There are many small countries in the world, and the exact definition of “small” can vary depending on the criteria used (such as population size, land area, or economic output). Here are a few examples of small countries based on different criteria:
- Monaco: This small city-state on the French Riviera is the second-smallest country in the world by land area, with an area of just 2.02 square kilometers. It is also one of the most densely populated countries in the world.
- Nauru: This tiny island nation in the South Pacific is the third-smallest country in the world by land area, with an area of just 21 square kilometers. It has a population of around 10,000 people.
- San Marino: This small republic in southern Europe is the fifth-smallest country in the world by land area, with an area of just 61 square kilometers. It is also one of the oldest continuously inhabited countries in the world, having been founded in the 4th century AD.
- Liechtenstein: This small European country is the fourth-smallest by land area, with an area of just 160 square kilometers. It is also one of the wealthiest countries in the world, with a highly developed economy and a high standard of living.
- Tuvalu: This small island nation in the Pacific Ocean is the fourth-smallest country in the world by population, with just over 10,000 residents. It has an area of just 26 square kilometers and is particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change, including rising sea levels.
- Andorra: This small country in the Pyrenees mountains is the sixth-smallest country in Europe by land area, with an area of just 468 square kilometers. It is known for its ski resorts and duty-free shopping, which attracts many tourists each year.
- Seychelles: This small island nation in the Indian Ocean is the smallest African country by land area, with an area of just 455 square kilometers. It is known for its beautiful beaches and rich biodiversity, with many unique species of flora and fauna found only in the Seychelles.
- Malta: This small island nation in the Mediterranean is the tenth-smallest country in Europe by land area, with an area of just 316 square kilometers. It has a long and complex history, having been ruled by various empires and powers over the centuries.
- Iceland: This small island nation in the North Atlantic is the most sparsely populated country in Europe, with a population of just over 360,000 people. It is known for its dramatic landscapes, including volcanoes, geysers, and glaciers, and has a rich cultural heritage that includes Norse mythology and sagas.
- Singapore: This small city-state in Southeast Asia is the smallest country in the region by land area, with an area of just 728 square kilometers. It is one of the most developed and prosperous countries in the world, with a highly diversified economy and a reputation for efficiency and innovation.