Why Eswatini (Swaziland) Is Classified as an LEDC

Economic Factors

• High unemployment (~25%) due to low job growth, skills mismatch, rapid population growth.
• Low GDP per capita (~$1,500) from limited growth, aid dependence, large informal sector.
• High poverty (~63%) driven by lack of opportunity, unemployment, high living costs.

Social Factors

• Low literacy (~80%) from limited education access, resources, high dropout.
• High infant mortality (~75/1,000) due to poor healthcare access, malnutrition.
• High HIV/AIDS prevalence (~26%) from limited healthcare, education, high-risk behaviors.

Political Factors

• Absolute monarchy; no democracy, free speech, assembly, or association—hinders development and fosters corruption.
• Rated among world's most corrupt countries, exacerbating poverty and underdevelopment.