Which of the following countries has one of the highest poverty rates?

South Sudan has one of the highest poverty rates in the world due to a combination of ongoing conflict, economic instability, and lack of infrastructure. The civil war that has plagued the country since its independence in 2011 has resulted in widespread displacement and destruction, severely impacting livelihoods. Additionally, South Sudan faces challenges like food insecurity, limited access to education and healthcare, and high levels of illiteracy, all contributing to its high poverty rates.

In comparison, the other countries listed have developed economies and more robust social safety nets that mitigate extreme poverty. The United States, while faced with its own poverty issues, has a higher standard of living and established welfare programs. Germany and Japan also rank among the wealthier nations with effective economic policies and social support systems that help reduce poverty rates significantly. Therefore, South Sudan stands out as a nation where poverty is a critical and pervasive issue.