Mapped: The 20 Shortest Countries in the World 🌱

What we’re showing

This graphic ranks the 20 shortest countries in the world, by average height. Data comes from NCD Risk Factor Collaboration, compiled by Business Insider.

Note that rankings are based on average person height (men and women combined). For context, the global average height of a human is 5' 4".

Why are these countries shorter than average?

Here’s a high level analysis of why certain countries are shorter than others:

• Genetics: Many of the shortest countries are found in Southeast Asia, Latin America, and Sub-Saharan Africa. These populations may be predisposed to smaller body frames.
• Nutrition: Nutrition during early childhood can have a significant impact on growth, meaning countries that struggle with food insecurity may see shorter heights.
• Socioeconomic factors: Poverty can affect living conditions and access to food & healthcare. For instance, many of the world’s shortest countries are lower-income nations.