Development at a global scale is often measured in statistics, but behind every number is a human story. From a child receiving life-saving healthcare to a family gaining access to clean water or electricity for the first time, development transforms daily life in ways that can last for generations.

According to the International Development Association (IDA), the World Bank’s fund for the world’s poorest countries, its programs between fiscal years 2012 and 2025 delivered essential health services to more than 1.35 billion people, improved water access for 131.7 million people, and expanded electricity services to 155.9 million individuals across developing nations. These figures illustrate the scale of global efforts aimed at reducing poverty and improving living standards.

Health Services Reaching More Than a Billion People

Access to healthcare remains one of the most critical foundations of development. Over the past decade, IDA-supported initiatives have helped more than 1.35 billion people receive essential health services, including maternal care, child immunization programs, nutrition support, and basic medical treatment. These interventions have contributed to healthier communities and stronger public health systems in some of the world’s most vulnerable regions.

Health investments often produce long-term benefits by reducing disease burdens, improving workforce productivity, and increasing life expectancy. In many developing countries, improved healthcare access has also helped strengthen resilience against future health emergencies.

Expanding Access to Clean Water

Clean and reliable water remains a fundamental requirement for human development. Between 2012 and 2025, approximately 131.7 million people gained access to improved water services through IDA-supported projects. These efforts included new water supply systems, rehabilitation of aging infrastructure, and expansion of safe drinking water networks.

Access to clean water has far-reaching consequences. It reduces waterborne diseases, improves school attendance, particularly among children, and frees families from spending hours collecting water from distant sources. Communities with reliable water access often experience better health outcomes and stronger economic opportunities.

Bringing Electricity to Millions

Electricity access is widely recognized as a catalyst for economic growth. IDA-supported programs helped provide new or improved electricity services to 155.9 million people during the FY12–FY25 period. These investments included grid expansion, rural electrification projects, renewable energy systems, and improvements to existing power infrastructure.

Reliable electricity enables businesses to operate more efficiently, supports healthcare facilities, improves educational opportunities through lighting and digital connectivity, and enhances overall quality of life. In several countries, electrification projects have played a crucial role in connecting remote communities to broader economic opportunities.

Why These Numbers Matter

Global development is not only about economic growth; it is about creating conditions that allow people to live healthier, safer, and more productive lives. Investments in healthcare, water, and energy infrastructure often generate benefits that extend well beyond the immediate recipients. Improved services contribute to stronger institutions, increased economic participation, and greater resilience to crises.

The scale of these achievements demonstrates how coordinated international development efforts can produce measurable results across multiple sectors. While significant challenges remain, the progress recorded between 2012 and 2025 highlights the potential impact of sustained investment and international cooperation.

A Story of Billions of Lives

When discussing global development, numbers can sometimes seem abstract. Yet each statistic represents real people gaining access to opportunities that many take for granted—medical care when they need it, clean water for their families, and electricity that powers homes, schools, and businesses.

The reach of IDA’s programs between 2012 and 2025 illustrates what development at a global scale looks like: billions of improved lives, stronger communities, and a continued effort to build a more inclusive and prosperous future for some of the world’s poorest nations.