World Development Indicators (WDI) is the World Bank’s premier annual compilation of data about development. The 400-page print edition allows users to consult 600 indicators for 152 economies and 14 country groups in more than 87 tables. A current overview of the most recent data available as well as important regional data and income group analysis are presented in six thematic chapters: World View, People, Environment, Economy, States and Markets, and Global Links. Sample indicator topics include: Population & demographics Poverty & income distribution Energy Production & Use Urbanization Emissions Adjusted Savings Purchasing Power Parity Exports & Imports Balance of Payments External Debt Tax and Trade Policies Military Expenditures Transportation Development Assistance & Aid Information Technology Education & health Travel & Tourism GDP, GNI, etc. Reliable quantitative data is essential for understanding economic and social development because it provides evidence-evidence to set policies, monitor progress, and evaluate results. World Development Indicators allows users to monitor progress toward the Millennium Development Goals. These goals, agreed to by all member states of the United Nations, establish specific, measurable targets for development in the early 21st century. In addition to the most recent data presented in the print edition, complete time-series data from 1960 onwards are available in the CD-ROM and online versions of World Development Indicators.
