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Wealth and National Well-Being

Country Comparisons:
2010: see chart (middle)

World Factbook: "Nepal is among the poorest and least developed countries in the world with almost one-third of its population living below the poverty line. Agriculture is the mainstay of the economy, providing a livelihood for three-fourths of the population and accounting for about one-third of GDP. Industrial activity mainly involves the processing of agricultural products, including pulses, jute, sugarcane, tobacco, and grain."

Imports were more that six times exports in cash value in 2009: 5.26 billion in imports, 849 million in exports.

People

Living in an urban area
2008: 17%

Unemployment
2004: 42%

Religions
Hinduism 86.2%, Buddhism 7.8%, Islam 3.8%. Hinduism is the official state religion -- the only officially Hindu state.

Geography

Between China and India. Slightly larger than Arkansas. Landlocked. Highest point: Mount Everest. Capital: Kathmandu.

Government

Parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy.

Recent History

Since 1996, "Maoist rebels" have have been warring against the government, a war that as of February 1, 2005 has left more than 10,000 people dead.

April 17, 2005: "More than 600 human rights activists, journalists, lawyers, students and political activists remain detained for peaceful and legitimate activities since a state of emergency was declared by King Gyanendra on 1 February. Human Rights Watch says a climate of intimidation is preventing human rights monitors from conducting investigations into alleged attacks."