Are the damaging effects of an earthquake always more severe in developing countries?

Yes

Explanation:

While there will always be damage no matter where you are, the damage from a big earthquake will definitely be worse in developing countries.

Because a lot of developing countries are poor, they can't afford to set up defences against them or build earthquake proof buildings, whereas richer countries have the privilege to be able to do this.

As well as that, developing countries often have a lot of people in smaller areas which means more people are likely to get injured or even killed

polar areas, such as antarctica or the south pole.

separation of church and state? not sure what you mean.