The 1990s have been a period of transition from communist rule to democracy and a market economy. During the last three years Mongolia has seen four new governments, all from the democratic coalition holding a majority in the parliament. Greater stability is expected following the election due next June. While growth in the economy and herd size has led to material improvements for some, there remains a large number of people who are unemployed and living in difficult circumstances. Life expectancy in Mongolia is 64.25 years, and the mortality rate for children under five is 47.8 per 1000.
Assessments indicate that one out of every four children is undernourished.
Through effective immunization, many childhood diseases have been successfully tackled. However, there is an increase in non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular diseases and cancer. On the social side, the gap between rich and poor is becoming more apparent. Eighty per cent of the population has access to safe water, though sources are limited in areas bordering the Gobi desert. The main environmental problem is desertification which is aggravated by an arid climate and fragile soil.