When we think of geography, we often imagine the usual suspects: continents, oceans, rivers, mountains, and so on. However, there’s a lesser-known type of country that doesn’t often get discussed: the double landlocked country. These are countries that are landlocked (i.e., they have no direct access to a sea or ocean) and are also completely surrounded by other landlocked countries. There are only two such countries in the world, and they are among the least known and discussed countries on the planet.
The two double landlocked countries are Liechtenstein and Uzbekistan. Liechtenstein is a tiny country in Europe that is sandwiched between Switzerland and Austria. Uzbekistan, on the other hand, is a much larger country in Central Asia that is surrounded by Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Afghanistan. Both countries faced unique geographic challenges throughout their history, but they overcame them and established successful economies, despite being difficult to reach by sea.
So what do double landlocked countries have to offer when it comes to teaching geography in schools? Well, first of all, it’s a great way to introduce kids to some lesser-known countries that they may not have heard of before. Many students might think that every country in the world is located near the ocean, so learning about countries like Liechtenstein and Uzbekistan can broaden their horizons and show them that there are so many unique and interesting places in the world that they might not know about.
Another important reason why it’s worth teaching students about double landlocked countries is that it can help them understand the importance of trade and transportation. When a country is not located near a sea or an ocean, it can be much more difficult to import and export goods. Countries like Liechtenstein and Uzbekistan have had to find creative ways to overcome these challenges and establish trade relationships with other countries. By understanding these challenges, students can learn about the importance of transportation infrastructure, and how it can make a big difference in the success of a country’s economy and overall development.
Finally, learning about double landlocked countries can also be a great way to introduce students to different cultures and societies. These countries have unique histories, traditions, and customs that make them fascinating to study. Students can learn about the languages spoken in these countries, the religions practiced there, the types of food that are common, and much more. This can help students develop a greater appreciation for diversity and learn about new cultures and ways of life.
