Nations with the Youngest Populations

The United Nations defines "youth" as individuals aged 15 to 24 for statistical purposes, although there is no universally accepted international definition. In many countries, legal adulthood is often recognized at 18 years of age. Currently, 16% of the global population, totaling 1.2 billion people, falls within the 15 to 24 age group. 

This article delves into the nations with the largest youth populations.

India as the largest youth population

India has over 808 million individuals, constituting approximately 66 percent of its total population, under the age of 35. Among these, ages 13 to 35 make up more than 40% of the Indian population, as defined by the National Youth Policy.

However, while the demographic advantage is undoubtedly significant, it also presents several challenges and opportunities:

Challenges

• Education: To harness the potential of this young workforce, it is crucial to provide them with high-quality education and skills training. This requires significant investments in the education sector, including infrastructure, teacher training, and curriculum development.

• Employment Opportunities: Creating sufficient and suitable employment opportunities for the growing labour force is a challenge. The job market must evolve to accommodate a more educated and diverse workforce.

• Youth Empowerment: Empowering the youth with the right knowledge and skills is essential not only for economic growth but also for social development. Ensuring that young people have access to healthcare, housing, and social services is important for their overall well-being.

Opportunities

• Innovation and Entrepreneurship: With a large and youthful population, there is a considerable potential for innovation and entrepreneurship. Young people often bring fresh ideas and are more inclined to take risks, which can drive economic development.

• Global Workforce: India's young and increasingly educated workforce can make the country an attractive destination for global businesses looking for skilled talent. This can contribute to economic growth through foreign investment and trade.

• Demographic Dividend: If India can effectively educate and employ its youth, it can enjoy a demographic dividend, which refers to the economic growth that results from a youthful and productive workforce. This dividend can have long-term positive effects on the country's economic development.

China most populous country

China is the world's most populous country, and in 2021, its population stood at 1.42 billion, slightly up from the previous year. According to Data projections, the largest demographic group in the nation was the age range of 15 to 64, accounting for the majority of the population. 

A noteworthy trend in China's population is that 13.1% of its citizens are aged over 65, reflecting a gradual but steady ageing of its population. Nevertheless, it is worth noting that China's population is still relatively young compared to other developed countries with ageing populations. 

Additionally, China witnessed the birth of 10.6 million babies in 2021, which is a decrease from the 12 million born in 2020. This may be attributed to many factors, including the government's two-child policy, changes in societal attitudes towards childbearing, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite the slight dip in the birth rate, the population density in China for the year 2021 was 149.4 persons per square kilometre, indicating that the country remains densely populated. Looking ahead, a minimal population growth of 0.1% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) between 2022 and 2024, implying that China's population growth is slowing down.

Indonesia a large and growing youth population

Indonesia with over 260 million inhabitants, 28% of the population is under the age of 25. This translates to a staggering 68 million individuals aged between 10 and 24, with 45.8 million teenagers aged 10 to 19, making up 13.3% of the entire population. 

As the country looks towards the future and prepares for 2030, it is crucial to recognize the potential of this young, vibrant population. To harness the potential of this youth cohort, the Indonesian Organizing Committee has been established with the aim of identifying enthusiastic Indonesian teenagers to participate in the annual G20 Youth Summit. 

These youth programs play a pivotal role in fostering a conducive social environment, granting access to high-quality education, and encouraging active participation in community initiatives, thereby nurturing essential life skills. 

By prioritising the youth, Indonesia is not only investing in its future but also ensuring that the nation's foundation remains strong. The growth and learning opportunities provided by these Indonesian youth programs are essential for the development of the next generation of leaders and innovators. 

United States as a teen populated country

Adolescence is a critical and transformative period in the life of every individual, and it plays a crucial role in shaping their future. In the United States, the teenage population between the ages of 13 to 19 is a significant segment of the population and is an essential part of the country's demographic landscape. During this phase of life, adolescents undergo several physical, cognitive, social, and emotional changes that prepare them for adulthood.

• Adolescence is a critical and transformative period in the life of every individual.
• The teenage population is a significant segment of the US population.
• Adolescents undergo several physical, cognitive, social, and emotional changes during this period.
• Intergenerational conflicts and communication challenges often arise during this period.
• The US is experiencing a demographic shift that is favouring the older generations.
• Despite this trend, the number of adolescents in the US has remained relatively stable over the past decade.

Overall, the teenage population in the US is an important and growing demographic group. Despite the challenges they face, adolescents play a vital role in the country's future. It is important to invest in the youth and provide them with the resources and support they need to succeed.

Pakistan as the fifth most populous nation in the world

Pakistan with a total population of 207,774,520 as per the 2017 Census. A sizable 34.8% of this population consists of individuals aged 14 or below. However, the demographic landscape of adolescents and youth in Pakistan is grappling with several pressing issues, especially in the field of education. 

• Pakistan has a large and young population.

• The literacy rate in Pakistan is low, and many adolescents and youth face challenges such as child labor, child marriage, and food insecurity.

• The Pakistani Constitution guarantees the right to education for all children between the ages of 5 and 16.

• Addressing the challenges facing adolescents and youth is essential for ensuring their well-being and fulfilling their right to education.

The challenges facing adolescents and youth in Pakistan are interconnected and complex. Addressing them requires a multi-pronged approach thatincludes investing in education, providing social safety nets, and promoting gender equality. It is also important to raise awareness of the rights of adolescents and youth and to empower them to advocate for themselves.

Nigeria A Population Powerhouse in West Africa

Nigeria is a country located in West Africa, with a population of over 200 million people. In 2020, it emerged as the ninth most populous country globally and the most populous in Africa. 

The country has a remarkable annual population growth rate of 2.6%, which is one of the highest in the world. If this trend persists, Nigeria could potentially triple its population within the next 25 to 30 years.

Here are some specific steps that Nigeria can take to address the challenges facing its youth:

• Increase investment in education, particularly at the primary and secondary levels.
• Improve the quality of education by providing better training to teachers and developing more rigorous curricula.
• Expand access to healthcare by building more hospitals and clinics, and making healthcare more affordable.
• Invest in infrastructure, such as roads, electricity, and water supply, to improve the quality of life for all Nigerians, especially in rural areas.
• Tackle corruption and improve governance to ensure that resources are allocated efficiently and effectively.
• Promote job creation and entrepreneurship by providing incentives to businesses and creating a more favourable environment for investment.
• Empower young people by giving them a voice in the decision-making process.

Brazil’s youthful demography

Brazil is a country that considers individuals aged 15 to 24, or up to 33, as its youthful population. This segment represents 16.5% of the country's total population, with 16,993,708 males and 16,521,057 females.

The decline in Brazil's youth population has several implications for the country's future. For example, it could lead to a shortage of workers, a shrinking tax base, and an increase in the dependency ratio. 

Here are some specific steps that Brazil can take to address the challenges facing its youth:

• Increase investment in education and healthcare, especially for young people from low-income and marginalised communities.

• Promote job creation and entrepreneurship by providing incentives to businesses and creating a more favourable environment for investment.

• Empower young people by giving them a voice in the decision-making process.

• Implement policies that support young families and make it easier for young people to have children and raise families.

• Address the root causes of poverty and inequality, which disproportionately impact young people.

Bangladesh Demographics

Bangladesh is a country in South Asia with a population of over 164 million people. According to data from the World Bank, in 2015, the youth population (aged 15-24) accounted for 0.1733% of the nation's total population. This indicates that a large percentage of the population in Bangladesh is made up of adults and elderly individuals.

• Bangladesh has a large population, but the youth population is relatively small.

• The country faces several demographic challenges that affect its population growth, such as low contraception usage, high fertility rates, and child marriage.

• However, Bangladesh has made significant progress in reducing its population growth rate.

• The trend of declining population growth is expected to persist well into the twenty-first century.

Afghanistan's Population Composition

Afghanistan, located in South Asia, is home to a population exceeding 164 million people. Based on data from the World Bank, in 2015, the youth population aged 15-24 comprised a noteworthy segment, accounting for 0.1733% of the nation's total population. This underscores the substantial presence of young individuals in Afghanistan's demographic structure.

• Afghanistan has a young and rapidly growing population.

• The Youth Parliament is a platform for young Afghans to learn about their rights and responsibilities as citizens and to engage in constructive dialogue with their peers and community leaders.

• The Youth Parliament is important in fostering a culture of civic participation among young people in the country and empowering them to take an active role in shaping the future of Afghanistan.

Uganda as a Vibrant Majority

Uganda, a country located in East Africa, is known for its impressive demographic makeup, with the majority of its population consisting of young people. In fact, Uganda holds the distinction of having the world's youngest population, with an impressive 77% of its inhabitants falling below the age of 25. Within the country, there are 7,310,386 young people aged between 15 and 24 years.

Uganda's demographic makeup is unique, with a large youth population. This presents both opportunities and challenges for the country.

Opportunities:

• Economic growth and development: Young people are often more productive and innovative than older people, and they are also more likely to start businesses and create jobs. Uganda can harness this potential by investing in education and skills training, and by creating a supportive business environment.

• Innovation, creativity, and energy: Young people are often associated with innovation, creativity, and energy. They are more likely to take risks and try new things. Uganda can benefit from this by encouraging young people to participate in all aspects of society, from business to government to the arts.

• Future generation of leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals: Uganda's youth population has the potential to produce the next generation of leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals. The country can invest in its young people by providing them with the education and training they need to succeed.

Challenges:

• Education, skills training, and job opportunities: The Ugandan government needs to ensure that all young people have access to quality education and skills training. This will help them to find jobs and contribute to the economy. 

• Healthcare, housing, and infrastructure: The Ugandan government needs to provide healthcare, housing, and infrastructure for its young population. This will help them to live healthy and productive lives. The government also needs to invest in programs that promote youth development and civic engagement.

Chad, a Central African landlocked country

Chad is a landlocked country located in Central Africa, bordered by Libya to the north, Sudan to the east, the Central African Republic to the south, Cameroon and Nigeria to the southwest, and Niger to the west. With an estimated population of 16 million people in 2021, Chad is one of the most sparsely populated countries in the world. 

Elaboration of some points:

• Limited access to education: This lack of education has a ripple effect that extends beyond the individual, impacting the nation's economic and social development.

• Limited access to healthcare: This lack of access to healthcare puts the young population at risk of preventable diseases and illnesses.

• Poverty and unemployment: This lack of economic opportunities exacerbates the challenge of limited access to education and healthcare, leaving young people vulnerable to poverty and its associated consequences.

• Violence and instability: This violence and instability exacerbate the challenges of limited access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for young people in Chad.

The government can play a critical role in addressing the challenges faced by its young population by:

• Investing in education and skills training to ensure that all young people have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

• Expanding access to healthcare and ensuring that all young people have access to the quality healthcare services they need.

• Promoting job creation and economic opportunities for young people.

• Investing in peace and security to create a more stable environment for young people to thrive.

FAQS

What does it mean to have the youngest population? 

Having the youngest population refers to a country where a significant proportion of its residents are under a certain age, typically below 25 or 30 years old.

How is the age of a country's population determined?

The age of a country's population is determined by analysing demographic data, specifically the percentage of people within certain age groups, typically children and young adults.

Why is having a young population significant?

A young population can have various implications, including potential for economic growth, a larger workforce, and opportunities for development. However, it can also pose challenges in terms of education and healthcare.

Which countries are among the top 10 with the youngest population?

The specific countries in the top 10 can vary over time, but they often include nations in Africa and the Middle East, such as Niger, Chad, and Afghanistan.

What factors contribute to a country having a young population?

Several factors contribute to a young population, including high birth rates, lower life expectancy, and limited access to healthcare and family planning services.

Are there advantages to having a young population?

Yes, having a young population can offer advantages such as a potentially larger workforce, which can drive economic growth and innovation.