Pre-demographic dividend Population 2026

The pre-demographic dividend aggregate, as defined by the World Bank, refers to countries with a high dependency ratio and low working-age share, often characterized by high fertility and mortality rates. As of 2025, the total population of these nations stands at 1,105,951,788. This group has experienced a 1-year growth rate of 2.57% and a 10-year average growth rate of 2.71%, reflecting continued rapid demographic expansion.

Population
1,105,951,788
Estimate for 2026
1-year growth
+2.57%
10-year avg growth
+2.71%

Population Trend

Overview

The pre-demographic dividend category comprises countries that have not yet undergone the demographic transition that reduces fertility and mortality, leading to a larger working-age population. With a 2025 population of approximately 1.106 billion, this aggregate group accounts for a significant portion of the world's population, primarily concentrated in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of South Asia. The high growth rates—2.57% annually and 2.71% over the past decade—indicate sustained population pressure, driven by high birth rates and declining but still elevated child mortality. These dynamics result in a young age structure, where a large proportion of the population is under 15, placing strain on education, healthcare, and economic resources.

FAQ

What is the pre-demographic dividend population in 2025?
As of 2025, the total population of the pre-demographic dividend aggregate, as defined by the World Bank, is 1,105,951,788.
How fast is the pre-demographic dividend population growing?
The population in this category is growing at a 1-year rate of 2.57% as of 2025, with a 10-year average growth rate of 2.71%.
Which countries are in the pre-demographic dividend group?
The pre-demographic dividend aggregate includes countries with high fertility and mortality rates, typically in sub-Saharan Africa and some parts of South Asia, where the demographic transition to lower birth rates has not yet begun or is in early stages.
Why is the growth rate of pre-demographic dividend countries high?
High growth rates result from persistently high birth rates combined with declining infant and child mortality, leading to a young population structure and rapid population increase.
What is the difference between pre-demographic dividend and other demographic stages?
Pre-demographic dividend countries have a high dependency ratio (many children and few working-age adults) and high population growth, unlike post-transition societies where working-age populations are larger and growth is slower or negative.

Data sources & terms