Fragile and conflict affected situations Population 2026

As of 2025, the World Bank aggregate for fragile and conflict affected situations reports a total population of approximately 1,081,767,572. This figure represents a 1-year growth rate of 2.34%, reflecting continued demographic expansion in regions facing instability. The aggregate encompasses countries and territories experiencing fragility, conflict, or violence, as defined by the World Bank.

Population
1,081,767,572
Estimate for 2026
1-year growth
+2.34%
10-year avg growth
+2.19%

Population Trend

Overview

The population of fragile and conflict affected situations reached 1.08 billion in 2025, underscoring the demographic weight of regions grappling with political instability, armed conflict, and weak institutional capacity. The 1-year growth rate of 2.34% is notably higher than the global average, driven by persistently high fertility rates and declining mortality in some of these areas. Over the past decade, the average annual growth rate has been 2.19%, indicating a sustained trend of rapid population increase despite the challenges of conflict and displacement.

Regional context varies widely within this aggregate, as it includes countries from sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, South Asia, and parts of Latin America. Many of these nations face humanitarian crises, forced migration, and disrupted health and education systems, yet their populations continue to grow. The 10-year average growth of 2.19% suggests that even during periods of heightened conflict, demographic momentum remains strong due to youthful age structures and high birth rates.

This population growth places additional strain on already fragile infrastructure, food security, and governance. The World Bank’s classification of fragile and conflict affected situations is updated annually, and the 2025 data reflects both the inclusion of newly affected countries and the ongoing demographic pressures in long-standing conflict zones. The aggregate’s growth rate is a key indicator for international aid planning and development policy.

FAQ

What is the population of fragile and conflict affected situations in 2025?
The population of fragile and conflict affected situations in 2025 is 1,081,767,572, according to the World Bank aggregate.
What is the population growth rate for fragile and conflict affected situations?
The 1-year growth rate for 2025 is 2.34%, and the 10-year average annual growth rate is 2.19%.
Which countries are included in fragile and conflict affected situations?
The World Bank defines this aggregate as countries and territories that face fragility, conflict, or violence. The specific list is updated annually and includes nations such as Afghanistan, Syria, Yemen, Somalia, and others experiencing institutional instability or armed conflict.
How does the growth rate of fragile and conflict affected situations compare to the global average?
The 2.34% growth rate for 2025 is significantly higher than the global average (approximately 0.9% in 2025), reflecting higher fertility rates and younger populations in these regions.
Why is the population growing in fragile and conflict affected situations despite instability?
Population growth persists due to high fertility rates, declining infant and child mortality in some areas, and a youthful demographic structure. Even in conflict zones, birth rates often remain elevated, and humanitarian aid can reduce death rates, contributing to net population increase.

Data sources & terms