Third World Problems

The Rich and the Poor

As the 20th century came to a close, more attention was paid to the growing gap between rich and poor nations of the world. The term "Third World" was developed during the Cold War, to describe countries that were economically and technologically less developed. The term also suggested that these countries were non-aligned to one of the two super powers.

A large number of Third World countries exist in Africa, Asia and Latin America. They share common problems of poverty, high birthrates, and dependence on more advance countries for survival. These conditions breed further problems during natural disasters that increase the strain on the limited resources of poorer nations.

It has been estimated the one-fifth of the world's population now lives in poverty. Furthermore, half of the world's population lives on two dollars a day, and more than a billion people are unable to read or sign their name. Serious problems of this nature require a re-examination of the way resources are distributed throughout the world.

Food Distribution

Food, of course is an essential item for human existence. Around the world, 840 million people go hungry every day. In other words, they do not get the basic vitamins and minerals from food to stay healthy. It has been estimated that 34,000 children under the age of five die each day. Although large amounts of food are produced on the planet, the ability to get it to regions in need has not been successful.

Some areas of the world are more susceptible to the problem of undernourishment. Regions of Africa and South East Asia region provide prime examples. War, debt, poor economies, large population growth and unstable governments, have all contributed to the problem of food production and distribution. A united effort to ensure the distribution of food in these regions has become a major concern for the United Nations.

The Future

Problems in Third World nations will require much more that simply providing more food. The political stability of various regions must also become a priority for the United Nations. The constant threat of war, the inability to develop viable economies and a lack of educational opportunities must be addressed. The problems of Third World nations will continue to increase in importance as the economics of the world become more closely tied.