Photo: Digr · CC BY-SA 3.0 · via Wikimedia Commons, shown in greyscale
Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe places highest on GDP Growth (top 4% worldwide) and lowest on Government Spending on Education (bottom 2%).
Zimbabwe in the Nations Inquiry Country Index
At a glance
Population
16,340,822
people
since 1950
Land area
386,850
km²
since 1961
GDP per person
5,529
international $, PPP
since 1990
Life expectancy
62.77
years at birth
since 1950
Human development
0.598
HDI, 0–1
since 1990
Unemployment
9.293
% 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 Zimbabwe
Key facts about Zimbabwe
- Capital
- Harare
- Official languages
- Barwe, Chewa, English +13 more
- Currencies
- Zimbabwe ZiG (ZWG), United States dollar (USD)
- ISO code
- ZWE · ZW
- Domain · dialling
- .zw · +263
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 Zimbabwe’s place among the countries with a standing on that topic, built from a few key statistics chosen to measure different things.
joint73rdof 181
From 3 of 3 key statistics
85thof 183
From 4 of 4 key statistics
101stof 193
From 3 of 3 key statistics
102ndof 182
From 4 of 4 key statistics
119thof 192
From 3 of 3 key statistics
joint126thof 177
From 4 of 4 key statistics
149thof 198
From 3 of 3 key statistics
157thof 198
From 3 of 3 key statistics
143rdof 176
From 4 of 4 key statistics
161stof 196
From 3 of 3 key statistics
162ndof 194
From 4 of 4 key statistics
179thof 200
From 4 of 4 key statistics
joint156thof 171
From 4 of 4 key statistics
143rdof 147
From 2 of 3 key statistics
155thof 159
From 2 of 2 key statistics
171stof 175
From 3 of 4 key statistics
Each standing is built from a few key statistics chosen to measure different things. Select a subject for Zimbabwe’s readings on it, or see every statistic held for Zimbabwe in the table further down this page.
03Highs and lows
Where Zimbabwe stands out
The two ends of its own record: every statistic on which Zimbabwe 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 Zimbabwe does best6
In the top third of all countries measured. 2 are within ten places of the best in the world, in a field of at least 50 countries — marked with that place.
- 1stDeaths in Organized Violencetop 35%
Position · derived 59th of 59 · 1 = worst · 0 · 2025
world median 0
- 8thGDP Growthtop 4%
Position · derived 8th of 186 · 8.107 · 2025
world median 3.396 (better) · ▲ 63 pts since 2015
- Labour Income Sharetop 7%
Position · derived 14th of 182 · 60.33 · 2025
world median 46.23 (better) · ▲ 10 pts since 2015
- Crop Production Indextop 18%
Position · derived 36th of 195 · 123.48 · 2022
world median 106.23 (better) · ▼ 10 pts since 2012
- Global Militarisation Indextop 18%
Rank 122nd of 149 · 1 = worst · 65.42 · 2023
world median 100.66 (better) · ▲ 40 pts since 2013
Position · derived 35th of 182 · 62.16 · 2025
world median 53.36 (better) · ▲ 6 pts since 2015
Where Zimbabwe struggles most9
In the bottom third of all countries measured. 9 are within ten places of the worst in the world, in a field of at least 50 countries — marked with that place.
- 3rdGovernment Spending on Educationbottom 2%
Position · derived 121st of 123 · 0.385 · 2023
world median 3.709 (worse) · ▼ 83 pts since 2013
- 4thTertiary Enrolment Ratiobottom 3%
Position · derived 92nd of 95 · 7.749 · 2024
world median 52.77 (worse) · ▼ 11 pts since 2015
- 5thUpper Secondary Completion Ratebottom 2%
Position · derived 160th of 164 · 8.15 · 2025
world median 64.87 (worse) · ▼ 4 pts since 2015
- 6thInfant Mortality Ratebottom 3%
Position · derived 6th of 200 · 1 = worst · 62.44 · 2024
world median 12.26 (worse) · ▼ 9 pts since 2014
- 6th
Position · derived 6th of 97 · 1 = worst · 35.99 · 2024
world median 14.31 (worse) · ▼ 52 pts since 2014
- 8thICT Goods Exportsbottom 6%
Position · derived 112th of 119 · 0.02 · 2024
world median 0.975 (worse) · ▼ 10 pts since 2014
- 8thOrganic Agricultural Areabottom 6%
Position · derived 143rd of 150 · 0.01 · 2024
world median 0.725 (worse) · ▲ 4 pts since 2014
- 9thInbound Mobility Rate, Tertiarybottom 12%
Position · derived 67th of 75 · 0.489 · 2024
world median 5.494 (worse) · ▼ 4 pts since 2015
- 10th
A band is a place among the countries each publisher scores, so Zimbabwe 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
102nd
of 141 · 1990
153rd
of 193 · 2023
Ranked in 34 of 34 editions
Corruption Perceptions Index
Transparency International
162nd
of 173 · 2012
157th
of 181 · 2025
Ranked in 14 of 14 editions
Gender Inequality Index
UNDP Human Development Report Office
73rd
of 101 · 1995
140th
of 172 · 2023
Ranked in 29 of 34 editions
Global Innovation Index
World Intellectual Property Organization
107th
of 132 · 2022
129th
of 139 · 2025
Ranked in 4 of 4 editions
Economic Complexity Index
Growth Lab at Harvard University
84th
of 140 · 1995
121st
of 145 · 2024
Ranked in 30 of 30 editions
Government AI Readiness Index
Oxford Insights
154th
of 172 · 2020
126th
of 195 · 2025
Ranked in 6 of 6 editions
Gaining ground
Where Zimbabwe has climbed against the rest of the world, in percentile points.
- External Debt Stocks (% of GNI)+38 pts since 2014
Losing ground
Where Zimbabwe has slipped against the rest of the world, in percentile points.
- Youth Unemployment Rate-38 pts since 2015
05In context
Zimbabwe and its neighbours
A position reads best beside the countries around it. Every position below is a place in the world ranking of 178, not within the region.
Shares a land border with
Placed either side in the Country Index 2026
Across Eastern Africa
Every country in the sub-region, by its position in the world (of 178 placed).
- 46
Mauritius - =48
Seychelles - =116
Kenya - 122
Rwanda - 128
Zambia - =129
Uganda - =135
Malawi - =135
Tanzania - 143
Ethiopia - =150
Comoros - 154
Djibouti - 157
Burundi - =159
Madagascar - =163
Mozambique - =163Zimbabwe
- =177
Somalia - =177
South Sudan - —
Eritreanot placed - —Somalilandnot placed
06The evidence
Every statistic we hold for Zimbabwe
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%0.455CBI 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)
Zimbabwe 0.455 · world median 0.608
Highest 0.974 (Bosnia and Herzegovina)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2013
Civic Space Ratings146th of 198position · derived28.48Civic space score (0–100)2025
bottom 26% of 198 countries measured
CIVICUS · Civic space score (0–100)
Zimbabwe 28.48 · world median 50.46 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (Kiribati)
No earlier reading to compare
Climate Readiness (ND-GAIN)182nd of 192rank0.22ND-GAIN Readiness (0–1, where 1 is the most ready)2024
bottom 5% 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)
Zimbabwe 0.22 · world median 0.387 (worse)
Best in the world 0.749 (Singapore)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2014
Completeness of Birth Registrationbottom 9%48.7Children under 5 whose birth is registered (%)2025
bottom 9% of 185 countries measured
UNICEF · Children under 5 whose birth is registered (%)
Zimbabwe 48.7 · world median 98.4 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (53 countries tied)
No earlier reading to compare
Control of Corruption190th of 211position · derived-1.292Control of Corruption (−2.5 to 2.5)2025
bottom 10% of 211 countries measured
World Bank Group · Control of Corruption (−2.5 to 2.5)
Zimbabwe -1.292 · world median -0.197 (worse)
Best in the world 2.259 (Denmark)
No real change since 2015
Corruption Perceptions Index157th of 181rank22CPI score (0–100, where 100 is very clean)2025
bottom 13% of 182 countries measured · 182 share 181 positions
Transparency International · CPI score (0–100, where 100 is very clean)
Zimbabwe 22 · world median 39 (worse)
Best in the world 89 (Denmark)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2015
Country Policy and Institutional Assessment45th of 78position · derived3.108IDA Resource Allocation Index (1 = low to 6 = high)2025
bottom 43% of 78 countries measured
World Bank Group · IDA Resource Allocation Index (1 = low to 6 = high)
Zimbabwe 3.108 · world median 3.246 (worse)
Best in the world 4.225 (Rwanda)
▲ +27 percentile points since 2015
External Debt Stocks (% of GNI)79th of 110position · derived · 1 = worst32.98External debt stocks (% of GNI)2024
top 28% of 110 countries measured
World Bank Group · External debt stocks (% of GNI)
Zimbabwe 32.98 · world median 43.94 (better)
Best in the world 2.213 (Iran)
▲ +38 percentile points since 2014
Government AI Readiness Index126th of 195rank29.53AI readiness score (0–100)2025
bottom 36% of 195 countries measured
Oxford Insights · AI readiness score (0–100)
Zimbabwe 29.53 · world median 40.19 (worse)
Best in the world 88.36 (United States)
▲ +25 percentile points since 2020
Government Effectiveness179th of 209position · derived-0.886Governance estimate (−2.5 weak to 2.5 strong)2025
bottom 14% of 209 countries measured
World Bank Group · Governance estimate (−2.5 weak to 2.5 strong)
Zimbabwe -0.886 · world median 0.101 (worse)
Best in the world 2.092 (Singapore)
No real change since 2015
Government Spending on Education121st of 123position · derived0.385Government expenditure on education (% of GDP)2023
bottom 2% of 123 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Government expenditure on education (% of GDP)
Zimbabwe 0.385 · world median 3.709 (worse)
Best in the world 16.39 (Kiribati)
▼ -83 percentile points since 2013
GovTech Maturity Index127th of 196position · derived0.452GTMI score (0–1)2025
bottom 35% of 196 countries measured
World Bank Group · GTMI score (0–1)
Zimbabwe 0.452 · world median 0.63 (worse)
Best in the world 0.997 (South Korea)
▼ -5 percentile points since 2022
Judicial Constraints on the Executive Index142nd of 175position · derived0.182Judicial constraints on the executive index (0–1)2025
bottom 19% of 176 countries measured · 176 share 175 positions
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Judicial constraints on the executive index (0–1)
Zimbabwe 0.182 · world median 0.676 (worse)
Best in the world 0.988 (Australia)
▼ -17 percentile points since 2015
Liberal Democracy Index122nd of 176position · derived0.147Liberal democracy index (0–1)2025
bottom 31% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Liberal democracy index (0–1)
Zimbabwe 0.147 · world median 0.353 (worse)
Best in the world 0.884 (Denmark)
No real change since 2015
Open Data Inventory125th of 168rank45ODIN overall score (0–100)2024
bottom 25% of 168 countries measured
Open Data Watch · ODIN overall score (0–100)
Zimbabwe 45 · world median 59 (worse)
Best in the world 90 (2 countries tied)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2015
Political Corruption Index20th of 176position · derived · 1 = worst0.852Political corruption index (0–1; higher = more corrupt)2025
bottom 11% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Political corruption index (0–1; higher = more corrupt)
Zimbabwe 0.852 · world median 0.518 (worse)
Best in the world 0.004 (Denmark)
▼ -17 percentile points since 2015
Public Sector Employment110th of 135position · derived6.196Public sector employment (% of total employment)2022
bottom 19% of 135 countries measured
World Bank Group · Public sector employment (% of total employment)
Zimbabwe 6.196 · world median 15.01
Highest 47.1 (Maldives)
No earlier reading to compare
Public Sector Wage Bill129th of 168position · derived5.234Public sector wage bill (% of GDP)2022
bottom 23% of 168 countries measured
World Bank Group · Public sector wage bill (% of GDP)
Zimbabwe 5.234 · world median 7.975
Highest 42.65 (Nauru)
▼ -63 percentile points since 2012
Regulatory Quality191st of 209position · derived-1.275Regulatory Quality (−2.5 to 2.5)2025
bottom 9% of 209 countries measured
World Bank Group · Regulatory Quality (−2.5 to 2.5)
Zimbabwe -1.275 · world median -0.093 (worse)
Best in the world 2.113 (Singapore)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2015
Rule of Law185th of 211position · derived-1.218Rule of Law estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)2025
bottom 12% of 211 countries measured
World Bank Group · Rule of Law estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)
Zimbabwe -1.218 · world median -0.102 (worse)
Best in the world 2.012 (Finland)
▲ +6 percentile points since 2015
Statistical Performance Indicators105th of 188position · derived66.8SPI overall score (0–100)2024
bottom 44% of 188 countries measured
World Bank Group · SPI overall score (0–100)
Zimbabwe 66.8 · world median 69.3 (worse)
Best in the world 94.14 (Norway)
▲ +28 percentile points since 2016
Trade Union Density65th of 139position · derived17.76Employees who are trade union members (%)2020
top 46% of 139 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employees who are trade union members (%)
Zimbabwe 17.76 · world median 16.68 (better)
Best in the world 91.42 (Iceland)
No earlier reading to compare
V-Dem Electoral Democracy Index124th of 176position · derived0.268Electoral democracy index (0–1)2025
bottom 30% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Electoral democracy index (0–1)
Zimbabwe 0.268 · world median 0.497 (worse)
Best in the world 0.913 (Denmark)
▲ +5 percentile points since 2015
Voice and Accountability176th of 206position · derived-1.298Voice and Accountability estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)2025
bottom 15% of 206 countries measured
World Bank Group · Voice and Accountability estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)
Zimbabwe -1.298 · world median -0.022 (worse)
Best in the world 1.825 (Norway)
▲ +5 percentile points since 2015
Women, Business and the Law62nd of 190position · derived86.88WBL Index (0–100, where 100 is full legal parity)2024
top 33% of 190 countries measured
World Bank Group · WBL Index (0–100, where 100 is full legal parity)
Zimbabwe 86.88 · world median 81.25 (better)
Best in the world 100 (14 countries tied)
▼ -13 percentile points since 2014
Economy & Innovation20
Account Ownership at a Financial Institution111th of 139position · derived49.52Adults with an account (% of population aged 15+)2024
bottom 20% of 139 countries measured
World Bank Group · Adults with an account (% of population aged 15+)
Zimbabwe 49.52 · world median 72.83 (worse)
Best in the world 99.85 (Iceland)
▼ -9 percentile points since 2014
Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing Value Added (% of GDP)61st of 158position · derived9.472Agriculture, forestry and fishing value added (% of GDP)2025
top 38% of 158 countries measured
World Bank Group · Agriculture, forestry and fishing value added (% of GDP)
Zimbabwe 9.472 · world median 6.572
Highest 47.59 (Niger)
▲ +6 percentile points since 2015
Crop Production Index36th of 195position · derived123.48Crop production index (2014–2016 = 100)2022
top 18% of 195 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Crop production index (2014–2016 = 100)
Zimbabwe 123.48 · world median 106.23 (better)
Best in the world 189.93 (Senegal)
▼ -10 percentile points since 2012
Digitally-Deliverable Services Exports151st of 170position · derived5.438Digitally-deliverable services exports (% of services exports)2024
bottom 11% of 170 countries measured
UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) · Digitally-deliverable services exports (% of services exports)
Zimbabwe 5.438 · world median 25.42 (worse)
Best in the world 87.15 (Ireland)
▼ -36 percentile points since 2014
Economic Complexity Index121st of 145rank-1.091ECI score (standardised, roughly −3 to +3)2024
bottom 16% of 145 countries measured
Growth Lab at Harvard University · ECI score (standardised, roughly −3 to +3)
Zimbabwe -1.091 · world median 0.131 (worse)
Best in the world 1.729 (Japan)
▼ -9 percentile points since 2014
Firms with a Bank Loan or Line of Credit124th of 179position · derived23.08Firms with a bank loan or line of credit (%)2025
bottom 31% of 179 countries measured
World Bank Group · Firms with a bank loan or line of credit (%)
Zimbabwe 23.08 · world median 35.95 (worse)
Best in the world 88.52 (Israel)
No earlier reading to compare
Food Production Index42nd of 195position · derived121.68Food production index (2014–2016 = 100)2022
top 21% of 195 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Food production index (2014–2016 = 100)
Zimbabwe 121.68 · world median 106.08 (better)
Best in the world 177.49 (Senegal)
▼ -15 percentile points since 2012
Foreign Direct Investment Inflowstop 47%2.111FDI inflows (% of GDP)2025
top 47% of 202 countries measured
UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) · FDI inflows (% of GDP)
Zimbabwe 2.111 · world median 1.968
Highest 2,221 (British Virgin Islands)
▲ +14 percentile points since 2015
GDP Growth8th of 186position · derived8.107GDP growth (annual %)2025
top 4% of 186 countries measured
World Bank Group · GDP growth (annual %)
Zimbabwe 8.107 · world median 3.396 (better)
Best in the world 19.34 (Guyana)
▲ +63 percentile points since 2015
GDP per Capita (PPP)145th of 185position · derived5,529GDP per capita (constant 2021 international $, PPP)2025
bottom 22% of 185 countries measured
World Bank Group · GDP per capita (constant 2021 international $, PPP)
Zimbabwe 5,529 · world median 17,265 (worse)
Best in the world 139,593 (Singapore)
No real change since 2015
Global Innovation Index129th of 139rank15.38GII score (0–100)2025
bottom 7% of 139 countries measured
World Intellectual Property Organization · GII score (0–100)
Zimbabwe 15.38 · world median 28.52 (worse)
Best in the world 65.96 (Switzerland)
▼ -12 percentile points since 2022
Gross Savings (% of GDP)133rd of 146position · derived10.7Gross savings (% of GDP)2024
bottom 9% of 146 countries measured
World Bank Group · Gross savings (% of GDP)
Zimbabwe 10.7 · world median 22.06
Highest 47.82 (Macau)
▲ +6 percentile points since 2014
ICT Goods Exports112th of 119position · derived0.02ICT goods exports (% of total goods exports)2024
bottom 6% of 120 countries measured · 120 share 119 positions
UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) · ICT goods exports (% of total goods exports)
Zimbabwe 0.02 · world median 0.975 (worse)
Best in the world 61.45 (Hong Kong)
▼ -10 percentile points since 2014
Industry Value Added including Construction (% of GDP)21st of 158position · derived37.07Industry, including construction, value added (% of GDP)2025
top 13% of 158 countries measured
World Bank Group · Industry, including construction, value added (% of GDP)
Zimbabwe 37.07 · world median 24.65
Highest 75.09 (Guyana)
▲ +42 percentile points since 2015
Livestock Production Index54th of 194position · derived119.62Livestock production index (2014–2016 = 100)2022
top 27% of 194 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Livestock production index (2014–2016 = 100)
Zimbabwe 119.62 · world median 107.06 (better)
Best in the world 190.08 (Malawi)
▼ -21 percentile points since 2012
Logistics Performance Index97th of 139rank2.5LPI score (1–5)2023
bottom 24% of 139 countries measured
World Bank Group · LPI score (1–5)
Zimbabwe 2.5 · world median 2.9 (worse)
Best in the world 4.3 (Singapore)
▲ +10 percentile points since 2014
Manufacturing Value Added (% of GDP)38th of 132position · derived14.91Manufacturing value added (% of GDP)2025
top 28% of 132 countries measured
World Bank Group · Manufacturing value added (% of GDP)
Zimbabwe 14.91 · world median 11.26
Highest 43.97 (Puerto Rico)
▲ +13 percentile points since 2015
Researchers per Million Inhabitants113th of 145position · derived95.13Researchers per million inhabitants (full-time equivalent)2024
bottom 22% of 145 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Researchers per million inhabitants (full-time equivalent)
Zimbabwe 95.13 · world median 701.95 (worse)
Best in the world 18,130 (Liechtenstein)
No earlier reading to compare
Total Natural Resources Rents (% of GDP)62nd of 180position · derived6.398Natural resources rents (% of GDP)2021
top 31% of 197 countries measured · 197 share 180 positions
World Bank Group · Natural resources rents (% of GDP)
Zimbabwe 6.398 · world median 1.708
Highest 61.03 (Libya)
No real change since 2011
World Energy Trilemma Index89th of 99rank41.6Trilemma score (0–100)2023
bottom 9% of 126 countries measured · 126 share 99 positions
World Energy Council · Trilemma score (0–100)
Zimbabwe 41.6 · world median 63.8 (worse)
Best in the world 83.2 (Denmark)
No earlier reading to compare
Work & Labour19
Average Weekly Hours Worked27th of 182position · derived44.44Average weekly hours actually worked per employed person2025
top 14% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Average weekly hours actually worked per employed person
Zimbabwe 44.44 · world median 38.89
Highest 54.7 (Bhutan)
▲ +50 percentile points since 2015
Employment in Agriculture18th of 182position · derived54.31Employment in agriculture (% of total employment)2025
top 9% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employment in agriculture (% of total employment)
Zimbabwe 54.31 · world median 14.38
Highest 85.34 (Burundi)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2015
Employment in Industry155th of 182position · derived11.53Employment in industry (% of total employment)2025
bottom 15% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employment in industry (% of total employment)
Zimbabwe 11.53 · world median 18.88
Highest 39.44 (Oman)
No real change since 2015
Employment in Services163rd of 182position · derived34.16Employment in services (% of total employment)2025
bottom 10% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employment in services (% of total employment)
Zimbabwe 34.16 · world median 59.51
Highest 92.17 (Djibouti)
▲ +5 percentile points since 2015
Employment-to-Population Ratio63rd of 182position · derived61.42Employed share of the population aged 15+ (%)2025
top 34% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employed share of the population aged 15+ (%)
Zimbabwe 61.42 · world median 57.72 (better)
Best in the world 86.9 (Qatar)
▼ -7 percentile points since 2015
Female Labour Force Participation Rate35th of 182position · derived62.16Women aged 15+ in the labour force (%)2025
top 19% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Women aged 15+ in the labour force (%)
Zimbabwe 62.16 · world median 53.36 (better)
Best in the world 82.91 (Madagascar)
▲ +6 percentile points since 2015
Female Share of Senior and Middle Management52nd of 86position · derived34.42Women in senior and middle management (% of managers)2024
bottom 40% of 86 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Women in senior and middle management (% of managers)
Zimbabwe 34.42 · world median 35.86 (worse)
Best in the world 56.69 (Nauru)
▲ +13 percentile points since 2019
Firms with a Female Top Manager99th of 179position · derived17.77Firms with a female top manager (%)2025
bottom 45% of 179 countries measured
World Bank Group · Firms with a female top manager (%)
Zimbabwe 17.77 · world median 19.16 (worse)
Best in the world 62.9 (Kiribati)
No earlier reading to compare
GDP per Person Employed133rd of 168position · derived15,074GDP per person employed (constant 2021 international $)2025
bottom 21% of 168 countries measured
World Bank Group · GDP per person employed (constant 2021 international $)
Zimbabwe 15,074 · world median 47,384 (worse)
Best in the world 262,554 (Luxembourg)
No real change since 2015
Informal Employment Rate29th of 97position · derived · 1 = worst71.35Informal employment (% of total employment)2025
bottom 29% of 97 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Informal employment (% of total employment)
Zimbabwe 71.35 · world median 36.83 (worse)
Best in the world 0.857 (Hungary)
No earlier reading to compare
Labour Force Participation Rate40th of 182position · derived67.72Population aged 15+ in the labour force (%)2025
top 22% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Population aged 15+ in the labour force (%)
Zimbabwe 67.72 · world median 61.66 (better)
Best in the world 87.01 (Qatar)
▲ +6 percentile points since 2015
Labour Productivity per Hour Worked163rd of 182position · derived4.22Output per hour worked (constant 2021 international $ at PPP)2025
bottom 10% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Output per hour worked (constant 2021 international $ at PPP)
Zimbabwe 4.22 · world median 22.16 (worse)
Best in the world 164.65 (Ireland)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2015
Self-Employment Rate31st of 182position · derived70.78Self-employed (% of total employment)2025
top 17% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Self-employed (% of total employment)
Zimbabwe 70.78 · world median 31.84
Highest 91.56 (Chad)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2015
Unemployment Rate38th of 182position · derived · 1 = worst9.293Unemployment (% of labour force)2025
bottom 20% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Unemployment (% of labour force)
Zimbabwe 9.293 · world median 5.084 (worse)
Best in the world 0.13 (Qatar)
▼ -37 percentile points since 2015
Vulnerable Employment30th of 182position · derived · 1 = worst68.21Vulnerable employment (% of total employment)2025
bottom 16% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Vulnerable employment (% of total employment)
Zimbabwe 68.21 · world median 28.67 (worse)
Best in the world 0.456 (Qatar)
No real change since 2015
Working Poverty Ratebottom 15%41.94Employed people living in extreme poverty (%)2025
bottom 15% of 113 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employed people living in extreme poverty (%)
Zimbabwe 41.94 · world median 4.885 (worse)
Best in the world 0.007 (Bhutan)
▼ -7 percentile points since 2015
Youth Not in Education, Employment or Training6th of 97position · derived · 1 = worst35.99Youth not in education, employment or training (%)2024
bottom 5% of 97 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Youth not in education, employment or training (%)
Zimbabwe 35.99 · world median 14.31 (worse)
Best in the world 3.975 (Iceland)
▼ -52 percentile points since 2014
Youth Unemployment Rate72nd of 182position · derived · 1 = worst15.55Unemployment, ages 15-24 (% of youth labour force)2025
bottom 39% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Unemployment, ages 15-24 (% of youth labour force)
Zimbabwe 15.55 · world median 12.83 (worse)
Best in the world 0.457 (Niger)
▼ -38 percentile points since 2015
Education & Knowledge14
Academic Freedom Index152nd of 176position · derived0.157Academic freedom index (0–1)2025
bottom 14% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Academic freedom index (0–1)
Zimbabwe 0.157 · world median 0.619 (worse)
Best in the world 0.978 (Czechia)
▲ +2 percentile points since 2015
Adult Literacy Rate93rd of 172position · derived93.23Adults 15+ who can read and write (%)2024
bottom 46% of 172 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Adults 15+ who can read and write (%)
Zimbabwe 93.23 · world median 93.99 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (3 countries tied)
No earlier reading to compare
Expected Years of Schooling156th of 195position · derived11.06Expected years of schooling2023
bottom 20% of 195 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · Expected years of schooling
Zimbabwe 11.06 · world median 13.34 (worse)
Best in the world 21.69 (Monaco)
No real change since 2013
Female Share of Researchersbottom 18%25.26Researchers who are women (% of headcount; 50 = parity)2024
bottom 18% of 153 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Researchers who are women (% of headcount; 50 = parity)
Zimbabwe 25.26 · world median 38.17
Highest 76.54 (Myanmar)
No earlier reading to compare
Harmonized Test Scores106th of 172position · derived396.14Harmonized test score (TIMSS-equivalent points; 300 = minimum, 625 = advanced attainment)2020
bottom 39% of 172 countries measured
World Bank Group · Harmonized test score (TIMSS-equivalent points; 300 = minimum, 625 = advanced attainment)
Zimbabwe 396.14 · world median 414.32 (worse)
Best in the world 575.27 (Singapore)
▲ +19 percentile points since 2010
Inbound Mobility Rate, Tertiary67th of 75position · derived0.489Inbound mobility rate, tertiary (%)2024
bottom 12% of 76 countries measured · 76 share 75 positions
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Inbound mobility rate, tertiary (%)
Zimbabwe 0.489 · world median 5.494 (worse)
Best in the world 87.12 (San Marino)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2015
Learning-Adjusted Years of School105th of 172position · derived7.007Learning-adjusted years of school (0–14)2020
bottom 39% of 172 countries measured
World Bank Group · Learning-adjusted years of school (0–14)
Zimbabwe 7.007 · world median 7.941 (worse)
Best in the world 12.81 (Singapore)
▲ +17 percentile points since 2010
Mean Years of Schooling114th of 193position · derived8.931Mean years of schooling (adults 25+)2023
bottom 41% of 193 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · Mean years of schooling (adults 25+)
Zimbabwe 8.931 · world median 9.933 (worse)
Best in the world 14.3 (Germany)
No real change since 2013
Out-of-School Rate, Primary32nd of 121position · derived · 1 = worst10.52Out-of-school rate, primary age (%)2024
bottom 26% of 121 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Out-of-school rate, primary age (%)
Zimbabwe 10.52 · world median 3.691 (worse)
Best in the world 0.004 (United Arab Emirates)
▲ +8 percentile points since 2014
Pre-Primary Net Enrolment Rate91st of 120position · derived39.48Net enrolment rate, pre-primary (%)2024
bottom 24% of 120 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Net enrolment rate, pre-primary (%)
Zimbabwe 39.48 · world median 65.93 (worse)
Best in the world 99.85 (Moldova)
▲ +6 percentile points since 2014
Primary Completion Rate116th of 165position · derived86.86Primary completion rate (%)2025
bottom 30% of 165 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Primary completion rate (%)
Zimbabwe 86.86 · world median 97.43 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (5 countries tied)
▼ -7 percentile points since 2015
Tertiary Enrolment Ratio92nd of 95position · derived7.749Gross enrolment ratio, tertiary (%)2024
bottom 3% of 95 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Gross enrolment ratio, tertiary (%)
Zimbabwe 7.749 · world median 52.77 (worse)
Best in the world 141.86 (Macau)
▼ -11 percentile points since 2015
Upper Secondary Completion Rate160th of 164position · derived8.15Upper secondary completion rate (%)2025
bottom 2% of 164 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Upper secondary completion rate (%)
Zimbabwe 8.15 · world median 64.87 (worse)
Best in the world 99.27 (South Korea)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2015
Youth Literacy Ratebottom 31%92.5115–24 year-olds who can read and write (%)2024
bottom 31% of 174 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · 15–24 year-olds who can read and write (%)
Zimbabwe 92.51 · world median 98.22 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (6 countries tied)
No earlier reading to compare
Health & Wellbeing21
Births Attended by Skilled Health Staff75th of 86position · derived86Births attended by skilled health staff (%)2019
bottom 13% of 86 countries measured
UNICEF · Births attended by skilled health staff (%)
Zimbabwe 86 · world median 98.8 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (11 countries tied)
▲ +7 percentile points since 2009
Children with Functional Difficultiesbottom 34%10.1Children aged 5-17 with a functional difficulty (%)2024
bottom 34% of 62 countries measured
UNICEF · Children aged 5-17 with a functional difficulty (%)
Zimbabwe 10.1 · world median 13
Highest 35.2 (Afghanistan)
No earlier reading to compare
Dietary Energy Supply137th of 155position · derived2,410Dietary energy supply (kcal per person per day)2024
bottom 12% of 155 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Dietary energy supply (kcal per person per day)
Zimbabwe 2,410 · world median 2,982 (worse)
Best in the world 3,962 (United States)
▲ +8 percentile points since 2014
Exclusive Breastfeeding Under Six Months64th of 136position · derived42.4Infants under 6 months exclusively breastfed (%)2024
top 47% of 136 countries measured
UNICEF · Infants under 6 months exclusively breastfed (%)
Zimbabwe 42.4 · world median 40.74 (better)
Best in the world 83.3 (Burundi)
No earlier reading to compare
Gender Inequality Index140th of 172rank0.519GII (0 = full equality, 1 = maximum inequality)2023
bottom 19% of 172 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · GII (0 = full equality, 1 = maximum inequality)
Zimbabwe 0.519 · world median 0.351 (worse)
Best in the world 0.003 (Denmark)
▼ -2 percentile points since 2013
Global Multidimensional Poverty Index43rd of 109position · derived · 1 = worst0.11MPI (0–1)2025
bottom 39% of 109 countries measured
Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI) · MPI (0–1)
Zimbabwe 0.11 · world median 0.039 (worse)
Best in the world 0 (Serbia)
▼ -7 percentile points since 2018
Global Report on Food Crises10th of 44position · derived · 1 = worst32In IPC Phase 3+ (% of analysed population)2024
bottom 22% of 44 countries measured
Food Security Information Network (FSIN) · In IPC Phase 3+ (% of analysed population)
Zimbabwe 32 · world median 22 (worse)
Best in the world 3 (El Salvador)
▲ +15 percentile points since 2016
Global Violent Deaths74th of 206position · derived · 1 = worst7.08Violent deaths per 100,000 people2021
bottom 35% of 209 countries measured · 209 share 206 positions
Small Arms Survey · Violent deaths per 100,000 people
Zimbabwe 7.08 · world median 4.02 (worse)
Best in the world 0 (4 countries tied)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2011
Human Capital Index120th of 172position · derived0.467HCI score (0–1)2020
bottom 30% of 172 countries measured
World Bank Group · HCI score (0–1)
Zimbabwe 0.467 · world median 0.564 (worse)
Best in the world 0.879 (Singapore)
▲ +14 percentile points since 2010
Human Development Index153rd of 193rank0.598HDI score (0–1)2023
bottom 21% of 193 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · HDI score (0–1)
Zimbabwe 0.598 · world median 0.762 (worse)
Best in the world 0.972 (Iceland)
No real change since 2013
Infant Mortality Rate6th of 200position · derived · 1 = worst62.44Deaths before age one (per 1,000 live births)2024
bottom 3% of 200 countries measured
UN Inter-agency Group for Child Mortality Estimation (UN IGME) · Deaths before age one (per 1,000 live births)
Zimbabwe 62.44 · world median 12.26 (worse)
Best in the world 1.214 (San Marino)
▼ -9 percentile points since 2014
INFORM Severity Index25th of 81position · derived · 1 = worst3.6INFORM Severity (1–5, most severe crisis)2025
bottom 32% of 81 countries measured
ACAPS · INFORM Severity (1–5, most severe crisis)
Zimbabwe 3.6 · world median 3.1 (worse)
Best in the world 1.3 (Trinidad and Tobago)
▼ -8 percentile points since 2020
Life Expectancy at Age 65199th of 222position · derived13.22Further years a 65-year-old would live at current death rates2023
bottom 10% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Further years a 65-year-old would live at current death rates
Zimbabwe 13.22 · world median 16.39 (worse)
Best in the world 23.21 (Monaco)
No real change since 2013
Life Expectancy at Birth205th of 222position · derived62.77Years a newborn would live at current death rates2023
bottom 8% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Years a newborn would live at current death rates
Zimbabwe 62.77 · world median 74.63 (worse)
Best in the world 86.37 (Monaco)
▲ +5 percentile points since 2013
Maternal Mortality Ratio19th of 195position · derived · 1 = worst357.61Maternal deaths per 100,000 live births2023
bottom 9% of 195 countries measured
UN Maternal Mortality Estimation Inter-Agency Group (MMEIG) · Maternal deaths per 100,000 live births
Zimbabwe 357.61 · world median 46.65 (worse)
Best in the world 0.11 (Cook Islands)
No real change since 2013
Pesticide Use per Hectare140th of 178position · derived0.54Pesticide use (kg per hectare of cropland)2024
bottom 23% of 181 countries measured · 181 share 178 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Pesticide use (kg per hectare of cropland)
Zimbabwe 0.54 · world median 1.73
Highest 37.72 (Antigua and Barbuda)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2014
Prevalence of Severe Food Insecurity14th of 127position · derived · 1 = worst25.1Population in severe food insecurity (%)2023
bottom 10% of 133 countries measured · 133 share 127 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Population in severe food insecurity (%)
Zimbabwe 25.1 · world median 4.7 (worse)
Best in the world 0 (7 countries tied)
▲ +8 percentile points since 2015
Prevalence of Undernourishment28th of 104position · derived · 1 = worst19.7Population undernourished (%)2023
bottom 17% of 165 countries measured · 165 share 104 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Population undernourished (%)
Zimbabwe 19.7 · world median 5.2 (worse)
Best in the world 2.5 (62 countries tied)
▲ +13 percentile points since 2013
Stunting Prevalence in Children Under Five41st of 162position · derived · 1 = worst25.9Children under 5 who are stunted (%)2024
bottom 25% of 162 countries measured
UNICEF, WHO and World Bank Group (Joint Malnutrition Estimates) · Children under 5 who are stunted (%)
Zimbabwe 25.9 · world median 13.8 (worse)
Best in the world 0.518 (Latvia)
No earlier reading to compare
Under-Five Mortality Rate17th of 200position · derived · 1 = worst64.66Deaths before age five (per 1,000 live births)2024
bottom 8% of 200 countries measured
UN Inter-agency Group for Child Mortality Estimation (UN IGME) · Deaths before age five (per 1,000 live births)
Zimbabwe 64.66 · world median 14.54 (worse)
Best in the world 1.26 (San Marino)
▼ -10 percentile points since 2014
Violent Discipline of Children64th of 90position · derived · 1 = worst64.1Children aged 1-14 experiencing violent discipline (%)2025
top 29% of 90 countries measured
UNICEF · Children aged 1-14 experiencing violent discipline (%)
Zimbabwe 64.1 · world median 75.8 (better)
Best in the world 37.6 (Qatar)
No earlier reading to compare
Development & Human Capital8
Access to Electricitybottom 14%62Population with electricity access (%)2024
bottom 14% of 215 countries measured
World Bank Group · Population with electricity access (%)
Zimbabwe 62 · world median 100 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (122 countries tied)
▲ +5 percentile points since 2014
Cereal Yield170th of 179position · derived743.9Cereal yield (kg per hectare)2023
bottom 5% of 179 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Cereal yield (kg per hectare)
Zimbabwe 743.9 · world median 3,072 (worse)
Best in the world 29,147 (Oman)
No real change since 2013
Child Marriage22nd of 143position · derived · 1 = worst33.7Women 20–24 married before 18 (%)2025
bottom 15% of 145 countries measured · 145 share 143 positions
UNICEF · Women 20–24 married before 18 (%)
Zimbabwe 33.7 · world median 17.1 (worse)
Best in the world 0 (3 countries tied)
No earlier reading to compare
Coefficient of Human Inequality42nd of 169position · derived · 1 = worst29.93Coefficient of Human Inequality (%)2023
bottom 24% of 169 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · Coefficient of Human Inequality (%)
Zimbabwe 29.93 · world median 17.05 (worse)
Best in the world 4.865 (Slovenia)
▼ -5 percentile points since 2013
Gender Development Index129th of 184position · derived0.944Gender Development Index (1.000 = parity)2023
bottom 30% of 184 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · Gender Development Index (1.000 = parity)
Zimbabwe 0.944 · world median 0.971 (worse)
Best in the world 1 (2 countries tied)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2013
Inequality-adjusted Human Development Index130th of 169position · derived0.406IHDI (0–1)2023
bottom 23% of 169 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · IHDI (0–1)
Zimbabwe 0.406 · world median 0.609 (worse)
Best in the world 0.923 (Iceland)
▼ -2 percentile points since 2013
Net Official Development Assistance Received70th of 130position · derived2.228Net ODA received (% of GNI)2023
bottom 47% of 130 countries measured
OECD Development Assistance Committee · Net ODA received (% of GNI)
Zimbabwe 2.228 · world median 2.579
Highest 101.78 (Tuvalu)
▼ -19 percentile points since 2013
Planetary pressures-adjusted HDI111th of 156position · derived0.585PHDI (0–1)2023
bottom 28% of 156 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · PHDI (0–1)
Zimbabwe 0.585 · world median 0.678 (worse)
Best in the world 0.827 (United Kingdom)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2013
Environment & Sustainability22
Agricultural Emissions82nd of 193position · derived12,800Farm-gate emissions (kt CO₂eq)2023
top 41% of 198 countries measured · 198 share 193 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Farm-gate emissions (kt CO₂eq)
Zimbabwe 12,800 · world median 8,635
Highest 1,044,508 (India)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2013
Agricultural Land93rd of 209position · derived41.79Agricultural land (% of land area)2023
top 44% of 209 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Agricultural land (% of land area)
Zimbabwe 41.79 · world median 37.96
Highest 86.48 (Côte d’Ivoire)
No real change since 2013
Arable Land per Person39th of 206position · derived0.246Arable land (hectares per person)2023
top 19% of 206 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Arable land (hectares per person)
Zimbabwe 0.246 · world median 0.109
Highest 1.459 (Kazakhstan)
No real change since 2013
Carbon Intensity of Electricity114th of 193position · derived · 1 = worst383.72Carbon intensity (gCO₂e per kWh generated)2024
top 41% of 193 countries measured
Ember · Carbon intensity (gCO₂e per kWh generated)
Zimbabwe 383.72 · world median 468.81 (better)
Best in the world 23.49 (Ethiopia)
▼ -6 percentile points since 2014
Climate Vulnerability (ND-GAIN)145th of 190rank0.511ND-GAIN Vulnerability (0–1, where 1 is the most vulnerable)2024
bottom 23% 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)
Zimbabwe 0.511 · world median 0.45 (worse)
Best in the world 0.263 (Norway)
▼ -6 percentile points since 2014
CO₂ Emissions per Capita161st of 210position · derived · 1 = worst0.824Fossil CO₂ (tonnes per person)2024
top 23% of 210 countries measured
Global Carbon Project · Fossil CO₂ (tonnes per person)
Zimbabwe 0.824 · world median 3.21 (better)
Best in the world 0.054 (DR Congo)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2014
Ecological Footprint88th of 126position · derived · 1 = worst1.242Ecological Footprint (global hectares per person)2025
top 30% of 126 countries measured
Global Footprint Network · Ecological Footprint (global hectares per person)
Zimbabwe 1.242 · world median 2.296 (better)
Best in the world 0.514 (Yemen)
▼ -7 percentile points since 2015
Energy Intensity of GDP (PPP)bottom 34%3.356Energy use per dollar of GDP (thousand Btu per US$ at PPP)2024
bottom 34% of 192 countries measured
U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) · Energy use per dollar of GDP (thousand Btu per US$ at PPP)
Zimbabwe 3.356 · world median 2.738 (worse)
Best in the world 0.666 (Chad)
▼ -28 percentile points since 2014
Fertilizer Consumption per Hectare140th of 188position · derived26.21Fertilizer consumption (kg per hectare of arable land)2023
bottom 27% 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)
Zimbabwe 26.21 · world median 87.36
Highest 2,926 (Malaysia)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2013
Forest Area63rd of 210position · derived44.74Forest area (% of land area)2023
top 29% of 213 countries measured · 213 share 210 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Forest area (% of land area)
Zimbabwe 44.74 · world median 31.08
Highest 94.45 (Suriname)
No real change since 2013
Internal Displacements by Disaster30th of 160position · derived · 1 = worst92,000New displacements by disaster (people)2024
bottom 18% of 160 countries measured
Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC) · New displacements by disaster (people)
Zimbabwe 92,000 · world median 4,750 (worse)
Best in the world 1 (Serbia)
▼ -14 percentile points since 2014
Land Under Cereal Production62nd of 179position · derived1,569,913Land under cereal production (hectares)2023
top 34% of 180 countries measured · 180 share 179 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Land under cereal production (hectares)
Zimbabwe 1,569,913 · world median 689,278
Highest 103,715,108 (India)
▼ -2 percentile points since 2013
Livestock Density150th of 188position · derived0.25Livestock units per hectare of agricultural land2023
bottom 20% of 188 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Livestock units per hectare of agricultural land
Zimbabwe 0.25 · world median 0.535
Highest 43.97 (Singapore)
No real change since 2013
Low-Carbon Share of Electricity Generation68th of 190position · derived57.12Low-carbon sources (% of electricity generated)2024
top 35% of 193 countries measured · 193 share 190 positions
Ember · Low-carbon sources (% of electricity generated)
Zimbabwe 57.12 · world median 35.66 (better)
Best in the world 100 (7 countries tied)
▼ -5 percentile points since 2014
ND-GAIN Country Index172nd of 190rank35.42ND-GAIN Index (0–100, where 100 is best placed to adapt)2024
bottom 10% 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)
Zimbabwe 35.42 · world median 47.44 (worse)
Best in the world 71.85 (Norway)
▲ +5 percentile points since 2014
Organic Agricultural Area143rd of 150position · derived0.01Organic share of agricultural land (%)2024
bottom 6% of 156 countries measured · 156 share 150 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Organic share of agricultural land (%)
Zimbabwe 0.01 · world median 0.725 (worse)
Best in the world 86.38 (Samoa)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2014
Renewable Internal Freshwater Resources per Capita142nd of 181position · derived762.96Renewable internal freshwater (cubic metres per person)2022
bottom 22% of 181 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Renewable internal freshwater (cubic metres per person)
Zimbabwe 762.96 · world median 2,528 (worse)
Best in the world 445,023 (Iceland)
No real change since 2012
Renewable Share of Electricity Generation57th of 190position · derived57.12Renewables (% of electricity generated)2024
top 29% of 193 countries measured · 193 share 190 positions
Ember · Renewables (% of electricity generated)
Zimbabwe 57.12 · world median 31.14 (better)
Best in the world 100 (7 countries tied)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2014
Water Stress37th of 177position · derived · 1 = worst46.09Freshwater withdrawal as a share of available resources (%)2023
bottom 20% of 177 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Freshwater withdrawal as a share of available resources (%)
Zimbabwe 46.09 · world median 10 (worse)
Best in the world 0.03 (Republic of the Congo)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2013
Water Withdrawal by Sector35th of 171position · derived87.2Freshwater withdrawn for agriculture (% of total)2022
top 20% of 173 countries measured · 173 share 171 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Freshwater withdrawn for agriculture (% of total)
Zimbabwe 87.2 · world median 62.14
Highest 99.48 (Somalia)
▲ +10 percentile points since 2012
Wind and Solar Share of Electricity Generationbottom 16%0.39Wind and solar (% of electricity generated)2024
bottom 16% of 193 countries measured
Ember · Wind and solar (% of electricity generated)
Zimbabwe 0.39 · world median 5.769 (worse)
Best in the world 69.12 (Denmark)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2014
World Risk Index143rd of 193position · derived · 1 = worst2.38WorldRiskIndex score (0–100, where 100 is the most at risk)2025
top 26% 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)
Zimbabwe 2.38 · world median 4.17 (better)
Best in the world 0.18 (Monaco)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2015
Gender & Equality4
Sex Ratio at Birthbottom 3%102.5Male births per 100 female births2023
bottom 3% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Male births per 100 female births
Zimbabwe 102.5 · world median 105.1
Highest 116.3 (Liechtenstein)
No real change since 2013
Social Institutions and Gender Index91st of 140position · derived · 1 = worst19.3SIGI score (0 = no discrimination, 100 = absolute)2023
top 35% of 140 countries measured
OECD · SIGI score (0 = no discrimination, 100 = absolute)
Zimbabwe 19.3 · world median 25.2 (better)
Best in the world 6.7 (Norway)
No earlier reading to compare
Women's Political Empowerment Index101st of 176position · derived0.727Women's political empowerment index (0–1)2025
bottom 43% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Women's political empowerment index (0–1)
Zimbabwe 0.727 · world median 0.772 (worse)
Best in the world 0.954 (Denmark)
▼ -15 percentile points since 2015
Democracy & Civil Liberties8
Deliberative Democracy Index115th of 176position · derived0.22Deliberative democracy index (0–1)2025
bottom 35% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Deliberative democracy index (0–1)
Zimbabwe 0.22 · world median 0.339 (worse)
Best in the world 0.867 (Denmark)
▲ +8 percentile points since 2015
Egalitarian Democracy Index141st of 176position · derived0.135Egalitarian democracy index (0–1)2025
bottom 20% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Egalitarian democracy index (0–1)
Zimbabwe 0.135 · world median 0.321 (worse)
Best in the world 0.876 (Denmark)
▼ -5 percentile points since 2015
Freedom of Expression and Alternative Sources of Information Index134th of 176position · derived0.414Freedom of expression index (0–1)2025
bottom 24% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Freedom of expression index (0–1)
Zimbabwe 0.414 · world median 0.693 (worse)
Best in the world 0.98 (Denmark)
No real change since 2015
Government Censorship of the Media132nd of 176position · derived-0.654Original latent estimate (≈ −3 to +3.5); higher = less censorship2025
bottom 25% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Original latent estimate (≈ −3 to +3.5); higher = less censorship
Zimbabwe -0.654 · world median 0.565 (worse)
Best in the world 3.489 (Belgium)
No real change since 2015
Government Internet Shutdowns122nd of 176position · derived-0.23Original latent estimate (≈ −4 to +2); higher = fewer shutdowns2025
bottom 31% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Original latent estimate (≈ −4 to +2); higher = fewer shutdowns
Zimbabwe -0.23 · world median 1.023 (worse)
Best in the world 2.081 (Spain)
▲ +6 percentile points since 2015
Military Dimension Indexbottom 16%0.333Military dimension index (0–1; higher = larger military role)2025
bottom 16% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Military dimension index (0–1; higher = larger military role)
Zimbabwe 0.333 · world median 0.1 (worse)
Best in the world 0 (76 countries tied)
No real change since 2015
Participatory Democracy Index112th of 176position · derived0.202Participatory democracy index (0–1)2025
bottom 37% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Participatory democracy index (0–1)
Zimbabwe 0.202 · world median 0.298 (worse)
Best in the world 0.785 (Switzerland)
No real change since 2015
Physical Violence Index159th of 176position · derived0.17Freedom from political killings and torture (0–1)2025
bottom 10% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Freedom from political killings and torture (0–1)
Zimbabwe 0.17 · world median 0.79 (worse)
Best in the world 0.989 (2 countries tied)
▲ +6 percentile points since 2015
Peace & Security6
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)
Zimbabwe 0 · world median 0
Best in the world 0 (138 countries tied)
No real change since 2015
Global Militarisation Index122nd of 149rank · 1 = worst65.42GMI score (higher means a heavier military weight)2023
top 18% of 149 countries measured
Bonn International Centre for Conflict Studies (BICC) · GMI score (higher means a heavier military weight)
Zimbabwe 65.42 · world median 100.66 (better)
Best in the world 3.512 (Haiti)
▲ +40 percentile points since 2013
INFORM Risk Index46th of 191position · derived · 1 = worst5.3INFORM Risk score (0–10, where 10 is the highest risk)2025
bottom 25% 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)
Zimbabwe 5.3 · world median 3.7 (worse)
Best in the world 0.7 (Singapore)
No real change since 2016
Political Stability and Absence of Violence178th of 211position · derived-0.872Political Stability estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)2025
bottom 16% of 211 countries measured
World Bank Group · Political Stability estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)
Zimbabwe -0.872 · world median 0.171 (worse)
Best in the world 1.563 (Andorra)
No real change since 2015
Political Violence by Non-State Actors52nd of 171position · derived · 1 = worst0.253Original latent estimate (≈ −3.5 to +4); higher = more violence2025
bottom 30% of 171 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Original latent estimate (≈ −3.5 to +4); higher = more violence
Zimbabwe 0.253 · world median -0.661 (worse)
Best in the world -3.182 (Luxembourg)
▲ +16 percentile points since 2015
Refugees by Country of Origintop 35%6,632Refugees under UNHCR's mandate from this country, end of year (people)2025
top 35% of 202 countries measured
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency · Refugees under UNHCR's mandate from this country, end of year (people)
Zimbabwe 6,632 · world median 1,272
Highest 5,224,131 (Ukraine)
▼ -19 percentile points since 2015
Risk & Resilience2
Asylum-Seekers by Country of Asylumtop 31%9,495Asylum-seekers awaiting a decision, end of year (people)2025
top 31% of 177 countries measured
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency · Asylum-seekers awaiting a decision, end of year (people)
Zimbabwe 9,495 · world median 1,836
Highest 3,718,945 (United States)
▲ +26 percentile points since 2015
Refugee Population by Country of Asylumbottom 47%8,570Refugees under UNHCR's mandate hosted, end of year (people)2025
bottom 47% of 177 countries measured
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency · Refugees under UNHCR's mandate hosted, end of year (people)
Zimbabwe 8,570 · world median 12,269
Highest 2,655,191 (Germany)
▼ -9 percentile points since 2015
Mobility & Trade4
Average Time to Clear Exports Through Customs117th of 174position · derived · 1 = worst3.293Average time to clear exports through customs (days)2025
top 33% of 175 countries measured · 175 share 174 positions
World Bank Group · Average time to clear exports through customs (days)
Zimbabwe 3.293 · world median 4.456 (better)
Best in the world 1 (2 countries tied)
No earlier reading to compare
Cereal Import Dependency Ratiobottom 49%41.5Share of the cereal supply that is imported (%)2022
bottom 49% of 161 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Share of the cereal supply that is imported (%)
Zimbabwe 41.5 · world median 42.8
Highest 100 (16 countries tied)
▼ -11 percentile points since 2012
Cost of Sending Remittances22nd of 93position · derived · 1 = worst5.26Average cost of sending $200 home (% of the amount)2023
bottom 23% of 93 countries measured
World Bank Group · Average cost of sending $200 home (% of the amount)
Zimbabwe 5.26 · world median 3.225 (worse)
Best in the world -49.69 (Malawi)
▲ +11 percentile points since 2016
Net Migration Ratebottom 10%-5.959Net migrants per 1,000 population2023
bottom 10% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Net migrants per 1,000 population
Zimbabwe -5.959 · world median -0.133
Highest 39.62 (South Sudan)
▲ +2 percentile points since 2013
Poverty & Inequality1
Poverty Headcount at National Poverty Linestop 23%38.3Population below the national poverty line (%)2025
top 23% of 160 countries measured
World Bank Group · Population below the national poverty line (%)
Zimbabwe 38.3 · world median 21.8
Highest 82.3 (South Sudan)
No earlier reading to compare
Money & Public Finance1
Short-Term Share of External Debtbottom 10%27.54Short-term debt (% of total external debt)2024
bottom 10% of 118 countries measured
World Bank Group · Short-term debt (% of total external debt)
Zimbabwe 27.54 · world median 9.376 (worse)
Best in the world 0 (5 countries tied)
No real change since 2014
Energy5
Net Electricity Imports (share of generation)top 14%17.93Net electricity imports (% of domestic generation)2024
top 14% of 193 countries measured
Ember · Net electricity imports (% of domestic generation)
Zimbabwe 17.93 · world median 0
Highest 707.07 (Palestine)
▲ +69 percentile points since 2014
Nuclear Share of Electricity Generationbottom 41%0Nuclear (% of electricity generated)2024
bottom 41% of 183 countries measured
Ember · Nuclear (% of electricity generated)
Zimbabwe 0 · world median 0
Highest 67.4 (France)
No real change since 2014
Primary Energy Consumption per Capitabottom 27%13.85Energy use per person (million Btu)2024
bottom 27% of 192 countries measured
U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) · Energy use per person (million Btu)
Zimbabwe 13.85 · world median 49.5
Highest 766.07 (Qatar)
▲ +2 percentile points since 2014
RISE Energy Efficiency Policy Scorebottom 27%24.1Energy efficiency policy score (0–100)2023
bottom 27% of 140 countries measured
World Bank Group (ESMAP) · Energy efficiency policy score (0–100)
Zimbabwe 24.1 · world median 48.23 (worse)
Best in the world 95.93 (South Korea)
▼ -5 percentile points since 2013
RISE Renewable Energy Policy Scorebottom 48%32.81Renewable energy policy score (0–100)2023
bottom 48% of 140 countries measured
World Bank Group (ESMAP) · Renewable energy policy score (0–100)
Zimbabwe 32.81 · world median 33.26 (worse)
Best in the world 89.52 (Denmark)
No real change since 2013
Digital & Technology2
Mobile Phone Ownership111th of 140position · derived81.63Adults who own a mobile phone (% of population aged 15+)2024
bottom 21% of 140 countries measured
World Bank Group · Adults who own a mobile phone (% of population aged 15+)
Zimbabwe 81.63 · world median 91.68 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (Libya)
No earlier reading to compare
Smartphone Ownership111th of 140position · derived49.7Adults whose main mobile phone is a smartphone (% of population aged 15+)2024
bottom 21% of 140 countries measured
World Bank Group · Adults whose main mobile phone is a smartphone (% of population aged 15+)
Zimbabwe 49.7 · world median 78.78 (worse)
Best in the world 97.36 (Sweden)
No earlier reading to compare
People & Population10
Crude Birth Ratetop 14%30.41Births per 1,000 population2023
top 14% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Births per 1,000 population
Zimbabwe 30.41 · world median 13.79
Highest 46.36 (Central African Republic)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2013
Crude Death Ratetop 45%7.614Deaths per 1,000 population2023
top 45% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Deaths per 1,000 population
Zimbabwe 7.614 · world median 7.303
Highest 25.58 (Vatican City)
▼ -27 percentile points since 2013
Median Age of the Populationbottom 9%17.81Median age (years)2023
bottom 9% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Median age (years)
Zimbabwe 17.81 · world median 31.52
Highest 59.63 (Vatican City)
No real change since 2013
Population Aged 65 and Overbottom 19%3.618Share of the total population aged 65 and over (%)2023
bottom 19% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Share of the total population aged 65 and over (%)
Zimbabwe 3.618 · world median 8.32
Highest 44.7 (Vatican City)
No real change since 2013
Population Densitybottom 25%42.24People per square kilometre of land2023
bottom 25% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · People per square kilometre of land
Zimbabwe 42.24 · world median 96.92
Highest 26,145 (Monaco)
No real change since 2013
Population Growth Ratetop 29%1.684Population growth (% per year)2023
top 29% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Population growth (% per year)
Zimbabwe 1.684 · world median 0.888
Highest 5.862 (South Sudan)
▲ +15 percentile points since 2013
Population Under Age 15top 8%41.32Share of the total population aged 0–14 (%)2023
top 8% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Share of the total population aged 0–14 (%)
Zimbabwe 41.32 · world median 22.71
Highest 49.17 (Central African Republic)
No real change since 2013
Sex Ratio of the Total Populationbottom 10%90.9Males per 100 females2023
bottom 10% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Males per 100 females
Zimbabwe 90.9 · world median 98.48
Highest 251.08 (Qatar)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2013
Total Dependency Ratiotop 7%81.63People aged 0–14 and 65+ per 100 people aged 15–642023
top 7% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · People aged 0–14 and 65+ per 100 people aged 15–64
Zimbabwe 81.63 · world median 54.73
Highest 105.18 (Central African Republic)
No real change since 2013
Total Fertility Ratetop 16%3.724Live births per woman2023
top 16% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Live births per woman
Zimbabwe 3.724 · world median 1.962
Highest 6.132 (Somalia)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2013
Not currently covered
The newest edition of these reports does not include Zimbabwe. Usually the publisher does not cover it; sometimes it has dropped out of a ranking it used to appear in.
- Adjusted Net Savings · last seen 2020
- Agricultural Irrigated Land
- Agriculture Orientation Index · last seen 2012
- Business Ready: Operational Efficiency
- Business Ready: Public Services
- Business Ready: Regulatory Framework
- Container Port Traffic
- Debt Service on External Debt · last seen 2023
- Exports of Goods and Services (% of GDP) · last seen 2024
- Fatal Occupational Injuries · last seen 2022
- Female Genital Mutilation Prevalence
- General Government Consumption · last seen 2024
- Gini Index · last seen 2019
- GNI per Capita (PPP) · last seen 2024
- Government Funding per Primary Student
- Gross Capital Formation (% of GDP) · last seen 2024
- Household Consumption · last seen 2024
- ICT Services Exports · last seen 2023
- Imports of Goods and Services (% of GDP) · last seen 2024
- Income Share Held by Lowest 20% · last seen 2019
- Income Share Held by Richest 10% · last seen 2019
- Learning Poverty
- Liner Shipping Connectivity Index
- Median Daily Income or Consumption per Person · last seen 2019
- Outbound Mobility Ratio, Tertiary · last seen 2015
- Palma Ratio · last seen 2019
- PISA Mathematics Performance
- PISA Reading Performance
- PISA Science Performance
- Poverty Gap at $3.00 a Day · last seen 2019
- Poverty Headcount Ratio at $3.00 a Day · last seen 2019
- Poverty Headcount Ratio at $8.30 a Day · last seen 2019
- Prosperity Gap · last seen 2019
- Research and Development Spending
- School Life Expectancy · last seen 2013
- Secondary School Enrolment · last seen 2013
- Societal Poverty Rate · last seen 2019
- Tariff Rate, Applied, Weighted Mean, All Products · last seen 2021
- Trade (% of GDP) · last seen 2024
- Upper Secondary Attainment · last seen 2019
07Keep reading
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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 Zimbabwe 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: 38 publishers, each named beside its numbers, with every edition and licence on the datasets pages.
- Capital, languages, currency, codes: Wikidata, public domain (CC0).
- Map and land borders: Natural Earth, public domain. Borders are de facto — where administration actually changes — not claimed.
Photographs
The photograph of Zimbabwe on this page comes from Wikimedia Commons and is shown in greyscale. The photographer and the licence are named beside each one.
Cite this page
Nations Inquiry (2026). Zimbabwe: country statistics, rankings and trends. https://nationsinquiry.com/countries/zimbabwe