Red List Countries 2025

Venezuela

Venezuela is currently experiencing a severe economic and political crisis. The country is facing widespread shortages of food, medicine, and other necessities. The government, led by President Nicolas Maduro, has been accused of corruption and human rights abuses. In addition, the country has become a hub for drug trafficking and other criminal activities. The crisis has also led to a mass exodus of Venezuelans, with millions of people fleeing the country in search of safety and better living conditions.

The situation in Venezuela continues to deteriorate, with no end in sight to the political and economic turmoil. The largest criticism regarding Venezuela is that it was considered one of the richest nations in the world only a few decades ago. With its vast and rich access to natural resources, as well as its highly educated population, it is confusing how one nation could fall so quickly. Of course, the primary touted reason was the installation of the socialist government, which had heavily increased the inflation rate, enough to completely debase the Venezuelan currency.

Somalia

Somalia is a country that has been plagued by civil war and instability for decades. The government is weak and many parts of the country are controlled by armed groups, including the terrorist organization al-Shabaab. The country also suffers from severe poverty and a lack of access to basic services such as education and healthcare. In addition, Somalia is regularly hit by natural disasters such as droughts and floods.

The ongoing conflict and lack of security have made it difficult for humanitarian organizations to assist those in need. The situation in Somalia remains dire, with many people living in fear and desperation. Somalia’s underground activity also includes frequent acts of piracy, one of the few active countries which still holds onto this tradition. it is not uncommon for Somalian pirates to be spotted at sea, and many local or global mercenary groups are often contracted for the protection of precious cargo.

North Korea

North Korea is one of the most isolated and repressive regimes in the world. The country is ruled by a single party, the Korean Workers’ Party, and its leader, Kim Jong-un. The government heavily restricts the freedoms of its citizens and is known for its human rights abuses. Political opposition is not tolerated and the government maintains control through a vast network of surveillance and propaganda. North Korea is perhaps the most iconic red-list country that is known to the western world and is a dire reminder of the political influence of an era long past.

The country also poses a threat to international security due to its nuclear weapons program. Despite numerous sanctions and international efforts to denuclearize the country, North Korea has continued to develop its nuclear capabilities. This has come at an enormous price, as many North Koreans are actively starving and living well below the poverty line. The state government holds access to most of the nation’s resources, including power and food. Often, only high-ranking officials, diplomats, and the military are afforded some luxuries.