Yemen, one of the poorest countries in the Arab world, has reported strong growth in its economy since 2000. However, its economic fortunes depend mostly on oil. Yemen has embarked on an IMF-supported structural adjustment programme designed to modernise and streamline its economy. The programme has led to substantial foreign debt relief and noticeable restructuring.

Yet lately, Yemen has increased its overall growth from 3.2% in the previous year to 3.6% last year. It is worth mentioning that the government has recently made efforts in more than one direction. First the reduction in inflation was the main positive outcome for the year in addition to taking better control of security. After clashes in the north of Yemen with a radical group early in the year, the government was able to take control of the conflict by signing a new peace deal.

Population of Yemen

According to the last census in 2005, since 1975, Yemen's population has grown by two and half times, reaching 19.7 million.

This population growth is completely incompatible with the economic resources available, and therefore limits the potential for economic growth and social development, not to mention the pressure it creates on education, healthcare, food and the environment. Also, 48% of the population is under 15 years old. This percentage implies a fast-growing workforce and the need to rapidly expand various employment opportunities.