Jakarta — The 2025 ranking of the world’s poorest countries by Global Finance Magazine once again underscores the harsh realities faced by nations such as South Sudan, Burundi, and the Central African Republic. These countries remain trapped in cycles of poverty, conflict, and instability, with GDP per capita PPP figures among the lowest in the world.
From an ASEAN perspective, the report is a reminder that global inequality is not a distant issue but one that directly affects regional stability and cooperation. As a community of nations committed to inclusive growth, ASEAN recognizes that poverty in one part of the world can ripple across borders, influencing migration, security, and economic resilience.
ASEAN’s own development journey offers lessons in how regional cooperation can lift millions out of poverty. Over the past decades, Southeast Asia has transformed from a region marked by conflict and underdevelopment into one of the fastest-growing economic blocs. This transformation was made possible through regional integration, investment in human capital, and collective resilience.
The plight of the world’s poorest countries highlights the urgent need for global solidarity. ASEAN leaders have consistently called for stronger international partnerships, emphasizing that development aid, debt relief, and fair trade must be directed toward fragile states. Without such support, the gap between the developed and the least developed nations will only widen.
At the same time, ASEAN acknowledges its responsibility to contribute. Through initiatives in South-South cooperation, humanitarian assistance, and knowledge sharing, the region can play a role in supporting countries struggling with poverty and instability. This aligns with ASEAN’s vision of a community that is outward-looking and committed to global peace and prosperity.
As the world moves toward 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ASEAN’s voice is clear: no nation should be left behind. The 2025 ranking is not just a statistic—it is a call to action for governments, international institutions, and regional blocs to work together in building a more equitable and sustainable future.
