Out of the 195 recognised countries around the world, some of them are less than three decades old with one forming just 13 years ago.
Countries are often formed out of the fragmentation of larger nations, a fight for independence or various international disagreements. The challenge of standing alone and building a stable government while growing an economy is a journey that the five newest countries have faced in recent years – the most recent in 2011.
The title of the world’s newest country is held by South Sudan.
Following years of conflict with Sudan, the country stood alone on July 9, 2011. The peace treaty in 2005 meant the people in South Sudan could vote for independence in a referendum – an overwhelming 98.83% of citizens voted in favour. Following this, Juba, the country’s capital, joined the United Nations (UN) as its 193rd member.
The second newest country in the world is Europe’s Montenegro. A referendum to separate from Serbia, similar to South Sudan, saw the country vote in favour to stand alone. However, only 55.5% of people supported leaving, with the proposition causing division across the country.
Despite this, June 3, 2006, saw Montenegro recognised as its own state, with the capital, Podgorica, joining the United Nations. In 2017, the country became the 29th member of NATO with its flag raised in the headquarters.
Next is Serbia, after Montenegro’s decision to separate, Serbia became independent on June 5, 2006, after previously being a state union with Montenegro which had replaced Yugoslavia. Being the original successor state of the two, it retained its membership across international organisations such as the United Nations.
Timor-Leste is among the five who gained independence on May 20, 2002, which followed years of Indonesian occupation. A referendum was held in 1999, supported by the UN where most voters chose to form their own country. The nation is currently still building its economy and infrastructure since separating.
Finally, the fifth newest country is Palau, being just 30 years old.
Becoming independent on October 1, 1994, the country was formerly a Nations Trust Territory with the US. A Compact of Free Association was agreed with the US which provides both financial aid and defense support.
