The Five Youngest Countries in the World

In the ever-evolving geopolitical landscape, new countries continue to emerge through various means such as referendums, declarations of independence, or through the assistance of international organizations like the United Nations. Here, we explore the five youngest countries in the world, their journey to statehood, and the challenges they face.

1 – South Sudan

Year of Independence: 2011 Population: 12.2 million

South Sudan, the world’s youngest country, gained independence from Sudan in 2011 after years of civil war. However, the country continues to be ravaged by violence. Civil War erupted in South Sudan in 2013 and continues today, as political leaders from different ethnic groups vie for power.

2 – Kosovo

Year of Independence: 2008 Population: 1.8 million

Kosovo, the smallest Balkan nation, declared independence from Serbia in 2008. Despite the International Court of Justice affirming Kosovo’s independence, Serbia and some other countries still do not recognize it as a sovereign nation.

3 – Montenegro and Serbia

Year of Independence: 2006 Montenegro Population: 623,000 Serbia Population: 7.1 million

Montenegro gained independence from Serbia in 2006. The decision split the single nation known as the Union of Serbia and Montenegro, which had formed after Yugoslavia’s collapse in the early 1990s. Consequently, Serbia also declared independence and became its own sovereign republic.

4 – East Timor

Year of Independence: 2002 Population: 1.3 million

East Timor, once part of Indonesia, had a long journey to statehood. When the public voted for independence from Indonesia in 1999, the referendum was met with violence from an anti-independence militia until the U.N. interfered.

5 – Palau

Year of Independence: 1994 Population: 21,500

Following World War II, Palau became a United Nations Trust Territory of the Pacific, administered by the United States. The territory gained independence in 1994, but under a Compact of Free Association, the U.S. provides it financial aid. Palau has the smallest population of any of the five newest countries, with around 21,500 people.

These young nations, each with their unique histories and challenges, represent the dynamic nature of our world. Their journeys remind us of the complexities of statehood and the ongoing quest for sovereignty and self-determination.