Photo: Damien du Toit · CC BY 2.0 · via Wikimedia Commons, shown in greyscale

South Africa

Name: South Africa: country statistics and global rankings
Creator: Nations Inquiry

South Africa places highest on Firms with a Female Top Manager (top 5% worldwide) and lowest on Youth Unemployment Rate (bottom 1%).

Country Index 2026

102nd

of 178 countries placedranked on 16 of 16 topics, from 54 of 55 key statistics

Statistics on this page

180

every current reading we hold, from the publisher that issued it

At a glance

Population
63,212,384
people
since 1950
2023 · UN DESA Population Division
Land area
1,213,090
km²
since 1961
2024 · FAO
GDP per person
13,592
international $, PPP
since 1990
2025 · World Bank Group
Life expectancy
66.14
years at birth
since 1950
2023 · UN DESA Population Division
Human development
0.741
HDI, 0–1
since 1990
2023 · UNDP Human Development Report Office
Unemployment
32.39
% of the labour force
since 1991
2025 · ILO

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 South Africa

South Africa lies at the southern tip of the African continent, with coastlines on the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. A high interior plateau, the Highveld, is edged by the Great Escarpment, which rises to the Drakensberg mountains in the east. The country also includes the semi-desert Karoo, the winelands of the Western Cape and savannah in the north-east. The climate is mostly temperate and sunny, Mediterranean in the south-west and subtropical in the east. It has three capital cities: Pretoria, Cape Town and Bloemfontein, while Johannesburg and Durban are major cities. The country recognises many official languages, including Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans and English.

The region is home to some of the oldest fossils of early humans, and has long been inhabited by San, Khoikhoi and Bantu-speaking peoples. Dutch and later British colonisation followed, and the Union of South Africa was formed in 1910. The system of apartheid ended in 1994. The country is known for its wildlife and national parks, such as Kruger, for Table Mountain and Robben Island, and for its music and sport. Its economy includes mining, particularly gold and platinum, manufacturing, agriculture, finance and tourism.

Map showing the location of South Africa — Where South Africa is

Key facts about South Africa

Capitals: Cape Town, Pretoria, Bloemfontein
Official languages: Afrikaans, English, Northern Sotho +9 more
Currency: rand (ZAR)
ISO code: ZAF · ZA
Domain · dialling: .za · +27

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 South Africa’s place among the countries with a standing on that topic, built from a few key statistics chosen to measure different things.

All topics

Gender & Equality
39thof 183
From 4 of 4 key statistics
Governance & Institutions
joint54thof 194
From 4 of 4 key statistics
Mobility & Trade
45thof 147
From 3 of 3 key statistics
Digital & Technology
66thof 198
From 3 of 3 key statistics
Democracy & Civil Liberties
70thof 198
From 3 of 3 key statistics
Education & Knowledge
66thof 171
From 3 of 4 key statistics
Peace & Security
joint72ndof 177
From 4 of 4 key statistics
Food & Agriculture
90thof 175
From 4 of 4 key statistics
Economy & Innovation
101stof 176
From 4 of 4 key statistics
Development & Human Capital
116thof 196
From 3 of 3 key statistics
Risk & Resilience
125thof 192
From 3 of 3 key statistics
Work & Labour
joint134thof 182
From 4 of 4 key statistics
Health & Wellbeing
148thof 200
From 4 of 4 key statistics
Energy
joint166thof 193
From 3 of 3 key statistics
Environment & Sustainability
158thof 181
From 3 of 3 key statistics
Poverty & Inequality
147thof 159
From 2 of 2 key statistics

Each standing is built from a few key statistics chosen to measure different things. Select a subject for South Africa’s readings on it, or see every statistic held for South Africa in the table further down this page.

03Highs and lows

Where South Africa stands out

The two ends of its own record: every statistic on which South Africa 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 South Africa does best5

In the top third of all countries measured. 1 is within ten places of the best in the world, in a field of at least 50 countries — marked with that place.

10th
Firms with a Female Top Managertop 5%
Position · derived 10th of 179 · 38.51 · 2025
world median 19.16 (better)
Gender Development Indextop 7%
Position · derived 12th of 184 · 0.996 · 2023
world median 0.971 (better) · ▲ 25 pts since 2013
Government Spending on Educationtop 10%
Position · derived 13th of 123 · 6.123 · 2023
world median 3.709 (better) · ▲ 17 pts since 2013
Child Marriagetop 13%
Position · derived 126th of 143 · 1 = worst · 3.6 · 2025
world median 17.1 (better)
Logistics Performance Indextop 15%
Rank 19th of 139 · 3.7 · 2023
world median 2.9 (better) · ▲ 6 pts since 2014

Where South Africa struggles most6

In the bottom third of all countries measured. 6 are within ten places of the worst in the world, in a field of at least 50 countries — marked with that place.

2nd
Unemployment Ratebottom 1%
Position · derived 2nd of 182 · 1 = worst · 32.39 · 2025
world median 5.084 (worse)
2nd
Youth Unemployment Ratebottom 1%
Position · derived 2nd of 182 · 1 = worst · 59.93 · 2025
world median 12.83 (worse)
6th
Firms with a Bank Loan or Line of Creditbottom 3%
Position · derived 174th of 179 · 4.781 · 2025
world median 35.95 (worse)
8th
Global Violent Deathsbottom 3%
Position · derived 8th of 206 · 1 = worst · 48.75 · 2021
world median 4.02 (worse) · ▼ 4 pts since 2011
8th
Youth Not in Education, Employment or Trainingbottom 7%
Position · derived 8th of 97 · 1 = worst · 34.61 · 2024
world median 14.31 (worse)
10th
Carbon Intensity of Electricitybottom 5%
Position · derived 10th of 193 · 1 = worst · 717.68 · 2024
world median 468.81 (worse)

A band is a place among the countries each publisher scores, so South Africa 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
72nd
of 141 · 1990
106th
of 193 · 2023
Ranked in 34 of 34 editions
Corruption Perceptions Index
Transparency International
68th
of 173 · 2012
81st
of 181 · 2025
Ranked in 14 of 14 editions
Gender Inequality Index
UNDP Human Development Report Office
48th
of 79 · 1990
95th
of 172 · 2023
Ranked in 34 of 34 editions
Global Innovation Index
World Intellectual Property Organization
61st
of 132 · 2022
61st
of 139 · 2025
Ranked in 4 of 4 editions
Economic Complexity Index
Growth Lab at Harvard University
35th
of 144 · 2000
55th
of 145 · 2024
Ranked in 25 of 30 editions
Government AI Readiness Index
Oxford Insights
59th
of 172 · 2020
65th
of 195 · 2025
Ranked in 6 of 6 editions

Gaining ground

Where South Africa has climbed against the rest of the world, in percentile points.

RISE Energy Efficiency Policy Score+35 pts since 2013
Livestock Production Index+27 pts since 2012

Losing ground

Where South Africa has slipped against the rest of the world, in percentile points.

Deaths in Organized Violence-41 pts since 2015
Open Data Inventory-36 pts since 2015
Internal Displacements by Disaster-27 pts since 2014

05In context

South Africa 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.

Southern Africa

Shares a land border with

Placed either side in the Country Index 2026

Across Southern Africa

Every country in the sub-region, by its position in the world (of 178 placed).

102South Africa
=108Namibia
=116Botswana
=132Lesotho
=140Eswatini

06Places

Landmarks of South Africa

Table Mountain
Flat-topped mountain overlooking the city of Cape Town.
Photo: Danie van der Merwe from Cape Town, South Africa · CC BY 2.0 · via Wikimedia Commons, shown in greyscale
Blyde River Canyon
Canyon in Mpumalanga, one of the largest in the world.
Photo: South African Tourism from South Africa · CC BY 2.0 · via Wikimedia Commons, shown in greyscale
Cape of Good Hope
Rocky headland on the Atlantic coast of the Cape Peninsula.
Photo: Zaian at en.wikipedia · Public domain · via Wikimedia Commons, shown in greyscale
Kruger National Park
Large game reserve in north-eastern South Africa, established as a national park in 1926.
Photo: Bernard DUPONT from FRANCE · CC BY-SA 2.0 · via Wikimedia Commons, shown in greyscale
Drakensberg
Highest mountain range in southern Africa, forming an escarpment along the border with Lesotho.
Photo: Darren Glanville from Acle, Norfolk, UK · CC BY-SA 2.0 · via Wikimedia Commons, shown in greyscale

07The evidence

Every statistic we hold for South Africa

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.

All statistics

Governance & Institutions30

Agriculture Orientation Index45th of 132position · derived0.43Agriculture orientation index (1.0 = spending matches sector size)2024
top 34% of 132 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Agriculture orientation index (1.0 = spending matches sector size)
South Africa 0.43 · world median 0.305 (better)
Best in the world 5.38 (Singapore)
▼ -16 percentile points since 2014
All 24 editions · 2024 table
Central Bank Independence Indexbottom 8%0.354CBI index (0–1, where 1 is the most statutory independence)2023
bottom 8% of 191 countries measured
Ana Carolina Garriga, University of Essex · CBI index (0–1, where 1 is the most statutory independence)
South Africa 0.354 · world median 0.608
Highest 0.974 (Bosnia and Herzegovina)
▼ -18 percentile points since 2013
All 54 editions · 2023 table
Civic Space Ratings82nd of 198position · derived59.79Civic space score (0–100)2025
top 41% of 198 countries measured
CIVICUS · Civic space score (0–100)
South Africa 59.79 · world median 50.46 (better)
Best in the world 100 (Kiribati)
No earlier reading to compare
This statistic · 2025 table
Climate Readiness (ND-GAIN)139th of 192rank0.316ND-GAIN Readiness (0–1, where 1 is the most ready)2024
bottom 27% 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)
South Africa 0.316 · world median 0.387 (worse)
Best in the world 0.749 (Singapore)
▼ -18 percentile points since 2014
All 30 editions · 2024 table
Completeness of Birth Registrationbottom 30%88.6Children under 5 whose birth is registered (%)2025
bottom 30% of 185 countries measured
UNICEF · Children under 5 whose birth is registered (%)
South Africa 88.6 · world median 98.4 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (53 countries tied)
No earlier reading to compare
This statistic · 2025 table
Control of Corruption101st of 211position · derived-0.133Control of Corruption (−2.5 to 2.5)2025
top 48% of 211 countries measured
World Bank Group · Control of Corruption (−2.5 to 2.5)
South Africa -0.133 · world median -0.197 (better)
Best in the world 2.259 (Denmark)
▼ -6 percentile points since 2015
All 27 editions · 2025 table
Corruption Perceptions Index81st of 181rank41CPI score (0–100, where 100 is very clean)2025
top 45% of 182 countries measured · 182 share 181 positions
Transparency International · CPI score (0–100, where 100 is very clean)
South Africa 41 · world median 39 (better)
Best in the world 89 (Denmark)
▼ -8 percentile points since 2015
All 14 editions · 2025 table
Debt Service on External Debt43rd of 109position · derived · 1 = worst16.3Total debt service (% of exports of goods, services and primary income)2024
bottom 39% of 109 countries measured
World Bank Group · Total debt service (% of exports of goods, services and primary income)
South Africa 16.3 · world median 12.93 (worse)
Best in the world 0.285 (Iran)
▼ -13 percentile points since 2014
All 43 editions · 2024 table
External Debt Stocks (% of GNI)54th of 110position · derived · 1 = worst44.83External debt stocks (% of GNI)2024
bottom 49% of 110 countries measured
World Bank Group · External debt stocks (% of GNI)
South Africa 44.83 · world median 43.94 (worse)
Best in the world 2.213 (Iran)
▲ +6 percentile points since 2014
All 44 editions · 2024 table
General Government Consumption44th of 132position · derived18.89General government final consumption expenditure (% of GDP)2025
top 33% of 132 countries measured
World Bank Group · General government final consumption expenditure (% of GDP)
South Africa 18.89 · world median 16.21
Highest 38.94 (Ukraine)
▲ +2 percentile points since 2015
All 56 editions · 2025 table
Government AI Readiness Index65th of 195rank53.94AI readiness score (0–100)2025
top 33% of 195 countries measured
Oxford Insights · AI readiness score (0–100)
South Africa 53.94 · world median 40.19 (better)
Best in the world 88.36 (United States)
No real change since 2020
All 6 editions · 2025 table
Government Effectiveness112th of 209position · derived-0.023Governance estimate (−2.5 weak to 2.5 strong)2025
bottom 47% of 209 countries measured
World Bank Group · Governance estimate (−2.5 weak to 2.5 strong)
South Africa -0.023 · world median 0.101 (worse)
Best in the world 2.092 (Singapore)
▼ -18 percentile points since 2015
All 27 editions · 2025 table
Government Funding per Primary Student24th of 68position · derived20.14Government funding per primary student (% of GDP per capita)2022
top 34% of 68 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Government funding per primary student (% of GDP per capita)
South Africa 20.14 · world median 17.81 (better)
Best in the world 34.57 (South Korea)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2012
All 24 editions · 2022 table
Government Spending on Education13th of 123position · derived6.123Government expenditure on education (% of GDP)2023
top 10% of 123 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Government expenditure on education (% of GDP)
South Africa 6.123 · world median 3.709 (better)
Best in the world 16.39 (Kiribati)
▲ +17 percentile points since 2013
All 51 editions · 2023 table
GovTech Maturity Index102nd of 196position · derived0.623GTMI score (0–1)2025
bottom 48% of 196 countries measured
World Bank Group · GTMI score (0–1)
South Africa 0.623 · world median 0.63 (worse)
Best in the world 0.997 (South Korea)
No real change since 2022
All 2 editions · 2025 table
Judicial Constraints on the Executive Index31st of 175position · derived0.895Judicial constraints on the executive index (0–1)2025
top 17% of 176 countries measured · 176 share 175 positions
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Judicial constraints on the executive index (0–1)
South Africa 0.895 · world median 0.676 (better)
Best in the world 0.988 (Australia)
▲ +9 percentile points since 2015
All 36 editions · 2025 table
Liberal Democracy Index39th of 176position · derived0.633Liberal democracy index (0–1)2025
top 22% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Liberal democracy index (0–1)
South Africa 0.633 · world median 0.353 (better)
Best in the world 0.884 (Denmark)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2015
All 36 editions · 2025 table
Open Data Inventory106th of 168rank51ODIN overall score (0–100)2024
bottom 36% of 168 countries measured
Open Data Watch · ODIN overall score (0–100)
South Africa 51 · world median 59 (worse)
Best in the world 90 (2 countries tied)
▼ -36 percentile points since 2015
All 7 editions · 2024 table
Political Corruption Index87th of 176position · derived · 1 = worst0.538Political corruption index (0–1; higher = more corrupt)2025
bottom 49% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Political corruption index (0–1; higher = more corrupt)
South Africa 0.538 · world median 0.518 (worse)
Best in the world 0.004 (Denmark)
▼ -10 percentile points since 2015
All 36 editions · 2025 table
Public Sector Employment54th of 135position · derived19.46Public sector employment (% of total employment)2022
top 40% of 135 countries measured
World Bank Group · Public sector employment (% of total employment)
South Africa 19.46 · world median 15.01
Highest 47.1 (Maldives)
No earlier reading to compare
This statistic · 2022 table
Public Sector Wage Bill51st of 168position · derived10.24Public sector wage bill (% of GDP)2022
top 30% of 168 countries measured
World Bank Group · Public sector wage bill (% of GDP)
South Africa 10.24 · world median 7.975
Highest 42.65 (Nauru)
No real change since 2012
All 23 editions · 2022 table
Regulatory Quality101st of 209position · derived-0.068Regulatory Quality (−2.5 to 2.5)2025
top 48% of 209 countries measured
World Bank Group · Regulatory Quality (−2.5 to 2.5)
South Africa -0.068 · world median -0.093 (better)
Best in the world 2.113 (Singapore)
▼ -15 percentile points since 2015
All 27 editions · 2025 table
Rule of Law99th of 211position · derived0.041Rule of Law estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)2025
top 47% of 211 countries measured
World Bank Group · Rule of Law estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)
South Africa 0.041 · world median -0.102 (better)
Best in the world 2.012 (Finland)
▼ -5 percentile points since 2015
All 27 editions · 2025 table
Social Protection Coveragebottom 48%49.3Population covered by at least one social protection benefit (%)2025
bottom 48% of 208 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Population covered by at least one social protection benefit (%)
South Africa 49.3 · world median 52.1 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (19 countries tied)
No earlier reading to compare
This statistic · 2025 table
State Authority over Territorybottom 43%94.8Territory under effective state control (% of official territory)2025
bottom 43% of 174 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Territory under effective state control (% of official territory)
South Africa 94.8 · world median 95.3 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (19 countries tied)
▼ -8 percentile points since 2015
All 36 editions · 2025 table
Statistical Performance Indicators61st of 188position · derived81.29SPI overall score (0–100)2024
top 32% of 188 countries measured
World Bank Group · SPI overall score (0–100)
South Africa 81.29 · world median 69.3 (better)
Best in the world 94.14 (Norway)
▼ -10 percentile points since 2016
All 9 editions · 2024 table
Trade Union Density27th of 139position · derived29.06Employees who are trade union members (%)2020
top 19% of 139 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employees who are trade union members (%)
South Africa 29.06 · world median 16.68 (better)
Best in the world 91.42 (Iceland)
No earlier reading to compare
This statistic · 2020 table
V-Dem Electoral Democracy Index42nd of 176position · derived0.743Electoral democracy index (0–1)2025
top 23% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Electoral democracy index (0–1)
South Africa 0.743 · world median 0.497 (better)
Best in the world 0.913 (Denmark)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2015
All 36 editions · 2025 table
Voice and Accountability57th of 206position · derived0.681Voice and Accountability estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)2025
top 27% of 206 countries measured
World Bank Group · Voice and Accountability estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)
South Africa 0.681 · world median -0.022 (better)
Best in the world 1.825 (Norway)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2015
All 27 editions · 2025 table
Women, Business and the Law56th of 190position · derived88.13WBL Index (0–100, where 100 is full legal parity)2024
top 30% of 190 countries measured
World Bank Group · WBL Index (0–100, where 100 is full legal parity)
South Africa 88.13 · world median 81.25 (better)
Best in the world 100 (14 countries tied)
No real change since 2014
All 54 editions · 2024 table

Economy & Innovation29

Account Ownership at a Financial Institution59th of 139position · derived81.13Adults with an account (% of population aged 15+)2024
top 42% of 139 countries measured
World Bank Group · Adults with an account (% of population aged 15+)
South Africa 81.13 · world median 72.83 (better)
Best in the world 99.85 (Iceland)
▼ -5 percentile points since 2014
All 5 editions · 2024 table
Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing Value Added (% of GDP)112th of 158position · derived2.828Agriculture, forestry and fishing value added (% of GDP)2025
bottom 29% of 158 countries measured
World Bank Group · Agriculture, forestry and fishing value added (% of GDP)
South Africa 2.828 · world median 6.572
Highest 47.59 (Niger)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2015
All 51 editions · 2025 table
Container Port Traffic35th of 103position · derived4,303,682Container port traffic (TEU, twenty-foot equivalent units)2024
top 33% of 103 countries measured
UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) · Container port traffic (TEU, twenty-foot equivalent units)
South Africa 4,303,682 · world median 1,827,788
Highest 299,703,800 (China)
▼ -16 percentile points since 2014
All 15 editions · 2024 table
Crop Production Index34th of 195position · derived124.13Crop production index (2014–2016 = 100)2022
top 17% of 195 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Crop production index (2014–2016 = 100)
South Africa 124.13 · world median 106.23 (better)
Best in the world 189.93 (Senegal)
▲ +20 percentile points since 2012
All 62 editions · 2022 table
Digitally-Deliverable Services Exports28th of 170position · derived52.92Digitally-deliverable services exports (% of services exports)2024
top 16% of 170 countries measured
UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) · Digitally-deliverable services exports (% of services exports)
South Africa 52.92 · world median 25.42 (better)
Best in the world 87.15 (Ireland)
▲ +18 percentile points since 2014
All 15 editions · 2024 table
Economic Complexity Index55th of 145rank0.378ECI score (standardised, roughly −3 to +3)2024
top 38% of 145 countries measured
Growth Lab at Harvard University · ECI score (standardised, roughly −3 to +3)
South Africa 0.378 · world median 0.131 (better)
Best in the world 1.729 (Japan)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2014
All 30 editions · 2024 table
Exports of Goods and Services (% of GDP)82nd of 138position · derived31.41Exports of goods and services (% of GDP)2025
bottom 41% of 138 countries measured
World Bank Group · Exports of goods and services (% of GDP)
South Africa 31.41 · world median 36.34
Highest 199.76 (Hong Kong)
▲ +6 percentile points since 2015
All 56 editions · 2025 table
Firms with a Bank Loan or Line of Credit174th of 179position · derived4.781Firms with a bank loan or line of credit (%)2025
bottom 3% of 179 countries measured
World Bank Group · Firms with a bank loan or line of credit (%)
South Africa 4.781 · world median 35.95 (worse)
Best in the world 88.52 (Israel)
No earlier reading to compare
This statistic · 2025 table
Food Production Index69th of 195position · derived113.24Food production index (2014–2016 = 100)2022
top 35% of 195 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Food production index (2014–2016 = 100)
South Africa 113.24 · world median 106.08 (better)
Best in the world 177.49 (Senegal)
▲ +24 percentile points since 2012
All 62 editions · 2022 table
Foreign Direct Investment Inflowsbottom 5%-0.542FDI inflows (% of GDP)2025
bottom 5% of 202 countries measured
UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) · FDI inflows (% of GDP)
South Africa -0.542 · world median 1.968
Highest 2,221 (British Virgin Islands)
▼ -12 percentile points since 2015
All 36 editions · 2025 table
GDP Growth154th of 186position · derived1.115GDP growth (annual %)2025
bottom 17% of 186 countries measured
World Bank Group · GDP growth (annual %)
South Africa 1.115 · world median 3.396 (worse)
Best in the world 19.34 (Guyana)
▼ -10 percentile points since 2015
All 65 editions · 2025 table
GDP per Capita (PPP)109th of 185position · derived13,592GDP per capita (constant 2021 international $, PPP)2025
bottom 41% of 185 countries measured
World Bank Group · GDP per capita (constant 2021 international $, PPP)
South Africa 13,592 · world median 17,265 (worse)
Best in the world 139,593 (Singapore)
▼ -8 percentile points since 2015
All 36 editions · 2025 table
Global Innovation Index61st of 139rank30.14GII score (0–100)2025
top 43% of 139 countries measured
World Intellectual Property Organization · GII score (0–100)
South Africa 30.14 · world median 28.52 (better)
Best in the world 65.96 (Switzerland)
▲ +2 percentile points since 2022
All 4 editions · 2025 table
GNI per Capita (PPP)55th of 102position · derived13,036GNI per capita (constant 2021 international $, PPP)2025
bottom 47% of 102 countries measured
World Bank Group · GNI per capita (constant 2021 international $, PPP)
South Africa 13,036 · world median 14,273 (worse)
Best in the world 116,633 (Singapore)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2015
All 32 editions · 2025 table
Gross Capital Formation (% of GDP)121st of 131position · derived13.87Gross capital formation (% of GDP)2025
bottom 8% of 131 countries measured
World Bank Group · Gross capital formation (% of GDP)
South Africa 13.87 · world median 22.93
Highest 45.27 (Algeria)
▼ -13 percentile points since 2015
All 56 editions · 2025 table
Gross Savings (% of GDP)122nd of 146position · derived13.58Gross savings (% of GDP)2024
bottom 17% of 146 countries measured
World Bank Group · Gross savings (% of GDP)
South Africa 13.58 · world median 22.06
Highest 47.82 (Macau)
▼ -6 percentile points since 2014
All 47 editions · 2024 table
Household Consumption56th of 131position · derived65.83Household and NPISH final consumption expenditure (% of GDP)2025
top 42% of 131 countries measured
World Bank Group · Household and NPISH final consumption expenditure (% of GDP)
South Africa 65.83 · world median 62.04
Highest 133.34 (Somalia)
▲ +7 percentile points since 2015
All 56 editions · 2025 table
ICT Goods Exports62nd of 119position · derived0.89ICT goods exports (% of total goods exports)2024
bottom 49% of 120 countries measured · 120 share 119 positions
UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) · ICT goods exports (% of total goods exports)
South Africa 0.89 · world median 0.975 (worse)
Best in the world 61.45 (Hong Kong)
▼ -13 percentile points since 2014
All 25 editions · 2024 table
Imports of Goods and Services (% of GDP)99th of 138position · derived29.5Imports of goods and services (% of GDP)2025
bottom 28% of 138 countries measured
World Bank Group · Imports of goods and services (% of GDP)
South Africa 29.5 · world median 41.72
Highest 196.89 (Hong Kong)
▲ +6 percentile points since 2015
All 56 editions · 2025 table
Industry Value Added including Construction (% of GDP)84th of 158position · derived24.09Industry, including construction, value added (% of GDP)2025
bottom 47% of 158 countries measured
World Bank Group · Industry, including construction, value added (% of GDP)
South Africa 24.09 · world median 24.65
Highest 75.09 (Guyana)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2015
All 51 editions · 2025 table
Liner Shipping Connectivity Index47th of 175rank117.03LSCI (index, average Q1 2023 = 100)2026
top 28% of 167 countries measured · 167 share 175 positions
UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) · LSCI (index, average Q1 2023 = 100)
South Africa 117.03 · world median 56.21 (better)
Best in the world 1,319 (China)
▼ -6 percentile points since 2016
All 21 editions · 2026 table
Livestock Production Index118th of 194position · derived103.24Livestock production index (2014–2016 = 100)2022
bottom 39% of 194 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Livestock production index (2014–2016 = 100)
South Africa 103.24 · world median 107.06 (worse)
Best in the world 190.08 (Malawi)
▲ +27 percentile points since 2012
All 62 editions · 2022 table
Logistics Performance Index19th of 139rank3.7LPI score (1–5)2023
top 15% of 139 countries measured
World Bank Group · LPI score (1–5)
South Africa 3.7 · world median 2.9 (better)
Best in the world 4.3 (Singapore)
▲ +6 percentile points since 2014
All 7 editions · 2023 table
Manufacturing Value Added (% of GDP)62nd of 132position · derived12.25Manufacturing value added (% of GDP)2025
top 47% of 132 countries measured
World Bank Group · Manufacturing value added (% of GDP)
South Africa 12.25 · world median 11.26
Highest 43.97 (Puerto Rico)
▼ -9 percentile points since 2015
All 49 editions · 2025 table
Researchers per Million Inhabitants86th of 145position · derived444.16Researchers per million inhabitants (full-time equivalent)2024
bottom 41% of 145 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Researchers per million inhabitants (full-time equivalent)
South Africa 444.16 · world median 701.95 (worse)
Best in the world 18,130 (Liechtenstein)
No earlier reading to compare
This statistic · 2024 table
Tariff Rate, Applied, Weighted Mean, All Productstop 43%4.66Applied tariff rate, trade-weighted mean (%)2022
top 43% of 143 countries measured
World Bank Group · Applied tariff rate, trade-weighted mean (%)
South Africa 4.66 · world median 3.66
Highest 29.52 (Bermuda)
▲ +10 percentile points since 2012
All 24 editions · 2022 table
Total Natural Resources Rents (% of GDP)56th of 180position · derived7.329Natural resources rents (% of GDP)2021
top 28% of 197 countries measured · 197 share 180 positions
World Bank Group · Natural resources rents (% of GDP)
South Africa 7.329 · world median 1.708
Highest 61.03 (Libya)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2011
All 52 editions · 2021 table
Trade (% of GDP)91st of 138position · derived60.91Exports plus imports (% of GDP)2025
bottom 34% of 138 countries measured
World Bank Group · Exports plus imports (% of GDP)
South Africa 60.91 · world median 79.68
Highest 396.65 (Hong Kong)
▲ +7 percentile points since 2015
All 56 editions · 2025 table
World Energy Trilemma Index69th of 99rank57.6Trilemma score (0–100)2023
bottom 28% of 126 countries measured · 126 share 99 positions
World Energy Council · Trilemma score (0–100)
South Africa 57.6 · world median 63.8 (worse)
Best in the world 83.2 (Denmark)
No earlier reading to compare
This statistic · 2023 table

Work & Labour18

Average Weekly Hours Worked68th of 182position · derived41.06Average weekly hours actually worked per employed person2025
top 37% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Average weekly hours actually worked per employed person
South Africa 41.06 · world median 38.89
Highest 54.7 (Bhutan)
▼ -13 percentile points since 2015
All 21 editions · 2025 table
Employment in Agriculture126th of 182position · derived5.407Employment in agriculture (% of total employment)2025
bottom 31% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employment in agriculture (% of total employment)
South Africa 5.407 · world median 14.38
Highest 85.34 (Burundi)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2015
All 35 editions · 2025 table
Employment in Industry71st of 182position · derived20.76Employment in industry (% of total employment)2025
top 39% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employment in industry (% of total employment)
South Africa 20.76 · world median 18.88
Highest 39.44 (Oman)
▼ -10 percentile points since 2015
All 35 editions · 2025 table
Employment in Services42nd of 182position · derived73.83Employment in services (% of total employment)2025
top 23% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employment in services (% of total employment)
South Africa 73.83 · world median 59.51
Highest 92.17 (Djibouti)
▲ +2 percentile points since 2015
All 35 editions · 2025 table
Employment-to-Population Ratio168th of 182position · derived37.58Employed share of the population aged 15+ (%)2025
bottom 8% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employed share of the population aged 15+ (%)
South Africa 37.58 · world median 57.72 (worse)
Best in the world 86.9 (Qatar)
▼ -5 percentile points since 2015
All 35 editions · 2025 table
Female Labour Force Participation Rate118th of 182position · derived49.88Women aged 15+ in the labour force (%)2025
bottom 35% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Women aged 15+ in the labour force (%)
South Africa 49.88 · world median 53.36 (worse)
Best in the world 82.91 (Madagascar)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2015
All 36 editions · 2025 table
Female Share of Senior and Middle Management26th of 86position · derived39.27Women in senior and middle management (% of managers)2024
top 29% of 86 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Women in senior and middle management (% of managers)
South Africa 39.27 · world median 35.86 (better)
Best in the world 56.69 (Nauru)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2014
All 10 editions · 2024 table
Firms with a Female Top Manager10th of 179position · derived38.51Firms with a female top manager (%)2025
top 5% of 179 countries measured
World Bank Group · Firms with a female top manager (%)
South Africa 38.51 · world median 19.16 (better)
Best in the world 62.9 (Kiribati)
No earlier reading to compare
This statistic · 2025 table
GDP per Person Employed79th of 168position · derived48,694GDP per person employed (constant 2021 international $)2025
top 47% of 168 countries measured
World Bank Group · GDP per person employed (constant 2021 international $)
South Africa 48,694 · world median 47,384 (better)
Best in the world 262,554 (Luxembourg)
▼ -6 percentile points since 2015
All 35 editions · 2025 table
Labour Force Participation Rate136th of 182position · derived55.58Population aged 15+ in the labour force (%)2025
bottom 25% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Population aged 15+ in the labour force (%)
South Africa 55.58 · world median 61.66 (worse)
Best in the world 87.01 (Qatar)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2015
All 36 editions · 2025 table
Labour Income Share54th of 182position · derived52.64Labour income share of GDP (%)2025
top 29% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Labour income share of GDP (%)
South Africa 52.64 · world median 46.23 (better)
Best in the world 75.13 (Nigeria)
▼ -12 percentile points since 2015
All 22 editions · 2025 table
Labour Productivity per Hour Worked87th of 182position · derived22.84Output per hour worked (constant 2021 international $ at PPP)2025
top 48% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Output per hour worked (constant 2021 international $ at PPP)
South Africa 22.84 · world median 22.16 (better)
Best in the world 164.65 (Ireland)
▼ -5 percentile points since 2015
All 21 editions · 2025 table
Self-Employment Rate129th of 182position · derived17.27Self-employed (% of total employment)2025
bottom 29% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Self-employed (% of total employment)
South Africa 17.27 · world median 31.84
Highest 91.56 (Chad)
▲ +12 percentile points since 2015
All 35 editions · 2025 table
Unemployment Rate2nd of 182position · derived · 1 = worst32.39Unemployment (% of labour force)2025
bottom 1% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Unemployment (% of labour force)
South Africa 32.39 · world median 5.084 (worse)
Best in the world 0.13 (Qatar)
No real change since 2015
All 35 editions · 2025 table
Vulnerable Employment137th of 182position · derived · 1 = worst11.66Vulnerable employment (% of total employment)2025
top 25% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Vulnerable employment (% of total employment)
South Africa 11.66 · world median 28.67 (better)
Best in the world 0.456 (Qatar)
▼ -11 percentile points since 2015
All 35 editions · 2025 table
Working Poverty Ratebottom 37%14.47Employed people living in extreme poverty (%)2025
bottom 37% of 113 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employed people living in extreme poverty (%)
South Africa 14.47 · world median 4.885 (worse)
Best in the world 0.007 (Bhutan)
▼ -6 percentile points since 2015
All 26 editions · 2025 table
Youth Not in Education, Employment or Training8th of 97position · derived · 1 = worst34.61Youth not in education, employment or training (%)2024
bottom 7% of 97 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Youth not in education, employment or training (%)
South Africa 34.61 · world median 14.31 (worse)
Best in the world 3.975 (Iceland)
No real change since 2014
All 23 editions · 2024 table
Youth Unemployment Rate2nd of 182position · derived · 1 = worst59.93Unemployment, ages 15-24 (% of youth labour force)2025
bottom 1% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Unemployment, ages 15-24 (% of youth labour force)
South Africa 59.93 · world median 12.83 (worse)
Best in the world 0.457 (Niger)
No real change since 2015
All 35 editions · 2025 table

Education & Knowledge13

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)
South Africa 0.831 · world median 0.619 (better)
Best in the world 0.978 (Czechia)
▲ +14 percentile points since 2015
All 36 editions · 2025 table
Adult Literacy Rate99th of 172position · derived91.15Adults 15+ who can read and write (%)2024
bottom 43% of 172 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Adults 15+ who can read and write (%)
South Africa 91.15 · world median 93.99 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (3 countries tied)
No earlier reading to compare
This statistic · 2024 table
Expected Years of Schooling91st of 195position · derived13.79Expected years of schooling2023
top 46% of 195 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · Expected years of schooling
South Africa 13.79 · world median 13.34 (better)
Best in the world 21.69 (Monaco)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2013
All 34 editions · 2023 table
Female Share of Researcherstop 25%47.61Researchers who are women (% of headcount; 50 = parity)2024
top 25% of 153 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Researchers who are women (% of headcount; 50 = parity)
South Africa 47.61 · world median 38.17
Highest 76.54 (Myanmar)
No earlier reading to compare
This statistic · 2024 table
Harmonized Test Scores158th of 172position · derived342.76Harmonized test score (TIMSS-equivalent points; 300 = minimum, 625 = advanced attainment)2020
bottom 8% of 172 countries measured
World Bank Group · Harmonized test score (TIMSS-equivalent points; 300 = minimum, 625 = advanced attainment)
South Africa 342.76 · world median 414.32 (worse)
Best in the world 575.27 (Singapore)
▼ -5 percentile points since 2010
All 4 editions · 2020 table
Learning Poverty19th of 125position · derived · 1 = worst82.0210-year-olds who cannot read and understand a simple text (%)2023
bottom 15% of 125 countries measured
World Bank Group and UNESCO Institute for Statistics · 10-year-olds who cannot read and understand a simple text (%)
South Africa 82.02 · world median 34.02 (worse)
Best in the world 2.331 (Ireland)
No earlier reading to compare
This statistic · 2023 table
Learning-Adjusted Years of School136th of 172position · derived5.603Learning-adjusted years of school (0–14)2020
bottom 21% of 172 countries measured
World Bank Group · Learning-adjusted years of school (0–14)
South Africa 5.603 · world median 7.941 (worse)
Best in the world 12.81 (Singapore)
No real change since 2010
All 4 editions · 2020 table
Mean Years of Schooling51st of 193position · derived11.61Mean years of schooling (adults 25+)2023
top 26% of 193 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · Mean years of schooling (adults 25+)
South Africa 11.61 · world median 9.933 (better)
Best in the world 14.3 (Germany)
▲ +12 percentile points since 2013
All 34 editions · 2023 table
Outbound Mobility Ratio, Tertiarybottom 10%1.112Outbound mobility ratio, tertiary (% of tertiary enrolment at home)2023
bottom 10% of 117 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Outbound mobility ratio, tertiary (% of tertiary enrolment at home)
South Africa 1.112 · world median 5.279
Highest 1,724 (Cook Islands)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2013
All 26 editions · 2023 table
Primary Completion Rate86th of 165position · derived97.11Primary completion rate (%)2025
bottom 48% of 165 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Primary completion rate (%)
South Africa 97.11 · world median 97.43 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (5 countries tied)
No real change since 2015
All 45 editions · 2025 table
Upper Secondary Attainment61st of 95position · derived47.2Adults 25+ who completed upper secondary or higher (%)2023
bottom 36% of 95 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Adults 25+ who completed upper secondary or higher (%)
South Africa 47.2 · world median 65.76 (worse)
Best in the world 97.89 (Belarus)
▲ +5 percentile points since 2013
All 23 editions · 2023 table
Upper Secondary Completion Rate96th of 164position · derived54.12Upper secondary completion rate (%)2025
bottom 42% of 164 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Upper secondary completion rate (%)
South Africa 54.12 · world median 64.87 (worse)
Best in the world 99.27 (South Korea)
No real change since 2015
All 45 editions · 2025 table
Youth Literacy Ratebottom 44%97.1715–24 year-olds who can read and write (%)2024
bottom 44% of 174 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · 15–24 year-olds who can read and write (%)
South Africa 97.17 · world median 98.22 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (6 countries tied)
No earlier reading to compare
This statistic · 2024 table

Health & Wellbeing16

Dietary Energy Supply114th of 155position · derived2,659Dietary energy supply (kcal per person per day)2024
bottom 27% of 155 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Dietary energy supply (kcal per person per day)
South Africa 2,659 · world median 2,982 (worse)
Best in the world 3,962 (United States)
▼ -24 percentile points since 2014
All 24 editions · 2024 table
Exclusive Breastfeeding Under Six Months96th of 136position · derived31.61Infants under 6 months exclusively breastfed (%)2024
bottom 30% of 136 countries measured
UNICEF · Infants under 6 months exclusively breastfed (%)
South Africa 31.61 · world median 40.74 (worse)
Best in the world 83.3 (Burundi)
No earlier reading to compare
This statistic · 2024 table
Gender Inequality Index95th of 172rank0.388GII (0 = full equality, 1 = maximum inequality)2023
bottom 45% of 172 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · GII (0 = full equality, 1 = maximum inequality)
South Africa 0.388 · world median 0.351 (worse)
Best in the world 0.003 (Denmark)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2013
All 34 editions · 2023 table
Global Multidimensional Poverty Index64th of 109position · derived · 1 = worst0.025MPI (0–1)2025
top 42% of 109 countries measured
Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI) · MPI (0–1)
South Africa 0.025 · world median 0.039 (better)
Best in the world 0 (Serbia)
▼ -9 percentile points since 2018
All 8 editions · 2025 table
Global Violent Deaths8th of 206position · derived · 1 = worst48.75Violent deaths per 100,000 people2021
bottom 3% of 209 countries measured · 209 share 206 positions
Small Arms Survey · Violent deaths per 100,000 people
South Africa 48.75 · world median 4.02 (worse)
Best in the world 0 (4 countries tied)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2011
All 18 editions · 2021 table
Human Capital Index133rd of 172position · derived0.425HCI score (0–1)2020
bottom 23% of 172 countries measured
World Bank Group · HCI score (0–1)
South Africa 0.425 · world median 0.564 (worse)
Best in the world 0.879 (Singapore)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2010
All 4 editions · 2020 table
Human Development Index106th of 193rank0.741HDI score (0–1)2023
bottom 45% of 193 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · HDI score (0–1)
South Africa 0.741 · world median 0.762 (worse)
Best in the world 0.972 (Iceland)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2013
All 34 editions · 2023 table
Infant Mortality Rate58th of 200position · derived · 1 = worst24.21Deaths before age one (per 1,000 live births)2024
bottom 29% of 200 countries measured
UN Inter-agency Group for Child Mortality Estimation (UN IGME) · Deaths before age one (per 1,000 live births)
South Africa 24.21 · world median 12.26 (worse)
Best in the world 1.214 (San Marino)
No real change since 2014
All 72 editions · 2024 table
Life Expectancy at Age 65141st of 222position · derived14.96Further years a 65-year-old would live at current death rates2023
bottom 37% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Further years a 65-year-old would live at current death rates
South Africa 14.96 · world median 16.39 (worse)
Best in the world 23.21 (Monaco)
▼ -6 percentile points since 2013
All 74 editions · 2023 table
Life Expectancy at Birth187th of 222position · derived66.14Years a newborn would live at current death rates2023
bottom 16% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Years a newborn would live at current death rates
South Africa 66.14 · world median 74.63 (worse)
Best in the world 86.37 (Monaco)
No real change since 2013
All 74 editions · 2023 table
Maternal Mortality Ratio62nd of 195position · derived · 1 = worst117.57Maternal deaths per 100,000 live births2023
bottom 31% of 195 countries measured
UN Maternal Mortality Estimation Inter-Agency Group (MMEIG) · Maternal deaths per 100,000 live births
South Africa 117.57 · world median 46.65 (worse)
Best in the world 0.11 (Cook Islands)
▲ +2 percentile points since 2013
All 24 editions · 2023 table
Pesticide Use per Hectare69th of 178position · derived3.28Pesticide use (kg per hectare of cropland)2024
top 38% of 181 countries measured · 181 share 178 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Pesticide use (kg per hectare of cropland)
South Africa 3.28 · world median 1.73
Highest 37.72 (Antigua and Barbuda)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2014
All 35 editions · 2024 table
Prevalence of Severe Food Insecurity45th of 127position · derived · 1 = worst8.5Population in severe food insecurity (%)2023
bottom 33% of 133 countries measured · 133 share 127 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Population in severe food insecurity (%)
South Africa 8.5 · world median 4.7 (worse)
Best in the world 0 (7 countries tied)
▼ -5 percentile points since 2018
All 9 editions · 2023 table
Prevalence of Undernourishment55th of 104position · derived · 1 = worst10Population undernourished (%)2023
bottom 33% of 165 countries measured · 165 share 104 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Population undernourished (%)
South Africa 10 · world median 5.2 (worse)
Best in the world 2.5 (62 countries tied)
▼ -19 percentile points since 2013
All 23 editions · 2023 table
Stunting Prevalence in Children Under Five56th of 162position · derived · 1 = worst21.33Children under 5 who are stunted (%)2024
bottom 34% of 162 countries measured
UNICEF, WHO and World Bank Group (Joint Malnutrition Estimates) · Children under 5 who are stunted (%)
South Africa 21.33 · world median 13.8 (worse)
Best in the world 0.518 (Latvia)
No earlier reading to compare
This statistic · 2024 table
Under-Five Mortality Rate53rd of 200position · derived · 1 = worst35.06Deaths before age five (per 1,000 live births)2024
bottom 26% of 200 countries measured
UN Inter-agency Group for Child Mortality Estimation (UN IGME) · Deaths before age five (per 1,000 live births)
South Africa 35.06 · world median 14.54 (worse)
Best in the world 1.26 (San Marino)
▼ -2 percentile points since 2014
All 73 editions · 2024 table

Development & Human Capital8

Access to Electricitybottom 25%90.2Population with electricity access (%)2024
bottom 25% of 215 countries measured
World Bank Group · Population with electricity access (%)
South Africa 90.2 · world median 100 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (122 countries tied)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2014
All 35 editions · 2024 table
Cereal Yield33rd of 179position · derived5,703Cereal yield (kg per hectare)2023
top 18% of 179 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Cereal yield (kg per hectare)
South Africa 5,703 · world median 3,072 (better)
Best in the world 29,147 (Oman)
▲ +11 percentile points since 2013
All 63 editions · 2023 table
Child Marriage126th of 143position · derived · 1 = worst3.6Women 20–24 married before 18 (%)2025
top 13% of 145 countries measured · 145 share 143 positions
UNICEF · Women 20–24 married before 18 (%)
South Africa 3.6 · world median 17.1 (better)
Best in the world 0 (3 countries tied)
No earlier reading to compare
This statistic · 2025 table
Coefficient of Human Inequality36th of 169position · derived · 1 = worst32.35Coefficient of Human Inequality (%)2023
bottom 21% of 169 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · Coefficient of Human Inequality (%)
South Africa 32.35 · world median 17.05 (worse)
Best in the world 4.865 (Slovenia)
▼ -6 percentile points since 2013
All 14 editions · 2023 table
Gender Development Index12th of 184position · derived0.996Gender Development Index (1.000 = parity)2023
top 7% of 184 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · Gender Development Index (1.000 = parity)
South Africa 0.996 · world median 0.971 (better)
Best in the world 1 (2 countries tied)
▲ +25 percentile points since 2013
All 34 editions · 2023 table
Inequality-adjusted Human Development Index119th of 169position · derived0.476IHDI (0–1)2023
bottom 30% of 169 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · IHDI (0–1)
South Africa 0.476 · world median 0.609 (worse)
Best in the world 0.923 (Iceland)
▼ -6 percentile points since 2013
All 14 editions · 2023 table
Net Official Development Assistance Received105th of 130position · derived0.4Net ODA received (% of GNI)2023
bottom 19% of 130 countries measured
OECD Development Assistance Committee · Net ODA received (% of GNI)
South Africa 0.4 · world median 2.579
Highest 101.78 (Tuvalu)
▼ -2 percentile points since 2013
All 58 editions · 2023 table
Planetary pressures-adjusted HDI75th of 156position · derived0.685PHDI (0–1)2023
top 48% of 156 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · PHDI (0–1)
South Africa 0.685 · world median 0.678 (better)
Best in the world 0.827 (United Kingdom)
▲ +6 percentile points since 2013
All 34 editions · 2023 table

Environment & Sustainability23

Agricultural Emissions41st of 193position · derived42,638Farm-gate emissions (kt CO₂eq)2023
top 20% of 198 countries measured · 198 share 193 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Farm-gate emissions (kt CO₂eq)
South Africa 42,638 · world median 8,635
Highest 1,044,508 (India)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2013
All 34 editions · 2023 table
Agricultural Irrigated Land76th of 121position · derived1.661Irrigated share of agricultural land (%)2023
bottom 38% of 121 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Irrigated share of agricultural land (%)
South Africa 1.661 · world median 3.66
Highest 89.04 (Bangladesh)
No earlier reading to compare
This statistic · 2023 table
Agricultural Land6th of 209position · derived79.42Agricultural land (% of land area)2023
top 2% of 209 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Agricultural land (% of land area)
South Africa 79.42 · world median 37.96
Highest 86.48 (Côte d’Ivoire)
No real change since 2013
All 63 editions · 2023 table
Arable Land per Person63rd of 206position · derived0.19Arable land (hectares per person)2023
top 30% of 206 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Arable land (hectares per person)
South Africa 0.19 · world median 0.109
Highest 1.459 (Kazakhstan)
No real change since 2013
All 63 editions · 2023 table
Carbon Intensity of Electricity10th of 193position · derived · 1 = worst717.68Carbon intensity (gCO₂e per kWh generated)2024
bottom 5% of 193 countries measured
Ember · Carbon intensity (gCO₂e per kWh generated)
South Africa 717.68 · world median 468.81 (worse)
Best in the world 23.49 (Ethiopia)
No real change since 2014
All 25 editions · 2024 table
Climate Vulnerability (ND-GAIN)87th of 190rank0.436ND-GAIN Vulnerability (0–1, where 1 is the most vulnerable)2024
top 46% 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)
South Africa 0.436 · world median 0.45 (better)
Best in the world 0.263 (Norway)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2014
All 30 editions · 2024 table
CO₂ Emissions per Capita41st of 210position · derived · 1 = worst6.872Fossil CO₂ (tonnes per person)2024
bottom 19% of 210 countries measured
Global Carbon Project · Fossil CO₂ (tonnes per person)
South Africa 6.872 · world median 3.21 (worse)
Best in the world 0.054 (DR Congo)
No real change since 2014
All 75 editions · 2024 table
Ecological Footprint56th of 126position · derived · 1 = worst2.56Ecological Footprint (global hectares per person)2025
bottom 44% of 126 countries measured
Global Footprint Network · Ecological Footprint (global hectares per person)
South Africa 2.56 · world median 2.296 (worse)
Best in the world 0.514 (Yemen)
▲ +5 percentile points since 2015
All 65 editions · 2025 table
Energy Intensity of GDP (PPP)bottom 7%6.756Energy use per dollar of GDP (thousand Btu per US$ at PPP)2024
bottom 7% of 192 countries measured
U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) · Energy use per dollar of GDP (thousand Btu per US$ at PPP)
South Africa 6.756 · world median 2.738 (worse)
Best in the world 0.666 (Chad)
No real change since 2014
All 37 editions · 2024 table
Fertilizer Consumption per Hectare102nd of 188position · derived77.19Fertilizer consumption (kg per hectare of arable land)2023
bottom 47% 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)
South Africa 77.19 · world median 87.36
Highest 2,926 (Malaysia)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2013
All 63 editions · 2023 table
Forest Area147th of 210position · derived13.97Forest area (% of land area)2023
bottom 31% of 213 countries measured · 213 share 210 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Forest area (% of land area)
South Africa 13.97 · world median 31.08
Highest 94.45 (Suriname)
No real change since 2013
All 34 editions · 2023 table
Internal Displacements by Disaster51st of 160position · derived · 1 = worst36,000New displacements by disaster (people)2024
bottom 31% of 160 countries measured
Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC) · New displacements by disaster (people)
South Africa 36,000 · world median 4,750 (worse)
Best in the world 1 (Serbia)
▼ -27 percentile points since 2014
All 17 editions · 2024 table
Land Under Cereal Production37th of 179position · derived3,334,465Land under cereal production (hectares)2023
top 20% of 180 countries measured · 180 share 179 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Land under cereal production (hectares)
South Africa 3,334,465 · world median 689,278
Highest 103,715,108 (India)
No real change since 2013
All 63 editions · 2023 table
Livestock Density165th of 188position · derived0.14Livestock units per hectare of agricultural land2023
bottom 12% of 188 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Livestock units per hectare of agricultural land
South Africa 0.14 · world median 0.535
Highest 43.97 (Singapore)
No real change since 2013
All 63 editions · 2023 table
Low-Carbon Share of Electricity Generation137th of 190position · derived15.66Low-carbon sources (% of electricity generated)2024
bottom 29% of 193 countries measured · 193 share 190 positions
Ember · Low-carbon sources (% of electricity generated)
South Africa 15.66 · world median 35.66 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (7 countries tied)
▼ -2 percentile points since 2014
All 25 editions · 2024 table
ND-GAIN Country Index116th of 190rank43.97ND-GAIN Index (0–100, where 100 is best placed to adapt)2024
bottom 39% 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)
South Africa 43.97 · world median 47.44 (worse)
Best in the world 71.85 (Norway)
▼ -10 percentile points since 2014
All 30 editions · 2024 table
Organic Agricultural Area132nd of 150position · derived0.03Organic share of agricultural land (%)2024
bottom 14% of 156 countries measured · 156 share 150 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Organic share of agricultural land (%)
South Africa 0.03 · world median 0.725 (worse)
Best in the world 86.38 (Samoa)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2014
All 20 editions · 2024 table
Renewable Internal Freshwater Resources per Capita145th of 181position · derived718.2Renewable internal freshwater (cubic metres per person)2022
bottom 20% of 181 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Renewable internal freshwater (cubic metres per person)
South Africa 718.2 · world median 2,528 (worse)
Best in the world 445,023 (Iceland)
No real change since 2012
All 62 editions · 2022 table
Renewable Share of Electricity Generation142nd of 190position · derived12.51Renewables (% of electricity generated)2024
bottom 27% of 193 countries measured · 193 share 190 positions
Ember · Renewables (% of electricity generated)
South Africa 12.51 · world median 31.14 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (7 countries tied)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2014
All 25 editions · 2024 table
Water Stress26th of 177position · derived · 1 = worst67.6Freshwater withdrawal as a share of available resources (%)2023
bottom 14% of 177 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Freshwater withdrawal as a share of available resources (%)
South Africa 67.6 · world median 10 (worse)
Best in the world 0.03 (Republic of the Congo)
No real change since 2013
All 24 editions · 2023 table
Water Withdrawal by Sector91st of 171position · derived59.4Freshwater withdrawn for agriculture (% of total)2022
bottom 48% of 173 countries measured · 173 share 171 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Freshwater withdrawn for agriculture (% of total)
South Africa 59.4 · world median 62.14
Highest 99.48 (Somalia)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2012
All 33 editions · 2022 table
Wind and Solar Share of Electricity Generationtop 33%11.88Wind and solar (% of electricity generated)2024
top 33% of 193 countries measured
Ember · Wind and solar (% of electricity generated)
South Africa 11.88 · world median 5.769 (better)
Best in the world 69.12 (Denmark)
▲ +6 percentile points since 2014
All 25 editions · 2024 table
World Risk Index58th of 193position · derived · 1 = worst9.5WorldRiskIndex score (0–100, where 100 is the most at risk)2025
bottom 30% 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)
South Africa 9.5 · world median 4.17 (worse)
Best in the world 0.18 (Monaco)
No real change since 2015
All 26 editions · 2025 table

Gender & Equality4

Gender Social Norms Index30th of 91position · derived · 1 = worst97.39People with at least one bias against gender equality (%)2023
bottom 32% of 91 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · People with at least one bias against gender equality (%)
South Africa 97.39 · world median 91.81 (worse)
Best in the world 27.39 (New Zealand)
No earlier reading to compare
This statistic · 2023 table
Sex Ratio at Birthbottom 27%104Male births per 100 female births2023
bottom 27% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Male births per 100 female births
South Africa 104 · world median 105.1
Highest 116.3 (Liechtenstein)
▼ -6 percentile points since 2013
All 74 editions · 2023 table
Social Institutions and Gender Index76th of 140position · derived · 1 = worst23SIGI score (0 = no discrimination, 100 = absolute)2023
top 46% of 140 countries measured
OECD · SIGI score (0 = no discrimination, 100 = absolute)
South Africa 23 · world median 25.2 (better)
Best in the world 6.7 (Norway)
No earlier reading to compare
This statistic · 2023 table
Women's Political Empowerment Index59th of 176position · derived0.83Women's political empowerment index (0–1)2025
top 33% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Women's political empowerment index (0–1)
South Africa 0.83 · world median 0.772 (better)
Best in the world 0.954 (Denmark)
▼ -9 percentile points since 2015
All 36 editions · 2025 table

Democracy & Civil Liberties8

Deliberative Democracy Index35th of 176position · derived0.651Deliberative democracy index (0–1)2025
top 19% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Deliberative democracy index (0–1)
South Africa 0.651 · world median 0.339 (better)
Best in the world 0.867 (Denmark)
▲ +6 percentile points since 2015
All 36 editions · 2025 table
Egalitarian Democracy Index49th of 176position · derived0.518Egalitarian democracy index (0–1)2025
top 27% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Egalitarian democracy index (0–1)
South Africa 0.518 · world median 0.321 (better)
Best in the world 0.876 (Denmark)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2015
All 36 editions · 2025 table
Freedom of Expression and Alternative Sources of Information Index51st of 176position · derived0.837Freedom of expression index (0–1)2025
top 29% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Freedom of expression index (0–1)
South Africa 0.837 · world median 0.693 (better)
Best in the world 0.98 (Denmark)
No real change since 2015
All 36 editions · 2025 table
Government Censorship of the Media37th of 176position · derived1.677Original latent estimate (≈ −3 to +3.5); higher = less censorship2025
top 21% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Original latent estimate (≈ −3 to +3.5); higher = less censorship
South Africa 1.677 · world median 0.565 (better)
Best in the world 3.489 (Belgium)
▲ +25 percentile points since 2015
All 36 editions · 2025 table
Government Internet Shutdowns69th of 176position · derived1.351Original latent estimate (≈ −4 to +2); higher = fewer shutdowns2025
top 39% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Original latent estimate (≈ −4 to +2); higher = fewer shutdowns
South Africa 1.351 · world median 1.023 (better)
Best in the world 2.081 (Spain)
▲ +23 percentile points since 2015
All 26 editions · 2025 table
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)
South Africa 0 · world median 0.1 (better)
Best in the world 0 (76 countries tied)
▲ +19 percentile points since 2015
All 36 editions · 2025 table
Participatory Democracy Index45th of 176position · derived0.47Participatory democracy index (0–1)2025
top 25% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Participatory democracy index (0–1)
South Africa 0.47 · world median 0.298 (better)
Best in the world 0.785 (Switzerland)
No real change since 2015
All 36 editions · 2025 table
Physical Violence Index72nd of 176position · derived0.849Freedom from political killings and torture (0–1)2025
top 41% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Freedom from political killings and torture (0–1)
South Africa 0.849 · world median 0.79 (better)
Best in the world 0.989 (2 countries tied)
No real change since 2015
All 36 editions · 2025 table

Peace & Security6

Deaths in Organized Violence46th of 59position · derived · 1 = worst17Deaths in organized violence (people)2025
bottom 23% of 196 countries measured · 196 share 59 positions
Uppsala Conflict Data Program (UCDP) · Deaths in organized violence (people)
South Africa 17 · world median 0 (worse)
Best in the world 0 (138 countries tied)
▼ -41 percentile points since 2015
All 37 editions · 2025 table
Global Militarisation Index118th of 149rank · 1 = worst67.18GMI score (higher means a heavier military weight)2023
top 21% of 149 countries measured
Bonn International Centre for Conflict Studies (BICC) · GMI score (higher means a heavier military weight)
South Africa 67.18 · world median 100.66 (better)
Best in the world 3.512 (Haiti)
▲ +6 percentile points since 2013
All 34 editions · 2023 table
INFORM Risk Index54th of 191position · derived · 1 = worst5.1INFORM Risk score (0–10, where 10 is the highest risk)2025
bottom 29% 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)
South Africa 5.1 · world median 3.7 (worse)
Best in the world 0.7 (Singapore)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2016
All 10 editions · 2026 table
Political Stability and Absence of Violence146th of 211position · derived-0.382Political Stability estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)2025
bottom 31% of 211 countries measured
World Bank Group · Political Stability estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)
South Africa -0.382 · world median 0.171 (worse)
Best in the world 1.563 (Andorra)
▼ -5 percentile points since 2015
All 27 editions · 2025 table
Political Violence by Non-State Actors86th of 171position · derived · 1 = worst-0.661Original latent estimate (≈ −3.5 to +4); higher = more violence2025
top 50% of 171 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Original latent estimate (≈ −3.5 to +4); higher = more violence
South Africa -0.661 · world median -0.661
Best in the world -3.182 (Luxembourg)
▲ +25 percentile points since 2015
All 36 editions · 2025 table
Refugees by Country of Origintop 49%1,319Refugees under UNHCR's mandate from this country, end of year (people)2025
top 49% of 202 countries measured
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency · Refugees under UNHCR's mandate from this country, end of year (people)
South Africa 1,319 · world median 1,272
Highest 5,224,131 (Ukraine)
▲ +7 percentile points since 2015
All 34 editions · 2025 table

Risk & Resilience2

Asylum-Seekers by Country of Asylumtop 11%82,358Asylum-seekers awaiting a decision, end of year (people)2025
top 11% of 177 countries measured
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency · Asylum-seekers awaiting a decision, end of year (people)
South Africa 82,358 · world median 1,836
Highest 3,718,945 (United States)
▼ -11 percentile points since 2015
All 26 editions · 2025 table
Refugee Population by Country of Asylumtop 34%55,177Refugees under UNHCR's mandate hosted, end of year (people)2025
top 34% of 177 countries measured
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency · Refugees under UNHCR's mandate hosted, end of year (people)
South Africa 55,177 · world median 12,269
Highest 2,655,191 (Germany)
▼ -16 percentile points since 2015
All 36 editions · 2025 table

Mobility & Trade4

Average Time to Clear Exports Through Customs43rd of 174position · derived · 1 = worst8.219Average time to clear exports through customs (days)2025
bottom 24% of 175 countries measured · 175 share 174 positions
World Bank Group · Average time to clear exports through customs (days)
South Africa 8.219 · world median 4.456 (worse)
Best in the world 1 (2 countries tied)
No earlier reading to compare
This statistic · 2025 table
Cereal Import Dependency Ratiobottom 22%0.7Share of the cereal supply that is imported (%)2022
bottom 22% of 161 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Share of the cereal supply that is imported (%)
South Africa 0.7 · world median 42.8
Highest 100 (16 countries tied)
▼ -8 percentile points since 2012
All 22 editions · 2022 table
Cost of Sending Remittances28th of 93position · derived · 1 = worst4.554Average cost of sending $200 home (% of the amount)2023
bottom 29% of 93 countries measured
World Bank Group · Average cost of sending $200 home (% of the amount)
South Africa 4.554 · world median 3.225 (worse)
Best in the world -49.69 (Malawi)
▲ +19 percentile points since 2016
All 8 editions · 2023 table
Net Migration Ratetop 21%3.61Net migrants per 1,000 population2023
top 21% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Net migrants per 1,000 population
South Africa 3.61 · world median -0.133
Highest 39.62 (South Sudan)
No real change since 2013
All 74 editions · 2023 table

Poverty & Inequality1

Poverty Headcount at National Poverty Linestop 24%37.9Population below the national poverty line (%)2025
top 24% of 160 countries measured
World Bank Group · Population below the national poverty line (%)
South Africa 37.9 · world median 21.8
Highest 82.3 (South Sudan)
No earlier reading to compare
This statistic · 2025 table

Money & Public Finance1

Short-Term Share of External Debtbottom 12%26.62Short-term debt (% of total external debt)2024
bottom 12% of 118 countries measured
World Bank Group · Short-term debt (% of total external debt)
South Africa 26.62 · world median 9.376 (worse)
Best in the world 0 (5 countries tied)
No real change since 2014
All 55 editions · 2024 table

Energy5

Net Electricity Imports (share of generation)bottom 22%-0.525Net electricity imports (% of domestic generation)2024
bottom 22% of 193 countries measured
Ember · Net electricity imports (% of domestic generation)
South Africa -0.525 · world median 0
Highest 707.07 (Palestine)
▲ +5 percentile points since 2014
All 25 editions · 2024 table
Nuclear Share of Electricity Generationtop 14%3.151Nuclear (% of electricity generated)2024
top 14% of 183 countries measured
Ember · Nuclear (% of electricity generated)
South Africa 3.151 · world median 0
Highest 67.4 (France)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2014
All 25 editions · 2024 table
Primary Energy Consumption per Capitatop 31%84.28Energy use per person (million Btu)2024
top 31% of 192 countries measured
U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) · Energy use per person (million Btu)
South Africa 84.28 · world median 49.5
Highest 766.07 (Qatar)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2014
All 45 editions · 2024 table
RISE Energy Efficiency Policy Scoretop 26%66.11Energy efficiency policy score (0–100)2023
top 26% of 140 countries measured
World Bank Group (ESMAP) · Energy efficiency policy score (0–100)
South Africa 66.11 · world median 48.23 (better)
Best in the world 95.93 (South Korea)
▲ +35 percentile points since 2013
All 14 editions · 2023 table
RISE Renewable Energy Policy Scoretop 25%54.02Renewable energy policy score (0–100)2023
top 25% of 140 countries measured
World Bank Group (ESMAP) · Renewable energy policy score (0–100)
South Africa 54.02 · world median 33.26 (better)
Best in the world 89.52 (Denmark)
▲ +24 percentile points since 2013
All 14 editions · 2023 table

Digital & Technology2

Mobile Phone Ownership95th of 140position · derived86.97Adults who own a mobile phone (% of population aged 15+)2024
bottom 32% of 140 countries measured
World Bank Group · Adults who own a mobile phone (% of population aged 15+)
South Africa 86.97 · world median 91.68 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (Libya)
No earlier reading to compare
This statistic · 2024 table
Smartphone Ownership90th of 140position · derived67.51Adults whose main mobile phone is a smartphone (% of population aged 15+)2024
bottom 36% of 140 countries measured
World Bank Group · Adults whose main mobile phone is a smartphone (% of population aged 15+)
South Africa 67.51 · world median 78.78 (worse)
Best in the world 97.36 (Sweden)
No earlier reading to compare
This statistic · 2024 table

People & Population10

Crude Birth Ratetop 37%18.77Births per 1,000 population2023
top 37% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Births per 1,000 population
South Africa 18.77 · world median 13.79
Highest 46.36 (Central African Republic)
No real change since 2013
All 74 editions · 2023 table
Crude Death Ratetop 28%9.239Deaths per 1,000 population2023
top 28% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Deaths per 1,000 population
South Africa 9.239 · world median 7.303
Highest 25.58 (Vatican City)
▼ -7 percentile points since 2013
All 74 editions · 2023 table
Median Age of the Populationbottom 41%28.21Median age (years)2023
bottom 41% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Median age (years)
South Africa 28.21 · world median 31.52
Highest 59.63 (Vatican City)
No real change since 2013
All 74 editions · 2023 table
Population Aged 65 and Overbottom 42%6.515Share of the total population aged 65 and over (%)2023
bottom 42% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Share of the total population aged 65 and over (%)
South Africa 6.515 · world median 8.32
Highest 44.7 (Vatican City)
No real change since 2013
All 74 editions · 2023 table
Population Densitybottom 30%51.78People per square kilometre of land2023
bottom 30% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · People per square kilometre of land
South Africa 51.78 · world median 96.92
Highest 26,145 (Monaco)
No real change since 2013
All 74 editions · 2023 table
Population Growth Ratetop 38%1.315Population growth (% per year)2023
top 38% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Population growth (% per year)
South Africa 1.315 · world median 0.888
Highest 5.862 (South Sudan)
No real change since 2013
All 74 editions · 2023 table
Population Under Age 15top 42%26.08Share of the total population aged 0–14 (%)2023
top 42% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Share of the total population aged 0–14 (%)
South Africa 26.08 · world median 22.71
Highest 49.17 (Central African Republic)
No real change since 2013
All 74 editions · 2023 table
Sex Ratio of the Total Populationbottom 21%94.73Males per 100 females2023
bottom 21% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Males per 100 females
South Africa 94.73 · world median 98.48
Highest 251.08 (Qatar)
▲ +7 percentile points since 2013
All 74 editions · 2023 table
Total Dependency Ratiobottom 25%48.37People aged 0–14 and 65+ per 100 people aged 15–642023
bottom 25% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · People aged 0–14 and 65+ per 100 people aged 15–64
South Africa 48.37 · world median 54.73
Highest 105.18 (Central African Republic)
▼ -21 percentile points since 2013
All 74 editions · 2023 table
Total Fertility Ratetop 43%2.216Live births per woman2023
top 43% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Live births per woman
South Africa 2.216 · world median 1.962
Highest 6.132 (Somalia)
No real change since 2013
All 74 editions · 2023 table

Not currently covered

The newest edition of these reports does not include South Africa. Usually the publisher does not cover it; sometimes it has dropped out of a ranking it used to appear in.

08Keep reading

Explore further

More countries

09Method

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 South Africa 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: 37 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

All 6 photographs of South Africa on this page come from Wikimedia Commons and are shown in greyscale. The photographer and the licence are named beside each one.

Cite this page

Nations Inquiry (2026). South Africa: country statistics, rankings and trends. https://nationsinquiry.com/countries/south-africa

South Africa in the Nations Inquiry Country Index