Handbook on the Least Developed Country Category: Inclusion, Graduation and Special Support Measures

The Handbook on the Least Developed Countries (LDCs) provides information on the identification of LDCs and international support measures. The 4th edition has been updated to reflect recent developments, including the progress of countries towards graduation from the LDC category amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. It also contains additional information on international support measures, particularly on smooth transition provisions for countries graduating from the LDC category.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 108 pages
Publication date: 28 February 2022
Publisher: United Nations

The Handbook on the Least Developed Countries (LDCs) is a comprehensive resource prepared by the Secretariat of the Committee for Development Policy. Its primary objective is to disseminate information about the methods and approaches used in identifying LDCs, as well as the international support measures available to them. Recognizing the importance of making this knowledge accessible to a wide range of stakeholders, the Handbook is designed to provide valuable insights into the challenges faced by LDCs and the efforts undertaken to address them.

The 4th edition of the Handbook builds upon the 2018 edition and has been extensively updated to reflect the latest developments in the LDC category. This edition is particularly relevant in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, as it showcases the progress made by several countries in their journey towards graduation from the LDC category. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, these countries have demonstrated resilience and determination in their efforts to achieve sustainable development.

In addition to providing an overview of the LDC category, the Handbook offers detailed information on international support measures. It highlights the various programs, initiatives, and financial resources available to LDCs to support their development efforts. The emphasis is on ensuring a smooth transition for countries graduating from the LDC category, as they face new challenges and opportunities in their pursuit of economic growth and prosperity.

The Handbook is organized into five chapters, each covering a different aspect of the LDC category and international support measures. The first chapter provides an introduction to the concept of LDCs and their unique challenges. Chapter 2 explores the methods used to identify LDCs, including the criteria and indicators employed by the United Nations. Chapter 3 discusses the international support measures available to LDCs, including development assistance, trade preferences, and technical cooperation. Chapter 4 focuses on the role of the private sector in LDC development, highlighting the opportunities and challenges for businesses operating in these countries. Chapter 5 concludes with a summary of the key findings and recommendations of the Handbook.

Overall, the Handbook on the Least Developed Countries (LDCs) is a valuable resource for policymakers, researchers, development practitioners, and anyone interested in understanding the challenges faced by LDCs and the efforts undertaken to support their development. It provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the LDC category and international support measures, and serves as a valuable tool for promoting sustainable development and poverty reduction in these countries.

Introduction:
The Handbook on the Least Developed Countries (LDCs) is a comprehensive resource prepared by the Secretariat of the Committee for Development Policy. Its primary objective is to disseminate information about the methods and approaches used in identifying LDCs, as well as the international support measures available to them. Recognizing the importance of making this knowledge accessible to a wide range of stakeholders, the Handbook is designed to provide valuable insights into the challenges faced by LDCs and the efforts undertaken to address them.

The 4th Edition:
The 4th edition of the Handbook builds upon the 2018 edition and has been extensively updated to reflect the latest developments in the LDC category. This edition is particularly relevant in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, as it showcases the progress made by several countries in their journey towards graduation from the LDC category. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, these countries have demonstrated resilience and determination in their efforts to achieve sustainable development.

In addition to providing an overview of the LDC category, the Handbook offers detailed information on international support measures. It highlights the various programs, initiatives, and financial resources available to LDCs to support their development efforts. The emphasis is on ensuring a smooth transition for countries graduating from the LDC category, as they face new challenges and opportunities in their pursuit of economic growth and prosperity.

Organization:
The Handbook is organized into five chapters, each covering a different aspect of the LDC category and international support measures. The first chapter provides an introduction to the concept of LDCs and their unique challenges. Chapter 2 explores the methods used to identify LDCs, including the criteria and indicators employed by the United Nations. Chapter 3 discusses the international support measures available to LDCs, including development assistance, trade preferences, and technical cooperation. Chapter 4 focuses on the role in LDC development, highlighting the opportunities and challenges for businesses operating in these countries. Chapter 5 concludes with a summary of the key findings and recommendations of the Handbook.

Conclusion:
Overall, the Handbook on the Least Developed Countries (LDCs) is a valuable resource for policymakers, researchers, development practitioners, and anyone interested in understanding the challenges faced by LDCs and the efforts undertaken to support their development. It provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the LDC category and international support measures, and serves as a valuable tool for promoting sustainable development and poverty reduction in these countries.

Weight: 250g
Dimension: 198 x 267 x 9 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789211046984
Edition number: 4 Revised edition