Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) has made tremendous progress on the United Nations (UN) Human Development Index (HDI), surpassing even global powers such as China in areas of human development.
The HDI, compiled annually by the UN to measure a country’s overall progress, features 192 countries and assesses life expectancy, education, and income. The data for the 2025 Human Development Report was released on May 6th, 2025.
According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), SVG is ranked 76th on the HDI for 2025—higher than Grenada (80), Dominica (98), and Saint Lucia (103). The data used in the indices and other human development indicators came from a variety of reputable public international sources and represent the best statistics available at the time of the report’s preparation.
Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, speaking about the HDI on NBC Radio’s Morning Cup program on Wednesday, said SVG has shown a steady upward movement on the index over the past quarter century. While the HDI’s composition has evolved over time, he stressed that the positive trend is undeniable and urged the nation to continue on this trajectory.
Referencing the success of countries such as Switzerland, Singapore, and SVG itself, Dr. Gonsalves highlighted the importance of specialization, smart planning, and the development of intellectual capital. He noted that Switzerland has achieved First World status without heavy industry, Singapore has carved out a space in finance and services, and that SVG—though small in landmass—has a maritime space larger than Switzerland’s entire territory.
The Prime Minister expressed confidence that SVG can achieve First World status and encouraged citizens, especially the younger generation, to envision their role in shaping the country by 2050.
Calling for a “national awakening” rooted in education, innovation, and cultural pride—what he described as an “Empire of the Mind”—Dr. Gonsalves said the country’s next stage of development will focus on advanced science and applied technology, building on the foundations already laid in infrastructure, education, and social development
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