Part of the leading Oxford Paperback Reference series, A-Z Countries of the World is an up-to-date handbook providing a brief overview of each country in the world. Maps and geographical details, given along with the contemporary social, economic, religious and political issues that shape each country, give the reader a compact yet thorough understanding of all the countries in the world, from Argentina to Zimbabwe. Up-to-the-minute data on the main economic and social indicators of each country, such as GNP, life expectancy, and population growth and density, is also included. An important reference tool for anyone in need of current, vital statistics on any nation.