Fifth edition of the LDC Handbook published

The Handbook on the Least Developed Country Category contains comprehensive and authoritative information on criteria defining the category, graduation procedures, and international support measures for LDCs. This revised edition reflects recent developments in the LDC category, including refinements to the LDC criteria and the progress of several countries towards graduation from the category. Moreover, it contains updated information on international support measures, including on “smooth transition” provisions for countries graduating from the LDC category The Handbook, prepared by the Committee for Development Policy (CDP) and the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA), is intended for government officials, policymakers, researchers and other stakeholders interested in the LDC category.

Download the publication in English


Understanding households’ inflation expectations: the role of food and energy prices Inflation expectations are crucial to economic performance as they influence the effectiveness of both fiscal and monetary policies. Household inflation…
The global economy is expected to experience subdued growth in the coming months amid a challenging trade environment and heightened macroeconomic uncertainties. The world economy is projected to grow by 2.5 per cent in both 2025 and 2026 — below…
Gold reserves are increasing at central banks Central banks around the world traditionally hold international reserves to facilitate exchange rate management, meet external obligations, maintain a buffer against external shocks, and support economic…