Revealed: Countries with the Highest Age Dependency Ratio in the World, 2025

The Age Dependency Ratio is an important economic indicator that represents the balance between the economically dependent population (ages 0–15 and 65+) and the economically active population (ages 15–64).  This ratio, whether expressed as a numerical figure or a percentage, is calculated by dividing the number of dependents by the number of producers and then multiplying the result by 100. For example, if a fictional state has 200 producers and 70 dependents, the dependency ratio would be calculated as (70/200) * 100, resulting in a ratio of 35% or 35.

The age dependency ratio is critically important for governments, banks, universities, and other large organizations. It provides insights that go far beyond basic numerical data. It is an essential tool for accurately understanding the population profile of a specific region. This analysis directly informs key decisions, such as funding allocations for programs that support children and the elderly, evaluating future economic pressures on the population, and anticipating potential civil unrest.

The total age dependency ratio (ADR) typically includes both young and elderly dependent groups and is commonly referred to as the overall age group dependency ratio (AGEP). However, it can also be broken down further to focus specifically on the child dependency ratio or the elderly dependency ratio. Niger Tops the Charts with the Highest Age Dependency Ratio.

In the realm of global demographics, Niger has emerged as the country with the highest age dependency ratio, reaching a staggering 105.86%. This signifies a significant economic challenge, as the working-age population is burdened with supporting a substantial number of both young children and elderly citizens.

Countries with the Highest Age Dependency Ratio in the World, 2025

*Percentages shown are computed against a base of 100. For example, Niger’s world-leading 105.86% total ADR represents a ratio of 105.86/100, which indicates that the country has nearly 105.86 dependents (children and elders) for every 100 working-age residents.

Challenges and Opportunities in High Dependency Ratio Nations: Countries like Niger, the Central African Republic, and Somalia face significant economic challenges due to having a high number of dependents compared to working-age individuals. This imbalance puts pressure on resources, which can affect social programs and economic stability and increase the risk of civil unrest. In contrast, nations with low dependency ratios, such as Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, demonstrate healthier economies with enough jobs and workers to support their dependents.

As nations face the economic implications of their demographic structures, it is crucial for policymakers, economists, and organizations to understand age dependency ratios. This data serves as a guide for addressing the needs of social programs, anticipating economic challenges, and promoting sustainable growth in an ever-evolving global environment.

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