Senegal leaves the category of least developed country

The United Nations General Assembly adopted a landmark resolution on December 19, 2024 which seals the removal of Senegal and Cambodia from the list of least developed countries (LDCs). This reclassification, which will be effective after a transitional period of five years, recognizes the significant progress made by the two nations in their development efforts.

Adopted by consensus, the resolution highlights the role of methodical preparation to guarantee a harmonious transition. The text stipulates that this preparatory period will allow Senegal and Cambodia to develop national transition strategies, with the support of the United Nations and their international partners. These strategies aim to consolidate gains and mitigate the risks of disruption to their economies.

The Assembly also highlighted the global threats that developing countries continue to face, including the economic and social impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, conflicts, and the growing effects of climate change. These factors, the resolution underlines, exacerbate inequalities and weigh heavily on the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).