São Tomé and Príncipe
São Tomé and Príncipe places highest on World Risk Index (top 2% worldwide) and lowest on Labour Force Participation Rate (bottom 1%).
São Tomé and Príncipe in the Nations Inquiry Country Index
At a glance
Population
230,871
people
since 1950
Land area
960
km²
since 1961
GDP per person
5,459
international $, PPP
since 1990
Life expectancy
69.72
years at birth
since 1950
Human development
0.637
HDI, 0–1
since 2005
Unemployment
9.132
% 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 São Tomé and Príncipe
Key facts about São Tomé and Príncipe
- Capital
- São Tomé
- Official language
- Portuguese
- Currency
- São Tomé and Príncipe dobra (STN)
- ISO code
- STP · ST
- Domain · dialling
- .st · +239
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 São Tomé and Príncipe’s place among the countries with a standing on that topic, built from a few key statistics chosen to measure different things.
19thof 181
From 2 of 3 key statistics
37thof 177
From 3 of 4 key statistics
52ndof 183
From 3 of 4 key statistics
joint56thof 192
From 3 of 3 key statistics
69thof 198
From 3 of 3 key statistics
83rdof 171
From 3 of 4 key statistics
92ndof 175
From 3 of 4 key statistics
109thof 200
From 3 of 4 key statistics
joint127thof 194
From 4 of 4 key statistics
joint136thof 196
From 3 of 3 key statistics
joint126thof 159
From 2 of 2 key statistics
149thof 176
From 2 of 4 key statistics
165thof 182
From 4 of 4 key statistics
185thof 198
From 2 of 3 key statistics
No standing — São Tomé and Príncipe holds too few of this subject’s key statistics to be placed on it.
No standing — São Tomé and Príncipe 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 São Tomé and Príncipe’s readings on it, or see every statistic held for São Tomé and Príncipe in the table further down this page.
03Highs and lows
Where São Tomé and Príncipe stands out
The two ends of its own record: every statistic on which São Tomé and Príncipe 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 São Tomé and Príncipe does best6
In the top third of all countries measured. 4 are within ten places of the best in the world, in a field of at least 50 countries — marked with that place.
- 1stDeaths in Organized Violencetop 35%
Position · derived 59th of 59 · 1 = worst · 0 · 2025
world median 0
- 5thWorld Risk Indextop 2%
Position · derived 189th of 193 · 1 = worst · 0.61 · 2025
world median 4.17 (better)
- 8th
Position · derived 8th of 150 · 20.97 · 2024
world median 0.725 (better) · ▼ 2 pts since 2014
- 9th
Position · derived 101st of 109 · 1 = worst · 3.467 · 2024
world median 12.93 (better) · ▲ 65 pts since 2014
Not ranked by the publisher · 100 · 2025
world median 95.3 (better) · ▲ 12 pts since 2015
Where São Tomé and Príncipe struggles most5
In the bottom third of all countries measured. 2 are within ten places of the worst in the world, in a field of at least 50 countries — marked with that place.
- 1stEmployment-to-Population Ratiobottom 1%
Position · derived 182nd of 182 · 21.21 · 2025
world median 57.72 (worse)
- 1stLabour Force Participation Ratebottom 1%
Position · derived 182nd of 182 · 23.34 · 2025
world median 61.66 (worse)
Position · derived 170th of 182 · 22.75 · 2025
world median 53.36 (worse)
- Government AI Readiness Indexbottom 7%
Rank 180th of 195 · 18.37 · 2025
world median 40.19 (worse) · ▼ 6 pts since 2022
- Liner Shipping Connectivity Indexbottom 8%
Rank 159th of 175 · 13.5 · 2026
world median 56.21 (worse) · ▼ 3 pts since 2016
A band is a place among the countries each publisher scores, so São Tomé and Príncipe 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
140th
of 186 · 2005
141st
of 193 · 2023
Ranked in 19 of 34 editions
Corruption Perceptions Index
Transparency International
71st
of 173 · 2012
70th
of 181 · 2025
Ranked in 14 of 14 editions
Gender Inequality Index
UNDP Human Development Report Office
89th
of 112 · 1999
130th
of 172 · 2023
Ranked in 25 of 34 editions
Government AI Readiness Index
Oxford Insights
156th
of 181 · 2022
180th
of 195 · 2025
Ranked in 4 of 6 editions
Gaining ground
Where São Tomé and Príncipe has climbed against the rest of the world, in percentile points.
- Livestock Production Index+42 pts since 2012
- External Debt Stocks (% of GNI)+32 pts since 2014
Losing ground
Where São Tomé and Príncipe has slipped against the rest of the world, in percentile points.
- Global Violent Deaths-62 pts since 2011
- Crop Production Index-29 pts since 2012
- Food Production Index-28 pts since 2012
05In context
São Tomé and Príncipe 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
São Tomé and Príncipe has no land border with another country.
Placed either side in the Country Index 2026
Across Middle Africa
Every country in the sub-region, by its position in the world (of 178 placed).
- 104São Tomé and Príncipe
- 131
Gabon - =145
Cameroon - 155
Angola - 161
Republic of the Congo - 165
Equatorial Guinea - 167
DR Congo - 171
Central African Republic - 175
Chad
06The evidence
Every statistic we hold for São Tomé and Príncipe
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 & Institutions27
Central Bank Independence Indexbottom 22%0.449CBI index (0–1, where 1 is the most statutory independence)2023
bottom 22% of 191 countries measured
Ana Carolina Garriga, University of Essex · CBI index (0–1, where 1 is the most statutory independence)
São Tomé and Príncipe 0.449 · world median 0.608
Highest 0.974 (Bosnia and Herzegovina)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2013
Civic Space Ratings17th of 198position · derived88.2Civic space score (0–100)2025
top 8% of 198 countries measured
CIVICUS · Civic space score (0–100)
São Tomé and Príncipe 88.2 · world median 50.46 (better)
Best in the world 100 (Kiribati)
No earlier reading to compare
Climate Readiness (ND-GAIN)119th of 192rank0.359ND-GAIN Readiness (0–1, where 1 is the most ready)2024
bottom 38% 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)
São Tomé and Príncipe 0.359 · world median 0.387 (worse)
Best in the world 0.749 (Singapore)
No real change since 2014
Completeness of Birth Registrationtop 49%98.6Children under 5 whose birth is registered (%)2025
top 49% of 185 countries measured
UNICEF · Children under 5 whose birth is registered (%)
São Tomé and Príncipe 98.6 · world median 98.4 (better)
Best in the world 100 (53 countries tied)
No earlier reading to compare
Control of Corruption88th of 211position · derived0.128Control of Corruption (−2.5 to 2.5)2025
top 41% of 211 countries measured
World Bank Group · Control of Corruption (−2.5 to 2.5)
São Tomé and Príncipe 0.128 · world median -0.197 (better)
Best in the world 2.259 (Denmark)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2015
Corruption Perceptions Index70th of 181rank45CPI score (0–100, where 100 is very clean)2025
top 39% of 182 countries measured · 182 share 181 positions
Transparency International · CPI score (0–100, where 100 is very clean)
São Tomé and Príncipe 45 · world median 39 (better)
Best in the world 89 (Denmark)
No real change since 2015
Country Policy and Institutional Assessment56th of 78position · derived2.942IDA Resource Allocation Index (1 = low to 6 = high)2025
bottom 29% of 78 countries measured
World Bank Group · IDA Resource Allocation Index (1 = low to 6 = high)
São Tomé and Príncipe 2.942 · world median 3.246 (worse)
Best in the world 4.225 (Rwanda)
▼ -2 percentile points since 2015
Debt Service on External Debt101st of 109position · derived · 1 = worst3.467Total debt service (% of exports of goods, services and primary income)2024
top 7% of 109 countries measured
World Bank Group · Total debt service (% of exports of goods, services and primary income)
São Tomé and Príncipe 3.467 · world median 12.93 (better)
Best in the world 0.285 (Iran)
▲ +65 percentile points since 2014
External Debt Stocks (% of GNI)57th of 110position · derived · 1 = worst42.75External debt stocks (% of GNI)2024
top 49% of 110 countries measured
World Bank Group · External debt stocks (% of GNI)
São Tomé and Príncipe 42.75 · world median 43.94 (better)
Best in the world 2.213 (Iran)
▲ +32 percentile points since 2014
General Government Consumption111th of 132position · derived10.3General government final consumption expenditure (% of GDP)2025
bottom 16% of 132 countries measured
World Bank Group · General government final consumption expenditure (% of GDP)
São Tomé and Príncipe 10.3 · world median 16.21
Highest 38.94 (Ukraine)
▼ -66 percentile points since 2015
Government AI Readiness Index180th of 195rank18.37AI readiness score (0–100)2025
bottom 7% of 195 countries measured
Oxford Insights · AI readiness score (0–100)
São Tomé and Príncipe 18.37 · world median 40.19 (worse)
Best in the world 88.36 (United States)
▼ -6 percentile points since 2022
Government Effectiveness165th of 209position · derived-0.766Governance 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)
São Tomé and Príncipe -0.766 · world median 0.101 (worse)
Best in the world 2.092 (Singapore)
No real change since 2015
Government Spending on Education29th of 123position · derived5.029Government expenditure on education (% of GDP)2023
top 23% of 123 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Government expenditure on education (% of GDP)
São Tomé and Príncipe 5.029 · world median 3.709 (better)
Best in the world 16.39 (Kiribati)
▼ -13 percentile points since 2013
GovTech Maturity Index175th of 196position · derived0.187GTMI score (0–1)2025
bottom 11% of 196 countries measured
World Bank Group · GTMI score (0–1)
São Tomé and Príncipe 0.187 · world median 0.63 (worse)
Best in the world 0.997 (South Korea)
No real change since 2022
Judicial Constraints on the Executive Index75th of 175position · derived0.725Judicial constraints on the executive index (0–1)2025
top 42% of 176 countries measured · 176 share 175 positions
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Judicial constraints on the executive index (0–1)
São Tomé and Príncipe 0.725 · world median 0.676 (better)
Best in the world 0.988 (Australia)
No real change since 2015
Liberal Democracy Index60th of 176position · derived0.519Liberal democracy index (0–1)2025
top 34% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Liberal democracy index (0–1)
São Tomé and Príncipe 0.519 · world median 0.353 (better)
Best in the world 0.884 (Denmark)
No real change since 2015
Political Corruption Index119th of 176position · derived · 1 = worst0.289Political corruption index (0–1; higher = more corrupt)2025
top 32% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Political corruption index (0–1; higher = more corrupt)
São Tomé and Príncipe 0.289 · world median 0.518 (better)
Best in the world 0.004 (Denmark)
No real change since 2015
Public Sector Employment61st of 135position · derived17.34Public sector employment (% of total employment)2022
top 45% of 135 countries measured
World Bank Group · Public sector employment (% of total employment)
São Tomé and Príncipe 17.34 · world median 15.01
Highest 47.1 (Maldives)
No earlier reading to compare
Public Sector Wage Bill50th of 168position · derived10.48Public sector wage bill (% of GDP)2022
top 29% of 168 countries measured
World Bank Group · Public sector wage bill (% of GDP)
São Tomé and Príncipe 10.48 · world median 7.975
Highest 42.65 (Nauru)
▲ +14 percentile points since 2012
Regulatory Quality178th of 209position · derived-0.939Regulatory Quality (−2.5 to 2.5)2025
bottom 15% of 209 countries measured
World Bank Group · Regulatory Quality (−2.5 to 2.5)
São Tomé and Príncipe -0.939 · world median -0.093 (worse)
Best in the world 2.113 (Singapore)
▼ -9 percentile points since 2015
Rule of Law132nd of 211position · derived-0.454Rule of Law estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)2025
bottom 38% of 211 countries measured
World Bank Group · Rule of Law estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)
São Tomé and Príncipe -0.454 · world median -0.102 (worse)
Best in the world 2.012 (Finland)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2015
Statistical Performance Indicators155th of 188position · derived52.97SPI overall score (0–100)2024
bottom 18% of 188 countries measured
World Bank Group · SPI overall score (0–100)
São Tomé and Príncipe 52.97 · world median 69.3 (worse)
Best in the world 94.14 (Norway)
▼ -7 percentile points since 2016
V-Dem Electoral Democracy Index67th of 176position · derived0.632Electoral democracy index (0–1)2025
top 38% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Electoral democracy index (0–1)
São Tomé and Príncipe 0.632 · world median 0.497 (better)
Best in the world 0.913 (Denmark)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2015
Voice and Accountability91st of 206position · derived0.195Voice and Accountability estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)2025
top 44% of 206 countries measured
World Bank Group · Voice and Accountability estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)
São Tomé and Príncipe 0.195 · world median -0.022 (better)
Best in the world 1.825 (Norway)
No real change since 2015
Women, Business and the Law83rd of 190position · derived83.13WBL Index (0–100, where 100 is full legal parity)2024
top 43% of 190 countries measured
World Bank Group · WBL Index (0–100, where 100 is full legal parity)
São Tomé and Príncipe 83.13 · world median 81.25 (better)
Best in the world 100 (14 countries tied)
▲ +29 percentile points since 2014
Economy & Innovation19
Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing Value Added (% of GDP)49th of 158position · derived12.19Agriculture, forestry and fishing value added (% of GDP)2025
top 31% of 158 countries measured
World Bank Group · Agriculture, forestry and fishing value added (% of GDP)
São Tomé and Príncipe 12.19 · world median 6.572
Highest 47.59 (Niger)
No real change since 2015
Crop Production Index90th of 195position · derived107.39Crop production index (2014–2016 = 100)2022
top 46% of 195 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Crop production index (2014–2016 = 100)
São Tomé and Príncipe 107.39 · world median 106.23 (better)
Best in the world 189.93 (Senegal)
▼ -29 percentile points since 2012
Exports of Goods and Services (% of GDP)129th of 138position · derived13.26Exports of goods and services (% of GDP)2025
bottom 7% of 138 countries measured
World Bank Group · Exports of goods and services (% of GDP)
São Tomé and Príncipe 13.26 · world median 36.34
Highest 199.76 (Hong Kong)
▼ -42 percentile points since 2015
Firms with a Bank Loan or Line of Credit147th of 179position · derived15.58Firms with a bank loan or line of credit (%)2025
bottom 18% of 179 countries measured
World Bank Group · Firms with a bank loan or line of credit (%)
São Tomé and Príncipe 15.58 · world median 35.95 (worse)
Best in the world 88.52 (Israel)
No earlier reading to compare
Food Production Index92nd of 195position · derived107.25Food production index (2014–2016 = 100)2022
top 47% of 195 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Food production index (2014–2016 = 100)
São Tomé and Príncipe 107.25 · world median 106.08 (better)
Best in the world 177.49 (Senegal)
▼ -28 percentile points since 2012
Foreign Direct Investment Inflowsbottom 27%0.967FDI inflows (% of GDP)2025
bottom 27% of 202 countries measured
UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) · FDI inflows (% of GDP)
São Tomé and Príncipe 0.967 · world median 1.968
Highest 2,221 (British Virgin Islands)
▼ -49 percentile points since 2015
GDP Growth158th of 186position · derived1.028GDP growth (annual %)2025
bottom 15% of 186 countries measured
World Bank Group · GDP growth (annual %)
São Tomé and Príncipe 1.028 · world median 3.396 (worse)
Best in the world 19.34 (Guyana)
▼ -15 percentile points since 2015
GDP per Capita (PPP)146th of 185position · derived5,459GDP per capita (constant 2021 international $, PPP)2025
bottom 21% of 185 countries measured
World Bank Group · GDP per capita (constant 2021 international $, PPP)
São Tomé and Príncipe 5,459 · world median 17,265 (worse)
Best in the world 139,593 (Singapore)
▼ -2 percentile points since 2015
GNI per Capita (PPP)70th of 102position · derived6,632GNI per capita (constant 2021 international $, PPP)2025
bottom 32% of 102 countries measured
World Bank Group · GNI per capita (constant 2021 international $, PPP)
São Tomé and Príncipe 6,632 · world median 14,273 (worse)
Best in the world 116,633 (Singapore)
▲ +9 percentile points since 2015
Gross Capital Formation (% of GDP)127th of 131position · derived8.742Gross capital formation (% of GDP)2025
bottom 3% of 131 countries measured
World Bank Group · Gross capital formation (% of GDP)
São Tomé and Príncipe 8.742 · world median 22.93
Highest 45.27 (Algeria)
▼ -5 percentile points since 2015
Gross Savings (% of GDP)137th of 146position · derived9.019Gross savings (% of GDP)2024
bottom 6% of 146 countries measured
World Bank Group · Gross savings (% of GDP)
São Tomé and Príncipe 9.019 · world median 22.06
Highest 47.82 (Macau)
▲ +6 percentile points since 2014
Household Consumption3rd of 131position · derived101Household and NPISH final consumption expenditure (% of GDP)2025
top 2% of 131 countries measured
World Bank Group · Household and NPISH final consumption expenditure (% of GDP)
São Tomé and Príncipe 101 · world median 62.04
Highest 133.34 (Somalia)
No real change since 2015
Imports of Goods and Services (% of GDP)87th of 138position · derived33.3Imports of goods and services (% of GDP)2025
bottom 37% of 138 countries measured
World Bank Group · Imports of goods and services (% of GDP)
São Tomé and Príncipe 33.3 · world median 41.72
Highest 196.89 (Hong Kong)
▼ -54 percentile points since 2015
Industry Value Added including Construction (% of GDP)158th of 158position · derived2.228Industry, including construction, value added (% of GDP)2025
bottom 1% of 158 countries measured
World Bank Group · Industry, including construction, value added (% of GDP)
São Tomé and Príncipe 2.228 · world median 24.65
Highest 75.09 (Guyana)
▼ -10 percentile points since 2015
Liner Shipping Connectivity Index159th of 175rank13.5LSCI (index, average Q1 2023 = 100)2026
bottom 8% of 167 countries measured · 167 share 175 positions
UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) · LSCI (index, average Q1 2023 = 100)
São Tomé and Príncipe 13.5 · world median 56.21 (worse)
Best in the world 1,319 (China)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2016
Livestock Production Index94th of 194position · derived108.04Livestock production index (2014–2016 = 100)2022
top 48% of 194 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Livestock production index (2014–2016 = 100)
São Tomé and Príncipe 108.04 · world median 107.06 (better)
Best in the world 190.08 (Malawi)
▲ +42 percentile points since 2012
Manufacturing Value Added (% of GDP)131st of 132position · derived0.594Manufacturing value added (% of GDP)2025
bottom 1% of 132 countries measured
World Bank Group · Manufacturing value added (% of GDP)
São Tomé and Príncipe 0.594 · world median 11.26
Highest 43.97 (Puerto Rico)
▼ -8 percentile points since 2015
Total Natural Resources Rents (% of GDP)94th of 180position · derived1.884Natural resources rents (% of GDP)2021
top 47% of 197 countries measured · 197 share 180 positions
World Bank Group · Natural resources rents (% of GDP)
São Tomé and Príncipe 1.884 · world median 1.708
Highest 61.03 (Libya)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2011
Trade (% of GDP)109th of 138position · derived46.57Exports plus imports (% of GDP)2025
bottom 21% of 138 countries measured
World Bank Group · Exports plus imports (% of GDP)
São Tomé and Príncipe 46.57 · world median 79.68
Highest 396.65 (Hong Kong)
▼ -56 percentile points since 2015
Work & Labour15
Average Weekly Hours Worked3rd of 182position · derived49Average weekly hours actually worked per employed person2025
top 1% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Average weekly hours actually worked per employed person
São Tomé and Príncipe 49 · world median 38.89
Highest 54.7 (Bhutan)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2015
Employment in Agriculture99th of 182position · derived12.06Employment in agriculture (% of total employment)2025
bottom 46% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employment in agriculture (% of total employment)
São Tomé and Príncipe 12.06 · world median 14.38
Highest 85.34 (Burundi)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2015
Employment in Industry59th of 182position · derived22.52Employment in industry (% of total employment)2025
top 32% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employment in industry (% of total employment)
São Tomé and Príncipe 22.52 · world median 18.88
Highest 39.44 (Oman)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2015
Employment in Services75th of 182position · derived65.42Employment in services (% of total employment)2025
top 41% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employment in services (% of total employment)
São Tomé and Príncipe 65.42 · world median 59.51
Highest 92.17 (Djibouti)
No real change since 2015
Employment-to-Population Ratio182nd of 182position · derived21.21Employed share of the population aged 15+ (%)2025
bottom 1% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employed share of the population aged 15+ (%)
São Tomé and Príncipe 21.21 · world median 57.72 (worse)
Best in the world 86.9 (Qatar)
No real change since 2015
Female Labour Force Participation Rate170th of 182position · derived22.75Women aged 15+ in the labour force (%)2025
bottom 7% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Women aged 15+ in the labour force (%)
São Tomé and Príncipe 22.75 · world median 53.36 (worse)
Best in the world 82.91 (Madagascar)
No real change since 2015
Firms with a Female Top Manager43rd of 179position · derived25.08Firms with a female top manager (%)2025
top 24% of 179 countries measured
World Bank Group · Firms with a female top manager (%)
São Tomé and Príncipe 25.08 · world median 19.16 (better)
Best in the world 62.9 (Kiribati)
No earlier reading to compare
GDP per Person Employed93rd of 168position · derived41,153GDP per person employed (constant 2021 international $)2025
bottom 45% of 168 countries measured
World Bank Group · GDP per person employed (constant 2021 international $)
São Tomé and Príncipe 41,153 · world median 47,384 (worse)
Best in the world 262,554 (Luxembourg)
▼ -6 percentile points since 2015
Labour Force Participation Rate182nd of 182position · derived23.34Population aged 15+ in the labour force (%)2025
bottom 1% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Population aged 15+ in the labour force (%)
São Tomé and Príncipe 23.34 · world median 61.66 (worse)
Best in the world 87.01 (Qatar)
No real change since 2015
Labour Productivity per Hour Worked106th of 182position · derived16.39Output per hour worked (constant 2021 international $ at PPP)2025
bottom 42% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Output per hour worked (constant 2021 international $ at PPP)
São Tomé and Príncipe 16.39 · world median 22.16 (worse)
Best in the world 164.65 (Ireland)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2015
Self-Employment Rate67th of 182position · derived43.99Self-employed (% of total employment)2025
top 36% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Self-employed (% of total employment)
São Tomé and Príncipe 43.99 · world median 31.84
Highest 91.56 (Chad)
▲ +2 percentile points since 2015
Unemployment Rate40th of 182position · derived · 1 = worst9.132Unemployment (% of labour force)2025
bottom 22% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Unemployment (% of labour force)
São Tomé and Príncipe 9.132 · world median 5.084 (worse)
Best in the world 0.13 (Qatar)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2015
Vulnerable Employment75th of 182position · derived · 1 = worst34.99Vulnerable employment (% of total employment)2025
bottom 41% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Vulnerable employment (% of total employment)
São Tomé and Príncipe 34.99 · world median 28.67 (worse)
Best in the world 0.456 (Qatar)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2015
Youth Unemployment Rate126th of 182position · derived · 1 = worst8.794Unemployment, ages 15-24 (% of youth labour force)2025
top 31% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Unemployment, ages 15-24 (% of youth labour force)
São Tomé and Príncipe 8.794 · world median 12.83 (better)
Best in the world 0.457 (Niger)
▲ +15 percentile points since 2015
Education & Knowledge7
Academic Freedom Index85th of 176position · derived0.636Academic freedom index (0–1)2025
top 48% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Academic freedom index (0–1)
São Tomé and Príncipe 0.636 · world median 0.619 (better)
Best in the world 0.978 (Czechia)
▲ +5 percentile points since 2015
Adult Literacy Rate112th of 172position · derived87.44Adults 15+ who can read and write (%)2024
bottom 35% of 172 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Adults 15+ who can read and write (%)
São Tomé and Príncipe 87.44 · world median 93.99 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (3 countries tied)
No earlier reading to compare
Expected Years of Schooling118th of 195position · derived12.86Expected years of schooling2023
bottom 40% of 195 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · Expected years of schooling
São Tomé and Príncipe 12.86 · world median 13.34 (worse)
Best in the world 21.69 (Monaco)
▲ +13 percentile points since 2013
Mean Years of Schooling156th of 193position · derived5.988Mean years of schooling (adults 25+)2023
bottom 19% of 193 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · Mean years of schooling (adults 25+)
São Tomé and Príncipe 5.988 · world median 9.933 (worse)
Best in the world 14.3 (Germany)
▼ -2 percentile points since 2013
Primary Completion Rate100th of 165position · derived93.71Primary completion rate (%)2025
bottom 39% of 165 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Primary completion rate (%)
São Tomé and Príncipe 93.71 · world median 97.43 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (5 countries tied)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2015
Upper Secondary Completion Rate95th of 164position · derived55.09Upper secondary completion rate (%)2025
bottom 42% of 164 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Upper secondary completion rate (%)
São Tomé and Príncipe 55.09 · world median 64.87 (worse)
Best in the world 99.27 (South Korea)
▲ +8 percentile points since 2015
Youth Literacy Ratebottom 39%95.4915–24 year-olds who can read and write (%)2024
bottom 39% of 174 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · 15–24 year-olds who can read and write (%)
São Tomé and Príncipe 95.49 · world median 98.22 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (6 countries tied)
No earlier reading to compare
Health & Wellbeing17
Births Attended by Skilled Health Staff59th of 86position · derived96.8Births attended by skilled health staff (%)2019
bottom 32% of 86 countries measured
UNICEF · Births attended by skilled health staff (%)
São Tomé and Príncipe 96.8 · world median 98.8 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (11 countries tied)
▲ +20 percentile points since 2009
Children with Functional Difficultiestop 23%20.3Children aged 5-17 with a functional difficulty (%)2024
top 23% of 62 countries measured
UNICEF · Children aged 5-17 with a functional difficulty (%)
São Tomé and Príncipe 20.3 · world median 13
Highest 35.2 (Afghanistan)
No earlier reading to compare
Dietary Energy Supply141st of 155position · derived2,279Dietary energy supply (kcal per person per day)2024
bottom 9% of 155 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Dietary energy supply (kcal per person per day)
São Tomé and Príncipe 2,279 · world median 2,982 (worse)
Best in the world 3,962 (United States)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2014
Exclusive Breastfeeding Under Six Months19th of 136position · derived63.06Infants under 6 months exclusively breastfed (%)2024
top 13% of 136 countries measured
UNICEF · Infants under 6 months exclusively breastfed (%)
São Tomé and Príncipe 63.06 · world median 40.74 (better)
Best in the world 83.3 (Burundi)
No earlier reading to compare
Gender Inequality Index130th of 172rank0.492GII (0 = full equality, 1 = maximum inequality)2023
bottom 25% of 172 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · GII (0 = full equality, 1 = maximum inequality)
São Tomé and Príncipe 0.492 · world median 0.351 (worse)
Best in the world 0.003 (Denmark)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2013
Global Multidimensional Poverty Index54th of 109position · derived · 1 = worst0.048MPI (0–1)2025
bottom 49% of 109 countries measured
Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI) · MPI (0–1)
São Tomé and Príncipe 0.048 · world median 0.039 (worse)
Best in the world 0 (Serbia)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2018
Global Violent Deaths78th of 206position · derived · 1 = worst6.28Violent deaths per 100,000 people2021
bottom 37% of 209 countries measured · 209 share 206 positions
Small Arms Survey · Violent deaths per 100,000 people
São Tomé and Príncipe 6.28 · world median 4.02 (worse)
Best in the world 0 (4 countries tied)
▼ -62 percentile points since 2011
Human Development Index141st of 193rank0.637HDI score (0–1)2023
bottom 27% of 193 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · HDI score (0–1)
São Tomé and Príncipe 0.637 · world median 0.762 (worse)
Best in the world 0.972 (Iceland)
No real change since 2013
Infant Mortality Rate119th of 200position · derived · 1 = worst9.166Deaths before age one (per 1,000 live births)2024
top 41% of 200 countries measured
UN Inter-agency Group for Child Mortality Estimation (UN IGME) · Deaths before age one (per 1,000 live births)
São Tomé and Príncipe 9.166 · world median 12.26 (better)
Best in the world 1.214 (San Marino)
▲ +13 percentile points since 2014
Life Expectancy at Age 65164th of 222position · derived14.33Further 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
São Tomé and Príncipe 14.33 · world median 16.39 (worse)
Best in the world 23.21 (Monaco)
▲ +16 percentile points since 2013
Life Expectancy at Birth159th of 222position · derived69.72Years a newborn would live at current death rates2023
bottom 29% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Years a newborn would live at current death rates
São Tomé and Príncipe 69.72 · world median 74.63 (worse)
Best in the world 86.37 (Monaco)
▲ +7 percentile points since 2013
Maternal Mortality Ratio76th of 195position · derived · 1 = worst75.36Maternal deaths per 100,000 live births2023
bottom 39% of 195 countries measured
UN Maternal Mortality Estimation Inter-Agency Group (MMEIG) · Maternal deaths per 100,000 live births
São Tomé and Príncipe 75.36 · world median 46.65 (worse)
Best in the world 0.11 (Cook Islands)
▲ +7 percentile points since 2013
Pesticide Use per Hectare145th of 178position · derived0.41Pesticide use (kg per hectare of cropland)2024
bottom 20% of 181 countries measured · 181 share 178 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Pesticide use (kg per hectare of cropland)
São Tomé and Príncipe 0.41 · world median 1.73
Highest 37.72 (Antigua and Barbuda)
▼ -5 percentile points since 2014
Prevalence of Undernourishment32nd of 104position · derived · 1 = worst17.4Population undernourished (%)2023
bottom 19% of 165 countries measured · 165 share 104 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Population undernourished (%)
São Tomé and Príncipe 17.4 · world median 5.2 (worse)
Best in the world 2.5 (62 countries tied)
▲ +2 percentile points since 2013
Stunting Prevalence in Children Under Five92nd of 162position · derived · 1 = worst11.74Children under 5 who are stunted (%)2024
top 43% of 162 countries measured
UNICEF, WHO and World Bank Group (Joint Malnutrition Estimates) · Children under 5 who are stunted (%)
São Tomé and Príncipe 11.74 · world median 13.8 (better)
Best in the world 0.518 (Latvia)
No earlier reading to compare
Under-Five Mortality Rate103rd of 200position · derived · 1 = worst13.55Deaths before age five (per 1,000 live births)2024
top 49% of 200 countries measured
UN Inter-agency Group for Child Mortality Estimation (UN IGME) · Deaths before age five (per 1,000 live births)
São Tomé and Príncipe 13.55 · world median 14.54 (better)
Best in the world 1.26 (San Marino)
▲ +13 percentile points since 2014
Violent Discipline of Children26th of 90position · derived · 1 = worst83.5Children aged 1-14 experiencing violent discipline (%)2025
bottom 28% of 90 countries measured
UNICEF · Children aged 1-14 experiencing violent discipline (%)
São Tomé and Príncipe 83.5 · world median 75.8 (worse)
Best in the world 37.6 (Qatar)
No earlier reading to compare
Development & Human Capital7
Access to Electricitybottom 20%77.7Population with electricity access (%)2024
bottom 20% of 215 countries measured
World Bank Group · Population with electricity access (%)
São Tomé and Príncipe 77.7 · world median 100 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (122 countries tied)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2014
Cereal Yield120th of 179position · derived2,004Cereal yield (kg per hectare)2023
bottom 33% of 179 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Cereal yield (kg per hectare)
São Tomé and Príncipe 2,004 · world median 3,072 (worse)
Best in the world 29,147 (Oman)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2013
Child Marriage39th of 143position · derived · 1 = worst28Women 20–24 married before 18 (%)2025
bottom 26% of 145 countries measured · 145 share 143 positions
UNICEF · Women 20–24 married before 18 (%)
São Tomé and Príncipe 28 · world median 17.1 (worse)
Best in the world 0 (3 countries tied)
No earlier reading to compare
Coefficient of Human Inequality60th of 169position · derived · 1 = worst23.65Coefficient of Human Inequality (%)2023
bottom 35% of 169 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · Coefficient of Human Inequality (%)
São Tomé and Príncipe 23.65 · world median 17.05 (worse)
Best in the world 4.865 (Slovenia)
▼ -7 percentile points since 2013
Gender Development Index65th of 184position · derived0.98Gender Development Index (1.000 = parity)2023
top 35% of 184 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · Gender Development Index (1.000 = parity)
São Tomé and Príncipe 0.98 · world median 0.971 (better)
Best in the world 1 (2 countries tied)
▲ +30 percentile points since 2013
Inequality-adjusted Human Development Index115th of 169position · derived0.478IHDI (0–1)2023
bottom 32% of 169 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · IHDI (0–1)
São Tomé and Príncipe 0.478 · world median 0.609 (worse)
Best in the world 0.923 (Iceland)
▼ -2 percentile points since 2013
Net Official Development Assistance Received19th of 130position · derived11.51Net ODA received (% of GNI)2023
top 14% of 130 countries measured
OECD Development Assistance Committee · Net ODA received (% of GNI)
São Tomé and Príncipe 11.51 · world median 2.579
Highest 101.78 (Tuvalu)
▼ -7 percentile points since 2013
Environment & Sustainability16
Agricultural Emissions180th of 193position · derived22.78Farm-gate emissions (kt CO₂eq)2023
bottom 9% of 198 countries measured · 198 share 193 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Farm-gate emissions (kt CO₂eq)
São Tomé and Príncipe 22.78 · world median 8,635
Highest 1,044,508 (India)
No real change since 2013
Agricultural Land79th of 209position · derived44.79Agricultural land (% of land area)2023
top 38% of 209 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Agricultural land (% of land area)
São Tomé and Príncipe 44.79 · world median 37.96
Highest 86.48 (Côte d’Ivoire)
▲ +14 percentile points since 2013
Arable Land per Person179th of 206position · derived0.017Arable land (hectares per person)2023
bottom 13% of 206 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Arable land (hectares per person)
São Tomé and Príncipe 0.017 · world median 0.109
Highest 1.459 (Kazakhstan)
No real change since 2013
Climate Vulnerability (ND-GAIN)152nd of 190rank0.527ND-GAIN Vulnerability (0–1, where 1 is the most vulnerable)2024
bottom 20% 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)
São Tomé and Príncipe 0.527 · world median 0.45 (worse)
Best in the world 0.263 (Norway)
No real change since 2014
CO₂ Emissions per Capita170th of 210position · derived · 1 = worst0.602Fossil CO₂ (tonnes per person)2024
top 19% of 210 countries measured
Global Carbon Project · Fossil CO₂ (tonnes per person)
São Tomé and Príncipe 0.602 · world median 3.21 (better)
Best in the world 0.054 (DR Congo)
▲ +2 percentile points since 2014
Energy Intensity of GDP (PPP)top 42%2.399Energy use per dollar of GDP (thousand Btu per US$ at PPP)2024
top 42% of 192 countries measured
U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) · Energy use per dollar of GDP (thousand Btu per US$ at PPP)
São Tomé and Príncipe 2.399 · world median 2.738 (better)
Best in the world 0.666 (Chad)
▼ -8 percentile points since 2014
Fertilizer Consumption per Hectare107th of 188position · derived68Fertilizer 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)
São Tomé and Príncipe 68 · world median 87.36
Highest 2,926 (Malaysia)
▲ +11 percentile points since 2013
Forest Area47th of 210position · derived52.13Forest area (% of land area)2023
top 22% of 213 countries measured · 213 share 210 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Forest area (% of land area)
São Tomé and Príncipe 52.13 · world median 31.08
Highest 94.45 (Suriname)
▼ -7 percentile points since 2013
Land Under Cereal Production166th of 179position · derived393Land under cereal production (hectares)2023
bottom 8% of 180 countries measured · 180 share 179 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Land under cereal production (hectares)
São Tomé and Príncipe 393 · world median 689,278
Highest 103,715,108 (India)
No real change since 2013
Livestock Density136th of 188position · derived0.3Livestock units per hectare of agricultural land2023
bottom 26% of 188 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Livestock units per hectare of agricultural land
São Tomé and Príncipe 0.3 · world median 0.535
Highest 43.97 (Singapore)
▼ -2 percentile points since 2013
ND-GAIN Country Index134th of 190rank41.62ND-GAIN Index (0–100, where 100 is best placed to adapt)2024
bottom 30% 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)
São Tomé and Príncipe 41.62 · world median 47.44 (worse)
Best in the world 71.85 (Norway)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2014
Organic Agricultural Area8th of 150position · derived20.97Organic share of agricultural land (%)2024
top 5% of 156 countries measured · 156 share 150 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Organic share of agricultural land (%)
São Tomé and Príncipe 20.97 · world median 0.725 (better)
Best in the world 86.38 (Samoa)
▼ -2 percentile points since 2014
Renewable Internal Freshwater Resources per Capita47th of 181position · derived9,633Renewable internal freshwater (cubic metres per person)2022
top 26% of 181 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Renewable internal freshwater (cubic metres per person)
São Tomé and Príncipe 9,633 · world median 2,528 (better)
Best in the world 445,023 (Iceland)
No real change since 2012
Water Stress146th of 177position · derived · 1 = worst1.88Freshwater withdrawal as a share of available resources (%)2023
top 18% of 177 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Freshwater withdrawal as a share of available resources (%)
São Tomé and Príncipe 1.88 · world median 10 (better)
Best in the world 0.03 (Republic of the Congo)
No real change since 2013
Water Withdrawal by Sector85th of 171position · derived62.59Freshwater withdrawn for agriculture (% of total)2022
top 49% of 173 countries measured · 173 share 171 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Freshwater withdrawn for agriculture (% of total)
São Tomé and Príncipe 62.59 · world median 62.14
Highest 99.48 (Somalia)
No real change since 2016
World Risk Index189th of 193position · derived · 1 = worst0.61WorldRiskIndex score (0–100, where 100 is the most at risk)2025
top 2% 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)
São Tomé and Príncipe 0.61 · world median 4.17 (better)
Best in the world 0.18 (Monaco)
No real change since 2015
Gender & Equality2
Sex Ratio at Birthbottom 5%102.7Male births per 100 female births2023
bottom 5% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Male births per 100 female births
São Tomé and Príncipe 102.7 · world median 105.1
Highest 116.3 (Liechtenstein)
▼ -2 percentile points since 2013
Women's Political Empowerment Index54th of 176position · derived0.843Women's political empowerment index (0–1)2025
top 30% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Women's political empowerment index (0–1)
São Tomé and Príncipe 0.843 · world median 0.772 (better)
Best in the world 0.954 (Denmark)
▲ +10 percentile points since 2015
Democracy & Civil Liberties8
Deliberative Democracy Index69th of 176position · derived0.416Deliberative democracy index (0–1)2025
top 39% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Deliberative democracy index (0–1)
São Tomé and Príncipe 0.416 · world median 0.339 (better)
Best in the world 0.867 (Denmark)
No real change since 2015
Egalitarian Democracy Index63rd of 176position · derived0.448Egalitarian democracy index (0–1)2025
top 35% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Egalitarian democracy index (0–1)
São Tomé and Príncipe 0.448 · 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 Index66th of 176position · derived0.793Freedom of expression index (0–1)2025
top 37% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Freedom of expression index (0–1)
São Tomé and Príncipe 0.793 · world median 0.693 (better)
Best in the world 0.98 (Denmark)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2015
Government Censorship of the Media66th of 176position · derived1.019Original latent estimate (≈ −3 to +3.5); higher = less censorship2025
top 37% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Original latent estimate (≈ −3 to +3.5); higher = less censorship
São Tomé and Príncipe 1.019 · world median 0.565 (better)
Best in the world 3.489 (Belgium)
No real change since 2015
Government Internet Shutdowns71st of 176position · derived1.332Original latent estimate (≈ −4 to +2); higher = fewer shutdowns2025
top 40% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Original latent estimate (≈ −4 to +2); higher = fewer shutdowns
São Tomé and Príncipe 1.332 · world median 1.023 (better)
Best in the world 2.081 (Spain)
No real change since 2015
Military Dimension Indextop 47%0.083Military dimension index (0–1; higher = larger military role)2025
top 47% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Military dimension index (0–1; higher = larger military role)
São Tomé and Príncipe 0.083 · world median 0.1 (better)
Best in the world 0 (76 countries tied)
▲ +17 percentile points since 2015
Participatory Democracy Index65th of 176position · derived0.391Participatory democracy index (0–1)2025
top 37% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Participatory democracy index (0–1)
São Tomé and Príncipe 0.391 · world median 0.298 (better)
Best in the world 0.785 (Switzerland)
No real change since 2015
Physical Violence Index36th of 176position · derived0.941Freedom from political killings and torture (0–1)2025
top 20% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Freedom from political killings and torture (0–1)
São Tomé and Príncipe 0.941 · world median 0.79 (better)
Best in the world 0.989 (2 countries tied)
No real change since 2015
Peace & Security5
Deaths in Organized Violence59th of 59position · derived · 1 = worst0Deaths in organized violence (people)2025
top 35% of 196 countries measured · 196 share 59 positions
Uppsala Conflict Data Program (UCDP) · Deaths in organized violence (people)
São Tomé and Príncipe 0 · world median 0
Best in the world 0 (138 countries tied)
No real change since 2015
INFORM Risk Index148th of 191position · derived · 1 = worst2.5INFORM Risk score (0–10, where 10 is the highest risk)2025
top 21% 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)
São Tomé and Príncipe 2.5 · world median 3.7 (better)
Best in the world 0.7 (Singapore)
▲ +12 percentile points since 2016
Political Stability and Absence of Violence80th of 211position · derived0.546Political Stability estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)2025
top 38% of 211 countries measured
World Bank Group · Political Stability estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)
São Tomé and Príncipe 0.546 · world median 0.171 (better)
Best in the world 1.563 (Andorra)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2015
Political Violence by Non-State Actors111th of 171position · derived · 1 = worst-1.137Original latent estimate (≈ −3.5 to +4); higher = more violence2025
top 35% of 171 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Original latent estimate (≈ −3.5 to +4); higher = more violence
São Tomé and Príncipe -1.137 · world median -0.661 (better)
Best in the world -3.182 (Luxembourg)
▲ +8 percentile points since 2015
Refugees by Country of Originbottom 9%8Refugees under UNHCR's mandate from this country, end of year (people)2025
bottom 9% of 202 countries measured
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency · Refugees under UNHCR's mandate from this country, end of year (people)
São Tomé and Príncipe 8 · world median 1,272
Highest 5,224,131 (Ukraine)
▼ -6 percentile points since 2015
Mobility & Trade2
Average Time to Clear Exports Through Customs39th of 174position · derived · 1 = worst8.583Average time to clear exports through customs (days)2025
bottom 22% of 175 countries measured · 175 share 174 positions
World Bank Group · Average time to clear exports through customs (days)
São Tomé and Príncipe 8.583 · world median 4.456 (worse)
Best in the world 1 (2 countries tied)
No earlier reading to compare
Net Migration Ratebottom 22%-2.564Net migrants per 1,000 population2023
bottom 22% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Net migrants per 1,000 population
São Tomé and Príncipe -2.564 · world median -0.133
Highest 39.62 (South Sudan)
▲ +9 percentile points since 2013
Poverty & Inequality1
Poverty Headcount at National Poverty Linestop 8%55.5Population below the national poverty line (%)2025
top 8% of 160 countries measured
World Bank Group · Population below the national poverty line (%)
São Tomé and Príncipe 55.5 · world median 21.8
Highest 82.3 (South Sudan)
No earlier reading to compare
Money & Public Finance1
Short-Term Share of External Debttop 23%2.435Short-term debt (% of total external debt)2024
top 23% of 118 countries measured
World Bank Group · Short-term debt (% of total external debt)
São Tomé and Príncipe 2.435 · world median 9.376 (better)
Best in the world 0 (5 countries tied)
▲ +5 percentile points since 2014
Energy1
Primary Energy Consumption per Capitabottom 24%10.75Energy use per person (million Btu)2024
bottom 24% of 192 countries measured
U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) · Energy use per person (million Btu)
São Tomé and Príncipe 10.75 · world median 49.5
Highest 766.07 (Qatar)
No real change since 2014
People & Population10
Crude Birth Ratetop 17%28.18Births per 1,000 population2023
top 17% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Births per 1,000 population
São Tomé and Príncipe 28.18 · world median 13.79
Highest 46.36 (Central African Republic)
▼ -2 percentile points since 2013
Crude Death Ratebottom 18%5.572Deaths per 1,000 population2023
bottom 18% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Deaths per 1,000 population
São Tomé and Príncipe 5.572 · world median 7.303
Highest 25.58 (Vatican City)
▼ -24 percentile points since 2013
Median Age of the Populationbottom 15%19.05Median age (years)2023
bottom 15% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Median age (years)
São Tomé and Príncipe 19.05 · world median 31.52
Highest 59.63 (Vatican City)
No real change since 2013
Population Aged 65 and Overbottom 24%3.867Share of the total population aged 65 and over (%)2023
bottom 24% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Share of the total population aged 65 and over (%)
São Tomé and Príncipe 3.867 · world median 8.32
Highest 44.7 (Vatican City)
▼ -2 percentile points since 2013
Population Densitytop 26%240.49People per square kilometre of land2023
top 26% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · People per square kilometre of land
São Tomé and Príncipe 240.49 · world median 96.92
Highest 26,145 (Monaco)
No real change since 2013
Population Growth Ratetop 22%2.004Population growth (% per year)2023
top 22% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Population growth (% per year)
São Tomé and Príncipe 2.004 · world median 0.888
Highest 5.862 (South Sudan)
▲ +12 percentile points since 2013
Population Under Age 15top 17%38.28Share of the total population aged 0–14 (%)2023
top 17% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Share of the total population aged 0–14 (%)
São Tomé and Príncipe 38.28 · world median 22.71
Highest 49.17 (Central African Republic)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2013
Sex Ratio of the Total Populationtop 43%98.93Males per 100 females2023
top 43% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Males per 100 females
São Tomé and Príncipe 98.93 · world median 98.48
Highest 251.08 (Qatar)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2013
Total Dependency Ratiotop 18%72.85People aged 0–14 and 65+ per 100 people aged 15–642023
top 18% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · People aged 0–14 and 65+ per 100 people aged 15–64
São Tomé and Príncipe 72.85 · world median 54.73
Highest 105.18 (Central African Republic)
▼ -5 percentile points since 2013
Total Fertility Ratetop 18%3.644Live births per woman2023
top 18% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Live births per woman
São Tomé and Príncipe 3.644 · world median 1.962
Highest 6.132 (Somalia)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2013
Not currently covered
The newest edition of these reports does not include São Tomé and Príncipe. Usually the publisher does not cover it; sometimes it has dropped out of a ranking it used to appear in.
- Account Ownership at a Financial Institution
- Adjusted Net Savings
- Agricultural Irrigated Land
- Agriculture Orientation Index · last seen 2023
- Asylum-Seekers by Country of Asylum
- Business Ready: Operational Efficiency
- Business Ready: Public Services
- Business Ready: Regulatory Framework
- Carbon Intensity of Electricity · last seen 2023
- Cereal Import Dependency Ratio · last seen 2015
- Container Port Traffic · last seen 2019
- Cost of Sending Remittances
- Digitally-Deliverable Services Exports · last seen 2022
- Ecological Footprint
- Economic Complexity Index
- Fatal Occupational Injuries
- Female Genital Mutilation Prevalence
- Female Share of Researchers
- Female Share of Senior and Middle Management · last seen 2017
- Gender Social Norms Index
- Gini Index · last seen 2017
- Global Innovation Index
- Global Militarisation Index
- Global Report on Food Crises
- Government Funding per Primary Student · last seen 2014
- Harmonized Test Scores
- Human Capital Index
- ICT Goods Exports · last seen 2023
- ICT Services Exports · last seen 2022
- Inbound Mobility Rate, Tertiary
- Income Share Held by Lowest 20% · last seen 2017
- Income Share Held by Richest 10% · last seen 2017
- INFORM Severity Index
- Informal Employment Rate
- Internal Displacements by Disaster · last seen 2022
- Learning Poverty
- Learning-Adjusted Years of School
- Logistics Performance Index · last seen 2018
- Low-Carbon Share of Electricity Generation · last seen 2023
- Median Daily Income or Consumption per Person · last seen 2017
- Mobile Phone Ownership
- Net Electricity Imports (share of generation) · last seen 2023
- Nuclear Share of Electricity Generation · last seen 2023
- Open Data Inventory
- Out-of-School Rate, Primary · last seen 2017
- Outbound Mobility Ratio, Tertiary · last seen 2015
- Palma Ratio · last seen 2017
- PISA Mathematics Performance
- PISA Reading Performance
- PISA Science Performance
- Planetary pressures-adjusted HDI
- Poverty Gap at $3.00 a Day · last seen 2017
- Poverty Headcount Ratio at $3.00 a Day · last seen 2017
- Poverty Headcount Ratio at $8.30 a Day · last seen 2017
- Pre-Primary Net Enrolment Rate · last seen 2016
- Prevalence of Severe Food Insecurity · last seen 2022
- Prosperity Gap · last seen 2017
- Refugee Population by Country of Asylum
- Renewable Share of Electricity Generation · last seen 2023
- Research and Development Spending
- Researchers per Million Inhabitants
- RISE Energy Efficiency Policy Score
- RISE Renewable Energy Policy Score
- School Life Expectancy · last seen 2015
- Secondary School Enrolment · last seen 2017
- Smartphone Ownership
- Social Institutions and Gender Index
- Societal Poverty Rate · last seen 2017
- Tariff Rate, Applied, Weighted Mean, All Products · last seen 2019
- Tertiary Enrolment Ratio · last seen 2015
- Trade Union Density
- Upper Secondary Attainment
- Wind and Solar Share of Electricity Generation · last seen 2023
- Working Poverty Rate
- World Energy Trilemma Index
- 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 São Tomé and Príncipe 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: 26 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.
Cite this page
Nations Inquiry (2026). São Tomé and Príncipe: country statistics, rankings and trends. https://nationsinquiry.com/countries/sao-tome-and-principe