What percentage of the population is white in the world? This is a question that has intrigued demographers, sociologists, and the general public alike. The answer, however, is not straightforward, as it varies significantly across different regions and countries. Understanding the distribution of white populations globally requires an examination of historical migration patterns, racial classifications, and the complex dynamics of human societies.
The concept of race has evolved over time, and the term “white” has been used in various contexts. In many parts of the world, the term refers to individuals of European descent, while in others, it encompasses a broader range of ethnicities. To simplify the discussion, we will use the term “white” to describe individuals of European descent.
According to the United Nations Population Division, as of 2020, the global population is estimated to be around 7.9 billion people. Out of this total, approximately 1.4 billion individuals are of white descent. This figure represents about 17.7% of the world’s population. However, this percentage masks significant variations across regions.
In Europe, the white population is the most concentrated, with white individuals accounting for over 70% of the continent’s population. This is due to the historical dominance of European empires and the subsequent migration patterns that followed. Countries like Russia, Germany, and Italy have particularly high proportions of white individuals, with Russia having the highest percentage at around 81%.
In contrast, regions such as Africa, Asia, and the Middle East have much lower percentages of white individuals. For instance, in Africa, the white population is estimated to be around 3.5% of the total population, with South Africa being the only country where white individuals constitute a significant portion of the population, at approximately 9%.
North America also has a relatively low percentage of white individuals, with the United States and Canada accounting for about 63% and 73% of their populations, respectively. This percentage has been declining over the years due to increasing immigration from Latin America, Asia, and Africa.
In South America, the white population is estimated to be around 30%, with countries like Argentina and Brazil having higher proportions. In Australia and New Zealand, white individuals account for about 90% and 70% of the populations, respectively, reflecting the historical colonization of these regions by European powers.
It is important to note that these figures are subject to change as a result of various factors, including migration, intermarriage, and changes in racial classifications. Moreover, the concept of race is still a contentious issue in many parts of the world, and the way individuals self-identify can significantly impact the accuracy of these estimates.
In conclusion, the percentage of the world’s population that is white is approximately 17.7%. However, this figure varies significantly across regions, with Europe having the highest concentration of white individuals. As the world continues to evolve, the racial composition of populations is likely to change, further influencing the global distribution of white individuals.
