Nepal is one of the poorest, least developed countries in the world. Nearly one third of its people live below the poverty line. You can sponsor a child in Nepal here

Ecuador, formerly known as the Republic of the Equator, has seen significant economic growth since oil was discovered there in the 1960s. Its growth has fluctuated however, due continued border disputes with neighbouring countries and internal political instability. You can sponsor a child in Ecuador here.

Having gained its independence from a colonial Spanish government in 1821, Guatemala experienced many years of political instability that included a variety of military and civilian governments and a 36-year guerrilla war. You can sponsor a child in Guatemala here.

Since the 18th century slave revolt which won Haiti its independence as the first black republic, life in Haiti has been marred by continued political instability and armed conflict. You can sponsor a child in Haiti here.

Aside from Bangladesh's severe natural disadvantages, it has suffered from ineffective and corrupt governments ever since being established as a country in 1971.

Nicaragua, one of the poorest countries in the western hemisphere, is in recovery from a long history of oppressive dictatorships, civil war and natural disasters. You can sponsor a child in Nicaragua here

Peru has experienced a variety of military and public governments since gaining independence from their Spanish colonisers in the mid-nineteenth century. You can sponsor a child in Peru here

Afghanistan is the poorest country in Asia, and perhaps the most war-torn, conflict-ridden country in the world. You can sponsor a child in Afghanistan here

Established in 1964, Tanzania suffered for many years under the policies of President Julius Nyerere. His government failed because of its inefficiency and corruption, and because of persistent social resistance to it. Sponsor a child in Tanzania

Since achieving independence in 1964, Ugandans have suffered at the hands of two different dictators. Several hundred thousand people lost their lives, and schools, hospitals, roads and industries were destroyed during the long years of conflict. Sponsor a child in Uganda here