Pirates of the Burning Sea : Populations Demystified
When we published Milestone 1.12, we introduced what we call "Population Incentives." These effects give bonus loot and experience to nations on each server that we designate as underpopulated. These nations often have substantially fewer players than rival nations, which puts them at a disadvantage in PvP, RvR, and the Economy.
The bonuses accomplish a number of things. First, they provide extra loot and experience, which helps existing players at 50 while also helping new players to level faster. The bonuses also help nations grow stronger economically and enhance RvR efforts and participation.
Second, these bonuses are very attractive to players of rival nations. Getting increased rewards from a PvP kill is extremely useful, and the double XP rate helps people who re-roll get to 50 faster.