Historical, political, geographical and socio-economic causes

Many LICs have lots of natural resources, but early European explorers colonised many of these regions and exploited the resources and the people living there

• Historical
• Political
• Socio-economic
• Geographical

Many children work for their families, doing tasks such as helping to grow food.

• Geographical
• Historical
• Socio-economic
• Political

Poor governance and conflict have prevented some countries from developing

• Historical
• Political
• Socio-economic
• Geographical

Warm climates also allow tropical diseases to spread.

• Historical
• Political
• Socio-economic
• Geographical

Some countries have very hot or very dry climates. This makes it difficult to secure a water supply and grow crops.

• Socio-economic
• Political
• Geographical
• Historical

Some governments have used their power for personal gain rather than to benefit the country

• Historical
• Political
• Socio-economic
• Geographical

Many LICs countries have a youthful population. Younger people will grow up to be the future workforce of a country. However they require a good education.

• Geographical
• Socio-economic
• Historical
• Political

The colonial powers grew wealthier because of their exploitation, whilst many of the colonies became low income countries

• Political
• Geographical
• Historical
• Socio-economic

In some countries there is a shortage of schools, teachers and resources

• Socio-economic
• Political
• Geographical
• Historical

Some countries are landlocked (países sin litoral). This can make it harder to secure water supplies or safe routes to import and export goods.

• Historical
• Geographical
• Socio-economic
• Political