Marriage18th of 143position · derived · 1 = worst34.9Women 20–24 married before 18 (%)2025
bottom 12% of 145 countries measured · 145 share 143 positions
UNICEF · Women 20–24 married before 18 (%)
Nepal 34.9 · world median 17.1 (worse)
Best in the world 0 (3 countries tied)
No earlier reading to compare
Coefficient of Human Inequality50th of 169position · derived · 1 = worst28.9Coefficient of Human Inequality (%)2023
bottom 29% of 169 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · Coefficient of Human Inequality (%)
Nepal 28.9 · world median 17.05 (worse)
Best in the world 4.865 (Slovenia)
No real change since 2013
Gender Development Index171st of 184position · derived0.858Gender Development Index (1.000 = parity)2023
bottom 7% of 184 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · Gender Development Index (1.000 = parity)
Nepal 0.858 · world median 0.971 (worse)
Best in the world 1 (2 countries tied)
▼ -16 percentile points since 2013
Inequality-adjusted Human Development Index126th of 169position · derived0.437IHDI (0–1)2023
bottom 26% of 169 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · IHDI (0–1)
Nepal 0.437 · world median 0.609 (worse)
Best in the world 0.923 (Iceland)
No real change since 2013
Net Official Development Assistance Received61st of 130position · derived2.824Net ODA received (% of GNI)2023
top 47% of 130 countries measured
OECD Development Assistance Committee · Net ODA received (% of GNI)
Nepal 2.824 · world median 2.579
Highest 101.78 (Tuvalu)
▼ -8 percentile points since 2013
Planetary pressures-adjusted HDI110th of 156position · derived0.592PHDI (0–1)2023
bottom 30% of 156 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · PHDI (0–1)
Nepal 0.592 · world median 0.678 (worse)
Best in the world 0.827 (United Kingdom)
No real change since 2013
Environment & Sustainability23
Agricultural Emissions62nd of 193position · derived23,824Farm-gate emissions (kt CO₂eq)2023
top 31% of 198 countries measured · 198 share 193 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Farm-gate emissions (kt CO₂eq)
Nepal 23,824 · world median 8,635
Highest 1,044,508 (India)
▼ -6 percentile points since 2013
Agricultural Irrigated Land9th of 121position · derived32.29Irrigated share of agricultural land (%)2023
top 7% of 121 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Irrigated share of agricultural land (%)
Nepal 32.29 · world median 3.66
Highest 89.04 (Bangladesh)
No earlier reading to compare
Agricultural Land133rd of 209position · derived26.12Agricultural land (% of land area)2023
bottom 37% of 209 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Agricultural land (% of land area)
Nepal 26.12 · world median 37.96
Highest 86.48 (Côte d’Ivoire)
No real change since 2013
Arable Land per Person142nd of 206position · derived0.061Arable land (hectares per person)2023
bottom 31% of 206 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Arable land (hectares per person)
Nepal 0.061 · world median 0.109
Highest 1.459 (Kazakhstan)
No real change since 2013
Carbon Intensity of Electricity191st of 193position · derived · 1 = worst23.99Carbon intensity (gCO₂e per kWh generated)2024
top 1% of 193 countries measured
Ember · Carbon intensity (gCO₂e per kWh generated)
Nepal 23.99 · world median 468.81 (better)
Best in the world 23.49 (Ethiopia)
No real change since 2014
Climate Vulnerability (ND-GAIN)140th of 190rank0.504ND-GAIN Vulnerability (0–1, where 1 is the most vulnerable)2024
bottom 26% 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)
Nepal 0.504 · world median 0.45 (worse)
Best in the world 0.263 (Norway)
▲ +5 percentile points since 2014
CO₂ Emissions per Capita167th of 210position · derived · 1 = worst0.633Fossil CO₂ (tonnes per person)2024
top 21% of 210 countries measured
Global Carbon Project · Fossil CO₂ (tonnes per person)
Nepal 0.633 · world median 3.21 (better)
Best in the world 0.054 (DR Congo)
▼ -9 percentile points since 2014
Ecological Footprint110th of 126position · derived · 1 = worst0.887Ecological Footprint (global hectares per person)2025
top 13% of 126 countries measured
Global Footprint Network · Ecological Footprint (global hectares per person)
Nepal 0.887 · world median 2.296 (better)
Best in the world 0.514 (Yemen)
▼ -6 percentile points since 2015
Energy Intensity of GDP (PPP)top 13%1.362Energy use per dollar of GDP (thousand Btu per US$ at PPP)2024
top 13% of 192 countries measured
U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) · Energy use per dollar of GDP (thousand Btu per US$ at PPP)
Nepal 1.362 · world median 2.738 (better)
Best in the world 0.666 (Chad)
▼ -9 percentile points since 2014
Fertilizer Consumption per Hectare108th of 188position · derived67.84Fertilizer consumption (kg per hectare of arable land)2023
bottom 44% 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)
Nepal 67.84 · world median 87.36
Highest 2,926 (Malaysia)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2013
Forest Area73rd of 210position · derived41.59Forest area (% of land area)2023
top 34% of 213 countries measured · 213 share 210 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Forest area (% of land area)
Nepal 41.59 · world median 31.08
Highest 94.45 (Suriname)
No real change since 2013
Internal Displacements by Disaster42nd of 160position · derived · 1 = worst56,000New displacements by disaster (people)2024
bottom 26% of 160 countries measured
Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC) · New displacements by disaster (people)
Nepal 56,000 · world median 4,750 (worse)
Best in the world 1 (Serbia)
▲ +8 percentile points since 2014
Land Under Cereal Production38th of 179position · derived3,334,346Land under cereal production (hectares)2023
top 21% of 180 countries measured · 180 share 179 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Land under cereal production (hectares)
Nepal 3,334,346 · world median 689,278
Highest 103,715,108 (India)
No real change since 2013
Livestock Density28th of 188position · derived1.69Livestock units per hectare of agricultural land2023
top 14% of 188 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Livestock units per hectare of agricultural land
Nepal 1.69 · world median 0.535
Highest 43.97 (Singapore)
▼ -5 percentile points since 2013
Low-Carbon Share of Electricity Generation1st of 190position · derived100Low-carbon sources (% of electricity generated)2024
top 2% of 193 countries measured · 193 share 190 positions
Ember · Low-carbon sources (% of electricity generated)
Nepal 100 · world median 35.66 (better)
Best in the world 100 (7 countries tied)
No real change since 2014
ND-GAIN Country Index137th of 190rank41.14ND-GAIN Index (0–100, where 100 is best placed to adapt)2024
bottom 28% 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)
Nepal 41.14 · world median 47.44 (worse)
Best in the world 71.85 (Norway)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2014
Organic Agricultural Area128th of 150position · derived0.04Organic share of agricultural land (%)2024
bottom 17% of 156 countries measured · 156 share 150 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Organic share of agricultural land (%)
Nepal 0.04 · world median 0.725 (worse)
Best in the world 86.38 (Samoa)
▼ -21 percentile points since 2014
Renewable Internal Freshwater Resources per Capita59th of 181position · derived6,670Renewable internal freshwater (cubic metres per person)2022
top 32% of 181 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Renewable internal freshwater (cubic metres per person)
Nepal 6,670 · world median 2,528 (better)
Best in the world 445,023 (Iceland)
No real change since 2012
Renewable Share of Electricity Generation1st of 190position · derived100Renewables (% of electricity generated)2024
top 2% of 193 countries measured · 193 share 190 positions
Ember · Renewables (% of electricity generated)
Nepal 100 · world median 31.14 (better)
Best in the world 100 (7 countries tied)
No real change since 2014
Water Stress96th of 177position · derived · 1 = worst8.31Freshwater withdrawal as a share of available resources (%)2023
top 46% of 177 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Freshwater withdrawal as a share of available resources (%)
Nepal 8.31 · world median 10 (better)
Best in the world 0.03 (Republic of the Congo)
No real change since 2013
Water Withdrawal by Sector3rd of 171position · derived98.14Freshwater withdrawn for agriculture (% of total)2022
top 1% of 173 countries measured · 173 share 171 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Freshwater withdrawn for agriculture (% of total)
Nepal 98.14 · world median 62.14
Highest 99.48 (Somalia)
No real change since 2012
Wind and Solar Share of Electricity Generationbottom 28%1.168Wind and solar (% of electricity generated)2024
bottom 28% of 193 countries measured
Ember · Wind and solar (% of electricity generated)
Nepal 1.168 · world median 5.769 (worse)
Best in the world 69.12 (Denmark)
▼ -32 percentile points since 2014
World Risk Index137th of 193position · derived · 1 = worst2.6WorldRiskIndex score (0–100, where 100 is the most at risk)2025
top 29% 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)
Nepal 2.6 · world median 4.17 (better)
Best in the world 0.18 (Monaco)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2015
Gender & Equality3
Sex Ratio at Birthbottom 43%104.9Male births per 100 female births2023
bottom 43% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Male births per 100 female births
Nepal 104.9 · world median 105.1
Highest 116.3 (Liechtenstein)
▼ -15 percentile points since 2013
Social Institutions and Gender Index54th of 140position · derived · 1 = worst30.6SIGI score (0 = no discrimination, 100 = absolute)2023
bottom 38% of 140 countries measured
OECD · SIGI score (0 = no discrimination, 100 = absolute)
Nepal 30.6 · world median 25.2 (worse)
Best in the world 6.7 (Norway)
No earlier reading to compare
Women's Political Empowerment Index81st of 176position · derived0.792Women's political empowerment index (0–1)2025
top 46% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Women's political empowerment index (0–1)
Nepal 0.792 · world median 0.772 (better)
Best in the world 0.954 (Denmark)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2015
Democracy & Civil Liberties8
Deliberative Democracy Index73rd of 176position · derived0.406Deliberative democracy index (0–1)2025
top 41% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Deliberative democracy index (0–1)
Nepal 0.406 · world median 0.339 (better)
Best in the world 0.867 (Denmark)
No real change since 2015
Egalitarian Democracy Index68th of 176position · derived0.422Egalitarian democracy index (0–1)2025
top 38% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Egalitarian democracy index (0–1)
Nepal 0.422 · world median 0.321 (better)
Best in the world 0.876 (Denmark)
No real change since 2015
Freedom of Expression and Alternative Sources of Information Index59th of 176position · derived0.813Freedom of expression index (0–1)2025
top 33% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Freedom of expression index (0–1)
Nepal 0.813 · world median 0.693 (better)
Best in the world 0.98 (Denmark)
No real change since 2015
Government Censorship of the Media40th of 176position · derived1.562Original latent estimate (≈ −3 to +3.5); higher = less censorship2025
top 22% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Original latent estimate (≈ −3 to +3.5); higher = less censorship
Nepal 1.562 · world median 0.565 (better)
Best in the world 3.489 (Belgium)
▲ +2 percentile points since 2015
Government Internet Shutdowns122nd of 176position · derived-0.23Original latent estimate (≈ −4 to +2); higher = fewer shutdowns2025
bottom 31% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Original latent estimate (≈ −4 to +2); higher = fewer shutdowns
Nepal -0.23 · world median 1.023 (worse)
Best in the world 2.081 (Spain)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2015
Military Dimension Indextop 21%0Military dimension index (0–1; higher = larger military role)2025
top 21% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Military dimension index (0–1; higher = larger military role)
Nepal 0 · world median 0.1 (better)
Best in the world 0 (76 countries tied)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2015
Participatory Democracy Index54th of 176position · derived0.435Participatory democracy index (0–1)2025
top 30% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Participatory democracy index (0–1)
Nepal 0.435 · world median 0.298 (better)
Best in the world 0.785 (Switzerland)
▲ +15 percentile points since 2015
Physical Violence Index100th of 176position · derived0.706Freedom from political killings and torture (0–1)2025
bottom 43% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Freedom from political killings and torture (0–1)
Nepal 0.706 · world median 0.79 (worse)
Best in the world 0.989 (2 countries tied)
▼ -2 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)
Nepal 1 · world median 0 (worse)
Best in the world 0 (138 countries tied)
▼ -35 percentile points since 2015
Global Militarisation Index113th of 149rank · 1 = worst71.05GMI score (higher means a heavier military weight)2023
top 24% of 149 countries measured
Bonn International Centre for Conflict Studies (BICC) · GMI score (higher means a heavier military weight)
Nepal 71.05 · world median 100.66 (better)
Best in the world 3.512 (Haiti)
▲ +15 percentile points since 2013
INFORM Risk Index60th of 191position · derived · 1 = worst4.9INFORM Risk score (0–10, where 10 is the highest risk)2025
bottom 32% 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)
Nepal 4.9 · world median 3.7 (worse)
Best in the world 0.7 (Singapore)
▲ +12 percentile points since 2016
Political Stability and Absence of Violence153rd of 211position · derived-0.443Political Stability estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)2025
bottom 28% of 211 countries measured
World Bank Group · Political Stability estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)
Nepal -0.443 · world median 0.171 (worse)
Best in the world 1.563 (Andorra)
▲ +14 percentile points since 2015
Political Violence by Non-State Actors87th of 171position · derived · 1 = worst-0.663Original latent estimate (≈ −3.5 to +4); higher = more violence2025
top 49% of 171 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Original latent estimate (≈ −3.5 to +4); higher = more violence
Nepal -0.663 · world median -0.661 (better)
Best in the world -3.182 (Luxembourg)
▲ +19 percentile points since 2015
Refugees by Country of Origintop 33%8,019Refugees under UNHCR's mandate from this country, end of year (people)2025
top 33% of 202 countries measured
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency · Refugees under UNHCR's mandate from this country, end of year (people)
Nepal 8,019 · world median 1,272
Highest 5,224,131 (Ukraine)
▼ -5 percentile points since 2015
Risk & Resilience2
Asylum-Seekers by Country of Asylumbottom 31%302Asylum-seekers awaiting a decision, end of year (people)2025
bottom 31% of 177 countries measured
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency · Asylum-seekers awaiting a decision, end of year (people)
Nepal 302 · world median 1,836
Highest 3,718,945 (United States)
▲ +12 percentile points since 2015
Refugee Population by Country of Asylumtop 47%19,613Refugees under UNHCR's mandate hosted, end of year (people)2025
top 47% of 177 countries measured
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency · Refugees under UNHCR's mandate hosted, end of year (people)
Nepal 19,613 · world median 12,269
Highest 2,655,191 (Germany)
▼ -18 percentile points since 2015
Mobility & Trade4
Average Time to Clear Exports Through Customs131st of 174position · derived · 1 = worst2.903Average time to clear exports through customs (days)2025
top 25% of 175 countries measured · 175 share 174 positions
World Bank Group · Average time to clear exports through customs (days)
Nepal 2.903 · world median 4.456 (better)
Best in the world 1 (2 countries tied)
No earlier reading to compare
Cereal Import Dependency Ratiobottom 30%17.3Share of the cereal supply that is imported (%)2022
bottom 30% of 161 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Share of the cereal supply that is imported (%)
Nepal 17.3 · world median 42.8
Highest 100 (16 countries tied)
▲ +5 percentile points since 2012
Cost of Sending Remittances56th of 93position · derived · 1 = worst2.53Average cost of sending $200 home (% of the amount)2023
top 40% of 93 countries measured
World Bank Group · Average cost of sending $200 home (% of the amount)
Nepal 2.53 · world median 3.225 (better)
Best in the world -49.69 (Malawi)
▼ -26 percentile points since 2016
Net Migration Ratebottom 5%-13.8Net migrants per 1,000 population2023
bottom 5% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Net migrants per 1,000 population
Nepal -13.8 · world median -0.133
Highest 39.62 (South Sudan)
No real change since 2013
Poverty & Inequality1
Poverty Headcount at National Poverty Linesbottom 45%20.3Population below the national poverty line (%)2025
bottom 45% of 160 countries measured
World Bank Group · Population below the national poverty line (%)
Nepal 20.3 · world median 21.8
Highest 82.3 (South Sudan)
No earlier reading to compare
Money & Public Finance1
Short-Term Share of External Debttop 32%4.165Short-term debt (% of total external debt)2024
top 32% of 118 countries measured
World Bank Group · Short-term debt (% of total external debt)
Nepal 4.165 · world median 9.376 (better)
Best in the world 0 (5 countries tied)
▲ +10 percentile points since 2014
Energy5
Net Electricity Imports (share of generation)bottom 19%-0.898Net electricity imports (% of domestic generation)2024
bottom 19% of 193 countries measured
Ember · Net electricity imports (% of domestic generation)
Nepal -0.898 · world median 0
Highest 707.07 (Palestine)
▼ -70 percentile points since 2014
Nuclear Share of Electricity Generationbottom 41%0Nuclear (% of electricity generated)2024
bottom 41% of 183 countries measured
Ember · Nuclear (% of electricity generated)
Nepal 0 · world median 0
Highest 67.4 (France)
No real change since 2014
Primary Energy Consumption per Capitabottom 16%6.061Energy use per person (million Btu)2024
bottom 16% of 192 countries measured
U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) · Energy use per person (million Btu)
Nepal 6.061 · world median 49.5
Highest 766.07 (Qatar)
▲ +7 percentile points since 2014
RISE Energy Efficiency Policy Scorebottom 36%33.15Energy efficiency policy score (0–100)2023
bottom 36% of 140 countries measured
World Bank Group (ESMAP) · Energy efficiency policy score (0–100)
Nepal 33.15 · world median 48.23 (worse)
Best in the world 95.93 (South Korea)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2013
RISE Renewable Energy Policy Scorebottom 25%20.33Renewable energy policy score (0–100)2023
bottom 25% of 140 countries measured
World Bank Group (ESMAP) · Renewable energy policy score (0–100)
Nepal 20.33 · world median 33.26 (worse)
Best in the world 89.52 (Denmark)
▲ +7 percentile points since 2013
Digital & Technology2
Mobile Phone Ownership121st of 140position · derived78.41Adults who own a mobile phone (% of population aged 15+)2024
bottom 14% of 140 countries measured
World Bank Group · Adults who own a mobile phone (% of population aged 15+)
Nepal 78.41 · world median 91.68 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (Libya)
No earlier reading to compare
Smartphone Ownership105th of 140position · derived56.73Adults whose main mobile phone is a smartphone (% of population aged 15+)2024
bottom 25% of 140 countries measured
World Bank Group · Adults whose main mobile phone is a smartphone (% of population aged 15+)
Nepal 56.73 · world median 78.78 (worse)
Best in the world 97.36 (Sweden)
No earlier reading to compare
People & Population10
Crude Birth Ratetop 36%19.34Births per 1,000 population2023
top 36% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Births per 1,000 population
Nepal 19.34 · world median 13.79
Highest 46.36 (Central African Republic)
No real change since 2013
Crude Death Ratebottom 42%6.932Deaths per 1,000 population2023
bottom 42% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Deaths per 1,000 population
Nepal 6.932 · world median 7.303
Highest 25.58 (Vatican City)
No real change since 2013
Median Age of the Populationbottom 32%24.68Median age (years)2023
bottom 32% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Median age (years)
Nepal 24.68 · world median 31.52
Highest 59.63 (Vatican City)
▲ +5 percentile points since 2013
Population Aged 65 and Overbottom 39%6.361Share of the total population aged 65 and over (%)2023
bottom 39% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Share of the total population aged 65 and over (%)
Nepal 6.361 · world median 8.32
Highest 44.7 (Vatican City)
No real change since 2013
Population Densitytop 30%201.76People per square kilometre of land2023
top 30% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · People per square kilometre of land
Nepal 201.76 · world median 96.92
Highest 26,145 (Monaco)
No real change since 2013
Population Growth Ratebottom 19%-0.139Population growth (% per year)2023
bottom 19% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Population growth (% per year)
Nepal -0.139 · world median 0.888
Highest 5.862 (South Sudan)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2013
Population Under Age 15top 36%28.71Share of the total population aged 0–14 (%)2023
top 36% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Share of the total population aged 0–14 (%)
Nepal 28.71 · world median 22.71
Highest 49.17 (Central African Republic)
▼ -5 percentile points since 2013
Sex Ratio of the Total Populationbottom 14%92.63Males per 100 females2023
bottom 14% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Males per 100 females
Nepal 92.63 · world median 98.48
Highest 251.08 (Qatar)
▼ -6 percentile points since 2013
Total Dependency Ratiobottom 47%54.02People aged 0–14 and 65+ per 100 people aged 15–642023
bottom 47% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · People aged 0–14 and 65+ per 100 people aged 15–64
Nepal 54.02 · world median 54.73
Highest 105.18 (Central African Republic)
▼ -26 percentile points since 2013
Total Fertility Ratetop 48%1.984Live births per woman2023
top 48% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Live births per woman
Nepal 1.984 · 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 Nepal. Usually the publisher does not cover it; sometimes it has dropped out of a ranking it used to appear in.
- Container Port Traffic
- Fatal Occupational Injuries
- Female Genital Mutilation Prevalence
- Female Share of Senior and Middle Management · last seen 2017
- Gender Social Norms Index
- Gini Index · last seen 2022
- Global Report on Food Crises · last seen 2017
- Government Funding per Primary Student · last seen 2015
- ICT Goods Exports · last seen 2022
- Inbound Mobility Rate, Tertiary · last seen 2013
- Income Share Held by Lowest 20% · last seen 2022
- Income Share Held by Richest 10% · last seen 2022
- INFORM Severity Index · last seen 2024
- Learning Poverty
- Liner Shipping Connectivity Index
- Logistics Performance Index · last seen 2018
- Median Daily Income or Consumption per Person · last seen 2022
- Palma Ratio · last seen 2022
- PISA Mathematics Performance
- PISA Reading Performance
- PISA Science Performance
- Poverty Gap at $3.00 a Day · last seen 2022
- Poverty Headcount Ratio at $3.00 a Day · last seen 2022
- Poverty Headcount Ratio at $8.30 a Day · last seen 2022
- Prosperity Gap · last seen 2022
- Research and Development Spending · last seen 2010
- Societal Poverty Rate · last seen 2022
- Upper Secondary Attainment · last seen 2021
- Youth Not in Education, Employment or Training · last seen 2017
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 Nepal 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: 36 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 Nepal 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). Nepal: country statistics, rankings and trends. https://nationsinquiry.com/countries/nepal