Unit 2 · Neighbors & Borders
44 nations with no ocean access — and why it matters
44 countries have no coastline at all. No beaches, no ports, no direct ocean shipping. Every import and export must cross at least one neighbor's territory. This makes trade more expensive and leaves you dependent on your neighbors' goodwill.
Only TWO countries are double-landlocked — surrounded entirely by other landlocked countries. Liechtenstein (surrounded by Switzerland and Austria) and Uzbekistan (surrounded by 5 landlocked countries). To reach the ocean from Uzbekistan, you must cross at least 2 other countries.
Africa has 16 landlocked countries — more than any continent. Many were created by European colonial borders drawn with zero regard for geography. Countries like Chad, Mali, Niger, and Central African Republic are among the world's poorest, partly because no ocean access = harder trade.
Being landlocked doesn't guarantee poverty. Switzerland, Luxembourg, and Liechtenstein are among the richest countries on Earth. Austria, Czech Republic, and Hungary do very well too. The difference? Stable, friendly neighbors and good infrastructure.
Bolivia lost its coastline to Chile in a war in 1884 and has been bitter about it ever since. They still have a navy (for Lake Titicaca!) and a 'Day of the Sea' holiday. They've taken Chile to international court over ocean access. Losing your coast REALLY matters.
Ethiopia uses Djibouti's port for 95% of its trade. Paraguay ships goods through Argentina's rivers. Mongolia is squeezed between Russia and China with no other options. Some countries build special economic corridors through neighbors. Geography is destiny — unless you engineer around it.
Answer all ten, then see your stars. You can retake it as many times as you like.
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