The population on our planet is ever-increasing. Medical advances in recent years have only helped the number continue to grow. Naturally, this issue is cause for concern as overpopulation becomes all too real for many. Overpopulation is felt not just in the likes of China and Bangladesh, but also in some of the world´s smallest countries. Here are the top 10 small countries that have too many people.
Tuvalu
Relatively unheard of, Tuvalu is a small island country located in the Pacific Ocean. Its population of 10,441 share a space of just 26 square kilometres. This means that there are 402 people per square kilometre. However this is actually getting worse due to the fact that the island is getting smaller.
Nauru
You’d be forgiven for not having previously heard of Nauru. The small island in the Pacific Ocean has a population of just 9,322. The 21 square kilometre island means that there are 444 people per square kilometre. Its economy very much relies on the selling of phosphate to Australia. While it has no official capital city, the biggest city is Yaren which has a population of over 1000 people.
San Marino
One of the smallest countries on earth, the nation of San Marino is surrounded by Italy in southern Europe. It has a total area of just 61 square kilometres and a population of 30,000. 505 people per square kilometre ensure its status as one of earth’s most over populated countries. Its biggest industry is undoubtedly tourism. The capital of San Marino is of the same name and is situated on a mountain. The walled city is so small that there are only a few streets where small cars can drive.
Barbados
When people think of Barbados, they think of the beautiful beaches, not of crowded streets and tiny apartments. Yet with a population estimated at 230,000, it’s clear that this independent country of only 432 square kilometres has too many people. There are 660 people per square kilometre but this doesn’t put off the many tourists who visit every year. Despite the overcrowding, the economy is strong though up to 20% of the population do suffer from poverty.
Maldives
Maldives is the smallest Asian country, not just by land area but population. The archipelago has a population of around 309,000 in just 298 square kilometres of space having grown significantly since the 1970s. There are around 1037 people per square km making it one of the most densely populated countries on earth. The capital and indeed largest city is Malé which has a population of around 63,000. Tourism is extremely important to its economy.
Malta
Situated in Southern Europe, Malta is an archipelago of 7 islands with a total of 450,000 residents. 1,500 people per square km would suggest that Malta is too crowded, especially during peak tourist season. One of the smallest countries in the world, Malta is only around 316 square km in total. Malta is part of the European Union and is a popular tourist destination, famed for its warm climate and incredible architecture. Its popularity has led to a growing population which will only become more problematic.
Bahrain
Closely situated to the eastern coast of the Persian Gulf, the Kingdom of Bahrain is actually an archipelago. An estimated population of 1.4 million people means that Bahrain has a density of around 1,600 people per square km. Unlike many Arabic countries, Bahrain’s economy doesn’t rely on oil. Since the 20th century the small nation has invested in sectors such as tourism and banking while the capital of Manama is seen as a major financial hub. However the country relies on the import of food since it lacks the arable land to support its population.
Vatican City
Probably one of the most unusual inclusions in this list, Vatican City is the smallest independent state in the world – both in terms of area and population. It has a population estimated as just 826, all of whom live inside the Vatican’s walls. An area of just 0.44 square kilometres provides a population density of 1,877 per square kilometre, putting it safely in our top 3. Its economy is supported by the sales of tourist memorabilia and admission fees for museums.
Singapore
A sovereign state, the island country of Singapore is located in Southeast Asia. With a population of approximately 5.5 million it means that there’s a density of around 8,000 people per square km, making Singapore the second most crowded country in the world. Despite this, there have been discussions about boosting the island’s population some 30% over the next 15 years. Despite being very overcrowded, Singapore is very prosperous, and seen by many as a great place for business.
Monaco
Officially called the Principality of Monaco, Monaco is a country in Europe that is somehow squeezed in just 200 hectares. In fact after Vatican City, it’s the second smallest country in the world. Its population is just under 40,000 and the vast majority of are very wealthy. It’s an independent state with an extremely strong economy that really began in the 19th century which saw the opening of its first casino in Monte Carlo and a railway connecting the country with the city of Paris. Nowadays it’s a popular but expensive travel location.
