The term “third world country” is often used to describe developing countries, which are countries that have a lower level of economic development than more developed countries. In general, third world countries tend to have lower per capita income levels, higher rates of poverty and disease, and less access to basic infrastructure like clean water and sanitation. Examples of third world countries include many African countries, like Somalia and South Sudan, as well as some countries in Asia and South America, like Afghanistan and Haiti.
The term “third world countries” originated during the Cold War and referred to countries that were not aligned with either the United States or the Soviet Union. In a modern context, the term is not commonly used, as it is seen as outdated and pejorative. It is more accurate and respectful to refer to these countries as “developing countries” or “low- and middle-income countries” based on their socioeconomic status and level of development.