Instead, countries are now more commonly classified according to their level of economic development, using terms such as "developed countries," "developing countries," and "least developed countries." These classifications are based on factors such as gross domestic product (GDP) per capita, human development indicators, and access to essential services.
According to the United Nations, there are currently 46 least developed countries (LDCs) in the world. These countries are characterized by low levels of income, weak infrastructure, and limited access to education and healthcare. They are often located in sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and Latin America.
It's important to note that these classifications are fluid and subject to change over time, as countries can progress or regress in terms of their economic development status.