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20220601 | field-gdp-official-exchange-rate | This entry gives the gross domestic product (GDP) or value of all final goods and services produced within a nation in a given year. A nation's GDP at official exchange rates (OER) is the home-currency-denominated annual GDP figure divided by the bilateral average US exchange rate with that country in that year. The measure is simple to compute and gives a precise measure of the value of output. Many economists prefer this measure when gauging the economic power an economy maintains vis-à-vis its neighbors, judging that an exchange rate captures the purchasing power a nation enjoys in the international marketplace. Official exchange rates, however, can be artificially fixed and/or subject to manipulation - resulting in claims of the country having an under- or over-valued currency - and are not necessarily the equivalent of a market-determined exchange rate. Moreover, even if the official exchange rate is market-determined, market exchange rates are frequently established by a relatively small set of goods and services (the ones the country trades) and may not capture the value of the larger set of goods the country produces. Furthermore, OER-converted GDP is not well suited to comparing domestic GDP over time, since appreciation/depreciation from one year to the next will make the OER GDP value rise/fall regardless of whether home-currency-denominated GDP changed.
Topic: Afghanistan$20.24 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Albania$15.273 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Algeria$169.912 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: American Samoa$658 million (2016 est.)
Topic: Andorra$2.712 billion (2016 est.)
Topic: Angola$97.261 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Anguilla$175.4 million (2009 est.)
Topic: Antigua and Barbuda$1.524 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Argentina$447.467 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Armenia$13.694 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Aruba$2.7 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Australia$1,390,790,000,000 (2019 est.)
Topic: Austria$445.025 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Azerbaijan$48.104 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Bahamas, The$12.16 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Bahrain$38.472 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Bangladesh$329.545 billion (2020 est.)
Topic: Barbados$4.99 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Belarus$63.168 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Belgium$533.028 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Belize$1.854 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Benin$10.315 billion (2018 est.)
Topic: Bermuda$6.127 billion (2016 est.)
Topic: Bhutan$2.405 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Bolivia$40.822 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Bosnia and Herzegovina$20.078 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Botswana$18.335 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Brazil$1,877,942,000,000 (2019 est.)
Topic: British Virgin Islands$1.028 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Brunei$12.13 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Bulgaria$68.49 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Burkina Faso$14.271 billion (2018 est.)
Topic: Burma$76.606 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Burundi$3.027 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Cabo Verde$1.971 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Cambodia$22.09 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Cameroon$34.99 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Canada$1,741,865,000,000 (2019 est.)
Topic: Cayman Islands$2.25 billion (2008 est.)
Topic: Central African Republic$1.937 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Chad$10.912 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Chile$282.655 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: China$14,327,359,000,000 (2019 est.)
note: because China's exchange rate is determined by fiat rather than by market forces, the official exchange rate measure of GDP is not an accurate measure of China's output; GDP at the official exchange rate substantially understates the actual level of China's output vis-a-vis the rest of the world; in China's situation, GDP at purchasing power parity provides the best measure for comparing output across countries
Topic: Colombia$323.255 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Comoros$1.186 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Congo, Democratic Republic of the$47.16 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Congo, Republic of the$8.718 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Cook Islands$299.9 million (2016 est.)
Topic: Costa Rica$61.855 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Cote d'Ivoire$42.498 billion (2018 est.)
Topic: Croatia$60.687 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Cuba$93.79 billion (2017 est.)
note: data are in Cuban Pesos at 1 CUP = 1 US$; official exchange rate
Topic: Curacao$5.6 billion (2012 est.)
Topic: Cyprus$24.946 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Czechia$250.631 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Denmark$350.037 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Djibouti$3.323 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Dominica$557 million (2017 est.)
Topic: Dominican Republic$88.956 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Ecuador$107.436 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Egypt$323.763 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: El Salvador$27.023 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Equatorial Guinea$10.634 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Eritrea$5.813 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Estonia$31.461 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Eswatini$4.484 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Ethiopia$92.154 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: European Union$17.11 trillion (2017 est.)
Topic: Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)$206.4 million (2015 est.)
Topic: Faroe Islands$2.765 billion (2014 est.)
Topic: Fiji$4.891 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Finland$269.259 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: France$2,715,574,000,000 (2019 est.)
Topic: French Polynesia$4.795 billion (2015 est.)
Topic: Gabon$16.064 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Gambia, The$1.746 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Gaza Strip$2.938 billion (2014 est.)
note: excludes the West Bank
Topic: Georgia$17.694 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Germany$3,860,923,000,000 (2019 est.)
Topic: Ghana$65.363 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Gibraltar$2.044 billion (2014 est.)
Topic: Greece$209.79 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Greenland$2.221 billion (2015 est.)
Topic: Grenada$1.119 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Guam$5.793 billion (2016 est.)
Topic: Guatemala$76.678 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Guernsey$2.742 billion (2005 est.)
Topic: Guinea$13.55 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Guinea-Bissau$1.339 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Guyana$3.561 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Haiti$8.608 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Honduras$25.145 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Hong Kong$365.753 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Hungary$163.251 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Iceland$24.614 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: India$2,835,927,000,000 (2019 est.)
Topic: Indonesia$1,119,720,000,000 (2019 est.)
Topic: Iran$581.252 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Iraq$231.994 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Ireland$398.476 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Isle of Man$6.792 billion (2015 est.)
Topic: Israel$394.93 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Italy$2,002,763,000,000 (2019 est.)
Topic: Jamaica$15.847 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Japan$5,078,679,000,000 (2019 est.)
Topic: Jersey$5.004 billion (2015 est.)
Topic: Jordan$44.568 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Kazakhstan$181.194 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Kenya$95.52 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Kiribati$197 million (2017 est.)
Topic: Korea, North$28 billion (2013 est.)
Topic: Korea, South$1,646,604,000,000 (2019 est.)
Topic: Kosovo$7.926 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Kuwait$134.638 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Kyrgyzstan$8.442 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Laos$16.97 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Latvia$34.084 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Lebanon$53.253 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Lesotho$2.462 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Liberia$3.071 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Libya$52.259 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Liechtenstein$6.672 billion (2014 est.)
Topic: Lithuania$54.597 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Luxembourg$71.089 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Macau$53.841 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Madagascar$13.964 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Malawi$7.766 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Malaysia$364.631 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Maldives$4.505 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Mali$17.508 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Malta$14.986 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Marshall Islands$222 million (2017 est.)
Topic: Mauritania$706 million (2018 est.)
Topic: Mauritius$14.004 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Mexico$1,269,956,000,000 (2019 est.)
Topic: Micronesia, Federated States of$328 million (2017 est.)
Topic: Moldova$11.982 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Monaco$6.006 billion (2015 est.)
Topic: Mongolia$11.14 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Montenegro$5.486 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Montserrat$167.4 million (2011 est.)
Topic: Morocco$118.858 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Mozambique$14.964 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Namibia$12.372 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Nauru$114 million (2017 est.)
Topic: Nepal$24.88 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Netherlands$907.042 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: New Caledonia$9.77 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: New Zealand$205.202 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Nicaragua$12.57 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Niger$12.926 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Nigeria$475.062 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Niue$10.01 million (2003) (2003)
Topic: North Macedonia$12.696 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Northern Mariana Islands$1.242 billion (2016 est.)
Topic: Norway$405.695 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Oman$76.883 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Pakistan$253.183 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Palau$292 million (2017 est.)
Topic: Panama$66.801 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Papua New Guinea$19.82 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Paraguay$38.94 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Peru$230.707 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Philippines$377.205 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Poland$595.72 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Portugal$237.698 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Puerto Rico$104.2 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Qatar$191.29 billion (2018 est.)
Topic: Romania$249.543 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Russia$1,702,361,000,000 (2019 est.)
Topic: Rwanda$9.136 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da CunhaNA
Topic: Saint Kitts and Nevis$964 million (2017 est.)
Topic: Saint Lucia$1.686 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Saint Martin$561.5 million (2005 est.)
Topic: Saint Pierre and Miquelon$261.3 million (2015 est.)
Topic: Saint Vincent and the Grenadines$785 million (2017 est.)
Topic: Samoa$841 million (2017 est.)
Topic: San Marino$1.643 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Sao Tome and Principe$0 (2018 est.)
Topic: Saudi Arabia$792.849 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Senegal$23.576 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Serbia$51.449 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Seychelles$1.748 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Sierra Leone$4.132 billion (2020 est.)
Topic: Singapore$372.088 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Sint Maarten$304.1 million (2014 est.)
Topic: Slovakia$105.388 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Slovenia$54.16 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Solomon Islands$1.298 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Somalia$7.052 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: South Africa$350.032 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: South Sudan$3.06 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Spain$1,393,351,000,000 (2019 est.)
Topic: Sri Lanka$84.016 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Sudan$24.918 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Suriname$3.419 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Sweden$531.35 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Switzerland$731.502 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Syria$24.6 billion (2014 est.)
Topic: Taiwan$611.391 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Tajikistan$2.522 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Tanzania$60.633 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Thailand$543.798 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Timor-Leste$2.775 billion (2017 est.)
note: non-oil GDP
Topic: Togo$5.232 billion (2018 est.)
Topic: Tokelau$12.658 million (2017 est.)
note: data uses New Zealand Dollar (NZD) as the currency of exchange.
Topic: Tonga$455 million (2017 est.)
Topic: Trinidad and Tobago$24.031 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Tunisia$38.884 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Turkey$760.028 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Turkmenistan$40.819 billion (2018 est.)
Topic: Turks and Caicos Islands$1.02 billion (2018 est.)
Topic: Tuvalu$40 million (2017 est.)
Topic: Uganda$34.683 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Ukraine$155.082 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: United Arab Emirates$421.077 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: United Kingdom$2,827,918,000,000 (2019 est.)
Topic: United States$21,433,228,000,000 (2019 est.)
Topic: Uruguay$56.108 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Uzbekistan$57.789 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Vanuatu$870 million (2017 est.)
Topic: Venezuela$210.1 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Vietnam$259.957 billion (2019 est.)
Topic: Virgin Islands$5.182 billion (2016 est.)
Topic: Wallis and Futuna$195 million (2005) (2005)
Topic: West Bank$9.828 billion (2014 est.)
note: excludes Gaza Strip
Topic: World$80.27 trillion SGWP (gross world product) (2017 est.)
Topic: Yemen$54.356 billion (2018 est.)
Topic: Zambia$25.71 billion (2017 est.)
Topic: Zimbabwe$21.441 billion (2019 est.) |
20220601 | countries-guyana-travel-facts |
US State Dept Travel Advisory: The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens Reconsider Travel to Guyana due to crime. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws and special circumstances in this country.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements: US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. They should also make sure they have at least 1 blank page in their passport for any entry stamp that will be required. A visa is not required.
US Embassy/Consulate: +(592) 225-4900/9; EMER: +(592) 623-1992; US Embassy Georgetown, 100 Young and Duke Streets, Georgetown, Guyana; acsgeorge@state.gov;
https://gy.usembassy.gov/
Telephone Code: 592
Local Emergency Phone: 999
Vaccinations: An International Certificate of Vaccination for yellow fever is required for travelers arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission and for travelers having transited through the airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. See WHO recommendations.
http://www.who.int/
Climate: Tropical; hot, humid, moderated by northeast trade winds; two rainy seasons (May to August, November to January)
Currency (Code): Guyanese dollars (GYD)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s): 120 V, 240 V / 60 Hz / plug types(s): A, B, D, G
Major Languages: English, Guyanese Creole, Amerindian languages (including Caribbean and Arawak languages), Indian languages (including Caribbean Hindustani), Chinese
Major Religions: Protestant 34.8%, Hindu 24.8%, Roman Catholic 7.1%, Muslim 6.8%, Jehovah's Witness 1.3%, Rastafarian 0.5%, other Christian 20.8%
Time Difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Potable Water: Opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit: Suggested
Road Driving Side: Left
Tourist Destinations: Kaieteur Falls; Canopy Walkway; Marshall Falls; Saint George's Cathedral; Orinduik Falls; Shell Beach
Major Sports: Cricket, soccer, field hockey, rounders (similar to baseball)
Cultural Practices: Direct eye contact is appreciated in Guyana, and refusal to meet someone's gaze can be seen as suspicious.
Tipping Guidelines: In restaurants, 10-15% of the bill is conventional. A tip of $2-10 (USD) a day for your guide and $1-3 (USD) for your driver is acceptable.Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444
Page last updated: Monday, April 25, 2022 |
20220601 | field-military-deployments | This entry lists military forces deployed to other countries or territories abroad. The World Factbook defines deployed as a permanently stationed force or a temporary deployment of greater than six months. Deployments smaller than 100 personnel or paramilitaries, police, contractors, mercenaries, or proxy forces are not included. Numbers provided are estimates only and should be considered paper strengths, not necessarily the current number of troops on the ground. In addition, some estimates, such as those by the US military, are significantly influenced by deployment policies, contingencies, or world events and may change suddenly. Where available, the organization or mission that at least some of the forces are deployed under is listed. The following terms and abbreviations are used throughout the entry:
AMISOM - Africa Union (AU) Mission in Somalia; UN-supported, AU-operated peacekeeping mission
BATUS - British Army Training Unit Suffield, Canada
BATUK - British Army Training Unit, Kenya
CSTO - Collective Security Treaty Organization
ECOMIG - ECOWUS Mission in The Gambia; Africa Union-European Union peacekeeping, stabilization, and training mission in Gambia
EUTM - European Union Training Mission
EUFOR - European Union Force Bosnia and Herzegovina (also known as Operation Althea)
EuroCorps - European multi-national corps headquartered in Strasbourg, France, consisting of troops from Belgium, France, Germany, Luxembourg, and Spain; Greece, Italy, Poland, Romania and Turkey are Associated Nations of EuroCorps
G5 Joint Force - G5 Sahel Cross-Border Joint Force comprised of troops from Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania, and Niger
KFOR - the Kosovo Force; a NATO-led international peacekeeping force in Kosovo
MFO - Multinational Force & Observers Sinai, headquartered in Rome
MINUSCA - United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic
MINUSMA - United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali
MNJTF - Multinational Joint Task Force Against Boko Haram comprised of troops from Benin, Cameroon, Chad, Niger, and Nigeria with the mission of fighting Boko Haram in the Lake Chad Basin
MONUSCO - United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
NATO - North American Treaty Organization, headquartered in Brussels, Belgium
Operation Barkhane - French-led counterinsurgency and counter-terrorism mission in the Sahel alongside the G5 Joint Force; headquartered in N’Djamena, Chad and supported by Canada, Denmark, Estonia, the European Union, Germany, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the US
Operation Inherent Resolve - US-led coalition to counter the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria and provide assistance and training to Iraqi security forces
UNAFIL - United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon
UNAMID - African Union - United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur, Sudan
UNDOF - United Nations Disengagement Observer Force, Golan (Israel-Syria border)
UNFICYP - United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus
UNISFA - United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (Sudan-South Sudan border)
UNMISS - United Nations Mission in the Republic of South Sudan
UNSOM - United Nations Assistance Mission in SomaliaThis entry lists military forces deployed to other countries or territories abroad. The World Factbook defines deployed as a permanently stationed force or a temporary deployment of greater than six months. Deployments smaller than 100 personnel or paramilitaries, police, contractors, mercenaries, or proxy forces are not included. Numbers provided are estimates only and should be considered paper strengths, not necessarily the current number of troops on the ground. In addition, some estimates, such as those by the US military, are significantly influenced by deployment policies, contingencies, or world events and may change suddenly. Where available, the organization or mission that at least some of the forces are deployed under is listed. The following terms and abbreviations are used throughout the entry: AMISOM - Africa Union (AU) Mission in Somalia; UN-supported, AU-operated peacekeeping missionBATUS - British Army Training Unit Suffield, CanadaBATUK - British Army Training Unit, KenyaCSTO - Collective Security Treaty OrganizationECOMIG - ECOWUS Mission in The Gambia; Africa Union-European Union peacekeeping, stabilization, and training mission in GambiaEUTM - European Union Training MissionEUFOR - European Union Force Bosnia and Herzegovina (also known as Operation Althea)EuroCorps - European multi-national corps headquartered in Strasbourg, France, consisting of troops from Belgium, France, Germany, Luxembourg, and Spain; Greece, Italy, Poland, Romania and Turkey are Associated Nations of EuroCorpsG5 Joint Force - G5 Sahel Cross-Border Joint Force comprised of troops from Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania, and NigerKFOR - the Kosovo Force; a NATO-led international peacekeeping force in KosovoMFO - Multinational Force & Observers Sinai, headquartered in RomeMINUSCA - United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African RepublicMINUSMA - United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in MaliMNJTF - Multinational Joint Task Force Against Boko Haram comprised of troops from Benin, Cameroon, Chad, Niger, and Nigeria with the mission of fighting Boko Haram in the Lake Chad Basin
MONUSCO - United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the CongoNATO - North American Treaty Organization, headquartered in Brussels, BelgiumOperation Barkhane - French-led counterinsurgency and counter-terrorism mission in the Sahel alongside the G5 Joint Force; headquartered in N’Djamena, Chad and supported by Canada, Denmark, Estonia, the European Union, Germany, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the USOperation Inherent Resolve - US-led coalition to counter the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria and provide assistance and training to Iraqi security forcesUNAFIL - United Nations Interim Force in LebanonUNAMID - African Union - United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur, SudanUNDOF - United Nations Disengagement Observer Force, Golan (Israel-Syria border)UNFICYP - United Nations Peacekeeping Force in CyprusUNISFA - United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (Sudan-South Sudan border)UNMISS - United Nations Mission in the Republic of South SudanUNSOM - United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia
Topic: Argentina200 Cyprus (UNFICYP) (Jan 2022)
Topic: Australiaapproximately 700 Middle East (2021)
Topic: Austria275 Bosnia-Herzegovina (EUFOR stabilization force); 240 Kosovo (NATO/KFOR); 175 Lebanon (UNIFIL) (Jan 2022)
Topic: BangladeshBangladesh is one of the leading contributors to UN peacekeeping missions since it joined the UN in 1974; as of mid-early 2022, it had approximately 6,400 personnel deployed, including about 5,800 troops, including: 1,375 Central African Republic (MINUSCA); 1,625 Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO; plus about 175 police); 125 Lebanon (UNIFIL); 1,100 Mali (MINUSMA; plus about 280 police); 1,600 South Sudan (UNMISS) (Jan 2022)
Topic: Belgium125 France (contributing member of EuroCorps); 100 Mali (EUTM/MINUSMA); 200 Lithuania (NATO) (2021)
Topic: Benin260 (plus about 160 police) Mali (MINUSMA) (Jan 2022)
Topic: Burkina Faso650 (plus about 170 police) Mali (MINUSMA) (Jan 2022)
note - Burkina Faso is part of a five-nation anti-jihadist task force known as the G5 Sahel Group, set up in 2014 with Chad, Mali, Mauritania, and Niger; it has committed 550 troops and 100 gendarmes to the force; the G5 force is backed by the UN, US, and France; G5 troops periodically conduct joint operations with French forces deployed to the Sahel under Operation Barkhane; in early 2020, G5 Sahel military chiefs of staff agreed to allow defense forces from each of the states to pursue terrorist fighters up to 100 km into neighboring countries
Topic: Burundi750 Central African Republic (MINUSCA); 5,400 Somalia (AMISOM) (Jan 2022)
Topic: Cambodia200 Central African Republic (MINUSCA); 180 Lebanon (UNIFIL); 290 Mali (MINUSMA) (Jan 2022)
Topic: Cameroon750 (plus about 350 police) Central African Republic (MINUSCA) (Jan 2022)
note - Cameroon has committed approximately 2,000-2,500 troops to the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) against Boko Haram; national MNJTF troop contingents are deployed within their own country territories, although cross‐border operations occur occasionally
Topic: Canadathe CAF has approximately 2,000 personnel deployed on more than 20 different operations around the world, including up to 575 in Latvia (NATO) and up to 850 in the Middle East (multiple missions, including support to the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS and NATO assistance mission Iraq) (2022)
note - NATO troop deployment numbers in eastern Europe are as of February 2022; in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, some NATO countries have sent additional troops and equipment to the battlegroups deployed in NATO territory in eastern Europe
Topic: Chad1,425 Mali (MINUSMA) (Jan 2022)
note(s) - Chad is part of a five-nation anti-jihadist task force known as the G5 Sahel Group, set up in 2014 with Burkina Faso, Mali, Mauritania, and Niger; Chad has committed 550 troops and 100 gendarmes to the force; in early 2020, G5 Sahel military chiefs of staff agreed to allow defense forces from each of the states to pursue terrorist fighters up to 100 km into neighboring countries; the G5 force is backed by the UN, US, and France; G5 troops periodically conduct joint operations with French forces deployed to the Sahel under Operation Barkhane; Chad hosts the headquarters of Operation Barkhane in N’Djamena
Chad has committed approximately 1,000-1,500 troops to the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) against Boko Haram; national MNJTF troop contingents are deployed within their own territories, although cross‐border operations are conducted periodically; in 2019, Chad sent more than 1,000 troops to Nigeria’s Borno State to fight BH as part of the MNJTF mission
Topic: China425 Mali (MINUSMA); 225 Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO); 420 Lebanon (UNIFIL); 1,050 South Sudan (UNMISS); up to 2,000 Djibouti (Feb 2022)
Topic: Colombia275 Egypt (MFO) (2022)
Topic: Cote d'Ivoire860 Mali (MINUSMA) (Jan 2022)
Topic: Croatia130 Kosovo (KFOR/NATO) (2022)
Topic: Czechiaup to 130 Lithuania (NATO) (2022)
note - NATO troop deployment numbers in eastern Europe are as of February 2022; in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, some NATO countries have sent additional troops and equipment to the battlegroups deployed in NATO territory in eastern Europe
Topic: Denmark140 Middle East/Iraq (NATO) (2021)
Topic: Djibouti960 Somalia (AMISOM) (2022)
Topic: Egypt1,000 Central African Republic (MINUSCA); 1,050 Mali (MINUSMA) (Jan 2022)
Topic: El Salvador175 Mali (MINUSMA) (Jan 2022)
Topic: Ethiopiaprior to the 2020-21 Tigray conflict, 5-10,000 Somalia (4,500 for AMISOM; the remainder under a bilateral agreement with Somalia); 3,200 Sudan (UNISFA); 1,500 South Sudan (UNMISS) (2022)
note - in August 2021, Sudan asked the UN to remove the Ethiopian troops from the UNISFA mission
Topic: European Unionsince 2003, the EU has launched more than 30 civilian and military crisis-management, advisory, and training missions in Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, as well as counter-piracy operations off the coast of Somalia and a naval operation in the Mediterranean to disrupt human smuggling and trafficking networks and prevent the loss of life at sea (2022)
Topic: Fiji170 Egypt (MFO); 160 Iraq (UNAMI); 150 Golan Heights (UNDOF) (Jan 2022)
Topic: Finland160 Lebanon (UNIFIL) (Jan 2022)
Topic: France4,300 Burkina Faso/Chad/Mali/Niger (Operation Barkhane, Task Force Takuba; note - in 2021, France announced that it would cut the number of troops from this force to about 2,500 by 2023; in 2022, France said it would move the troops in Mali--about 2,400--to other west African countries); approximately 300 Central African Republic; 950 Cote D'Ivoire; 1,450 Djibouti; 350 Baltics (NATO); 2,100 French Guyana; 900 French Polynesia; 1,000 French West Indies; 350 Gabon; est. 500 Middle East (Iraq/Jordan/Syria); 570 Lebanon (UNIFIL); 1,450 New Caledonia; 1,700 Reunion Island; 350 Senegal; 650 United Arab Emirates (2021-2022)
note(s) - France has been a contributing member of the EuroCorps since 1992; NATO troop deployment numbers in eastern Europe are as of February 2022; in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, some NATO countries have sent additional troops and equipment to the battlegroups deployed in NATO territory in eastern Europe
Topic: Germanyapproximately 500 Middle East (NATO/Counter-ISIS campaign); 550 Lithuania (NATO); approximately 1,200 Mali (MINUSMA/EUTM) (2021-2022)
note(s) - Germany is a contributing member of the EuroCorps; NATO troop deployment numbers in eastern Europe are as of February 2022; in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, some NATO countries have sent additional troops and equipment to the battlegroups deployed in NATO territory in eastern Europe
Topic: Ghana150 Mali (MINUSMA); 875 Lebanon (UNIFIL); 730 (plus about 300 police) South Sudan (UNMISS) (Jan 2022)
Topic: Greeceapproximately 1,000 Cyprus; 100 Kosovo (NATO); 150 Lebanon (UNIFIL) (2022)
Topic: Guatemala155 Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) (Jan 2022)
Topic: Guinea670 Mali (MINUSMA) (Jan 2022)
Topic: Hungary160 Bosnia-Herzegovina (EUFOR stabilization force); 150 Iraq (counter-ISIS coalition); 470 Kosovo (NATO/KFOR) (2021-2022)
Topic: India1,900 Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO); 200 Golan Heights (UNDOF); 900 Lebanon (UNIFIL); 2,400 South Sudan (UNMISS) (Jan 2022)
Topic: Indonesia225 Central African Republic (MINUSCA); 1,030 Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO); 1,250 Lebanon (UNIFIL) (Jan 2022)
Topic: Iranestimated 1-3,000 Syria (2022)
note - Iran has recruited, trained, and funded thousands of Syrian and foreign fighters to support the ASAD regime during the Syrian civil war
Topic: Ireland130 Golan Heights (UNDOF); 330 Lebanon (UNIFIL) (Feb 2022)
Topic: Italy120 Djibouti; 900 Middle East/Iraq/Kuwait (NATO, counter-ISIS campaign, European Assistance Mission Iraq); 640 Kosovo (NATO/KFOR); 250 Latvia (NATO); 1,190 Lebanon (UNIFIL); 400 Libya; 290 Niger; 250 Romania (NATO); 150 Somalia (EUTM) (2022)
note - NATO troop deployment numbers in eastern Europe are as of February 2022; in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, some NATO countries have sent additional troops and equipment to the battlegroups deployed in NATO territory in eastern Europe
Topic: Japanapproximately 180 Djibouti (2022)
Topic: Jordan330 Mali (MINUSMA) (Feb 2022)
Topic: Kenya260 Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO); 3,650 Somalia (AMISOM) (2022)
Topic: Korea, South260 Lebanon (UNIFIL); 280 South Sudan (UNMISS); 170 United Arab Emirates; note - since 2009, the ROK has kept a naval flotilla with approximately 300 personnel in the waters off of the Horn of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula (2021-2022)
Topic: Latvia130 Kosovo (KFOR/NATO) (2022)
Topic: Liberia160 Mali (MINUSMA) (Feb 2022)
Topic: Lithuaniacontributes about 350-550 troops to the Lithuania, Poland, and Ukraine joint military brigade (LITPOLUKRBRIG), which was established in 2014; the brigade is headquartered in Poland and is comprised of an international staff, three battalions, and specialized units (2022)
Topic: Malawi700 Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) (Feb 2022)
Topic: Malaysia830 Lebanon (UNIFIL) (Feb 2022)
Topic: MaliMali is part of a five-nation anti-jihadist task force known as the G5 Sahel Group, set up in 2014 with Burkina Faso, Chad, Mauritania, and Niger; it has committed 1,100 troops and 200 gendarmes to the force; in early 2020, G5 Sahel military chiefs of staff agreed to allow defense forces from each of the states to pursue terrorist fighters up to 100 km into neighboring countries; the G5 force is backed by the UN, US, and France; G5 troops periodically conduct joint operations with French forces deployed to the Sahel under Operation Barkhane
Topic: Mauritania460 (plus about 320 police) Central African Republic (MINUSCA) (Feb 2022)
note - Mauritania is part of a five-nation anti-jihadist task force known as the G5 Sahel Group, set up in 2014 with Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, and Niger; it has committed 550 troops and 100 gendarmes to the force; in early 2020, G5 Sahel military chiefs of staff agreed to allow defense forces from each of the states to pursue terrorist fighters up to 100 km into neighboring countries; the G5 force is backed by the UN, US, and France; G5 troops periodically conduct joint operations with French forces deployed to the Sahel under Operation Barkhane
Topic: Mongolia860 South Sudan (UNMISS) (Feb 2022)
note(s) - from 2003 to July 2021, some 3,300 Mongolian troops served in Afghanistan, including about 1,300 under the NATO-led mission Resolute Support Mission (2015 to 2021); since 2002, Mongolia has deployed more than 19,000 peacekeepers and observers to UN operations in more than a dozen countries
Topic: Morocco770 Central African Republic (MINUSCA); 920 Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) (Feb 2022)
Topic: Nepal750 Central African Republic (MINUSCA); 1,140 Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO); 400 Golan Heights (UNDOF); 875 Lebanon (UNIFIL); 230 Liberia (UNSMIL); 175 Mali (MINUSMA); 1,625 South Sudan (UNMISS) (Feb 2022)
Topic: Netherlands270 Lithuania (NATO) (2022)
Topic: New Zealandup to 220 Antarctica (summer season only) (2021)
Topic: Niger870 Mali (MINUSMA) (Feb 2022)
note(s) - Niger is part of a five-nation anti-jihadist task force known as the G5 Sahel Group, set up in 2014 with Burkina Faso, Mali, Mauritania, and Chad; it has committed 1,100 troops and 200 gendarmes to the force; in early 2020, G5 Sahel military chiefs of staff agreed to allow defense forces from each of the states to pursue terrorist fighters up to 100 km into neighboring countries; the G5 force is backed by the UN, US, and France; G5 troops periodically conduct joint operations with French forces deployed to the Sahel under Operation Barkhane
Niger also has about 1,000 troops committed to the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) against against the terrorist group Boko Haram (see Appendix T); national MNJTF troop contingents are deployed within their own country territories, although cross‐border operations are conducted periodically
Topic: Nigeria200 Ghana (ECOMIG) (2022)
note - Nigeria has committed an Army combat brigade (approximately 3,000 troops) to the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), regional counter-terrorism force comprised of troops from Benin, Cameroon, Chad, and Niger; the national MNJTF troop contingents are deployed within their own country territories, although cross‐border operations are conducted periodically
Topic: Norwayup to 150 Lithuania (NATO) (2022)
Topic: Pakistan1,300 Central African Republic (MINUSCA); 1,950 Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO); 220 Mali (MINUSMA); 280 South Sudan (UNMISS) (Feb 2022)
Topic: Peru210 Central African Republic (MINUSCA) (Feb 2022)
Topic: Poland240 Kosovo (NATO/KFOR); up to 180 Latvia (NATO); 190 Lebanon (UNIFIL) (2022)
note - Poland contributes about 2,500 troops to the Lithuania, Poland, and Ukraine joint military brigade (LITPOLUKRBRIG), which was established in 2014; the brigade is headquartered in Poland and is comprised of an international staff, three battalions, and specialized units
Topic: Portugal200 Central African Republic (MINUSCA/EUTM); up to 120 Lithuania (2022)
note - in 2021, Portugal deployed about 80 troops to Mozambique to assist with the EU training mission
Topic: Romaniaup to 120 Poland (NATO) (2022)
Topic: Russiainformation varies; est. 3,000-5,000 Armenia; est. 1,500 Belarus; est. 7,000-10,000 Georgia; est. 100 Central African Republic; est. 500 Kyrgyzstan; est. 1,500-2,000 Moldova (Transnistria); est. 3,000-5,000 Syria; est. 5,000-7,000 Tajikistan (2021)
note(s) - in 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine with an estimated 150-200,000 troops; prior to the invasion, it maintained an estimated 30,000 troops in areas of Ukraine occupied since 2014
--as of 2022, Russia had about 2,000 peacekeeping troops deployed to the area in and around Nagorno-Karabakh as part of a truce agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan; fighting erupted between the two countries over the Nagorno-Karabakh region in September of 2020
--as of late 2021, Russia was assessed to have sent 3,000-5,000 private military contractors to conduct security operations in Africa, including in the Central African Republic, Libya, and Mali
Topic: Rwanda2,450 (plus about 500 police) Central African Republic (approximately 1,700 for MINUSCA; an additional 750 sent bilaterally in August, 2021); 1,000 Mozambique (deployed mid-2021 to assist with combating insurgency); 2,600 (plus about 400 police) South Sudan (UNMISS) (Feb 2022)
Topic: Saudi Arabiaest. 2,500-5,000 Yemen (varies depending on operations, which continued into 2022) (2022)
Topic: Senegal750 Gambia (ECOMIG); 970 Mali (MINUSMA); note - Senegal also has about 1,100 police deployed on various UN peacekeeping missions (2022)
note - in 2021, Senegal also had over 700 police deployed on UN missions
Topic: Serbia200 Lebanon (UNIFIL) (Feb 2022)
Topic: Singaporemaintains permanent training detachments of military personnel in Australia, France, and the US (2022)
Topic: Slovakia240 Cyprus (UNFICYP); up to 150 Latvia (NATO); 250 Slovakia (NATO) (2022)
Topic: Slovenia200 Kosovo (NATO) (2022)
Topic: South Africa930 Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO); 1,500 Mozambique (part of a Southern African Development Community force to help quell an insurgency) (2022)
note - in 2021, South Africa sent a contingent of about 1,500 troops to Mozambique as part of a Southern African Development Community (SADC) force to help quell an insurgency; in
Topic: Spainapproximately 200 Iraq (training mission, counter-ISIS coalition); 350 Latvia (NATO); 650 Lebanon (UNIFIL); approximately 400 Mali (EUTM); 150 Turkey (NATO) (2021-2022)
note - NATO troop deployment numbers in eastern Europe are as of February 2022; in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, some NATO countries have sent additional troops and equipment to the battlegroups deployed in NATO territory in eastern Europe
Topic: Sri Lanka110 Central African Republic (MINUSCA); 125 Lebanon (UNIFIL); 240 Mali (MINUSMA) (Feb 2022)
Topic: SudanSudan joined the Saudi-led coalition that intervened in Yemen in 2015, reportedly providing as many as 40,000 troops during the peak of the war in 2016-17, mostly from the Rapid Support Forces; by 2021, Sudan had reduced the size of the force to about a brigade (approximately 2-3,000 troops) (2021)
Topic: Swedenapproximately 450 Mali (EUTM, MINUSMA, Task Force Takuba) (2021-2022)
Topic: Switzerland190 Kosovo (NATO/KFOR) (2022)
Topic: Tanzania450 Central African Republic (MINUSCA); 850 Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO); 125 Lebanon (UNIFIL) (Feb 2022)
Topic: Thailand275 South Sudan (UNMISS) (Feb 2022)
Topic: Togo730 (plus about 300 police) Mali (MINUSMA) (Feb 2022)
Topic: Turkeyest. 200 (Azerbaijan; monitoring cease-fire, clearing mines); 250 Bosnia-Herzegovina (EUFOR); est. 25-35,000 Cyprus; 300 Kosovo (NATO/KFOR); 100 Lebanon (UNIFIL); est. 3-5,000 Qatar; est. 200 Somalia (training mission); est. 10-20,000 Syria (2021-2022)
note(s) - between 2016 and 2020, Turkey conducted four major military campaigns in northern Syria; Turkey also has deployed troops into northern Iraq on numerous occasions to combat the Kurdistan Worker's Party (PKK), including large operations involving thousands of troops in 2007, 2011, and 2018, and smaller-scale incursions in 2021 and early 2022; in 2020, Turkey deployed an undetermined number of Turkish military troops and an estimated 3,500-5,000 Syrian fighters to Libya to support the Libyan Government of National Accord (GNA)
in October of 2021, Turkey’s parliament extended the military’s mandate to launch cross-border operations in Iraq and Syria by two more years
Topic: Uganda6,800 Somalia (6,200 AMISOM; 620 UNSOM); 250 Equatorial Guinea (2022)
Topic: Ukrainenote - Ukraine contributes about 500 troops to the Lithuania, Poland, and Ukraine joint military brigade (LITPOLUKRBRIG), which was established in 2014; the brigade is headquartered in Poland and is comprised of an international staff, three battalions, and specialized units
Topic: United Arab Emiratesestimates vary; reportedly a few hundred remain in Yemen; maintains military bases in Eritrea and Somalia (2022)
Topic: United Kingdomapproximately 1,000 Brunei; approximately 400 Canada (BATUS); approximately 2,500 Cyprus (250 for UNFICYP); approximately 900 Estonia (NATO); approximately 1,200 Falkland Islands; approximately 200 Germany; 570 Gibraltar; approximately 1,400 Middle East (including Bahrain, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, UAE; coalition against ISIS; NATO); up to 350 Kenya (BATUK); approximately 350 Mali (EUTM, MINUSMA, and Operation Barkhane); 150 Poland (NATO) (2022)
note - NATO troop deployment numbers in eastern Europe are as of February 2022; in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, some NATO countries have sent additional troops and equipment to the battlegroups deployed in NATO territory in eastern Europe; the UK has sent several thousand
Topic: United States5,000 Africa (mostly in Djibouti, with approximately 700-1,000 in other countries of East Africa and about 700 in West Africa); 1,700 Australia; 250 Diego Garcia; 150 Canada; 650 Cuba (Guatanamo Bay); 290 Egypt (MFO); 65,000 Europe (Belgium, Bulgaria, Germany, Greece, Italy, Kosovo, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Turkey, UK); 150 Greenland; 6,200 Guam; 370 Honduras; 56,000 Japan; approximately 15,000 assigned Middle East (Bahrain, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, United Arab Emirates); 125 Philippines; 26,500 South Korea; 200 Singapore; 100 Thailand (2021)
note - US military rotational policies affect deployment numbers; for example, the US deploys ground and air units to select countries for 6-12 month rotational assignments on a continuous basis; in South Korea, for example, the US continuously rotates combat brigades (approximately 3,000 personnel) for 9 months at a time; contingencies also affect US troop deployments; in 2019-2020, the US deployed more than 15,000 additional military personnel to the Middle East for an extended period of time and in early 2022, it sent reinforcements to Europe in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine; in addition, some overseas US naval bases, such as the headquarters of US Naval Forces Central Command (USNAVCENT) in Manama, Bahrain, are frequented by the crews of US ships on 6-9 month deployments; a US carrier strike group with an air wing and supporting ships typically includes over 6-7,000 personnel
Topic: Uruguay830 Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO); 210 Golan Heights (UNDOF) (Feb 2022)
Topic: Worldas of early 2022, there were about 75,000 UN peacekeepers deployed worldwide
Topic: Zambia925 Central African Republic (MINUSCA) (Feb 2022) |
20220601 | countries |
Topic: Afghanistan
Topic: Akrotiri
Topic: Albania
Topic: Algeria
Topic: American Samoa
Topic: Andorra
Topic: Angola
Topic: Anguilla
Topic: Antarctica
Topic: Antigua and Barbuda
Topic: Argentina
Topic: Armenia |
20220601 | countries-sri-lanka |
Topic: Photos of Sri Lanka
Topic: Introduction
Background: The first Sinhalese arrived in Sri Lanka late in the 6th century B.C., probably from northern India. Buddhism was introduced circa 250 B.C., and the first kingdoms developed at the cities of Anuradhapura (from circa 200 B.C. to circa A.D. 1000) and Polonnaruwa (from about 1070 to 1200). In the 14th century, a south Indian dynasty established a Tamil kingdom in northern Sri Lanka. The Portuguese controlled the coastal areas of the island in the 16th century followed by the Dutch in the 17th century. The island was ceded to the British in 1796, became a crown colony in 1802, and was formally united under British rule by 1815. As Ceylon, it became independent in 1948; its name was changed to Sri Lanka in 1972. Prevailing tensions between the Sinhalese majority and Tamil separatists erupted into war in July 1983. Fighting between the government and Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) continued for over a quarter century. Although Norway brokered peace negotiations that led to a ceasefire in 2002, the fighting slowly resumed and was again in full force by 2006. The government defeated the LTTE in May 2009. During the post-conflict years under President Mahinda RAJAPAKSA, the government initiated infrastructure development projects, many of which were financed by loans from China. His regime faced significant allegations of human rights violations and a shrinking democratic space for civil society. In 2015, a new coalition government headed by President Maithripala SIRISENA of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party and Prime Minister Ranil WICKREMESINGHE of the United National Party came to power with pledges to advance economic, governance, anti-corruption, reconciliation, justice, and accountability reforms. However, implementation of these reforms has been uneven. In October 2018, President SIRISENA attempted to oust Prime Minister WICKREMESINGHE, swearing in former President RAJAPAKSA as the new prime minister and issuing an order to dissolve the parliament and hold elections. This sparked a seven-week constitutional crisis that ended when the Supreme Court ruled SIRISENA’s actions unconstitutional, RAJAPAKSA resigned, and WICKREMESINGHE was reinstated. In November 2019, Gotabaya RAJAPAKSA won the presidential election and appointed his brother, Mahinda, prime minister. Since Gotabaya RAJAPAKSA’s election, there have been concerns about his administration’s commitment to pursuing justice, human rights, and accountability reforms, as well as the risks to foreign creditors that Sri Lanka faces given its ongoing economic crisis. A combination of factors including the impact of the worldwide COVID pandemic; severe shortages of food, medicine, and fuel; and power outages have triggered increasingly violent protests in Columbo. Longtime parliamentarian and former five-time prime minister, Ranil WICKREMESINGHE replaced Mahinda RAJAPASKA as prime-minister in mid-May 2022, with a mandate to resolve the country's economic problems.The first Sinhalese arrived in Sri Lanka late in the 6th century B.C., probably from northern India. Buddhism was introduced circa 250 B.C., and the first kingdoms developed at the cities of Anuradhapura (from circa 200 B.C. to circa A.D. 1000) and Polonnaruwa (from about 1070 to 1200). In the 14th century, a south Indian dynasty established a Tamil kingdom in northern Sri Lanka. The Portuguese controlled the coastal areas of the island in the 16th century followed by the Dutch in the 17th century. The island was ceded to the British in 1796, became a crown colony in 1802, and was formally united under British rule by 1815. As Ceylon, it became independent in 1948; its name was changed to Sri Lanka in 1972. Prevailing tensions between the Sinhalese majority and Tamil separatists erupted into war in July 1983. Fighting between the government and Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) continued for over a quarter century. Although Norway brokered peace negotiations that led to a ceasefire in 2002, the fighting slowly resumed and was again in full force by 2006. The government defeated the LTTE in May 2009.During the post-conflict years under President Mahinda RAJAPAKSA, the government initiated infrastructure development projects, many of which were financed by loans from China. His regime faced significant allegations of human rights violations and a shrinking democratic space for civil society. In 2015, a new coalition government headed by President Maithripala SIRISENA of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party and Prime Minister Ranil WICKREMESINGHE of the United National Party came to power with pledges to advance economic, governance, anti-corruption, reconciliation, justice, and accountability reforms. However, implementation of these reforms has been uneven. In October 2018, President SIRISENA attempted to oust Prime Minister WICKREMESINGHE, swearing in former President RAJAPAKSA as the new prime minister and issuing an order to dissolve the parliament and hold elections. This sparked a seven-week constitutional crisis that ended when the Supreme Court ruled SIRISENA’s actions unconstitutional, RAJAPAKSA resigned, and WICKREMESINGHE was reinstated. In November 2019, Gotabaya RAJAPAKSA won the presidential election and appointed his brother, Mahinda, prime minister. Since Gotabaya RAJAPAKSA’s election, there have been concerns about his administration’s commitment to pursuing justice, human rights, and accountability reforms, as well as the risks to foreign creditors that Sri Lanka faces given its ongoing economic crisis. A combination of factors including the impact of the worldwide COVID pandemic; severe shortages of food, medicine, and fuel; and power outages have triggered increasingly violent protests in Columbo. Longtime parliamentarian and former five-time prime minister, Ranil WICKREMESINGHE replaced Mahinda RAJAPASKA as prime-minister in mid-May 2022, with a mandate to resolve the country's economic problems.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Southern Asia, island in the Indian Ocean, south of India
Geographic coordinates: 7 00 N, 81 00 E
Map references: Asia
Area: total: 65,610 sq km
land: 64,630 sq km
water: 980 sq km
Area - comparative: slightly larger than West Virginia
Land boundaries: total: 0 km
Coastline: 1,340 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
Climate: tropical monsoon; northeast monsoon (December to March); southwest monsoon (June to October)
Terrain: mostly low, flat to rolling plain; mountains in south-central interior
Elevation: highest point: Pidurutalagala 2,524 m
lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 228 m
Natural resources: limestone, graphite, mineral sands, gems, phosphates, clay, hydropower, arable land
Land use: agricultural land: 43.5% (2018 est.)
arable land: 20.7% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 15.8% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 7% (2018 est.)
forest: 29.4% (2018 est.)
other: 27.1% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 5,700 sq km (2012)
Population distribution: the population is primarily concentrated within a broad wet zone in the southwest, urban centers along the eastern coast, and on the Jaffna Peninsula in the north
Natural hazards: occasional cyclones and tornadoes
Geography - note: strategic location near major Indian Ocean sea lanes; Adam's Bridge is a chain of limestone shoals between the southeastern coast of India and the northwestern coast of Sri Lanka; geological evidence suggests that this 50-km long Bridge once connected India and Sri Lanka; ancient records seem to indicate that a foot passage was possible between the two land masses until the 15th century when the land bridge broke up in a cyclone
Map description: Sri Lanka map showing major cities of this island country in the Indian Ocean.Sri Lanka map showing major cities of this island country in the Indian Ocean.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 23,187,516 (2022 est.)
Nationality: noun: Sri Lankan(s)
adjective: Sri Lankan
Ethnic groups: Sinhalese 74.9%, Sri Lankan Tamil 11.2%, Sri Lankan Moors 9.2%, Indian Tamil 4.2%, other 0.5% (2012 est.)
Languages: Sinhala (official and national language) 87%, Tamil (official and national language) 28.5%, English 23.8% (2012 est.)
note: data represent main languages spoken by the population aged 10 years and older; shares sum to more than 100% because some respondents gave more than one answer on the census; English is commonly used in government and is referred to as the "link language" in the constitution
Religions: Buddhist (official) 70.2%, Hindu 12.6%, Muslim 9.7%, Roman Catholic 6.1%, other Christian 1.3%, other 0.05% (2012 est.)
Age structure: 0-14 years: 23.11% (male 2,696,379/female 2,592,450)
15-24 years: 14.58% (male 1,700,442/female 1,636,401)
25-54 years: 41.2% (male 4,641,842/female 4,789,101)
55-64 years: 10.48% (male 1,110,481/female 1,288,056)
65 years and over: 10.63% (2020 est.) (male 1,023,315/female 1,410,734)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 53.7
youth dependency ratio: 36.4
elderly dependency ratio: 17.3
potential support ratio: 5.8 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 33.7 years
male: 32.3 years
female: 35.1 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 0.61% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 13.8 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 6.49 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: -1.22 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: the population is primarily concentrated within a broad wet zone in the southwest, urban centers along the eastern coast, and on the Jaffna Peninsula in the north
Urbanization: urban population: 19% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 1.22% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 103,000 Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte (legislative capital) (2018), 626,000 COLOMBO (capital) (2022)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.04 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.04 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.04 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 0.97 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 0.86 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.61 male(s)/female
total population: 0.95 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth: 25.6 years (2016 est.)
note: median age at first birth among women 30-34
Maternal mortality ratio: 36 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 8.2 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 9.18 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 7.18 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 78 years
male: 74.57 years
female: 81.56 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 1.98 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: 64.6% (2016)
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 99.7% of population
rural: 91.2% of population
total: 92.8% of population
unimproved: urban: 0.3% of population
rural: 8.8% of population
total: 7.2% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 4.1% (2019)
Physicians density: 1 physicians/1,000 population (2018)
Hospital bed density: 4.2 beds/1,000 population (2017)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 96.6% of population
rural: 97.9% of population
total: 97.6% of population
unimproved: urban: 3.4% of population
rural: 2.1% of population
total: 2.4% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: (2020 est.) <.1%
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: 3,700 (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - deaths: (2020 est.) <200
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: intermediate (2020)
vectorborne diseases: dengue fever
water contact diseases: leptospirosis
animal contact diseases: rabiesintermediate
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 5.2% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: 20.5% (2016)
Child marriage: women married by age 15: 0.9% (2016)
women married by age 18: 9.8% (2016 est.)
Education expenditures: 2.1% of GDP (2018)
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 92.3%
male: 93%
female: 91.6% (2019)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 14 years
male: 14 years
female: 14 years (2018)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 21.1%
male: 16.6%
female: 29.4% (2018 est.)
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: deforestation; soil erosion; wildlife populations threatened by poaching and urbanization; coastal degradation from mining activities and increased pollution; coral reef destruction; freshwater resources being polluted by industrial wastes and sewage runoff; waste disposal; air pollution in Colombo
Environment - international agreements: party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands
signed, but not ratified: Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Marine Life Conservation
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 15.25 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 23.36 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 10.95 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: tropical monsoon; northeast monsoon (December to March); southwest monsoon (June to October)
Land use: agricultural land: 43.5% (2018 est.)
arable land: 20.7% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 15.8% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 7% (2018 est.)
forest: 29.4% (2018 est.)
other: 27.1% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 19% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 1.22% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 0.06% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0% of GDP (2018 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: intermediate (2020)
vectorborne diseases: dengue fever
water contact diseases: leptospirosis
animal contact diseases: rabiesintermediate
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 2,631,650 tons (2016 est.)
municipal solid waste recycled annually: 336,588 tons (2016 est.)
percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 12.8% (2016 est.)
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 805 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 831 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 11.31 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 52.8 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka
conventional short form: Sri Lanka
local long form: Shri Lanka Prajatantrika Samajavadi Janarajaya/Ilankai Jananayaka Choshalichak Kutiyarachu
local short form: Shri Lanka/Ilankai
former: Serendib, Ceylon
etymology: the name means "resplendent island" in Sanskrit
Government type: presidential republic
Capital: name: Colombo (commercial capital); Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte (legislative capital)
geographic coordinates: 6 55 N, 79 50 E
time difference: UTC+5.5 (10.5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: Colombo may derive from the Sinhala "kolon thota," meaning "port on the river" (referring to the Kelani River that empties into the Indian Ocean at Colombo); alternatively, the name may derive from the Sinhala "kola amba thota" meaning "harbor with mango trees"; it is also possible that the Portuguese named the city after Christopher COLUMBUS, who lived in Portugal for many years (as Cristovao COLOMBO) before discovering the Americas for the Spanish crown in 1492 - not long before the Portuguese made their way to Sri Lanka in 1505; Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte translates as "Resplendent City of Growing Victory" in Sinhala
Administrative divisions: 9 provinces; Central, Eastern, North Central, Northern, North Western, Sabaragamuwa, Southern, Uva, Western
Independence: 4 February 1948 (from the UK)
National holiday: Independence Day (National Day), 4 February (1948)
Constitution: history: several previous; latest adopted 16 August 1978, certified 31 August 1978
amendments: proposed by Parliament; passage requires at least two-thirds majority vote of its total membership, certification by the president of the republic or the Parliament speaker, and in some cases approval in a referendum by absolute majority of valid votes; amended many times, last in 2020
Legal system: mixed legal system of Roman-Dutch civil law, English common law, Jaffna Tamil customary law, and Muslim personal law
International law organization participation: has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; non-party state to the ICCt
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: no
citizenship by descent only: at least one parent must be a citizen of Sri Lanka
dual citizenship recognized: no, except in cases where the government rules it is to the benefit of Sri Lanka
residency requirement for naturalization: 7 years
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: President Gotabaya RAJAPAKSA (since 18 November 2019); note - the president is both chief of state and head of government; Prime Minister Ranil WICKREMESINGHE (since 12 May 2022)
head of government: President Gotabaya RAJAPAKSA (since 18 November 2019)
cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the president in consultation with the prime minister
elections/appointments: president directly elected by preferential majority popular vote for a 5-year term (eligible for a second term); election last held on 16 November 2019 (next to be held in 2024); prime minister appointed by the president from among members of Parliament for a 5-year term)
election results: Gotabaya RAJAPAKSA elected president; percent of vote - Gotabaya RAJAPAKSA (SLPP) 52.2%, Sajith PREMADASA (UNP) 42%, other 5.8%
Legislative branch: description: unicameral Parliament (225 seats; 196 members directly elected in multi-seat district constituencies by proportional representation vote using a preferential method in which voters select 3 candidates in order of preference; remaining 29 seats, referred to as the "national list" are allocated by each party secretary according to the island wide proportional vote the party obtains; members serve 5-year terms)
elections: last held on 17 August 2015 (next originally scheduled for 25 April 2020 but postponed to due to the COVID-19 pandemic)
election results: percent of vote by coalition/party - SLFPA 59.1%, SJB 23.9%, JVP 3.8%, TNA 2.8%, UNP 2.2%, TNPF 0.6%, EPDP 0.5%, other 7.1%; seats by coalition/party - SLFPA 145, SJB 54, TNA 10, JVP 3, other 13; composition - NA
Judicial branch: highest courts: Supreme Court of the Republic (consists of the chief justice and 9 justices); note - the court has exclusive jurisdiction to review legislation
judge selection and term of office: chief justice nominated by the Constitutional Council (CC), a 9-member high-level advisory body, and appointed by the president; other justices nominated by the CC and appointed by the president on the advice of the chief justice; all justices can serve until age 65
subordinate courts: Court of Appeals; High Courts; Magistrates' Courts; municipal and primary courts
Political parties and leaders: Crusaders for Democracy [Ganeshalingam CHANDRALINGAM]
Eelam People's Democratic Party or EPDP [Douglas DEVANANDA]
Eelam People's Revolutionary Liberation Front [Suresh PREMACHANDRAN]
Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna or JVP [Anura Kumara DISSANAYAKE]
Jathika Hela Urumaya or JHU [Karunarathna PARANAWITHANA, Ven. Hadigalle Wimalasara THERO]
National Peoples Power or JVP [Anura Kumara DISSANAYAKE]
Samagi Jana Balawegaya or SJB [Sajith PREMADASA]
Sri Lanka Freedom Party or SLFP [Maithripala SIRISENA]
Sri Lanka Muslim Congress or SLMC [Rauff HAKEEM]
Sri Lanka People's Freedom Alliance [Mahinda RAJAPAKSA]
Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna or SLPP [G. L. PEIRIS]
Tamil National Alliance or TNA [Rajavarothiam SAMPANTHAN] (alliance includes Illankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi [Mavai SENATHIRAJAH], People's Liberation Organisation of Tamil Eelam [D. SIDDARTHAN], Tamil Eelam Liberation Organization [Selvam ADAIKALANATHAN])
Tamil National People's Front [Gajendrakumar PONNAMBALAM]
United National Front for Good Governance or UNFGG [Ranil WICKREMESINGHE] (coalition includes JHU, UNP)
United National Party or UNP [Ranil WICKREMESINGHE]
United People's Freedom Alliance or UPFA [Maithripala SIRISENA] (coalition includes SLFP)
International organization participation: ABEDA, ADB, ARF, BIMSTEC, C, CD, CICA (observer), CP, FAO, G-11, G-15, G-24, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, IMSO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, MINURSO, MINUSTAH, MONUSCO, NAM, OAS (observer), OPCW, PCA, SAARC, SACEP, SCO (dialogue member), UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNISFA, UNMISS, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Mahinda SAMARASINGHE (since 1 December 2021)
chancery: 3025 Whitehaven Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 483-4025 through 4028
FAX: [1] (202) 232-7181
email address and website:
slembassy@slembassyusa.org
https://slembassyusa.org/new/
consulate(s) general: Los Angeles, New York
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Julie CHUNG (since 17 February 2022)
embassy: 210 Galle Road, Colombo 03
mailing address: 6100 Colombo Place, Washington DC 20521-6100
telephone: [94] (11) 249-8500
FAX: [94] (11) 243-7345
email address and website:
colomboacs@state.gov
https://lk.usembassy.gov/
Flag description: yellow with two panels; the smaller hoist-side panel has two equal vertical bands of green (hoist side) and orange; the other larger panel depicts a yellow lion holding a sword on a maroon rectangular field that also displays a yellow bo leaf in each corner; the yellow field appears as a border around the entire flag and extends between the two panels; the lion represents Sinhalese ethnicity, the strength of the nation, and bravery; the sword demonstrates the sovereignty of the nation; the four bo leaves - symbolizing Buddhism and its influence on the country - stand for the four virtues of kindness, friendliness, happiness, and equanimity; orange signifies Sri Lankan Tamils, green Sri Lankan Moors, and maroon the Sinhalese majority; yellow denotes other ethnic groups; also referred to as the Lion Flag
National symbol(s): lion, water lily; national colors: maroon, yellow
National anthem: name: "Sri Lanka Matha" (Mother Sri Lanka)
lyrics/music: Ananda SAMARKONE
note: adopted 1951
National heritage: total World Heritage Sites: 8 (6 cultural, 2 natural)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Ancient City of Polonnaruwa (c), Ancient City of Sigiriya (c), Sacred City of Anuradhapura (c), Old Town of Galle and its Fortifications (c), Sacred City of Kandy (c), Sinharaja Forest Reserve (n), Rangiri Dambulla Cave Temple (c), Central Highlands of Sri Lanka (n)
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Sri Lanka’s economy has historically relied upon government-guided market investments, and since 2009, several sectors have been excluded from any privatization efforts. Major infrastructure development of rural and civil war-impacted areas remains a major focus, as does small business development. Sri Lanka’s longstanding high debt and large civil service have contributed to historically high budget deficits and remain a concern. Sri Lankan tourism soared since the end of conflict with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, but the 2018 constitutional crisis, the 2019 Easter bombings, and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic have since destabilized this key industry, leading Sri Lanka to nearly expend all foreign currency reserves. Regionally, Sri Lanka has engaged China on major infrastructure projects and currently owes $6.5 billion, which may soon be restructured. Fiscally, Sri Lanka’s focus on domestic goods—instead of export growth—further increased Sri Lanka’s trade imbalance, despite its EU preferential trade status allowing tax-free garment and gem exports to the EU. From 2019 until its repeal in 2021, Sri Lanka’s agricultural import ban on chemical fertilizers resulted in disastrous reductions in rice, tea, and rubber yields, increasing Sri Lanka’s import dependencies for these goods. The ongoing Russo-Ukrainian War has also decreased fuel supplies and significantly increased prices. India is providing both direct fertilizer and fuel aid to offset these shortages. Power shortages plague business climates, and further stoke existing labor shortages. Additionally Sri Lanka is also considering privatizing several state-owned entities to try to spur industrial and service sectors’ growth. Monetarily, Sri Lanka remains in a dire position, further exacerbated by the 2019 tax cuts that contributed to the country’s ongoing economic calamity. Already one of the highest indebted emerging markets, Sri Lanka defaulted on its current public debt payments in May 2022, and its ongoing currency crisis has crippled domestic revenues, tax collections, and economic activity, ushering in the country’s worst economic crisis since independence in 1948. As a result, inflation is skyrocketing (nearing 40%), and food, fuel, and medicine shortages have led to widespread unrest and economic collapse. Sri Lanka currently seeks an immediate $3 million IMF bridge loan and $75 million in foreign currency to pay for essential goods and fuel.The World Bank, India, and the G7 countries have agreed to aid Sri Lanka in securing debt relief, but the IMF maintains that Sri Lanka must raise interest rates and taxes to secure any loan. Current Sri Lankan priorities focus on the following goals: Securing a bridge loan from the IMF; Improving its foreign currency reserves through continued promotion of tourism and privatization of state enterprises; Recovering from COVID-19 pandemic-related economic disruptions and demand shocks; Identifying alternative fuel supply chains; and Restructuring preexisting infrastructure debts to China. Sri Lanka’s economy has historically relied upon government-guided market investments, and since 2009, several sectors have been excluded from any privatization efforts. Major infrastructure development of rural and civil war-impacted areas remains a major focus, as does small business development. Sri Lanka’s longstanding high debt and large civil service have contributed to historically high budget deficits and remain a concern. Sri Lankan tourism soared since the end of conflict with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, but the 2018 constitutional crisis, the 2019 Easter bombings, and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic have since destabilized this key industry, leading Sri Lanka to nearly expend all foreign currency reserves. Regionally, Sri Lanka has engaged China on major infrastructure projects and currently owes $6.5 billion, which may soon be restructured.Fiscally, Sri Lanka’s focus on domestic goods—instead of export growth—further increased Sri Lanka’s trade imbalance, despite its EU preferential trade status allowing tax-free garment and gem exports to the EU. From 2019 until its repeal in 2021, Sri Lanka’s agricultural import ban on chemical fertilizers resulted in disastrous reductions in rice, tea, and rubber yields, increasing Sri Lanka’s import dependencies for these goods. The ongoing Russo-Ukrainian War has also decreased fuel supplies and significantly increased prices. India is providing both direct fertilizer and fuel aid to offset these shortages. Power shortages plague business climates, and further stoke existing labor shortages. Additionally Sri Lanka is also considering privatizing several state-owned entities to try to spur industrial and service sectors’ growth.Monetarily, Sri Lanka remains in a dire position, further exacerbated by the 2019 tax cuts that contributed to the country’s ongoing economic calamity. Already one of the highest indebted emerging markets, Sri Lanka defaulted on its current public debt payments in May 2022, and its ongoing currency crisis has crippled domestic revenues, tax collections, and economic activity, ushering in the country’s worst economic crisis since independence in 1948. As a result, inflation is skyrocketing (nearing 40%), and food, fuel, and medicine shortages have led to widespread unrest and economic collapse. Sri Lanka currently seeks an immediate $3 million IMF bridge loan and $75 million in foreign currency to pay for essential goods and fuel.The World Bank, India, and the G7 countries have agreed to aid Sri Lanka in securing debt relief, but the IMF maintains that Sri Lanka must raise interest rates and taxes to secure any loan.Current Sri Lankan priorities focus on the following goals:
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $274.8 billion (2020 est.)
$284.97 billion (2019 est.)
$278.68 billion (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 2.29% (2019 est.)
3.32% (2018 est.)
3.58% (2017 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $12,500 (2020 est.)
$13,100 (2019 est.)
$12,900 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $84.016 billion (2019 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 4.3% (2019 est.)
4.2% (2018 est.)
6.5% (2017 est.)
Credit ratings: Fitch rating: CCC (2020)
Moody's rating: Caa1 (2020)
Standard & Poors rating: CCC+ (2020)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 7.8% (2017 est.)
industry: 30.5% (2017 est.)
services: 61.7% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 62% (2017 est.)
government consumption: 8.5% (2017 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 26.3% (2017 est.)
investment in inventories: 10.2% (2017 est.)
exports of goods and services: 21.9% (2017 est.)
imports of goods and services: -29.1% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: rice, coconuts, sugar cane, plantains, milk, tea, cassava, maize, poultry, coir
Industries: processing of rubber, tea, coconuts, tobacco and other agricultural commodities; telecommunications, insurance, banking; tourism, shipping; clothing, textiles; cement, petroleum refining, information technology services, construction
Industrial production growth rate: 4.6% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 8 million (2020 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 27%
industry: 26%
services: 47% (31 December 2016)
Unemployment rate: 4.83% (2019 est.)
4.44% (2018 est.)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 21.1%
male: 16.6%
female: 29.4% (2018 est.)
Population below poverty line: 4.1% (2016 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 39.8 (2016 est.)
46 (1995)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: 3%
highest 10%: 32.2% (2012 est.)
Budget: revenues: 12.07 billion (2017 est.)
expenditures: 16.88 billion (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): -5.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 79.1% of GDP (2017 est.)
79.6% of GDP (2016 est.)
note: covers central government debt and excludes debt instruments directly owned by government entities other than the treasury (e.g. commercial bank borrowings of a government corporation); the data includes treasury debt held by foreign entities as well as intragovernmental debt; intragovernmental debt consists of treasury borrowings from surpluses in the social funds, such as for retirement; sub-national entities are usually not permitted to sell debt instruments
Taxes and other revenues: 13.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: calendar year
Current account balance: -$10 million (2019 est.)
-$17 million (2018 est.)
Exports: $19.41 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$20.26 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$15.166 billion (2017 est.)
Exports - partners: United States 24%, India 8%, United Kingdom 7%, Germany 7% (2019)
Exports - commodities: clothing and apparel, tea, used tires, rubber products, precious stones, cinnamon (2019)
Imports: $24.56 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$26.84 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$26.063 billion (2017 est.)
Imports - partners: India 24%, China 23%, Singapore 7%, United Arab Emirates 6%, Malaysia 5% (2019)
Imports - commodities: refined petroleum, textiles, gold, cars, broadcasting equipment (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $7.959 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
$6.019 billion (31 December 2016 est.)
Debt - external: $55.332 billion (2019 est.)
$52.567 billion (2018 est.)
Exchange rates: Sri Lankan rupees (LKR) per US dollar -
185.8 (2020 est.)
181.2 (2019 est.)
178.545 (2018 est.)
135.86 (2014 est.)
130.57 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 100% (2019)
Electricity - production: 13.66 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 12.67 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - imports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 3.998 million kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 52% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 42% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 6% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 0 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 33,540 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 0 bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 34,210 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 116,000 bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 3,871 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 66,280 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 0 cu m (1 January 2014 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 2,607,868 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 12 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 30,778,600 (2019)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 144.34 (2019)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: telephone services have improved significantly; strong growth anticipated as Sri Lanka is lagging behind other Asian telecoms; increase in mobile broadband penetration; govt. funds telecom sector to expand fiber and LTE networks and growing investment in 5G services (2020)
domestic: fixed-line roughly 11 per 100 and mobile-cellular nearly 139 per 100; national trunk network consists of digital microwave radio relay and fiber-optic links; fixed wireless local loops have been installed; competition is strong in mobile cellular systems and mobile cellular subscribership is increasing (2020)
international: country code - 94; landing points for the SeaMeWe -3,-5, Dhiraagu-SLT Submarine Cable Network, WARF Submarine Cable, Bharat Lanka Cable System and the Bay of Bengal Gateway submarine cables providing connectivity to Asia, Africa, Southeast Asia, Australia, the Middle East, and Europe; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) (2019)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: government operates 5 TV channels and 19 radio channels; multi-channel satellite and cable TV subscription services available; 25 private TV stations and about 43 radio stations; 6 non-profit TV stations and 4 radio stations
Internet country code: .lk
Internet users: total: 7,671,650 (2020 est.)
percent of population: 35% (2020 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 1,781,530 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 8 (2020 est.)
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 3 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 34
annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 5,882,376 (2018)
annual freight traffic on registered air carriers: 436.2 million (2018) mt-km
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: 4R
Airports: total: 18 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 11
over 3,047 m: 2
1,524 to 2,437 m: 5
914 to 1,523 m: 4 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 7
1,524 to 2,437 m: 2
914 to 1,523 m: 3
under 914 m: 2 (2021)
Heliports: 1 (2021)
Pipelines: 7 km refined products
Railways: total: 1,562 km (2016)
broad gauge: 1,562 km (2016) 1.676-m gauge
Roadways: total: 114,093 km (2010)
paved: 16,977 km (2010)
unpaved: 97,116 km (2010)
Waterways: 160 km (2012) (primarily on rivers in southwest)
Merchant marine: total: 90
by type: bulk carrier 6, general cargo 13, oil tanker 11, other 60 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Colombo
container port(s) (TEUs): Colombo (7,228,337) (2019)
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: Sri Lanka Army (includes National Guard and the Volunteer Force), Sri Lanka Navy (includes Marine Corps), Sri Lanka Air Force, Sri Lanka Coast Guard; Civil Security Department (Home Guard); Sri Lanka National Police: Special Task Force (counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency) (2021)
Military expenditures: 1.9% of GDP (2021 est.)
2% of GDP (2020 est.)
2% of GDP (2019 est.) (approximately $5.9 billion)
1.9% of GDP (2018 est.) (approximately $5.6 billion)
2.2% of GDP (2017 est.) (approximately $6.07 billion)
Military and security service personnel strengths: the Sri Lankan military has approximately 250,000 total personnel (180,000 Army; 40,000 Navy; 30,000 Air Force); approximately 11,000 Special Task Force (2021)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the Sri Lankan military inventory consists mostly of Chinese and Russian-origin equipment; since 2010, China, India, and the US have been the leading suppliers of arms to Sri Lanka (2021)
Military service age and obligation: 18-22 years of age for voluntary military service (men and women); no conscription (2021)
Military deployments: 110 Central African Republic (MINUSCA); 125 Lebanon (UNIFIL); 240 Mali (MINUSMA) (Feb 2022)
Military - note: Sri Lanka traditionally has had close security ties to India; India participated in the counter-insurgency war against the LTTE from 1987-1991, losing over 1,000 soldiers in the conflict; as of 2021, the Sri Lankan and Indian militaries continued to conduct exercises together, and India trains over 1,000 Sri Lankan soldiers per year; however, since the end of the war with LTTE, Sri Lanka has also increased military ties with China, including acquiring military equipment, hosting naval port calls, and sending personnel to China for trainingSri Lanka traditionally has had close security ties to India; India participated in the counter-insurgency war against the LTTE from 1987-1991, losing over 1,000 soldiers in the conflict; as of 2021, the Sri Lankan and Indian militaries continued to conduct exercises together, and India trains over 1,000 Sri Lankan soldiers per year; however, since the end of the war with LTTE, Sri Lanka has also increased military ties with China, including acquiring military equipment, hosting naval port calls, and sending personnel to China for training
Topic: Terrorism
Terrorist group(s): Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS); Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: nonenone
Refugees and internally displaced persons: IDPs: 27,000 (civil war; more than half displaced prior to 2008; many of the more than 480,000 IDPs registered as returnees have not reached durable solutions) (2020)
Trafficking in persons: current situation: Sri Lanka is primarily a source and, to a much lesser extent, a destination country for men, women, and children subjected to forced labor and sex trafficking; the majority of trafficking cases involve traffickers forcing Sri Lankan workers into labor overseas; men, women, and children are subjected to forced labor in the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and the United States in construction, garment manufacturing, and domestic service; authorities have identified labor trafficking victims among Sri Lankan female migrant workers who seek employment in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Japan, and South Korea; traffickers force children, individuals with physical deformities, and those from socially vulnerable groups to beg or engage in criminal activity in Sri Lanka’s largest cities
tier rating: Tier 2 Watch List — Sri Lanka does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking but is making significant efforts to do so; efforts include convicting traffickers under its trafficking statute, identifying victims, and working on anti-trafficking training and raising awareness; however, some officials reportedly complicit in trafficking are inadequately investigated; fewer victims were identified in country and abroad; social and legal assistance for victims remained inadequate and inconsistent; the Sri Lankan Bureau of Foreign Employment did not refer potential trafficking cases to police for criminal investigation; police continued to arrest trafficking victims for prostitution, vagrancy, and immigration offenses; child sex trafficking victims remained in government detention centers (2020) |
20220601 | field-administrative-divisions | This entry generally gives the numbers, designatory terms, and first-order administrative divisions as approved by the US Board on Geographic Names (BGN). Changes that have been reported but not yet acted on by the BGN are noted. Geographic names conform to spellings approved by the BGN with the exception of the omission of diacritical marks and special characters.
Topic: Afghanistan34 provinces (welayat, singular - welayat); Badakhshan, Badghis, Baghlan, Balkh, Bamyan, Daykundi, Farah, Faryab, Ghazni, Ghor, Helmand, Herat, Jowzjan, Kabul, Kandahar, Kapisa, Khost, Kunar, Kunduz, Laghman, Logar, Nangarhar, Nimroz, Nuristan, Paktika, Paktiya, Panjshir, Parwan, Samangan, Sar-e Pul, Takhar, Uruzgan, Wardak, Zabul
Topic: Albania12 counties (qarqe, singular - qark); Berat, Diber, Durres, Elbasan, Fier, Gjirokaster, Korce, Kukes, Lezhe, Shkoder, Tirane, Vlore
Topic: Algeria58 provinces (wilayas, singular - wilaya); Adrar, Ain Defla, Ain Temouchent, Alger, Annaba, Batna, Bechar, Bejaia, Beni Abbes, Biskra, Blida, Bordj Badji Mokhtar, Bordj Bou Arreridj, Bouira, Boumerdes, Chlef, Constantine, Djanet, Djelfa, El Bayadh, El Meghaier, El Meniaa, El Oued, El Tarf, Ghardaia, Guelma, Illizi, In Guezzam, In Salah, Jijel, Khenchela, Laghouat, Mascara, Medea, Mila, Mostaganem, M'Sila, Naama, Oran, Ouargla, Ouled Djellal, Oum el Bouaghi, Relizane, Saida, Setif, Sidi Bel Abbes, Skikda, Souk Ahras, Tamanrasset, Tebessa, Tiaret, Timimoun, Tindouf, Tipaza, Tissemsilt, Tizi Ouzou, Tlemcen, Touggourt
Topic: American Samoanone (territory of the US); there are no first-order administrative divisions as defined by the US Government, but there are 3 districts and 2 islands* at the second order; Eastern, Manu'a, Rose Island*, Swains Island*, Western
Topic: Andorra7 parishes (parroquies, singular - parroquia); Andorra la Vella, Canillo, Encamp, Escaldes-Engordany, La Massana, Ordino, Sant Julia de Loria
Topic: Angola18 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia); Bengo, Benguela, Bie, Cabinda, Cuando Cubango, Cuanza-Norte, Cuanza-Sul, Cunene, Huambo, Huila, Luanda, Lunda-Norte, Lunda-Sul, Malanje, Moxico, Namibe, Uige, Zaire
Topic: Anguillanone (overseas territory of the UK)
Topic: Antigua and Barbuda6 parishes and 2 dependencies*; Barbuda*, Redonda*, Saint George, Saint John, Saint Mary, Saint Paul, Saint Peter, Saint Philip
Topic: Argentina23 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia) and 1 autonomous city*; Buenos Aires, Catamarca, Chaco, Chubut, Ciudad Autonoma de Buenos Aires*, Cordoba, Corrientes, Entre Rios, Formosa, Jujuy, La Pampa, La Rioja, Mendoza, Misiones, Neuquen, Rio Negro, Salta, San Juan, San Luis, Santa Cruz, Santa Fe, Santiago del Estero, Tierra del Fuego - Antartida e Islas del Atlantico Sur (Tierra del Fuego - Antarctica and the South Atlantic Islands), Tucuman
note: the US does not recognize any claims to Antarctica
Topic: Armenia11 provinces (marzer, singular - marz); Aragatsotn, Ararat, Armavir, Geghark'unik', Kotayk', Lorri, Shirak, Syunik', Tavush, Vayots' Dzor, Yerevan
Topic: Arubanone (part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands)
note: Aruba is one of four constituent countries of the Kingdom of the Netherlands; the other three are the Netherlands, Curacao, and Sint Maarten
Topic: Australia6 states and 2 territories*; Australian Capital Territory*, New South Wales, Northern Territory*, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria, Western Australia
Topic: Austria9 states (Bundeslaender, singular - Bundesland); Burgenland, Kaernten (Carinthia), Niederoesterreich (Lower Austria), Oberoesterreich (Upper Austria), Salzburg, Steiermark (Styria), Tirol (Tyrol), Vorarlberg, Wien (Vienna)
Topic: Azerbaijan66 districts (rayonlar; rayon - singular), 11 cities (saharlar; sahar - singular); rayons: Abseron, Agcabadi, Agdam, Agdas, Agstafa, Agsu, Astara, Babak, Balakan, Barda, Beylaqan, Bilasuvar, Cabrayil, Calilabad, Culfa, Daskasan, Fuzuli, Gadabay, Goranboy, Goycay, Goygol, Haciqabul, Imisli, Ismayilli, Kalbacar, Kangarli, Kurdamir, Lacin, Lankaran, Lerik, Masalli, Neftcala, Oguz, Ordubad, Qabala, Qax, Qazax, Qobustan, Quba, Qubadli, Qusar, Saatli, Sabirabad, Sabran, Sadarak, Sahbuz, Saki, Salyan, Samaxi, Samkir, Samux, Sarur, Siyazan, Susa, Tartar, Tovuz, Ucar, Xacmaz, Xizi, Xocali, Xocavand, Yardimli, Yevlax, Zangilan, Zaqatala, Zardab cities: Baku, Ganca, Lankaran, Mingacevir, Naftalan, Naxcivan (Nakhichevan), Saki, Sirvan, Sumqayit, Xankandi, Yevlax66 districts (rayonlar; rayon - singular), 11 cities (saharlar; sahar - singular);rayons: Abseron, Agcabadi, Agdam, Agdas, Agstafa, Agsu, Astara, Babak, Balakan, Barda, Beylaqan, Bilasuvar, Cabrayil, Calilabad, Culfa, Daskasan, Fuzuli, Gadabay, Goranboy, Goycay, Goygol, Haciqabul, Imisli, Ismayilli, Kalbacar, Kangarli, Kurdamir, Lacin, Lankaran, Lerik, Masalli, Neftcala, Oguz, Ordubad, Qabala, Qax, Qazax, Qobustan, Quba, Qubadli, Qusar, Saatli, Sabirabad, Sabran, Sadarak, Sahbuz, Saki, Salyan, Samaxi, Samkir, Samux, Sarur, Siyazan, Susa, Tartar, Tovuz, Ucar, Xacmaz, Xizi, Xocali, Xocavand, Yardimli, Yevlax, Zangilan, Zaqatala, Zardabcities: Baku, Ganca, Lankaran, Mingacevir, Naftalan, Naxcivan (Nakhichevan), Saki, Sirvan, Sumqayit, Xankandi, Yevlax
Topic: Bahamas, The31 districts; Acklins Islands, Berry Islands, Bimini, Black Point, Cat Island, Central Abaco, Central Andros, Central Eleuthera, City of Freeport, Crooked Island and Long Cay, East Grand Bahama, Exuma, Grand Cay, Harbour Island, Hope Town, Inagua, Long Island, Mangrove Cay, Mayaguana, Moore's Island, North Abaco, North Andros, North Eleuthera, Ragged Island, Rum Cay, San Salvador, South Abaco, South Andros, South Eleuthera, Spanish Wells, West Grand Bahama
Topic: Bahrain4 governorates (muhafazat, singular - muhafazah); Asimah (Capital), Janubiyah (Southern), Muharraq, Shamaliyah (Northern)
note: each governorate administered by an appointed governor
Topic: Bangladesh8 divisions; Barishal, Chattogram, Dhaka, Khulna, Mymensingh, Rajshahi, Rangpur, Sylhet
Topic: Barbados11 parishes and 1 city*; Bridgetown*, Christ Church, Saint Andrew, Saint George, Saint James, Saint John, Saint Joseph, Saint Lucy, Saint Michael, Saint Peter, Saint Philip, Saint Thomas
Topic: Belarus6 regions (voblastsi, singular - voblasts') and 1 municipality* (horad); Brest, Homyel' (Gomel'), Horad Minsk* (Minsk City), Hrodna (Grodno), Mahilyow (Mogilev), Minsk, Vitsyebsk (Vitebsk)
note: administrative divisions have the same names as their administrative centers; Russian spelling provided for reference when different from Belarusian
Topic: Belgium3 regions (French: regions, singular - region; Dutch: gewesten, singular - gewest); Brussels-Capital Region, also known as Brussels Hoofdstedelijk Gewest (Dutch), Region de Bruxelles-Capitale (French long form), Bruxelles-Capitale (French short form); Flemish Region (Flanders), also known as Vlaams Gewest (Dutch long form), Vlaanderen (Dutch short form), Region Flamande (French long form), Flandre (French short form); Walloon Region (Wallonia), also known as Region Wallone (French long form), Wallonie (French short form), Waals Gewest (Dutch long form), Wallonie (Dutch short form)
note: as a result of the 1993 constitutional revision that furthered devolution into a federal state, there are now three levels of government (federal, regional, and linguistic community) with a complex division of responsibilities; the 2012 sixth state reform transferred additional competencies from the federal state to the regions and linguistic communities
Topic: Belize6 districts; Belize, Cayo, Corozal, Orange Walk, Stann Creek, Toledo
Topic: Benin12 departments; Alibori, Atacora, Atlantique, Borgou, Collines, Couffo, Donga, Littoral, Mono, Oueme, Plateau, Zou
Topic: Bermuda9 parishes and 2 municipalities*; Devonshire, Hamilton, Hamilton*, Paget, Pembroke, Saint George*, Saint George's, Sandys, Smith's, Southampton, Warwick
Topic: Bhutan20 districts (dzongkhag, singular and plural); Bumthang, Chhukha, Dagana, Gasa, Haa, Lhuentse, Mongar, Paro, Pemagatshel, Punakha, Samdrup Jongkhar, Samtse, Sarpang, Thimphu, Trashigang, Trashi Yangtse, Trongsa, Tsirang, Wangdue Phodrang, Zhemgang
Topic: Bolivia9 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento); Beni, Chuquisaca, Cochabamba, La Paz, Oruro, Pando, Potosi, Santa Cruz, Tarija
Topic: Bosnia and Herzegovina3 first-order administrative divisions - Brcko District (Brcko Distrikt) (ethnically mixed), Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (Federacija Bosne i Hercegovine) (predominantly Bosniak-Croat), Republika Srpska (predominantly Serb)
Topic: Botswana10 districts and 6 town councils*; Central, Chobe, Francistown*, Gaborone*, Ghanzi, Jwaneng*, Kgalagadi, Kgatleng, Kweneng, Lobatse*, North East, North West, Selebi-Phikwe*, South East, Southern, Sowa Town*
Topic: Brazil26 states (estados, singular - estado) and 1 federal district* (distrito federal); Acre, Alagoas, Amapa, Amazonas, Bahia, Ceara, Distrito Federal*, Espirito Santo, Goias, Maranhao, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Minas Gerais, Para, Paraiba, Parana, Pernambuco, Piaui, Rio de Janeiro, Rio Grande do Norte, Rio Grande do Sul, Rondonia, Roraima, Santa Catarina, Sao Paulo, Sergipe, Tocantins
Topic: British Virgin Islandsnone (overseas territory of the UK)
Topic: Brunei4 districts (daerah-daerah, singular - daerah); Belait, Brunei dan Muara, Temburong, Tutong
Topic: Bulgaria28 provinces (oblasti, singular - oblast); Blagoevgrad, Burgas, Dobrich, Gabrovo, Haskovo, Kardzhali, Kyustendil, Lovech, Montana, Pazardzhik, Pernik, Pleven, Plovdiv, Razgrad, Ruse, Shumen, Silistra, Sliven, Smolyan, Sofia, Sofia-Grad (Sofia City), Stara Zagora, Targovishte, Varna, Veliko Tarnovo, Vidin, Vratsa, Yambol
Topic: Burkina Faso13 regions; Boucle du Mouhoun, Cascades, Centre, Centre-Est, Centre-Nord, Centre-Ouest, Centre-Sud, Est, Hauts-Bassins, Nord, Plateau-Central, Sahel, Sud-Ouest
Topic: Burma7 regions (taing-myar, singular - taing), 7 states (pyi ne-myar, singular - pyi ne), 1 union territory regions: Ayeyarwady (Irrawaddy), Bago, Magway, Mandalay, Sagaing, Tanintharyi, Yangon (Rangoon) states: Chin, Kachin, Kayah, Karen, Mon, Rakhine, Shan union territory: Nay Pyi Taw7 regions (taing-myar, singular - taing), 7 states (pyi ne-myar, singular - pyi ne), 1 union territoryregions: Ayeyarwady (Irrawaddy), Bago, Magway, Mandalay, Sagaing, Tanintharyi, Yangon (Rangoon)states: Chin, Kachin, Kayah, Karen, Mon, Rakhine, Shanunion territory: Nay Pyi Taw
Topic: Burundi18 provinces; Bubanza, Bujumbura Mairie, Bujumbura Rural, Bururi, Cankuzo, Cibitoke, Gitega, Karuzi, Kayanza, Kirundo, Makamba, Muramvya, Muyinga, Mwaro, Ngozi, Rumonge, Rutana, Ruyigi
Topic: Cabo Verde22 municipalities (concelhos, singular - concelho); Boa Vista, Brava, Maio, Mosteiros, Paul, Porto Novo, Praia, Ribeira Brava, Ribeira Grande, Ribeira Grande de Santiago, Sal, Santa Catarina, Santa Catarina do Fogo, Santa Cruz, Sao Domingos, Sao Filipe, Sao Lourenco dos Orgaos, Sao Miguel, Sao Salvador do Mundo, Sao Vicente, Tarrafal, Tarrafal de Sao Nicolau
Topic: Cambodia24 provinces (khett, singular and plural) and 1 municipality (krong, singular and plural) provinces: Banteay Meanchey, Battambang, Kampong Cham, Kampong Chhnang, Kampong Speu, Kampong Thom, Kampot, Kandal, Kep, Koh Kong, Kratie, Mondolkiri, Oddar Meanchey, Pailin, Preah Sihanouk, Preah Vihear, Prey Veng, Pursat, Ratanakiri, Siem Reap, Stung Treng, Svay Rieng, Takeo, Tbong Khmum municipalities: Phnom Penh (Phnum Penh)24 provinces (khett, singular and plural) and 1 municipality (krong, singular and plural)provinces: Banteay Meanchey, Battambang, Kampong Cham, Kampong Chhnang, Kampong Speu, Kampong Thom, Kampot, Kandal, Kep, Koh Kong, Kratie, Mondolkiri, Oddar Meanchey, Pailin, Preah Sihanouk, Preah Vihear, Prey Veng, Pursat, Ratanakiri, Siem Reap, Stung Treng, Svay Rieng, Takeo, Tbong Khmummunicipalities: Phnom Penh (Phnum Penh)
Topic: Cameroon10 regions (regions, singular - region); Adamaoua, Centre, East (Est), Far North (Extreme-Nord), Littoral, North (Nord), North-West (Nord-Ouest), West (Ouest), South (Sud), South-West (Sud-Ouest)
Topic: Canada10 provinces and 3 territories*; Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories*, Nova Scotia, Nunavut*, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Saskatchewan, Yukon*
Topic: Cayman Islands6 districts; Bodden Town, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman, East End, George Town, North Side, West Bay
Topic: Central African Republic14 prefectures (prefectures, singular - prefecture), 2 economic prefectures* (prefectures economiques, singular - prefecture economique), and 1 commune**; Bamingui-Bangoran, Bangui**, Basse-Kotto, Haute-Kotto, Haut-Mbomou, Kemo, Lobaye, Mambere-Kadei, Mbomou, Nana-Grebizi*, Nana-Mambere, Ombella-Mpoko, Ouaka, Ouham, Ouham-Pende, Sangha-Mbaere*, Vakaga
Topic: Chad23 provinces (provinces, singular - province); Barh-El-Gazel, Batha, Borkou, Chari-Baguirmi, Ennedi-Est, Ennedi-Ouest, Guera, Hadjer-Lamis, Kanem, Lac, Logone Occidental, Logone Oriental, Mandoul, Mayo-Kebbi-Est, Mayo-Kebbi-Ouest, Moyen-Chari, N'Djamena, Ouaddai, Salamat, Sila, Tandjile, Tibesti, Wadi-Fira
Topic: Chile16 regions (regiones, singular - region); Aysen, Antofagasta, Araucania, Arica y Parinacota, Atacama, Biobio, Coquimbo, Libertador General Bernardo O'Higgins, Los Lagos, Los Rios, Magallanes y de la Antartica Chilena (Magallanes and Chilean Antarctica), Maule, Nuble, Region Metropolitana (Santiago), Tarapaca, Valparaiso
note: the US does not recognize any claims to Antarctica
Topic: China23 provinces (sheng, singular and plural), 5 autonomous regions (zizhiqu, singular and plural), 4 municipalities (shi, singular and plural), and two special administrative regions (tebie xingzhengqu, singular and plural) provinces: Anhui, Fujian, Gansu, Guangdong, Guizhou, Hainan, Hebei, Heilongjiang, Henan, Hubei, Hunan, Jiangsu, Jiangxi, Jilin, Liaoning, Qinghai, Shaanxi, Shandong, Shanxi, Sichuan, Yunnan, Zhejiang; (see note on Taiwan) autonomous regions: Guangxi, Nei Mongol (Inner Mongolia), Ningxia, Xinjiang Uyghur, Xizang (Tibet) municipalities: Beijing, Chongqing, Shanghai, Tianjin
special administrative regions: Hong Kong, Macau
note: China considers Taiwan its 23rd province; see separate entries for the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau23 provinces (sheng, singular and plural), 5 autonomous regions (zizhiqu, singular and plural), 4 municipalities (shi, singular and plural), and two special administrative regions (tebie xingzhengqu, singular and plural)provinces: Anhui, Fujian, Gansu, Guangdong, Guizhou, Hainan, Hebei, Heilongjiang, Henan, Hubei, Hunan, Jiangsu, Jiangxi, Jilin, Liaoning, Qinghai, Shaanxi, Shandong, Shanxi, Sichuan, Yunnan, Zhejiang; (see note on Taiwan)autonomous regions: Guangxi, Nei Mongol (Inner Mongolia), Ningxia, Xinjiang Uyghur, Xizang (Tibet)municipalities: Beijing, Chongqing, Shanghai, Tianjin
special administrative regions: Hong Kong, Macau
Topic: Christmas Islandnone (territory of Australia)
Topic: Cocos (Keeling) Islandsnone (territory of Australia)
Topic: Colombia32 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento) and 1 capital district* (distrito capital); Amazonas, Antioquia, Arauca, Atlantico, Bogota*, Bolivar, Boyaca, Caldas, Caqueta, Casanare, Cauca, Cesar, Choco, Cordoba, Cundinamarca, Guainia, Guaviare, Huila, La Guajira, Magdalena, Meta, Narino, Norte de Santander, Putumayo, Quindio, Risaralda, Archipielago de San Andres, Providencia y Santa Catalina (colloquially San Andres y Providencia), Santander, Sucre, Tolima, Valle del Cauca, Vaupes, Vichada
Topic: Comoros3 islands; Anjouan (Ndzuwani), Grande Comore (N'gazidja), Moheli (Mwali)
Topic: Congo, Democratic Republic of the26 provinces (provinces, singular - province); Bas-Uele (Lower Uele), Equateur, Haut-Katanga (Upper Katanga), Haut-Lomami (Upper Lomami), Haut-Uele (Upper Uele), Ituri, Kasai, Kasai-Central, Kasai-Oriental (East Kasai), Kinshasa, Kongo Central, Kwango, Kwilu, Lomami, Lualaba, Mai-Ndombe, Maniema, Mongala, Nord-Kivu (North Kivu), Nord-Ubangi (North Ubangi), Sankuru, Sud-Kivu (South Kivu), Sud-Ubangi (South Ubangi), Tanganyika, Tshopo, Tshuapa
Topic: Congo, Republic of the12 departments (departments, singular - department); Bouenza, Brazzaville, Cuvette, Cuvette-Ouest, Kouilou, Lekoumou, Likouala, Niari, Plateaux, Pointe-Noire, Pool, Sangha
Topic: Cook Islandsnone
Topic: Costa Rica7 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia); Alajuela, Cartago, Guanacaste, Heredia, Limon, Puntarenas, San Jose
Topic: Cote d'Ivoire12 districts and 2 autonomous districts*; Abidjan*, Bas-Sassandra, Comoe, Denguele, Goh-Djiboua, Lacs, Lagunes, Montagnes, Sassandra-Marahoue, Savanes, Vallee du Bandama, Woroba, Yamoussoukro*, Zanzan
Topic: Croatia20 counties (zupanije, zupanija - singular) and 1 city* (grad - singular) with special county status; Bjelovarsko-Bilogorska (Bjelovar-Bilogora), Brodsko-Posavska (Brod-Posavina), Dubrovacko-Neretvanska (Dubrovnik-Neretva), Istarska (Istria), Karlovacka (Karlovac), Koprivnicko-Krizevacka (Koprivnica-Krizevci), Krapinsko-Zagorska (Krapina-Zagorje), Licko-Senjska (Lika-Senj), Medimurska (Medimurje), Osjecko-Baranjska (Osijek-Baranja), Pozesko-Slavonska (Pozega-Slavonia), Primorsko-Goranska (Primorje-Gorski Kotar), Sibensko-Kninska (Sibenik-Knin), Sisacko-Moslavacka (Sisak-Moslavina), Splitsko-Dalmatinska (Split-Dalmatia), Varazdinska (Varazdin), Viroviticko-Podravska (Virovitica-Podravina), Vukovarsko-Srijemska (Vukovar-Syrmia), Zadarska (Zadar), Zagreb*, Zagrebacka (Zagreb county)
Topic: Cuba15 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia) and 1 special municipality* (municipio especial); Artemisa, Camaguey, Ciego de Avila, Cienfuegos, Granma, Guantanamo, Holguin, Isla de la Juventud*, La Habana, Las Tunas, Matanzas, Mayabeque, Pinar del Rio, Sancti Spiritus, Santiago de Cuba, Villa Clara
Topic: Curacaonone (part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands)
note: Curacao is one of four constituent countries of the Kingdom of the Netherlands; the other three are the Netherlands, Aruba, and Sint Maartennone (part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands)
Topic: Cyprus6 districts; Ammochostos (Famagusta); (all but a small part located in the Turkish Cypriot community), Keryneia (Kyrenia; the only district located entirely in the Turkish Cypriot community), Larnaka (Larnaca; with a small part located in the Turkish Cypriot community), Lefkosia (Nicosia; a small part administered by Turkish Cypriots), Lemesos (Limassol), Pafos (Paphos); note - the 5 "districts" of the "TRNC" are Gazimagusa (Famagusta), Girne (Kyrenia), Guzelyurt (Morphou), Iskele (Trikomo), Lefkosa (Nicosia)
Topic: Czechia13 regions (kraje, singular - kraj) and 1 capital city* (hlavni mesto); Jihocesky (South Bohemia), Jihomoravsky (South Moravia), Karlovarsky (Karlovy Vary), Kralovehradecky (Hradec Kralove), Liberecky (Liberec), Moravskoslezsky (Moravia-Silesia), Olomoucky (Olomouc), Pardubicky (Pardubice), Plzensky (Pilsen), Praha (Prague)*, Stredocesky (Central Bohemia), Ustecky (Usti), Vysocina (Highlands), Zlinsky (Zlin)
Topic: Denmarkmetropolitan Denmark - 5 regions (regioner, singular - region); Hovedstaden (Capital), Midtjylland (Central Jutland), Nordjylland (North Jutland), Sjaelland (Zealand), Syddanmark (Southern Denmark)
Topic: Djibouti6 districts (cercles, singular - cercle); Ali Sabieh, Arta, Dikhil, Djibouti, Obock, Tadjourah
Topic: Dominica10 parishes; Saint Andrew, Saint David, Saint George, Saint John, Saint Joseph, Saint Luke, Saint Mark, Saint Patrick, Saint Paul, Saint Peter
Topic: Dominican Republic10 regions (regiones, singular - region); Cibao Nordeste, Cibao Noroeste, Cibao Norte, Cibao Sur, El Valle, Enriquillo, Higuamo, Ozama, Valdesia, Yuma
Topic: Ecuador24 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia); Azuay, Bolivar, Canar, Carchi, Chimborazo, Cotopaxi, El Oro, Esmeraldas, Galapagos, Guayas, Imbabura, Loja, Los Rios, Manabi, Morona-Santiago, Napo, Orellana, Pastaza, Pichincha, Santa Elena, Santo Domingo de los Tsachilas, Sucumbios, Tungurahua, Zamora-Chinchipe
Topic: Egypt27 governorates (muhafazat, singular - muhafazat); Ad Daqahliyah, Al Bahr al Ahmar (Red Sea), Al Buhayrah, Al Fayyum, Al Gharbiyah, Al Iskandariyah (Alexandria), Al Isma'iliyah (Ismailia), Al Jizah (Giza), Al Minufiyah, Al Minya, Al Qahirah (Cairo), Al Qalyubiyah, Al Uqsur (Luxor), Al Wadi al Jadid (New Valley), As Suways (Suez), Ash Sharqiyah, Aswan, Asyut, Bani Suwayf, Bur Sa'id (Port Said), Dumyat (Damietta), Janub Sina' (South Sinai), Kafr ash Shaykh, Matruh, Qina, Shamal Sina' (North Sinai), Suhaj
Topic: El Salvador14 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento); Ahuachapan, Cabanas, Chalatenango, Cuscatlan, La Libertad, La Paz, La Union, Morazan, San Miguel, San Salvador, San Vicente, Santa Ana, Sonsonate, Usulutan
Topic: Equatorial Guinea8 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia); Annobon, Bioko Norte, Bioko Sur, Centro Sur, Djibloho, Kie-Ntem, Litoral, Wele-Nzas
Topic: Eritrea6 regions (zobatat, singular - zoba); 'Anseba, Debub (South), Debubawi K'eyyih Bahri (Southern Red Sea), Gash-Barka, Ma'ikel (Central), Semienawi K'eyyih Bahri (Northern Red Sea)
Topic: Estonia15 urban municipalities (linnad, singular - linn), 64 rural municipalities (vallad, singular vald)
urban municipalities: Haapsalu, Keila, Kohtla-Jarve, Loksa, Maardu, Narva, Narva-Joesuu, Paide, Parnu, Rakvere, Sillamae, Tallinn, Tartu, Viljandi, Voru
rural municipalities: Alutaguse, Anija, Antsla, Elva, Haademeeste, Haljala, Harku, Hiiumaa, Jarva, Joelahtme, Jogeva, Johvi, Kadrina, Kambja, Kanepi, Kastre, Kehtna, Kihnu, Kiili, Kohila, Kose, Kuusalu, Laane-Harju, Laane-Nigula, Laaneranna, Luganuse, Luunja, Marjamaa, Muhu, Mulgi, Mustvee, Noo, Otepaa, Peipsiaare, Pohja-Parnumaa, Pohja-Sakala, Poltsamaa, Polva, Raasiku, Rae, Rakvere, Räpina, Rapla, Rouge, Ruhnu, Saarde, Saaremaa, Saku, Saue, Setomaa, Tapa, Tartu, Toila, Tori, Torva, Turi, Vaike-Maarja, Valga, Viimsi, Viljandi, Vinni, Viru-Nigula, Vormsi, Voru
Topic: Eswatini4 regions; Hhohho, Lubombo, Manzini, Shiselweni
Topic: Ethiopia11 ethnically based regional states (kililoch, singular - kilil) and 2 chartered cities* (astedader akabibiwach, singular - astedader akabibi); Adis Abeba* (Addis Ababa), Afar, Amara (Amhara), Binshangul Gumuz, Dire Dawa*, Gambela Hizboch (Gambela Peoples), Hareri Hizb (Harari People), Oromiya (Oromia), Sidama, Sumale (Somali), Tigray, YeDebub Biheroch Bihereseboch na Hizboch (Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples), YeDebub M'irab Ityop'iya Hizboch (Southwest Ethiopia Peoples)
Topic: Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)none (overseas territory of the UK; also claimed by Argentina)
Topic: Faroe Islandspart of the Kingdom of Denmark; self-governing overseas administrative division of Denmark; there are 29 first-order municipalities (kommunur, singular - kommuna) Eidhi, Eystur, Famjin, Fuglafjordhur, Fugloy, Hov, Husavik, Hvalba, Hvannasund, Klaksvik, Kunoy, Kvivik, Nes, Porkeri, Runavik, Sandur, Sjovar, Skalavik, Skopun, Skuvoy, Sorvagur, Sumba, Sunda, Torshavn, Tvoroyri, Vagar, Vagur, Vestmanna, Vidhareidhi
Topic: Fiji14 provinces and 1 dependency*; Ba, Bua, Cakaudrove, Kadavu, Lau, Lomaiviti, Macuata, Nadroga and Navosa, Naitasiri, Namosi, Ra, Rewa, Rotuma*, Serua, Tailevu
Topic: Finland19 regions (maakunnat, singular - maakunta (Finnish); landskapen, singular - landskapet (Swedish)); Aland (Swedish), Ahvenanmaa (Finnish); Etela-Karjala (Finnish), Sodra Karelen (Swedish) [South Karelia]; Etela-Pohjanmaa (Finnish), Sodra Osterbotten (Swedish) [South Ostrobothnia]; Etela-Savo (Finnish), Sodra Savolax (Swedish) [South Savo]; Kanta-Hame (Finnish), Egentliga Tavastland (Swedish); Kainuu (Finnish), Kajanaland (Swedish); Keski-Pohjanmaa (Finnish), Mellersta Osterbotten (Swedish) [Central Ostrobothnia]; Keski-Suomi (Finnish), Mellersta Finland (Swedish) [Central Finland]; Kymenlaakso (Finnish), Kymmenedalen (Swedish); Lappi (Finnish), Lappland (Swedish); Paijat-Hame (Finnish), Paijanne-Tavastland (Swedish); Pirkanmaa (Finnish), Birkaland (Swedish) [Tampere]; Pohjanmaa (Finnish), Osterbotten (Swedish) [Ostrobothnia]; Pohjois-Karjala (Finnish), Norra Karelen (Swedish) [North Karelia]; Pohjois-Pohjanmaa (Finnish), Norra Osterbotten (Swedish) [North Ostrobothnia]; Pohjois-Savo (Finnish), Norra Savolax (Swedish) [North Savo]; Satakunta (Finnish and Swedish); Uusimaa (Finnish), Nyland (Swedish) [Newland]; Varsinais-Suomi (Finnish), Egentliga Finland (Swedish) [Southwest Finland]
Topic: France18 regions (regions, singular - region); Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes, Bourgogne-Franche-Comte (Burgundy-Free County), Bretagne (Brittany), Centre-Val de Loire (Center-Loire Valley), Corse (Corsica), Grand Est (Grand East), Guadeloupe, Guyane (French Guiana), Hauts-de-France (Upper France), Ile-de-France, Martinique, Mayotte, Normandie (Normandy), Nouvelle-Aquitaine (New Aquitaine), Occitanie (Occitania), Pays de la Loire (Lands of the Loire), Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur, Reunion
note: France is divided into 13 metropolitan regions (including the "collectivity" of Corse or Corsica) and 5 overseas regions (French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Mayotte, and Reunion) and is subdivided into 96 metropolitan departments and 5 overseas departments (which are the same as the overseas regions)
Topic: French Polynesia5 administrative subdivisions (subdivisions administratives, singular - subdivision administrative): Iles Australes (Austral Islands), Iles du Vent (Windward Islands), Iles Marquises (Marquesas Islands), Iles Sous-le-Vent (Leeward Islands), Iles Tuamotu-Gambier; note - the Leeward Islands and the Windward Islands together make up the Society Islands (Iles de la Societe)
Topic: French Southern and Antarctic Landsnone (overseas territory of France); there are no first-order administrative divisions as defined by the US Government, but there are 5 administrative districts named Iles Crozet, Iles Eparses, Iles Kerguelen, Ile Saint-Paul et Ile Amsterdam; the fifth district is the "Adelie Land" claim in Antarctica that is not recognized by the US
Topic: Gabon9 provinces; Estuaire, Haut-Ogooue, Moyen-Ogooue, Ngounie, Nyanga, Ogooue-Ivindo, Ogooue-Lolo, Ogooue-Maritime, Woleu-Ntem
Topic: Gambia, The5 regions, 1 city*, and 1 municipality**; Banjul*, Central River, Kanifing**, Lower River, North Bank, Upper River, West Coast
Topic: Georgia9 regions (mkharebi, singular - mkhare), 1 city (kalaki), and 2 autonomous republics (avtomnoy respubliki, singular - avtom respublika) regions: Guria, Imereti, Kakheti, Kvemo Kartli, Mtskheta Mtianeti, Racha-Lechkhumi and Kvemo Svaneti, Samegrelo and Zemo Svaneti, Samtskhe-Javakheti, Shida Kartli; note - the breakaway region of South Ossetia consists of the northern part of Shida Kartli, eastern slivers of the Imereti region and Racha-Lechkhumi and Kvemo Svaneti, and part of western Mtskheta-Mtianeti city: Tbilisi autonomous republics: Abkhazia or Ap'khazet'is Avtonomiuri Respublika (Sokhumi), Ajaria or Acharis Avtonomiuri Respublika (Bat'umi)
note 1: the administrative centers of the two autonomous republics are shown in parentheses
note 2: the United States recognizes the breakaway regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia to be part of Georgia9 regions (mkharebi, singular - mkhare), 1 city (kalaki), and 2 autonomous republics (avtomnoy respubliki, singular - avtom respublika)regions: Guria, Imereti, Kakheti, Kvemo Kartli, Mtskheta Mtianeti, Racha-Lechkhumi and Kvemo Svaneti, Samegrelo and Zemo Svaneti, Samtskhe-Javakheti, Shida Kartli; note - the breakaway region of South Ossetia consists of the northern part of Shida Kartli, eastern slivers of the Imereti region and Racha-Lechkhumi and Kvemo Svaneti, and part of western Mtskheta-Mtianeticity: Tbilisiautonomous republics: Abkhazia or Ap'khazet'is Avtonomiuri Respublika (Sokhumi), Ajaria or Acharis Avtonomiuri Respublika (Bat'umi)
Topic: Germany16 states (Laender, singular - Land); Baden-Wuerttemberg, Bayern (Bavaria), Berlin, Brandenburg, Bremen, Hamburg, Hessen (Hesse), Mecklenburg-Vorpommern (Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania), Niedersachsen (Lower Saxony), Nordrhein-Westfalen (North Rhine-Westphalia), Rheinland-Pfalz (Rhineland-Palatinate), Saarland, Sachsen (Saxony), Sachsen-Anhalt (Saxony-Anhalt), Schleswig-Holstein, Thueringen (Thuringia); note - Bayern, Sachsen, and Thueringen refer to themselves as free states (Freistaaten, singular - Freistaat), while Bremen calls itself a Free Hanseatic City (Freie Hansestadt) and Hamburg considers itself a Free and Hanseatic City (Freie und Hansestadt)
Topic: Ghana16 regions; Ahafo, Ashanti, Bono, Bono East, Central, Eastern, Greater Accra, North East, Northern, Oti, Savannah, Upper East, Upper West, Volta, Western, Western North
Topic: Gibraltarnone (overseas territory of the UK)
Topic: Greece13 regions (perifereies, singular - perifereia) and 1 autonomous monastic state* (aftonomi monastiki politeia); Agion Oros* (Mount Athos), Anatoliki Makedonia kai Thraki (East Macedonia and Thrace), Attiki (Attica), Dytiki Ellada (West Greece), Dytiki Makedonia (West Macedonia), Ionia Nisia (Ionian Islands), Ipeiros (Epirus), Kentriki Makedonia (Central Macedonia), Kriti (Crete), Notio Aigaio (South Aegean), Peloponnisos (Peloponnese), Sterea Ellada (Central Greece), Thessalia (Thessaly), Voreio Aigaio (North Aegean)
Topic: Greenland5 municipalities (kommuner, singular kommune); Avannaata, Kujalleq, Qeqertalik, Qeqqata, Sermersooq
note: Northeast Greenland National Park (Kalaallit Nunaanni Nuna Eqqissisimatitaq) and the Thule Air Base in Pituffik (in northwest Greenland) are two unincorporated areas; the national park's 972,000 sq km - about 46% of the island - makes it the largest national park in the world and also the most northerly
Topic: Grenada6 parishes and 1 dependency*; Carriacou and Petite Martinique*, Saint Andrew, Saint David, Saint George, Saint John, Saint Mark, Saint Patrick
Topic: Guamnone (territory of the US)
Topic: Guatemala22 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento); Alta Verapaz, Baja Verapaz, Chimaltenango, Chiquimula, El Progreso, Escuintla, Guatemala, Huehuetenango, Izabal, Jalapa, Jutiapa, Peten, Quetzaltenango, Quiche, Retalhuleu, Sacatepequez, San Marcos, Santa Rosa, Solola, Suchitepequez, Totonicapan, Zacapa
Topic: Guernseynone (British Crown dependency); there are no first-order administrative divisions as defined by the US Government, but there are 10 parishes: Castel, Forest, Saint Andrew, Saint Martin, Saint Peter Port, Saint Pierre du Bois, Saint Sampson, Saint Saviour, Torteval, Vale
note: two additional parishes for Guernsey are sometimes listed - Saint Anne on the island of Alderney and Saint Peter on the island of Sark - but they are generally not included in the enumeration of parishes
Topic: Guinea7 regions administrative and 1 gouvenorat*; Boke, Conakry*, Faranah, Kankan, Kindia, Labe, Mamou, N'Zerekore
Topic: Guinea-Bissau9 regions (regioes, singular - regiao); Bafata, Biombo, Bissau, Bolama/Bijagos, Cacheu, Gabu, Oio, Quinara, Tombali
Topic: Guyana10 regions; Barima-Waini, Cuyuni-Mazaruni, Demerara-Mahaica, East Berbice-Corentyne, Essequibo Islands-West Demerara, Mahaica-Berbice, Pomeroon-Supenaam, Potaro-Siparuni, Upper Demerara-Berbice, Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo
Topic: Haiti10 departments (departements, singular - departement); Artibonite, Centre, Grand'Anse, Nippes, Nord, Nord-Est, Nord-Ouest, Ouest, Sud, Sud-Est
Topic: Holy See (Vatican City)none
Topic: Honduras18 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento); Atlantida, Choluteca, Colon, Comayagua, Copan, Cortes, El Paraiso, Francisco Morazan, Gracias a Dios, Intibuca, Islas de la Bahia, La Paz, Lempira, Ocotepeque, Olancho, Santa Barbara, Valle, Yoro
Topic: Hong Kongnone (special administrative region of the People's Republic of China)
Topic: Hungary19 counties (megyek, singular - megye), 23 cities with county rights (megyei jogu varosok, singular - megyei jogu varos), and 1 capital city (fovaros) counties: Bacs-Kiskun, Baranya, Bekes, Borsod-Abauj-Zemplen, Csongrad-Csanad, Fejer, Gyor-Moson-Sopron, Hajdu-Bihar, Heves, Jasz-Nagykun-Szolnok, Komarom-Esztergom, Nograd, Pest, Somogy, Szabolcs-Szatmar-Bereg, Tolna, Vas, Veszprem, Zala cities with county rights: Bekescsaba, Debrecen, Dunaujvaros, Eger, Erd, Gyor, Hodmezovasarhely, Kaposvar, Kecskemet, Miskolc, Nagykanizsa, Nyiregyhaza, Pecs, Salgotarjan, Sopron, Szeged, Szekesfehervar, Szekszard, Szolnok, Szombathely, Tatabanya, Veszprem, Zalaegerszeg capital city: Budapest19 counties (megyek, singular - megye), 23 cities with county rights (megyei jogu varosok, singular - megyei jogu varos), and 1 capital city (fovaros)counties: Bacs-Kiskun, Baranya, Bekes, Borsod-Abauj-Zemplen, Csongrad-Csanad, Fejer, Gyor-Moson-Sopron, Hajdu-Bihar, Heves, Jasz-Nagykun-Szolnok, Komarom-Esztergom, Nograd, Pest, Somogy, Szabolcs-Szatmar-Bereg, Tolna, Vas, Veszprem, Zalacities with county rights: Bekescsaba, Debrecen, Dunaujvaros, Eger, Erd, Gyor, Hodmezovasarhely, Kaposvar, Kecskemet, Miskolc, Nagykanizsa, Nyiregyhaza, Pecs, Salgotarjan, Sopron, Szeged, Szekesfehervar, Szekszard, Szolnok, Szombathely, Tatabanya, Veszprem, Zalaegerszegcapital city: Budapest
Topic: Iceland69 municipalities (sveitarfelog, singular - sveitarfelagidh); Akrahreppur, Akranes, Akureyri, Arneshreppur, Asahreppur, Blaskogabyggdh, Blonduosbaer, Bolungarvik, Borgarbyggdh, Dalabyggdh, Dalvikurbyggdh, Eyjafjardharsveit, Eyja-og Miklaholtshreppur, Fjallabyggdh, Fjardhabyggdh, Fljotsdalshreppur, Floahreppur, Gardhabaer, Grimsnes-og Grafningshreppur, Grindavikurbaer, Grundarfjardharbaer, Grytubakkahreppur, Hafnarfjordhur, Helgafellssveit, Horgarsveit, Hrunamannahreppur, Hunathing Vestra, Hunavatnshreppur, Hvalfjardharsveit, Hveragerdhi, Isafjardharbaer, Kaldrananeshreppur, Kjosarhreppur, Kopavogur, Langanesbyggdh, Mosfellsbaer, Mulathing, Myrdalshreppur, Nordhurthing, Rangarthing Eystra, Rangarthing Ytra, Reykholahreppur, Reykjanesbaer, Reykjavik, Seltjarnarnes, Skaftarhreppur, Skagabyggdh, Skeidha-og Gnupverjahreppur, Skorradalshreppur, Skutustadhahreppur, Snaefellsbaer, Strandabyggdh, Stykkisholmur, Sudhavikurhreppur, Sudhurnesjabaer, Svalbardhshreppur, Svalbardhsstrandarhreppur, Sveitarfelagidh Arborg, Sveitarfelagidh Hornafjordhur, Sveitarfelagidh Olfus, Sveitarfelagidh Skagafjordhur, Sveitarfelagidh Skagastrond, Sveitarfelagidh Vogar, Talknafjardharhreppur, Thingeyjarsveit, Tjorneshreppur, Vestmannaeyjar, Vesturbyggdh, Vopnafjardharhreppur
Topic: India28 states and 8 union territories*; Andaman and Nicobar Islands*, Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chandigarh*, Chhattisgarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu*, Delhi*, Goa, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir*, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Ladakh*, Lakshadweep*, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Odisha, Puducherry*, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, West Bengal
note: although its status is that of a union territory, the official name of Delhi is National Capital Territory of Delhi
Topic: Indonesia31 provinces (provinsi-provinsi, singular - provinsi), 1 autonomous province*, 1 special region** (daerah-daerah istimewa, singular - daerah istimewa), and 1 national capital district*** (daerah khusus ibukota); Aceh*, Bali, Banten, Bengkulu, Gorontalo, Jakarta***, Jambi, Jawa Barat (West Java), Jawa Tengah (Central Java), Jawa Timur (East Java), Kalimantan Barat (West Kalimantan), Kalimantan Selatan (South Kalimantan), Kalimantan Tengah (Central Kalimantan), Kalimantan Timur (East Kalimantan), Kalimantan Utara (North Kalimantan), Kepulauan Bangka Belitung (Bangka Belitung Islands), Kepulauan Riau (Riau Islands), Lampung, Maluku, Maluku Utara (North Maluku), Nusa Tenggara Barat (West Nusa Tenggara), Nusa Tenggara Timur (East Nusa Tenggara), Papua, Papua Barat (West Papua), Riau, Sulawesi Barat (West Sulawesi), Sulawesi Selatan (South Sulawesi), Sulawesi Tengah (Central Sulawesi), Sulawesi Tenggara (Southeast Sulawesi), Sulawesi Utara (North Sulawesi), Sumatera Barat (West Sumatra), Sumatera Selatan (South Sumatra), Sumatera Utara (North Sumatra), Yogyakarta**
note: following the implementation of decentralization beginning on 1 January 2001, regencies and municipalities have become the key administrative units responsible for providing most government services
Topic: Iran31 provinces (ostanha, singular - ostan); Alborz, Ardabil, Azarbayjan-e Gharbi (West Azerbaijan), Azarbayjan-e Sharqi (East Azerbaijan), Bushehr, Chahar Mahal va Bakhtiari, Esfahan, Fars, Gilan, Golestan, Hamadan, Hormozgan, Ilam, Kerman, Kermanshah, Khorasan-e Jonubi (South Khorasan), Khorasan-e Razavi (Razavi Khorasan), Khorasan-e Shomali (North Khorasan), Khuzestan, Kohgiluyeh va Bowyer Ahmad, Kordestan, Lorestan, Markazi, Mazandaran, Qazvin, Qom, Semnan, Sistan va Baluchestan, Tehran, Yazd, Zanjan
Topic: Iraq18 governorates (muhafazat, singular - muhafazah (Arabic); parezgakan, singular - parezga (Kurdish)) and 1 region*; 'Al Anbar; Al Basrah; Al Muthanna; Al Qadisiyah (Ad Diwaniyah); An Najaf; Arbil (Erbil) (Arabic), Hewler (Kurdish); As Sulaymaniyah (Arabic), Slemani (Kurdish); Babil; Baghdad; Dahuk (Arabic), Dihok (Kurdish); Dhi Qar; Diyala; Karbala'; Kirkuk; Maysan; Ninawa; Salah ad Din; Wasit
Iraq's Kurdistan Regional Government administers Dahuk, Erbil, and As Sulaymaniyah
Topic: Ireland28 counties and 3 cities*; Carlow, Cavan, Clare, Cork, Cork*, Donegal, Dublin*, Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown, Fingal, Galway, Galway*, Kerry, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Leitrim, Limerick, Longford, Louth, Mayo, Meath, Monaghan, Offaly, Roscommon, Sligo, South Dublin, Tipperary, Waterford, Westmeath, Wexford, Wicklow
Topic: Isle of Mannone; there are no first-order administrative divisions as defined by the US Government, but there are 24 local authorities each with its own elections
Topic: Israel6 districts (mehozot, singular - mehoz); Central, Haifa, Jerusalem, Northern, Southern, Tel Aviv
Topic: Italy15 regions (regioni, singular - regione) and 5 autonomous regions (regioni autonome, singular - regione autonoma) regions: Abruzzo, Basilicata, Calabria, Campania, Emilia-Romagna, Lazio (Latium), Liguria, Lombardia, Marche, Molise, Piemonte (Piedmont), Puglia (Apulia), Toscana (Tuscany), Umbria, Veneto; autonomous regions: Friuli Venezia Giulia, Sardegna (Sardinia), Sicilia (Sicily), Trentino-Alto Adige (Trentino-South Tyrol) or Trentino-Suedtirol (German), Valle d'Aosta (Aosta Valley) or Vallee d'Aoste (French)15 regions (regioni, singular - regione) and 5 autonomous regions (regioni autonome, singular - regione autonoma)regions: Abruzzo, Basilicata, Calabria, Campania, Emilia-Romagna, Lazio (Latium), Liguria, Lombardia, Marche, Molise, Piemonte (Piedmont), Puglia (Apulia), Toscana (Tuscany), Umbria, Veneto;autonomous regions: Friuli Venezia Giulia, Sardegna (Sardinia), Sicilia (Sicily), Trentino-Alto Adige (Trentino-South Tyrol) or Trentino-Suedtirol (German), Valle d'Aosta (Aosta Valley) or Vallee d'Aoste (French)
Topic: Jamaica14 parishes; Clarendon, Hanover, Kingston, Manchester, Portland, Saint Andrew, Saint Ann, Saint Catherine, Saint Elizabeth, Saint James, Saint Mary, Saint Thomas, Trelawny, Westmoreland
note: for local government purposes, Kingston and Saint Andrew were amalgamated in 1923 into the present single corporate body known as the Kingston and Saint Andrew Corporation
Topic: Japan47 prefectures; Aichi, Akita, Aomori, Chiba, Ehime, Fukui, Fukuoka, Fukushima, Gifu, Gunma, Hiroshima, Hokkaido, Hyogo, Ibaraki, Ishikawa, Iwate, Kagawa, Kagoshima, Kanagawa, Kochi, Kumamoto, Kyoto, Mie, Miyagi, Miyazaki, Nagano, Nagasaki, Nara, Niigata, Oita, Okayama, Okinawa, Osaka, Saga, Saitama, Shiga, Shimane, Shizuoka, Tochigi, Tokushima, Tokyo, Tottori, Toyama, Wakayama, Yamagata, Yamaguchi, Yamanashi
Topic: Jerseynone (British crown dependency); there are no first-order administrative divisions as defined by the US Government, but there are 12 parishes; Grouville, Saint Brelade, Saint Clement, Saint Helier, Saint John, Saint Lawrence, Saint Martin, Saint Mary, Saint Ouen, Saint Peter, Saint Saviour, and Trinity
Topic: Jordan12 governorates (muhafazat, singular - muhafazah); 'Ajlun, Al 'Aqabah, Al Balqa', Al Karak, Al Mafraq, Al ‘Asimah (Amman), At Tafilah, Az Zarqa', Irbid, Jarash, Ma'an, Madaba
Topic: Kazakhstan14 provinces (oblyslar, singular - oblys) and 4 cities* (qalalar, singular - qala); Almaty (Taldyqorghan), Almaty*, Aqmola (Kokshetau), Aqtobe, Atyrau, Batys Qazaqstan [West Kazakhstan] (Oral), Bayqongyr*, Mangghystau (Aqtau), Nur-Sultan*, Pavlodar, Qaraghandy, Qostanay, Qyzylorda, Shyghys Qazaqstan [East Kazakhstan] (Oskemen), Shymkent*, Soltustik Qazaqstan [North Kazakhstan] (Petropavl), Turkistan, Zhambyl (Taraz)
note: administrative divisions have the same names as their administrative centers (exceptions have the administrative center name following in parentheses); in 1995, the Governments of Kazakhstan and Russia entered into an agreement whereby Russia would lease for a period of 20 years an area of 6,000 sq km enclosing the Baikonur space launch facilities and the city of Bayqongyr (Baikonur, formerly Leninsk); in 2004, a new agreement extended the lease to 2050
Topic: Kenya47 counties; Baringo, Bomet, Bungoma, Busia, Elgeyo/Marakwet, Embu, Garissa, Homa Bay, Isiolo, Kajiado, Kakamega, Kericho, Kiambu, Kilifi, Kirinyaga, Kisii, Kisumu, Kitui, Kwale, Laikipia, Lamu, Machakos, Makueni, Mandera, Marsabit, Meru, Migori, Mombasa, Murang'a, Nairobi City, Nakuru, Nandi, Narok, Nyamira, Nyandarua, Nyeri, Samburu, Siaya, Taita/Taveta, Tana River, Tharaka-Nithi, Trans Nzoia, Turkana, Uasin Gishu, Vihiga, Wajir, West Pokot
Topic: Kiribati3 geographical units: Gilbert Islands, Line Islands, Phoenix Islands; note - there are no first-order administrative divisions, but there are 6 districts (Banaba, Central Gilberts, Line Islands, Northern Gilberts, Southern Gilberts, Tarawa) and 21 island councils - one for each of the inhabited islands (Abaiang, Abemama, Aranuka, Arorae, Banaba, Beru, Butaritari, Kanton, Kiritimati, Kuria, Maiana, Makin, Marakei, Nikunau, Nonouti, Onotoa, Tabiteuea, Tabuaeran, Tamana, Tarawa, Teraina)
Topic: Korea, North9 provinces (do, singular and plural) and 4 special administration cities (si, singular and plural) provinces: Chagang, Hambuk (North Hamgyong), Hamnam (South Hamgyong), Hwangbuk (North Hwanghae), Hwangnam (South Hwanghae), Kangwon, P'yongbuk (North Pyongan), P'yongnam (South Pyongan), Ryanggang major cities: Kaesong, Nampo, P'yongyang, Rason
note: P'yongyang is identified as a directly controlled city, while Kaesong, Nampo, and Rason are designated as special cities9 provinces (do, singular and plural) and 4 special administration cities (si, singular and plural)provinces: Chagang, Hambuk (North Hamgyong), Hamnam (South Hamgyong), Hwangbuk (North Hwanghae), Hwangnam (South Hwanghae), Kangwon, P'yongbuk (North Pyongan), P'yongnam (South Pyongan), Ryanggangmajor cities: Kaesong, Nampo, P'yongyang, Rason
Topic: Korea, South9 provinces (do, singular and plural), 6 metropolitan cities (gwangyeoksi, singular and plural), 1 special city (teugbyeolsi), and 1 special self-governing city (teukbyeoljachisi) provinces: Chungcheongbuk-do (North Chungcheong), Chungcheongnam-do (South Chungcheong), Gangwon-do, Gyeongsangbuk-do (North Gyeongsang), Gyeonggi-do, Gyeongsangnam-do (South Gyeongsang), Jeju-do (Jeju), Jeollabuk-do (North Jeolla), Jeollanam-do (South Jeolla) metropolitan cities: Busan (Pusan), Daegu (Taegu), Daejeon (Taejon), Gwangju (Kwangju), Incheon (Inch'on), Ulsan special city: Seoul special self-governing city: Sejong9 provinces (do, singular and plural), 6 metropolitan cities (gwangyeoksi, singular and plural), 1 special city (teugbyeolsi), and 1 special self-governing city (teukbyeoljachisi)provinces: Chungcheongbuk-do (North Chungcheong), Chungcheongnam-do (South Chungcheong), Gangwon-do, Gyeongsangbuk-do (North Gyeongsang), Gyeonggi-do, Gyeongsangnam-do (South Gyeongsang), Jeju-do (Jeju), Jeollabuk-do (North Jeolla), Jeollanam-do (South Jeolla)metropolitan cities: Busan (Pusan), Daegu (Taegu), Daejeon (Taejon), Gwangju (Kwangju), Incheon (Inch'on), Ulsanspecial city: Seoulspecial self-governing city: Sejong
Topic: Kosovo38 municipalities (komunat, singular - komuna (Albanian); opstine, singular - opstina (Serbian)); Decan (Decani), Dragash (Dragas), Ferizaj (Urosevac), Fushe Kosove (Kosovo Polje), Gjakove (Dakovica), Gjilan (Gnjilane), Gllogovc (Glogovac), Gracanice (Gracanica), Hani i Elezit (Deneral Jankovic), Istog (Istok), Junik, Kacanik, Kamenice (Kamenica), Kline (Klina), Kllokot (Klokot), Leposaviq (Leposavic), Lipjan (Lipljan), Malisheve (Malisevo), Mamushe (Mamusa), Mitrovice e Jugut (Juzna Mitrovica) [South Mitrovica], Mitrovice e Veriut (Severna Mitrovica) [North Mitrovica], Novoberde (Novo Brdo), Obiliq (Obilic), Partesh (Partes), Peje (Pec), Podujeve (Podujevo), Prishtine (Pristina), Prizren, Rahovec (Orahovac), Ranillug (Ranilug), Shterpce (Strpce), Shtime (Stimlje), Skenderaj (Srbica), Suhareke (Suva Reka), Viti (Vitina), Vushtrri (Vucitrn), Zubin Potok, Zvecan
Topic: Kuwait6 governorates (muhafazat, singular - muhafazah); Al Ahmadi, Al 'Asimah, Al Farwaniyah, Al Jahra', Hawalli, Mubarak al Kabir
Topic: Kyrgyzstan7 provinces (oblustar, singular - oblus) and 2 cities* (shaarlar, singular - shaar); Batken Oblusu, Bishkek Shaary*, Chuy Oblusu (Bishkek), Jalal-Abad Oblusu, Naryn Oblusu, Osh Oblusu, Osh Shaary*, Talas Oblusu, Ysyk-Kol Oblusu (Karakol)
note: administrative divisions have the same names as their administrative centers (exceptions have the administrative center name following in parentheses)
Topic: Laos17 provinces (khoueng, singular and plural) and 1 prefecture* (kampheng nakhon); Attapu, Bokeo, Bolikhamxai, Champasak, Houaphan, Khammouan, Louangnamtha, Louangphabang, Oudomxai, Phongsali, Salavan, Savannakhet, Viangchan (Vientiane)*, Viangchan, Xaignabouli, Xaisomboun, Xekong, Xiangkhouang
Topic: Latvia36 municipalities (novadi, singular - novads) and 7 state cities (valstpilsetu pasvaldibas, singular valstspilsetas pasvaldiba) municipalities: Adazi, Aizkraukle, Aluksne, Augsdaugava, Balvi, Bauska, Cesis, Dienvidkurzeme, Dobele, Gulbene, Jekabpils, Jelgava, Kekava, Kraslava, Kuldiga, Limbazi, Livani, Ludza, Madona, Marupe, Ogre, Olaine, Preili, Rezekne, Ropazi, Salaspils, Saldus, Saulkrasti, Sigulda, Smiltene, Talsi, Tukums, Valka, Valmiera, Varaklani, Ventspils cities: Daugavpils, Jelgava, Jurmala, Liepaja, Rezekne, Riga, Ventspils36 municipalities (novadi, singular - novads) and 7 state cities (valstpilsetu pasvaldibas, singular valstspilsetas pasvaldiba)municipalities: Adazi, Aizkraukle, Aluksne, Augsdaugava, Balvi, Bauska, Cesis, Dienvidkurzeme, Dobele, Gulbene, Jekabpils, Jelgava, Kekava, Kraslava, Kuldiga, Limbazi, Livani, Ludza, Madona, Marupe, Ogre, Olaine, Preili, Rezekne, Ropazi, Salaspils, Saldus, Saulkrasti, Sigulda, Smiltene, Talsi, Tukums, Valka, Valmiera, Varaklani, Ventspilscities: Daugavpils, Jelgava, Jurmala, Liepaja, Rezekne, Riga, Ventspils
Topic: Lebanon8 governorates (mohafazat, singular - mohafazah); Aakkar, Baalbek-Hermel, Beqaa (Bekaa), Beyrouth (Beirut), Liban-Nord (North Lebanon), Liban-Sud (South Lebanon), Mont-Liban (Mount Lebanon), Nabatiye
Topic: Lesotho10 districts; Berea, Butha-Buthe, Leribe, Mafeteng, Maseru, Mohale's Hoek, Mokhotlong, Qacha's Nek, Quthing, Thaba-Tseka
Topic: Liberia15 counties; Bomi, Bong, Gbarpolu, Grand Bassa, Grand Cape Mount, Grand Gedeh, Grand Kru, Lofa, Margibi, Maryland, Montserrado, Nimba, River Cess, River Gee, Sinoe
Topic: Libya22 governorates (muhafazah, singular - muhafazat); Al Butnan, Al Jabal al Akhdar, Al Jabal al Gharbi, Al Jafarah, Al Jufrah, Al Kufrah, Al Marj, Al Marqab, Al Wahat, An Nuqat al Khams, Az Zawiyah, Banghazi (Benghazi), Darnah, Ghat, Misratah, Murzuq, Nalut, Sabha, Surt, Tarabulus (Tripoli), Wadi al Hayat, Wadi ash Shati
Topic: Liechtenstein11 communes (Gemeinden, singular - Gemeinde); Balzers, Eschen, Gamprin, Mauren, Planken, Ruggell, Schaan, Schellenberg, Triesen, Triesenberg, Vaduz
Topic: Lithuania60 municipalities (savivaldybe, singular - savivaldybe); Akmene, Alytaus Miestas, Alytus, Anksciai, Birstonas, Birzai, Druskininkai, Elektrenai, Ignalina, Jonava, Joniskis, Jurbarkas, Kaisiadorys, Kalvarija, Kauno Miestas, Kaunas, Kazlu Rudos, Kedainiai, Kelme, Klaipedos Miestas, Klaipeda, Kretinga, Kupiskis, Lazdijai, Marijampole, Mazeikiai, Moletai, Neringa, Pagegiai, Pakruojis, Palangos Miestas, Panevezio Miestas, Panevezys, Pasvalys, Plunge, Prienai, Radviliskis, Raseiniai, Rietavas, Rokiskis, Sakiai, Salcininkai, Siauliu Miestas, Siauliai, Silale, Silute, Sirvintos, Skuodas, Svencionys, Taurage, Telsiai, Trakai, Ukmerge, Utena, Varena, Vilkaviskis, Vilniaus Miestas, Vilnius, Visaginas, Zarasai
Topic: Luxembourg12 cantons (cantons, singular - canton); Capellen, Clervaux, Diekirch, Echternach, Esch-sur-Alzette, Grevenmacher, Luxembourg, Mersch, Redange, Remich, Vianden, Wiltz
Topic: Macaunone (special administrative region of the People's Republic of China)
Topic: Madagascar6 provinces (faritany); Antananarivo, Antsiranana, Fianarantsoa, Mahajanga, Toamasina, Toliara
Topic: Malawi28 districts; Balaka, Blantyre, Chikwawa, Chiradzulu, Chitipa, Dedza, Dowa, Karonga, Kasungu, Likoma, Lilongwe, Machinga, Mangochi, Mchinji, Mulanje, Mwanza, Mzimba, Neno, Ntcheu, Nkhata Bay, Nkhotakota, Nsanje, Ntchisi, Phalombe, Rumphi, Salima, Thyolo, Zomba
Topic: Malaysia13 states (negeri-negeri, singular - negeri); Johor, Kedah, Kelantan, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Perak, Perlis, Pulau Pinang, Sabah, Sarawak, Selangor, Terengganu; and 1 federal territory (Wilayah Persekutuan) with 3 components, Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, and Putrajaya
Topic: Maldives21 administrative atolls (atholhuthah, singular - atholhu); Addu (Addu City), Ariatholhu Dhekunuburi (South Ari Atoll), Ariatholhu Uthuruburi (North Ari Atoll), Faadhippolhu, Felidhuatholhu (Felidhu Atoll), Fuvammulah, Hahdhunmathi, Huvadhuatholhu Dhekunuburi (South Huvadhu Atoll), Huvadhuatholhu Uthuruburi (North Huvadhu Atoll), Kolhumadulu, Maale (Male), Maaleatholhu (Male Atoll), Maalhosmadulu Dhekunuburi (South Maalhosmadulu), Maalhosmadulu Uthuruburi (North Maalhosmadulu), Miladhunmadulu Dhekunuburi (South Miladhunmadulu), Miladhunmadulu Uthuruburi (North Miladhunmadulu), Mulakatholhu (Mulaku Atoll), Nilandheatholhu Dhekunuburi (South Nilandhe Atoll), Nilandheatholhu Uthuruburi (North Nilandhe Atoll), Thiladhunmathee Dhekunuburi (South Thiladhunmathi), Thiladhunmathee Uthuruburi (North Thiladhunmathi)
Topic: Mali10 regions (regions, singular - region), 1 district*; District de Bamako*, Gao, Kayes, Kidal, Koulikoro, Menaka, Mopti, Segou, Sikasso, Taoudenni, Tombouctou (Timbuktu); note - Menaka and Taoudenni were legislated in 2016, but implementation has not been confirmed by the US Board on Geographic Names
Topic: Malta68 localities (Il-lokalita); Attard, Balzan, Birgu, Birkirkara, Birzebbuga, Bormla, Dingli, Fgura, Floriana, Fontana, Ghajnsielem, Gharb, Gharghur, Ghasri, Ghaxaq, Gudja, Gzira, Hamrun, Iklin, Imdina, Imgarr, Imqabba, Imsida, Imtarfa, Isla, Kalkara, Kercem, Kirkop, Lija, Luqa, Marsa, Marsaskala, Marsaxlokk, Mellieha, Mosta, Munxar, Nadur, Naxxar, Paola, Pembroke, Pieta, Qala, Qormi, Qrendi, Rabat, Rabat (Ghawdex), Safi, San Giljan/Saint Julian, San Gwann/Saint John, San Lawrenz/Saint Lawrence, Sannat, San Pawl il-Bahar/Saint Paul's Bay, Santa Lucija/Saint Lucia, Santa Venera/Saint Venera, Siggiewi, Sliema, Swieqi, Tarxien, Ta' Xbiex, Valletta, Xaghra, Xewkija, Xghajra, Zabbar, Zebbug, Zebbug (Ghawdex), Zejtun, Zurrieq
Topic: Marshall Islands24 municipalities; Ailinglaplap, Ailuk, Arno, Aur, Bikini & Kili, Ebon, Enewetak & Ujelang, Jabat, Jaluit, Kwajalein, Lae, Lib, Likiep, Majuro, Maloelap, Mejit, Mili, Namorik, Namu, Rongelap, Ujae, Utrik, Wotho, Wotje
Topic: Mauritania15 regions (wilayas, singular - wilaya); Adrar, Assaba, Brakna, Dakhlet Nouadhibou, Gorgol, Guidimaka, Hodh ech Chargui, Hodh El Gharbi, Inchiri, Nouakchott Nord, Nouakchott Ouest, Nouakchott Sud, Tagant, Tiris Zemmour, Trarza
Topic: Mauritius9 districts and 3 dependencies*; Agalega Islands*, Black River, Cargados Carajos Shoals*, Flacq, Grand Port, Moka, Pamplemousses, Plaines Wilhems, Port Louis, Riviere du Rempart, Rodrigues*, Savanne
Topic: Mexico32 states (estados, singular - estado); Aguascalientes, Baja California, Baja California Sur, Campeche, Chiapas, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Colima, Cuidad de Mexico, Durango, Guanajuato, Guerrero, Hidalgo, Jalisco, Mexico, Michoacan, Morelos, Nayarit, Nuevo Leon, Oaxaca, Puebla, Queretaro, Quintana Roo, San Luis Potosi, Sinaloa, Sonora, Tabasco, Tamaulipas, Tlaxcala, Veracruz, Yucatan, Zacatecas
Topic: Micronesia, Federated States of4 states; Chuuk (Truk), Kosrae (Kosaie), Pohnpei (Ponape), Yap
Topic: Moldova32 raions (raioane, singular - raion), 3 municipalities (municipii, singular - municipiul), 1 autonomous territorial unit (unitatea teritoriala autonoma), and 1 territorial unit (unitatea teritoriala) raions: Anenii Noi, Basarabeasca, Briceni, Cahul, Cantemir, Calarasi, Causeni, Cimislia, Criuleni, Donduseni, Drochia, Dubasari, Edinet, Falesti, Floresti, Glodeni, Hincesti, Ialoveni, Leova, Nisporeni, Ocnita, Orhei, Rezina, Riscani, Singerei, Soldanesti, Soroca, Stefan Voda, Straseni, Taraclia, Telenesti, Ungheni municipalities: Balti, Bender, Chisinau autonomous territorial unit: Gagauzia territorial unit: Stinga Nistrului (Transnistria)32 raions (raioane, singular - raion), 3 municipalities (municipii, singular - municipiul), 1 autonomous territorial unit (unitatea teritoriala autonoma), and 1 territorial unit (unitatea teritoriala)raions: Anenii Noi, Basarabeasca, Briceni, Cahul, Cantemir, Calarasi, Causeni, Cimislia, Criuleni, Donduseni, Drochia, Dubasari, Edinet, Falesti, Floresti, Glodeni, Hincesti, Ialoveni, Leova, Nisporeni, Ocnita, Orhei, Rezina, Riscani, Singerei, Soldanesti, Soroca, Stefan Voda, Straseni, Taraclia, Telenesti, Unghenimunicipalities: Balti, Bender, Chisinauautonomous territorial unit: Gagauziaterritorial unit: Stinga Nistrului (Transnistria)
Topic: Monaconone; there are no first-order administrative divisions as defined by the US Government, but there are 4 quarters (quartiers, singular - quartier); Fontvieille, La Condamine, Monaco-Ville, Monte-Carlo; note - Moneghetti, a part of La Condamine, is sometimes called the 5th quarter of Monaco
Topic: Mongolia21 provinces (aymguud, singular - aymag) and 1 municipality* (singular - hot); Arhangay, Bayanhongor, Bayan-Olgiy, Bulgan, Darhan-Uul, Dornod, Dornogovi, Dundgovi, Dzavhan (Zavkhan), Govi-Altay, Govisumber, Hentiy, Hovd, Hovsgol, Omnogovi, Orhon, Ovorhangay, Selenge, Suhbaatar, Tov, Ulaanbaatar*, Uvs
Topic: Montenegro24 municipalities (opstine, singular - opstina); Andrijevica, Bar, Berane, Bijelo Polje, Budva, Cetinje, Danilovgrad, Gusinje, Herceg Novi, Kolasin, Kotor, Mojkovac, Niksic, Petnijica, Plav, Pljevlja, Pluzine, Podgorica, Rozaje, Savnik, Tivat, Tuzi, Ulcinj, Zabljak
Topic: Montserrat3 parishes; Saint Anthony, Saint Georges, Saint Peter
Topic: Morocco12 regions; Beni Mellal-Khenifra, Casablanca-Settat, Dakhla-Oued Ed-Dahab, Draa-Tafilalet, Fes-Meknes, Guelmim-Oued Noun, Laayoune-Sakia El Hamra, Marrakech-Safi, Oriental, Rabat-Sale-Kenitra, Souss-Massa, Tanger-Tetouan-Al Hoceima
note: effective 10 December 2020, the US Government recognizes the sovereignty of Morocco over all of the territory of former Western Sahara
Topic: Mozambique10 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia), 1 city (cidade)*; Cabo Delgado, Gaza, Inhambane, Manica, Maputo, Cidade de Maputo*, Nampula, Niassa, Sofala, Tete, Zambezia
Topic: Namibia14 regions; Erongo, Hardap, //Karas, Kavango East, Kavango West, Khomas, Kunene, Ohangwena, Omaheke, Omusati, Oshana, Oshikoto, Otjozondjupa, Zambezi; note - the Karas Region was renamed //Karas in September 2013 to include the alveolar lateral click of the Khoekhoegowab language
Topic: Nauru14 districts; Aiwo, Anabar, Anetan, Anibare, Baitsi, Boe, Buada, Denigomodu, Ewa, Ijuw, Meneng, Nibok, Uaboe, Yaren
Topic: Nepal7 provinces (pradesh, singular - pradesh); Bagmati, Gandaki, Karnali, Lumbini, Province No. One, Province No. Two, Sudurpashchim
Topic: Netherlands12 provinces (provincies, singular - provincie), 3 public entities* (openbare lichamen, singular - openbaar lichaam (Dutch); entidatnan publiko, singular - entidat publiko (Papiamento)); Bonaire*, Drenthe, Flevoland, Fryslan (Friesland), Gelderland, Groningen, Limburg, Noord-Brabant (North Brabant), Noord-Holland (North Holland), Overijssel, Saba*, Sint Eustatius*, Utrecht, Zeeland (Zealand), Zuid-Holland (South Holland)
note 1: the Netherlands is one of four constituent countries of the Kingdom of the Netherlands; the other three, Aruba, Curacao, and Sint Maarten, are all islands in the Caribbean; while all four parts are considered equal partners, in practice, most of the Kingdom's affairs are administered by the Netherlands, which makes up about 98% of the Kingdom's total land area and population
note 2: although Bonaire, Saba, and Sint Eustatius are officially incorporated into the country of the Netherlands under the broad designation of "public entities," Dutch Government sources regularly apply to them the more descriptive term of "special municipalities"; Bonaire, Saba, and Sint Eustatius are collectively referred to as the Caribbean Netherlands
Topic: New Caledonia3 provinces; Province Iles (Islands Province), Province Nord (North Province), and Province Sud (South Province)
Topic: New Zealand16 regions and 1 territory*; Auckland, Bay of Plenty, Canterbury, Chatham Islands*, Gisborne, Hawke's Bay, Manawatu-Wanganui, Marlborough, Nelson, Northland, Otago, Southland, Taranaki, Tasman, Waikato, Wellington, West Coast
Topic: Nicaragua15 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento) and 2 autonomous regions* (regiones autonomistas, singular - region autonoma); Boaco, Carazo, Chinandega, Chontales, Costa Caribe Norte*, Costa Caribe Sur*, Esteli, Granada, Jinotega, Leon, Madriz, Managua, Masaya, Matagalpa, Nueva Segovia, Rio San Juan, Rivas
Topic: Niger7 regions (regions, singular - region) and 1 capital district* (communaute urbaine); Agadez, Diffa, Dosso, Maradi, Niamey*, Tahoua, Tillaberi, Zinder
Topic: Nigeria36 states and 1 territory*; Abia, Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, Ekiti, Enugu, Federal Capital Territory*, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, Nasarawa, Niger, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Plateau, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe, Zamfara
Topic: Niuenone; note - there are no first-order administrative divisions as defined by the US Government, but there are 14 villages at the second order
Topic: Norfolk Islandnone (territory of Australia)
Topic: North Macedonia70 municipalities (opstini, singular - opstina) and 1 city* (grad); Aracinovo, Berovo, Bitola, Bogdanci, Bogovinje, Bosilovo, Brvenica, Caska, Centar Zupa, Cesinovo-Oblesevo, Cucer Sandevo, Debar, Debarca, Delcevo, Demir Hisar, Demir Kapija, Dojran, Dolneni, Gevgelija, Gostivar, Gradsko, Ilinden, Jegunovce, Karbinci, Kavadarci, Kicevo, Kocani, Konce, Kratovo, Kriva Palanka, Krivogastani, Krusevo, Kumanovo, Lipkovo, Lozovo, Makedonska Kamenica, Makedonski Brod, Mavrovo i Rostusa, Mogila, Negotino, Novaci, Novo Selo, Ohrid, Pehcevo, Petrovec, Plasnica, Prilep, Probistip, Radovis, Rankovce, Resen, Rosoman, Skopje*, Sopiste, Staro Nagoricane, Stip, Struga, Strumica, Studenicani, Sveti Nikole, Tearce, Tetovo, Valandovo, Vasilevo, Veles, Vevcani, Vinica, Vrapciste, Zelenikovo, Zelino, Zrnovci
Topic: Northern Mariana Islandsnone (commonwealth in political union with the US); there are no first-order administrative divisions as defined by the US Government, but there are 4 municipalities at the second order: Northern Islands, Rota, Saipan, Tinian
Topic: Norway18 counties (fylker, singular - fylke); Akershus, Aust-Agder, Buskerud, Finnmark, Hedmark, Hordaland, More og Romsdal, Nordland, Oppland, Oslo, Ostfold, Rogaland, Sogn og Fjordane, Telemark, Troms, Trondelag, Vest-Agder, Vestfold
Topic: Oman11 governorates (muhafazat, singular - muhafaza); Ad Dakhiliyah, Al Buraymi, Al Wusta, Az Zahirah, Janub al Batinah (Al Batinah South), Janub ash Sharqiyah (Ash Sharqiyah South), Masqat (Muscat), Musandam, Shamal al Batinah (Al Batinah North), Shamal ash Sharqiyah (Ash Sharqiyah North), Zufar (Dhofar)
Topic: Pakistan4 provinces, 2 Pakistan-administered areas*, and 1 capital territory**; Azad Kashmir*, Balochistan, Gilgit-Baltistan*, Islamabad Capital Territory**, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, Sindh
Topic: Palau16 states; Aimeliik, Airai, Angaur, Hatohobei, Kayangel, Koror, Melekeok, Ngaraard, Ngarchelong, Ngardmau, Ngatpang, Ngchesar, Ngeremlengui, Ngiwal, Peleliu, Sonsorol
Topic: Panama10 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia) and 4 indigenous regions* (comarcas); Bocas del Toro, Chiriqui, Cocle, Colon, Darien, Embera-Wounaan*, Guna Yala*, Herrera, Los Santos, Naso Tjer Di*, Ngobe-Bugle*, Panama, Panama Oeste, Veraguas
Topic: Papua New Guinea20 provinces, 1 autonomous region*, and 1 district**; Bougainville*, Central, Chimbu, Eastern Highlands, East New Britain, East Sepik, Enga, Gulf, Hela, Jiwaka, Madang, Manus, Milne Bay, Morobe, National Capital**, New Ireland, Northern, Southern Highlands, Western, Western Highlands, West New Britain, West Sepik
Topic: Paraguay17 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento) and 1 capital city*; Alto Paraguay, Alto Parana, Amambay, Asuncion*, Boqueron, Caaguazu, Caazapa, Canindeyu, Central, Concepcion, Cordillera, Guaira, Itapua, Misiones, Neembucu, Paraguari, Presidente Hayes, San Pedro
Topic: Peru25 regions (regiones, singular - region) and 1 province* (provincia); Amazonas, Ancash, Apurimac, Arequipa, Ayacucho, Cajamarca, Callao, Cusco, Huancavelica, Huanuco, Ica, Junin, La Libertad, Lambayeque, Lima, Lima*, Loreto, Madre de Dios, Moquegua, Pasco, Piura, Puno, San Martin, Tacna, Tumbes, Ucayali
note: Callao, the largest port in Peru, is also referred to as a constitutional province, the only province of the Callao region
Topic: Philippines81 provinces and 38 chartered cities provinces: Abra, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Aklan, Albay, Antique, Apayao, Aurora, Basilan, Bataan, Batanes, Batangas, Biliran, Benguet, Bohol, Bukidnon, Bulacan, Cagayan, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Camiguin, Capiz, Catanduanes, Cavite, Cebu, Cotabato, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao de Oro, Davao Occidental, Davao Oriental, Dinagat Islands, Eastern Samar, Guimaras, Ifugao, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Iloilo, Isabela, Kalinga, Laguna, Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, La Union, Leyte, Maguindanao, Marinduque, Masbate, Mindoro Occidental, Mindoro Oriental, Misamis Occidental, Misamis Oriental, Mountain, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Northern Samar, Nueva Ecija, Nueva Vizcaya, Palawan, Pampanga, Pangasinan, Quezon, Quirino, Rizal, Romblon, Samar, Sarangani, Siquijor, Sorsogon, South Cotabato, Southern Leyte, Sultan Kudarat, Sulu, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Tarlac, Tawi-Tawi, Zambales, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay; chartered cities: Angeles, Bacolod, Baguio, Butuan, Cagayan de Oro, Caloocan, Cebu, Cotabato, Dagupan, Davao, General Santos, Iligan, Iloilo, Lapu-Lapu, Las Pinas, Lucena, Makati, Malabon, Mandaluyong, Mandaue, Manila, Marikina, Muntinlupa, Naga, Navotas, Olongapo, Ormoc, Paranaque, Pasay, Pasig, Puerto Princesa, Quezon, San Juan, Santiago, Tacloban, Taguig, Valenzuela, Zamboanga81 provinces and 38 chartered citiesprovinces: Abra, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Aklan, Albay, Antique, Apayao, Aurora, Basilan, Bataan, Batanes, Batangas, Biliran, Benguet, Bohol, Bukidnon, Bulacan, Cagayan, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Camiguin, Capiz, Catanduanes, Cavite, Cebu, Cotabato, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao de Oro, Davao Occidental, Davao Oriental, Dinagat Islands, Eastern Samar, Guimaras, Ifugao, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Iloilo, Isabela, Kalinga, Laguna, Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, La Union, Leyte, Maguindanao, Marinduque, Masbate, Mindoro Occidental, Mindoro Oriental, Misamis Occidental, Misamis Oriental, Mountain, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Northern Samar, Nueva Ecija, Nueva Vizcaya, Palawan, Pampanga, Pangasinan, Quezon, Quirino, Rizal, Romblon, Samar, Sarangani, Siquijor, Sorsogon, South Cotabato, Southern Leyte, Sultan Kudarat, Sulu, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Tarlac, Tawi-Tawi, Zambales, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay;chartered cities: Angeles, Bacolod, Baguio, Butuan, Cagayan de Oro, Caloocan, Cebu, Cotabato, Dagupan, Davao, General Santos, Iligan, Iloilo, Lapu-Lapu, Las Pinas, Lucena, Makati, Malabon, Mandaluyong, Mandaue, Manila, Marikina, Muntinlupa, Naga, Navotas, Olongapo, Ormoc, Paranaque, Pasay, Pasig, Puerto Princesa, Quezon, San Juan, Santiago, Tacloban, Taguig, Valenzuela, Zamboanga
Topic: Pitcairn Islandsnone (overseas territory of the UK)
Topic: Poland16 voivodships [provinces] (wojewodztwa, singular - wojewodztwo); Dolnoslaskie (Lower Silesia), Kujawsko-Pomorskie (Kuyavia-Pomerania), Lodzkie (Lodz), Lubelskie (Lublin), Lubuskie (Lubusz), Malopolskie (Lesser Poland), Mazowieckie (Masovia), Opolskie (Opole), Podkarpackie (Subcarpathia), Podlaskie, Pomorskie (Pomerania), Slaskie (Silesia), Swietokrzyskie (Holy Cross), Warminsko-Mazurskie (Warmia-Masuria), Wielkopolskie (Greater Poland), Zachodniopomorskie (West Pomerania)
Topic: Portugal18 districts (distritos, singular - distrito) and 2 autonomous regions* (regioes autonomas, singular - regiao autonoma); Aveiro, Acores (Azores)*, Beja, Braga, Braganca, Castelo Branco, Coimbra, Evora, Faro, Guarda, Leiria, Lisboa (Lisbon), Madeira*, Portalegre, Porto, Santarem, Setubal, Viana do Castelo, Vila Real, Viseu
Topic: Puerto Riconone (territory of the US); there are no first-order administrative divisions as defined by the US Government, but there are 78 municipalities (municipios, singular - municipio) at the second order; Adjuntas, Aguada, Aguadilla, Aguas Buenas, Aibonito, Anasco, Arecibo, Arroyo, Barceloneta, Barranquitas, Bayamon, Cabo Rojo, Caguas, Camuy, Canovanas, Carolina, Catano, Cayey, Ceiba, Ciales, Cidra, Coamo, Comerio, Corozal, Culebra, Dorado, Fajardo, Florida, Guanica, Guayama, Guayanilla, Guaynabo, Gurabo, Hatillo, Hormigueros, Humacao, Isabela, Jayuya, Juana Diaz, Juncos, Lajas, Lares, Las Marias, Las Piedras, Loiza, Luquillo, Manati, Maricao, Maunabo, Mayaguez, Moca, Morovis, Naguabo, Naranjito, Orocovis, Patillas, Penuelas, Ponce, Quebradillas, Rincon, Rio Grande, Sabana Grande, Salinas, San German, San Juan, San Lorenzo, San Sebastian, Santa Isabel, Toa Alta, Toa Baja, Trujillo Alto, Utuado, Vega Alta, Vega Baja, Vieques, Villalba, Yabucoa, Yauco
Topic: Qatar8 municipalities (baladiyat, singular - baladiyah); Ad Dawhah, Al Khawr wa adh Dhakhirah, Al Wakrah, Ar Rayyan, Ash Shamal, Ash Shihaniyah, Az Za'ayin, Umm Salal
Topic: Romania41 counties (judete, singular - judet) and 1 municipality* (municipiu); Alba, Arad, Arges, Bacau, Bihor, Bistrita-Nasaud, Botosani, Braila, Brasov, Bucuresti (Bucharest)*, Buzau, Calarasi, Caras-Severin, Cluj, Constanta, Covasna, Dambovita, Dolj, Galati, Gorj, Giurgiu, Harghita, Hunedoara, Ialomita, Iasi, Ilfov, Maramures, Mehedinti, Mures, Neamt, Olt, Prahova, Salaj, Satu Mare, Sibiu, Suceava, Teleorman, Timis, Tulcea, Vaslui, Valcea, Vrancea
Topic: Russia46 provinces (oblasti, singular - oblast), 21 republics (respubliki, singular - respublika), 4 autonomous okrugs (avtonomnyye okrugi, singular - avtonomnyy okrug), 9 krays (kraya, singular - kray), 2 federal cities (goroda, singular - gorod), and 1 autonomous oblast (avtonomnaya oblast') oblasts: Amur (Blagoveshchensk), Arkhangel'sk, Astrakhan', Belgorod, Bryansk, Chelyabinsk, Irkutsk, Ivanovo, Kaliningrad, Kaluga, Kemerovo, Kirov, Kostroma, Kurgan, Kursk, Leningrad, Lipetsk, Magadan, Moscow, Murmansk, Nizhniy Novgorod, Novgorod, Novosibirsk, Omsk, Orenburg, Orel, Penza, Pskov, Rostov, Ryazan', Sakhalin (Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk), Samara, Saratov, Smolensk, Sverdlovsk (Yekaterinburg), Tambov, Tomsk, Tula, Tver', Tyumen', Ul'yanovsk, Vladimir, Volgograd, Vologda, Voronezh, Yaroslavl' republics: Adygeya (Maykop), Altay (Gorno-Altaysk), Bashkortostan (Ufa), Buryatiya (Ulan-Ude), Chechnya (Groznyy), Chuvashiya (Cheboksary), Dagestan (Makhachkala), Ingushetiya (Magas), Kabardino-Balkariya (Nal'chik), Kalmykiya (Elista), Karachayevo-Cherkesiya (Cherkessk), Kareliya (Petrozavodsk), Khakasiya (Abakan), Komi (Syktyvkar), Mariy-El (Yoshkar-Ola), Mordoviya (Saransk), North Ossetia (Vladikavkaz), Sakha [Yakutiya] (Yakutsk), Tatarstan (Kazan'), Tyva (Kyzyl), Udmurtiya (Izhevsk) autonomous okrugs: Chukotka (Anadyr'), Khanty-Mansi-Yugra (Khanty-Mansiysk), Nenets (Nar'yan-Mar), Yamalo-Nenets (Salekhard) krays: Altay (Barnaul), Kamchatka (Petropavlovsk-Kamchatskiy), Khabarovsk, Krasnodar, Krasnoyarsk, Perm', Primorskiy [Maritime] (Vladivostok), Stavropol', Zabaykal'sk [Transbaikal] (Chita) federal cities: Moscow [Moskva], Saint Petersburg [Sankt-Peterburg] autonomous oblast: Yevreyskaya [Jewish] (Birobidzhan)
note 1: administrative divisions have the same names as their administrative centers (exceptions have the administrative center name following in parentheses)
note 2: the United States does not recognize Russia's annexation of Ukraine's Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the municipality of Sevastopol, nor their redesignation as the "Republic of Crimea" and the "Federal City of Sevastopol"46 provinces (oblasti, singular - oblast), 21 republics (respubliki, singular - respublika), 4 autonomous okrugs (avtonomnyye okrugi, singular - avtonomnyy okrug), 9 krays (kraya, singular - kray), 2 federal cities (goroda, singular - gorod), and 1 autonomous oblast (avtonomnaya oblast')oblasts: Amur (Blagoveshchensk), Arkhangel'sk, Astrakhan', Belgorod, Bryansk, Chelyabinsk, Irkutsk, Ivanovo, Kaliningrad, Kaluga, Kemerovo, Kirov, Kostroma, Kurgan, Kursk, Leningrad, Lipetsk, Magadan, Moscow, Murmansk, Nizhniy Novgorod, Novgorod, Novosibirsk, Omsk, Orenburg, Orel, Penza, Pskov, Rostov, Ryazan', Sakhalin (Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk), Samara, Saratov, Smolensk, Sverdlovsk (Yekaterinburg), Tambov, Tomsk, Tula, Tver', Tyumen', Ul'yanovsk, Vladimir, Volgograd, Vologda, Voronezh, Yaroslavl'republics: Adygeya (Maykop), Altay (Gorno-Altaysk), Bashkortostan (Ufa), Buryatiya (Ulan-Ude), Chechnya (Groznyy), Chuvashiya (Cheboksary), Dagestan (Makhachkala), Ingushetiya (Magas), Kabardino-Balkariya (Nal'chik), Kalmykiya (Elista), Karachayevo-Cherkesiya (Cherkessk), Kareliya (Petrozavodsk), Khakasiya (Abakan), Komi (Syktyvkar), Mariy-El (Yoshkar-Ola), Mordoviya (Saransk), North Ossetia (Vladikavkaz), Sakha [Yakutiya] (Yakutsk), Tatarstan (Kazan'), Tyva (Kyzyl), Udmurtiya (Izhevsk)autonomous okrugs: Chukotka (Anadyr'), Khanty-Mansi-Yugra (Khanty-Mansiysk), Nenets (Nar'yan-Mar), Yamalo-Nenets (Salekhard)krays: Altay (Barnaul), Kamchatka (Petropavlovsk-Kamchatskiy), Khabarovsk, Krasnodar, Krasnoyarsk, Perm', Primorskiy [Maritime] (Vladivostok), Stavropol', Zabaykal'sk [Transbaikal] (Chita)federal cities: Moscow [Moskva], Saint Petersburg [Sankt-Peterburg]
Topic: Rwanda4 provinces (in French - provinces, singular - province; in Kinyarwanda - intara for singular and plural) and 1 city* (in French - ville; in Kinyarwanda - umujyi); Est (Eastern), Kigali*, Nord (Northern), Ouest (Western), Sud (Southern)
Topic: Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha3 administrative areas; Ascension, Saint Helena, Tristan da Cunha
Topic: Saint Kitts and Nevis14 parishes; Christ Church Nichola Town, Saint Anne Sandy Point, Saint George Basseterre, Saint George Gingerland, Saint James Windward, Saint John Capesterre, Saint John Figtree, Saint Mary Cayon, Saint Paul Capesterre, Saint Paul Charlestown, Saint Peter Basseterre, Saint Thomas Lowland, Saint Thomas Middle Island, Trinity Palmetto Point
Topic: Saint Lucia10 districts; Anse-la-Raye, Canaries, Castries, Choiseul, Dennery, Gros-Islet, Laborie, Micoud, Soufriere, Vieux-Fort
Topic: Saint Pierre and Miquelonnone (territorial overseas collectivity of France); note - there are no first-order administrative divisions as defined by the US Government, but there are 2 communes at the second order - Saint Pierre, Miquelon
Topic: Saint Vincent and the Grenadines6 parishes; Charlotte, Grenadines, Saint Andrew, Saint David, Saint George, Saint Patrick
Topic: Samoa11 districts; A'ana, Aiga-i-le-Tai, Atua, Fa'asaleleaga, Gaga'emauga, Gagaifomauga, Palauli, Satupa'itea, Tuamasaga, Va'a-o-Fonoti, Vaisigano
Topic: San Marino9 municipalities (castelli, singular - castello); Acquaviva, Borgo Maggiore, Chiesanuova, Domagnano, Faetano, Fiorentino, Montegiardino, San Marino Citta, Serravalle
Topic: Sao Tome and Principe6 districts (distritos, singular - distrito), 1 autonomous region* (regiao autonoma); Agua Grande, Cantagalo, Caue, Lemba, Lobata, Me-Zochi, Principe*
Topic: Saudi Arabia13 regions (manatiq, singular - mintaqah); Al Bahah, Al Hudud ash Shamaliyah (Northern Border), Al Jawf, Al Madinah al Munawwarah (Medina), Al Qasim, Ar Riyad (Riyadh), Ash Sharqiyah (Eastern), 'Asir, Ha'il, Jazan, Makkah al Mukarramah (Mecca), Najran, Tabuk
Topic: Senegal14 regions (regions, singular - region); Dakar, Diourbel, Fatick, Kaffrine, Kaolack, Kedougou, Kolda, Louga, Matam, Saint-Louis, Sedhiou, Tambacounda, Thies, Ziguinchor
Topic: Serbia119 municipalities (opstine, singular - opstina) and 26 cities (gradovi, singular - grad)municipalities: Ada*, Aleksandrovac, Aleksinac, Alibunar*, Apatin*, Arandelovac, Arilje, Babusnica, Bac*, Backa Palanka*, Backa Topola*, Backi Petrovac*, Bajina Basta, Batocina, Becej*, Bela Crkva*, Bela Palanka, Beocin*, Blace, Bogatic, Bojnik, Boljevac, Bor, Bosilegrad, Brus, Bujanovac, Cajetina, Cicevac, Coka*, Crna Trava, Cuprija, Despotovac, Dimitrov, Doljevac, Gadzin Han, Golubac, Gornji Milanovac, Indija*, Irig*, Ivanjica, Kanjiza*, Kladovo, Knic, Knjazevac, Koceljeva, Kosjeric, Kovacica*, Kovin*, Krupanj, Kucevo, Kula*, Kursumlija, Lajkovac, Lapovo, Lebane, Ljig, Ljubovija, Lucani, Majdanpek, Mali Idos*, Mali Zvornik, Malo Crnice, Medveda, Merosina, Mionica, Negotin, Nova Crnja*, Nova Varos, Novi Becej*, Novi Knezevac*, Odzaci*, Opovo*, Osecina, Paracin, Pecinci*, Petrovac na Mlavi, Plandiste*, Pozega, Presevo, Priboj, Prijepolje, Prokuplje, Raca, Raska, Razanj, Rekovac, Ruma*, Secanj*, Senta*, Sid*, Sjenica, Smederevska Palanka, Sokobanja, Srbobran*, Sremski Karlovci*, Stara Pazova*, Surdulica, Svilajnac, Svrljig, Temerin*, Titel*, Topola, Trgoviste, Trstenik, Tutin, Ub, Varvarin, Velika Plana, Veliko Gradiste, Vladicin Han, Vladimirci, Vlasotince, Vrbas*, Vrnjacka Banja, Zabalj*, Zabari, Zagubica, Zitiste*, Zitorada; cities: Beograd, Cacak, Jagodina, Kikinda*, Kragujevac, Kraljevo, Krusevac, Leskovac, Loznica, Nis, Novi Pazar, Novi Sad*, Pancevo*, Pirot, Pozarevac, Sabac, Smederevo, Sombor*, Sremska Mitrovica*, Subotica*, Uzice, Valjevo, Vranje, Vrsac*, Zajecar, Zrenjanin*
note: the northern 37 municipalities and 8 cities - about 28% of Serbia's area - compose the Autonomous Province of Vojvodina and are indicated with *119 municipalities (opstine, singular - opstina) and 26 cities (gradovi, singular - grad)municipalities: Ada*, Aleksandrovac, Aleksinac, Alibunar*, Apatin*, Arandelovac, Arilje, Babusnica, Bac*, Backa Palanka*, Backa Topola*, Backi Petrovac*, Bajina Basta, Batocina, Becej*, Bela Crkva*, Bela Palanka, Beocin*, Blace, Bogatic, Bojnik, Boljevac, Bor, Bosilegrad, Brus, Bujanovac, Cajetina, Cicevac, Coka*, Crna Trava, Cuprija, Despotovac, Dimitrov, Doljevac, Gadzin Han, Golubac, Gornji Milanovac, Indija*, Irig*, Ivanjica, Kanjiza*, Kladovo, Knic, Knjazevac, Koceljeva, Kosjeric, Kovacica*, Kovin*, Krupanj, Kucevo, Kula*, Kursumlija, Lajkovac, Lapovo, Lebane, Ljig, Ljubovija, Lucani, Majdanpek, Mali Idos*, Mali Zvornik, Malo Crnice, Medveda, Merosina, Mionica, Negotin, Nova Crnja*, Nova Varos, Novi Becej*, Novi Knezevac*, Odzaci*, Opovo*, Osecina, Paracin, Pecinci*, Petrovac na Mlavi, Plandiste*, Pozega, Presevo, Priboj, Prijepolje, Prokuplje, Raca, Raska, Razanj, Rekovac, Ruma*, Secanj*, Senta*, Sid*, Sjenica, Smederevska Palanka, Sokobanja, Srbobran*, Sremski Karlovci*, Stara Pazova*, Surdulica, Svilajnac, Svrljig, Temerin*, Titel*, Topola, Trgoviste, Trstenik, Tutin, Ub, Varvarin, Velika Plana, Veliko Gradiste, Vladicin Han, Vladimirci, Vlasotince, Vrbas*, Vrnjacka Banja, Zabalj*, Zabari, Zagubica, Zitiste*, Zitorada; cities: Beograd, Cacak, Jagodina, Kikinda*, Kragujevac, Kraljevo, Krusevac, Leskovac, Loznica, Nis, Novi Pazar, Novi Sad*, Pancevo*, Pirot, Pozarevac, Sabac, Smederevo, Sombor*, Sremska Mitrovica*, Subotica*, Uzice, Valjevo, Vranje, Vrsac*, Zajecar, Zrenjanin*
Topic: Seychelles27 administrative districts; Anse aux Pins, Anse Boileau, Anse Etoile, Anse Royale, Au Cap, Baie Lazare, Baie Sainte Anne, Beau Vallon, Bel Air, Bel Ombre, Cascade, Glacis, Grand Anse Mahe, Grand Anse Praslin, Ile Perseverance I, Ile Perseverance II, La Digue, La Riviere Anglaise, Les Mamelles, Mont Buxton, Mont Fleuri, Plaisance, Pointe Larue, Port Glaud, Roche Caiman, Saint Louis, Takamaka
Topic: Sierra Leone4 provinces and 1 area*; Eastern, Northern, North Western, Southern, Western*
Topic: Singaporeno first order administrative divisions; there are five community development councils: Central Singapore Development Council, North East Development Council, North West Development Council, South East Development Council, South West Development Council (2019)
Topic: Sint Maartennone (part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands)
note: Sint Maarten is one of four constituent countries of the Kingdom of the Netherlands; the other three are the Netherlands, Aruba, and Curacaonone (part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands)
Topic: Slovakia8 regions (kraje, singular - kraj); Banska Bystrica, Bratislava, Kosice, Nitra, Presov, Trencin, Trnava, Zilina
Topic: Slovenia201 municipalities (obcine, singular - obcina) and 11 urban municipalities (mestne obcine, singular - mestna obcina) municipalities: Ajdovscina, Ankaran, Apace, Beltinci, Benedikt, Bistrica ob Sotli, Bled, Bloke, Bohinj, Borovnica, Bovec, Braslovce, Brda, Brezice, Brezovica, Cankova, Cerklje na Gorenjskem, Cerknica, Cerkno, Cerkvenjak, Cirkulane, Crensovci, Crna na Koroskem, Crnomelj, Destrnik, Divaca, Dobje, Dobrepolje, Dobrna, Dobrova-Polhov Gradec, Dobrovnik/Dobronak, Dolenjske Toplice, Dol pri Ljubljani, Domzale, Dornava, Dravograd, Duplek, Gorenja Vas-Poljane, Gorisnica, Gorje, Gornja Radgona, Gornji Grad, Gornji Petrovci, Grad, Grosuplje, Hajdina, Hoce-Slivnica, Hodos, Horjul, Hrastnik, Hrpelje-Kozina, Idrija, Ig, Ilirska Bistrica, Ivancna Gorica, Izola/Isola, Jesenice, Jezersko, Jursinci, Kamnik, Kanal ob Soci, Kidricevo, Kobarid, Kobilje, Kocevje, Komen, Komenda, Kosanjevica na Krki, Kostel, Kozje, Kranjska Gora, Krizevci, Krsko, Kungota, Kuzma, Lasko, Lenart, Lendava/Lendva, Litija, Ljubno, Ljutomer, Log-Dragomer, Logatec, Loska Dolina, Loski Potok, Lovrenc na Pohorju, Luce, Lukovica, Majsperk, Makole, Markovci, Medvode, Menges, Metlika, Mezica, Miklavz na Dravskem Polju, Miren-Kostanjevica, Mirna, Mirna Pec, Mislinja, Mokronog-Trebelno, Moravce, Moravske Toplice, Mozirje, Muta, Naklo, Nazarje, Odranci, Oplotnica, Ormoz, Osilnica, Pesnica, Piran/Pirano, Pivka, Podcetrtek, Podlehnik, Podvelka, Poljcane, Polzela, Postojna, Prebold, Preddvor, Prevalje, Puconci, Race-Fram, Radece, Radenci, Radlje ob Dravi, Radovljica, Ravne na Koroskem, Razkrizje, Recica ob Savinji, Rence-Vogrsko, Ribnica, Ribnica na Pohorju, Rogaska Slatina, Rogasovci, Rogatec, Ruse, Salovci, Selnica ob Dravi, Semic, Sempeter-Vrtojba, Sencur, Sentilj, Sentjernej, Sentjur, Sentrupert, Sevnica, Sezana, Skocjan, Skofja Loka, Skofljica, Slovenska Bistrica, Slovenske Konjice, Smarje pri Jelsah, Smarjeske Toplice, Smartno ob Paki, Smartno pri Litiji, Sodrazica, Solcava, Sostanj, Sredisce ob Dravi, Starse, Store, Straza, Sveta Ana, Sveta Trojica v Slovenskih Goricah, Sveti Andraz v Slovenskih Goricah, Sveti Jurij ob Scavnici, Sveti Jurij v Slovenskih Goricah, Sveti Tomaz, Tabor, Tisina, Tolmin, Trbovlje, Trebnje, Trnovska Vas, Trzic, Trzin, Turnisce, Velika Polana, Velike Lasce, Verzej, Videm, Vipava, Vitanje, Vodice, Vojnik, Vransko, Vrhnika, Vuzenica, Zagorje ob Savi, Zalec, Zavrc, Zelezniki, Zetale, Ziri, Zirovnica, Zrece, Zuzemberk urban municipalities: Celje, Koper, Kranj, Ljubljana, Maribor, Murska Sobota, Nova Gorica, Novo Mesto, Ptuj, Slovenj Gradec, Velenje201 municipalities (obcine, singular - obcina) and 11 urban municipalities (mestne obcine, singular - mestna obcina)municipalities: Ajdovscina, Ankaran, Apace, Beltinci, Benedikt, Bistrica ob Sotli, Bled, Bloke, Bohinj, Borovnica, Bovec, Braslovce, Brda, Brezice, Brezovica, Cankova, Cerklje na Gorenjskem, Cerknica, Cerkno, Cerkvenjak, Cirkulane, Crensovci, Crna na Koroskem, Crnomelj, Destrnik, Divaca, Dobje, Dobrepolje, Dobrna, Dobrova-Polhov Gradec, Dobrovnik/Dobronak, Dolenjske Toplice, Dol pri Ljubljani, Domzale, Dornava, Dravograd, Duplek, Gorenja Vas-Poljane, Gorisnica, Gorje, Gornja Radgona, Gornji Grad, Gornji Petrovci, Grad, Grosuplje, Hajdina, Hoce-Slivnica, Hodos, Horjul, Hrastnik, Hrpelje-Kozina, Idrija, Ig, Ilirska Bistrica, Ivancna Gorica, Izola/Isola, Jesenice, Jezersko, Jursinci, Kamnik, Kanal ob Soci, Kidricevo, Kobarid, Kobilje, Kocevje, Komen, Komenda, Kosanjevica na Krki, Kostel, Kozje, Kranjska Gora, Krizevci, Krsko, Kungota, Kuzma, Lasko, Lenart, Lendava/Lendva, Litija, Ljubno, Ljutomer, Log-Dragomer, Logatec, Loska Dolina, Loski Potok, Lovrenc na Pohorju, Luce, Lukovica,Majsperk, Makole, Markovci, Medvode, Menges, Metlika, Mezica, Miklavz na Dravskem Polju, Miren-Kostanjevica, Mirna, Mirna Pec, Mislinja, Mokronog-Trebelno, Moravce, Moravske Toplice, Mozirje, Muta, Naklo, Nazarje, Odranci, Oplotnica, Ormoz, Osilnica, Pesnica, Piran/Pirano, Pivka, Podcetrtek, Podlehnik, Podvelka, Poljcane, Polzela, Postojna, Prebold, Preddvor, Prevalje, Puconci, Race-Fram, Radece, Radenci, Radlje ob Dravi, Radovljica, Ravne na Koroskem, Razkrizje, Recica ob Savinji, Rence-Vogrsko, Ribnica, Ribnica na Pohorju, Rogaska Slatina, Rogasovci, Rogatec, Ruse, Salovci, Selnica ob Dravi, Semic, Sempeter-Vrtojba, Sencur, Sentilj, Sentjernej, Sentjur, Sentrupert, Sevnica, Sezana, Skocjan, Skofja Loka, Skofljica, Slovenska Bistrica, Slovenske Konjice, Smarje pri Jelsah, Smarjeske Toplice, Smartno ob Paki, Smartno pri Litiji, Sodrazica, Solcava, Sostanj, Sredisce ob Dravi, Starse, Store, Straza, Sveta Ana, Sveta Trojica v Slovenskih Goricah, Sveti Andraz v Slovenskih Goricah, Sveti Jurij ob Scavnici, Sveti Jurij v Slovenskih Goricah, Sveti Tomaz, Tabor, Tisina, Tolmin, Trbovlje, Trebnje, Trnovska Vas, Trzic, Trzin, Turnisce, Velika Polana, Velike Lasce, Verzej, Videm, Vipava, Vitanje, Vodice, Vojnik, Vransko, Vrhnika, Vuzenica, Zagorje ob Savi, Zalec, Zavrc, Zelezniki, Zetale, Ziri, Zirovnica, Zrece, Zuzemberkurban municipalities: Celje, Koper, Kranj, Ljubljana, Maribor, Murska Sobota, Nova Gorica, Novo Mesto, Ptuj, Slovenj Gradec, Velenje
Topic: Solomon Islands9 provinces and 1 city*; Central, Choiseul, Guadalcanal, Honiara*, Isabel, Makira and Ulawa, Malaita, Rennell and Bellona, Temotu, Western
Topic: Somalia18 regions (plural - NA, singular - gobolka); Awdal, Bakool, Banaadir, Bari, Bay, Galguduud, Gedo, Hiiraan, Jubbada Dhexe (Middle Jubba), Jubbada Hoose (Lower Jubba), Mudug, Nugaal, Sanaag, Shabeellaha Dhexe (Middle Shabeelle), Shabeellaha Hoose (Lower Shabeelle), Sool, Togdheer, Woqooyi Galbeed
Topic: South Africa9 provinces; Eastern Cape, Free State, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Northern Cape, North West, Western Cape
Topic: South Sudan10 states; Central Equatoria, Eastern Equatoria, Jonglei, Lakes, Northern Bahr el Ghazal, Unity, Upper Nile, Warrap, Western Bahr el Ghazal, Western Equatoria; note - in 2015, the creation of 28 new states was announced and in 2017 four additional states; following the February 2020 peace agreement, the country was reportedly again reorganized into the 10 original states, plus 2 administrative areas, Pibor and Ruweng, and 1 special administrative status area, Abyei (which is disputed between South Sudan and Sudan); this latest administrative revision has not yet been vetted by the US Board on Geographic Names (2021)
Topic: Spain17 autonomous communities (comunidades autonomas, singular - comunidad autonoma) and 2 autonomous cities* (ciudades autonomas, singular - ciudad autonoma); Andalucia; Aragon; Asturias; Canarias (Canary Islands); Cantabria; Castilla-La Mancha; Castilla-Leon; Cataluna (Castilian), Catalunya (Catalan), Catalonha (Aranese) [Catalonia]; Ceuta*; Comunidad Valenciana (Castilian), Comunitat Valenciana (Valencian) [Valencian Community]; Extremadura; Galicia; Illes Baleares (Balearic Islands); La Rioja; Madrid; Melilla*; Murcia; Navarra (Castilian), Nafarroa (Basque) [Navarre]; Pais Vasco (Castilian), Euskadi (Basque) [Basque Country]
note: the autonomous cities of Ceuta and Melilla plus three small islands of Islas Chafarinas, Penon de Alhucemas, and Penon de Velez de la Gomera, administered directly by the Spanish central government, are all along the coast of Morocco and are collectively referred to as Places of Sovereignty (Plazas de Soberania)
Topic: Sri Lanka9 provinces; Central, Eastern, North Central, Northern, North Western, Sabaragamuwa, Southern, Uva, Western
Topic: Sudan18 states (wilayat, singular - wilayah); Blue Nile, Central Darfur, East Darfur, Gedaref, Gezira, Kassala, Khartoum, North Darfur, North Kordofan, Northern, Red Sea, River Nile, Sennar, South Darfur, South Kordofan, West Darfur, West Kordofan, White Nile
note: the peace Agreement signed in October 2020 included a provision to establish a system of governance that will likely restructure the country's current 18 provinces/states into regions
Topic: Suriname10 districts (distrikten, singular - distrikt); Brokopondo, Commewijne, Coronie, Marowijne, Nickerie, Para, Paramaribo, Saramacca, Sipaliwini, Wanica
Topic: Sweden21 counties (lan, singular and plural); Blekinge, Dalarna, Gavleborg, Gotland, Halland, Jamtland, Jonkoping, Kalmar, Kronoberg, Norrbotten, Orebro, Ostergotland, Skane, Sodermanland, Stockholm, Uppsala, Varmland, Vasterbotten, Vasternorrland, Vastmanland, Vastra Gotaland
Topic: Switzerland26 cantons (cantons, singular - canton in French; cantoni, singular - cantone in Italian; Kantone, singular - Kanton in German); Aargau, Appenzell Ausserrhoden, Appenzell Innerrhoden, Basel-Landschaft, Basel-Stadt, Berne/Bern, Fribourg/Freiburg, Geneve (Geneva), Glarus, Graubuenden/Grigioni/Grischun, Jura, Luzern, Neuchatel, Nidwalden, Obwalden, Sankt Gallen, Schaffhausen, Schwyz, Solothurn, Thurgau, Ticino, Uri, Valais/Wallis, Vaud, Zug, Zuerich
note: 6 of the cantons - Appenzell Ausserrhoden, Appenzell Innerrhoden, Basel-Landschaft, Basel-Stadt, Nidwalden, Obwalden - are referred to as half cantons because they elect only one member (instead of two) to the Council of States and, in popular referendums where a majority of popular votes and a majority of cantonal votes are required, these 6 cantons only have a half vote
Topic: Syria14 provinces (muhafazat, singular - muhafazah); Al Hasakah, Al Ladhiqiyah (Latakia), Al Qunaytirah, Ar Raqqah, As Suwayda', Dar'a, Dayr az Zawr, Dimashq (Damascus), Halab (Aleppo), Hamah, Hims (Homs), Idlib, Rif Dimashq (Damascus Countryside), Tartus
Topic: Taiwanincludes main island of Taiwan plus smaller islands nearby and off coast of China's Fujian Province; Taiwan is divided into 13 counties (xian, singular and plural), 3 cities (shi, singular and plural), and 6 special municipalities directly under the jurisdiction of the Executive Yuan counties: Changhua, Chiayi, Hsinchu, Hualien, Kinmen, Lienchiang, Miaoli, Nantou, Penghu, Pingtung, Taitung, Yilan, Yunlin cities: Chiayi, Hsinchu, Keelung special municipalities: Kaohsiung (city), New Taipei (city), Taichung (city), Tainan (city), Taipei (city), Taoyuan (city)
note: Taiwan uses a variety of romanization systems; while a modified Wade-Giles system still dominates, the city of Taipei has adopted a Pinyin romanization for street and place names within its boundaries; other local authorities use different romanization systemsincludes main island of Taiwan plus smaller islands nearby and off coast of China's Fujian Province; Taiwan is divided into 13 counties (xian, singular and plural), 3 cities (shi, singular and plural), and 6 special municipalities directly under the jurisdiction of the Executive Yuancounties: Changhua, Chiayi, Hsinchu, Hualien, Kinmen, Lienchiang, Miaoli, Nantou, Penghu, Pingtung, Taitung, Yilan, Yunlincities: Chiayi, Hsinchu, Keelungspecial municipalities: Kaohsiung (city), New Taipei (city), Taichung (city), Tainan (city), Taipei (city), Taoyuan (city)
Topic: Tajikistan2 provinces (viloyatho, singular - viloyat), 1 autonomous province* (viloyati mukhtor), 1 capital region** (viloyati poytakht), and 1 area referred to as Districts Under Republic Administration***; Dushanbe**, Khatlon (Bokhtar), Kuhistoni Badakhshon [Gorno-Badakhshan]* (Khorugh), Nohiyahoi Tobei Jumhuri***, Sughd (Khujand)
note: the administrative center name follows in parentheses
Topic: Tanzania31 regions; Arusha, Dar es Salaam, Dodoma, Geita, Iringa, Kagera, Kaskazini Pemba (Pemba North), Kaskazini Unguja (Zanzibar North), Katavi, Kigoma, Kilimanjaro, Kusini Pemba (Pemba South), Kusini Unguja (Zanzibar Central/South), Lindi, Manyara, Mara, Mbeya, Mjini Magharibi (Zanzibar Urban/West), Morogoro, Mtwara, Mwanza, Njombe, Pwani (Coast), Rukwa, Ruvuma, Shinyanga, Simiyu, Singida, Songwe, Tabora, Tanga
Topic: Thailand76 provinces (changwat, singular and plural) and 1 municipality* (maha nakhon); Amnat Charoen, Ang Thong, Bueng Kan, Buri Ram, Chachoengsao, Chai Nat, Chaiyaphum, Chanthaburi, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Chon Buri, Chumphon, Kalasin, Kamphaeng Phet, Kanchanaburi, Khon Kaen, Krabi, Krung Thep* (Bangkok), Lampang, Lamphun, Loei, Lop Buri, Mae Hong Son, Maha Sarakham, Mukdahan, Nakhon Nayok, Nakhon Pathom, Nakhon Phanom, Nakhon Ratchasima, Nakhon Sawan, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Nan, Narathiwat, Nong Bua Lamphu, Nong Khai, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, Pattani, Phangnga, Phatthalung, Phayao, Phetchabun, Phetchaburi, Phichit, Phitsanulok, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Phrae, Phuket, Prachin Buri, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Ranong, Ratchaburi, Rayong, Roi Et, Sa Kaeo, Sakon Nakhon, Samut Prakan, Samut Sakhon, Samut Songkhram, Saraburi, Satun, Sing Buri, Si Sa Ket, Songkhla, Sukhothai, Suphan Buri, Surat Thani, Surin, Tak, Trang, Trat, Ubon Ratchathani, Udon Thani, Uthai Thani, Uttaradit, Yala, Yasothon
Topic: Timor-Leste12 municipalities (municipios, singular municipio) and 1 special adminstrative region* (regiao administrativa especial); Aileu, Ainaro, Baucau, Bobonaro (Maliana), Covalima (Suai), Dili, Ermera (Gleno), Lautem (Lospalos), Liquica, Manatuto, Manufahi (Same), Oe-Cusse Ambeno* (Pante Macassar), Viqueque
note: administrative divisions have the same names as their administrative centers (exceptions have the administrative center name following in parentheses)
Topic: Togo5 regions (regions, singular - region); Centrale, Kara, Maritime, Plateaux, Savanes
Topic: Tokelaunone (territory of New Zealand)
Topic: Tonga5 island divisions; 'Eua, Ha'apai, Ongo Niua, Tongatapu, Vava'u
Topic: Trinidad and Tobago9 regions, 3 boroughs, 2 cities, 1 ward regions: Couva/Tabaquite/Talparo, Diego Martin, Mayaro/Rio Claro, Penal/Debe, Princes Town, Sangre Grande, San Juan/Laventille, Siparia, Tunapuna/Piarco borough: Arima, Chaguanas, Point Fortin cities: Port of Spain, San Fernando ward: Tobago9 regions, 3 boroughs, 2 cities, 1 wardregions: Couva/Tabaquite/Talparo, Diego Martin, Mayaro/Rio Claro, Penal/Debe, Princes Town, Sangre Grande, San Juan/Laventille, Siparia, Tunapuna/Piarcoborough: Arima, Chaguanas, Point Fortincities: Port of Spain, San Fernandoward: Tobago
Topic: Tunisia24 governorates (wilayat, singular - wilayah); Beja (Bajah), Ben Arous (Bin 'Arus), Bizerte (Banzart), Gabes (Qabis), Gafsa (Qafsah), Jendouba (Jundubah), Kairouan (Al Qayrawan), Kasserine (Al Qasrayn), Kebili (Qibili), Kef (Al Kaf), L'Ariana (Aryanah), Mahdia (Al Mahdiyah), Manouba (Manubah), Medenine (Madanin), Monastir (Al Munastir), Nabeul (Nabul), Sfax (Safaqis), Sidi Bouzid (Sidi Bu Zayd), Siliana (Silyanah), Sousse (Susah), Tataouine (Tatawin), Tozeur (Tawzar), Tunis, Zaghouan (Zaghwan)
Topic: Turkey81 provinces (iller, singular - ili); Adana, Adiyaman, Afyonkarahisar, Agri, Aksaray, Amasya, Ankara, Antalya, Ardahan, Artvin, Aydin, Balikesir, Bartin, Batman, Bayburt, Bilecik, Bingol, Bitlis, Bolu, Burdur, Bursa, Canakkale, Cankiri, Corum, Denizli, Diyarbakir, Duzce, Edirne, Elazig, Erzincan, Erzurum, Eskisehir, Gaziantep, Giresun, Gumushane, Hakkari, Hatay, Igdir, Isparta, Istanbul, Izmir (Smyrna), Kahramanmaras, Karabuk, Karaman, Kars, Kastamonu, Kayseri, Kilis, Kirikkale, Kirklareli, Kirsehir, Kocaeli, Konya, Kutahya, Malatya, Manisa, Mardin, Mersin, Mugla, Mus, Nevsehir, Nigde, Ordu, Osmaniye, Rize, Sakarya, Samsun, Sanliurfa, Siirt, Sinop, Sirnak, Sivas, Tekirdag, Tokat, Trabzon (Trebizond), Tunceli, Usak, Van, Yalova, Yozgat, Zonguldak
Topic: Turkmenistan5 provinces (welayatlar, singular - welayat) and 1 independent city*: Ahal Welayaty (Anew), Ashgabat*, Balkan Welayaty (Balkanabat), Dasoguz Welayaty, Lebap Welayaty (Turkmenabat), Mary Welayaty
note: administrative divisions have the same names as their administrative centers (exceptions have the administrative center name following in parentheses)
Topic: Turks and Caicos Islandsnone (overseas territory of the UK)
Topic: Tuvalu7 island councils and 1 town council*; Funafuti*, Nanumaga, Nanumea, Niutao, Nui, Nukufetau, Nukulaelae, Vaitupu
Topic: Uganda134 districts and 1 capital city*; Abim, Adjumani, Agago, Alebtong, Amolatar, Amudat, Amuria, Amuru, Apac, Arua, Budaka, Bududa, Bugiri, Bugweri, Buhweju, Buikwe, Bukedea, Bukomansimbi, Bukwo, Bulambuli, Buliisa, Bundibugyo, Bunyangabu, Bushenyi, Busia, Butaleja, Butambala, Butebo, Buvuma, Buyende, Dokolo, Gomba, Gulu, Hoima, Ibanda, Iganga, Isingiro, Jinja, Kaabong, Kabale, Kabarole, Kaberamaido, Kagadi, Kakumiro, Kalaki, Kalangala, Kaliro, Kalungu, Kampala*, Kamuli, Kamwenge, Kanungu, Kapchorwa, Kapelebyong, Karenga, Kasese, Kasanda, Katakwi, Kayunga, Kazo, Kibaale, Kiboga, Kibuku, Kikuube, Kiruhura, Kiryandongo, Kisoro, Kitagwenda, Kitgum, Koboko, Kole, Kotido, Kumi, Kwania, Kween, Kyankwanzi, Kyegegwa, Kyenjojo, Kyotera, Lamwo, Lira, Luuka, Luwero, Lwengo, Lyantonde, Madi-Okollo, Manafwa, Maracha, Masaka, Masindi, Mayuge, Mbale, Mbarara, Mitooma, Mityana, Moroto, Moyo, Mpigi, Mubende, Mukono, Nabilatuk, Nakapiripirit, Nakaseke, Nakasongola, Namayingo, Namisindwa, Namutumba, Napak, Nebbi, Ngora, Ntoroko, Ntungamo, Nwoya, Obongi, Omoro, Otuke, Oyam, Pader, Pakwach, Pallisa, Rakai, Rubanda, Rubirizi, Rukiga, Rukungiri, Rwampara, Sembabule, Serere, Sheema, Sironko, Soroti, Tororo, Wakiso, Yumbe, Zombo
Topic: Ukraine24 provinces (oblasti, singular - oblast'), 1 autonomous republic* (avtonomna respublika), and 2 municipalities** (mista, singular - misto) with oblast status; Cherkasy, Chernihiv, Chernivtsi, Crimea or Avtonomna Respublika Krym* (Simferopol), Dnipropetrovsk (Dnipro), Donetsk, Ivano-Frankivsk, Kharkiv, Kherson, Khmelnytskyi, Kirovohrad (Kropyvnytskyi), Kyiv**, Kyiv, Luhansk, Lviv, Mykolaiv, Odesa, Poltava, Rivne, Sevastopol**, Sumy, Ternopil, Vinnytsia, Volyn (Lutsk), Zakarpattia (Uzhhorod), Zaporizhzhia, Zhytomyr
note 1: administrative divisions have the same names as their administrative centers (exceptions have the administrative center name following in parentheses); plans include the eventual renaming of Dnipropetrovsk and Kirovohrad oblasts, but because these names are mentioned in the Constitution of Ukraine, the change will require a constitutional amendment
note 2: the US Government does not recognize Russia's illegal annexation of Ukraine's Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the municipality of Sevastopol, nor their redesignation as the "Republic of Crimea" and the "Federal City of Sevastopol"
Topic: United Arab Emirates7 emirates (imarat, singular - imarah); Abu Zaby (Abu Dhabi), 'Ajman, Al Fujayrah, Ash Shariqah (Sharjah), Dubayy (Dubai), Ra's al Khaymah, Umm al Qaywayn
Topic: United KingdomEngland: 24 two-tier counties, 32 London boroughs and 1 City of London or Greater London, 36 metropolitan districts, 59 unitary authorities (including 4 single-tier counties*); two-tier counties: Cambridgeshire, Cumbria, Derbyshire, Devon, East Sussex, Essex, Gloucestershire, Hampshire, Hertfordshire, Kent, Lancashire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Norfolk, North Yorkshire, Nottinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Somerset, Staffordshire, Suffolk, Surrey, Warwickshire, West Sussex, Worcestershire London boroughs and City of London or Greater London: Barking and Dagenham, Barnet, Bexley, Brent, Bromley, Camden, Croydon, Ealing, Enfield, Greenwich, Hackney, Hammersmith and Fulham, Haringey, Harrow, Havering, Hillingdon, Hounslow, Islington, Kensington and Chelsea, Kingston upon Thames, Lambeth, Lewisham, City of London, Merton, Newham, Redbridge, Richmond upon Thames, Southwark, Sutton, Tower Hamlets, Waltham Forest, Wandsworth, Westminster metropolitan districts: Barnsley, Birmingham, Bolton, Bradford, Bury, Calderdale, Coventry, Doncaster, Dudley, Gateshead, Kirklees, Knowlsey, Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle upon Tyne, North Tyneside, Oldham, Rochdale, Rotherham, Salford, Sandwell, Sefton, Sheffield, Solihull, South Tyneside, St. Helens, Stockport, Sunderland, Tameside, Trafford, Wakefield, Walsall, Wigan, Wirral, Wolverhampton unitary authorities: Bath and North East Somerset; Bedford; Blackburn with Darwen; Blackpool; Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole; Bracknell Forest; Brighton and Hove; City of Bristol; Buckinghamshire; Central Bedfordshire; Cheshire East; Cheshire West and Chester; Cornwall; Darlington; Derby; Dorset; Durham County*; East Riding of Yorkshire; Halton; Hartlepool; Herefordshire*; Isle of Wight*; Isles of Scilly; City of Kingston upon Hull; Leicester; Luton; Medway; Middlesbrough; Milton Keynes; North East Lincolnshire; North Lincolnshire; North Northamptonshire; North Somerset; Northumberland*; Nottingham; Peterborough; Plymouth; Portsmouth; Reading; Redcar and Cleveland; Rutland; Shropshire; Slough; South Gloucestershire; Southampton; Southend-on-Sea; Stockton-on-Tees; Stoke-on-Trent; Swindon; Telford and Wrekin; Thurrock; Torbay; Warrington; West Berkshire; West Northamptonshire; Wiltshire; Windsor and Maidenhead; Wokingham; York Northern Ireland: 5 borough councils, 4 district councils, 2 city councils; borough councils: Antrim and Newtownabbey; Ards and North Down; Armagh City, Banbridge, and Craigavon; Causeway Coast and Glens; Mid and East Antrim district councils: Derry City and Strabane; Fermanagh and Omagh; Mid Ulster; Newry, Murne, and Down city councils: Belfast; Lisburn and Castlereagh Scotland: 32 council areas; council areas: Aberdeen City, Aberdeenshire, Angus, Argyll and Bute, Clackmannanshire, Dumfries and Galloway, Dundee City, East Ayrshire, East Dunbartonshire, East Lothian, East Renfrewshire, City of Edinburgh, Eilean Siar (Western Isles), Falkirk, Fife, Glasgow City, Highland, Inverclyde, Midlothian, Moray, North Ayrshire, North Lanarkshire, Orkney Islands, Perth and Kinross, Renfrewshire, Shetland Islands, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, Stirling, The Scottish Borders, West Dunbartonshire, West Lothian Wales: 22 unitary authorities; unitary authorities: Blaenau Gwent, Bridgend, Caerphilly, Cardiff, Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Gwynedd, Isle of Anglesey, Merthyr Tydfil, Monmouthshire, Neath Port Talbot, Newport, Pembrokeshire, Powys, Rhondda Cynon Taff, Swansea, The Vale of Glamorgan, Torfaen, WrexhamEngland: 24 two-tier counties, 32 London boroughs and 1 City of London or Greater London, 36 metropolitan districts, 59 unitary authorities (including 4 single-tier counties*);two-tier counties: Cambridgeshire, Cumbria, Derbyshire, Devon, East Sussex, Essex, Gloucestershire, Hampshire, Hertfordshire, Kent, Lancashire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Norfolk, North Yorkshire, Nottinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Somerset, Staffordshire, Suffolk, Surrey, Warwickshire, West Sussex, WorcestershireLondon boroughs and City of London or Greater London: Barking and Dagenham, Barnet, Bexley, Brent, Bromley, Camden, Croydon, Ealing, Enfield, Greenwich, Hackney, Hammersmith and Fulham, Haringey, Harrow, Havering, Hillingdon, Hounslow, Islington, Kensington and Chelsea, Kingston upon Thames, Lambeth, Lewisham, City of London, Merton, Newham, Redbridge, Richmond upon Thames, Southwark, Sutton, Tower Hamlets, Waltham Forest, Wandsworth, Westminstermetropolitan districts: Barnsley, Birmingham, Bolton, Bradford, Bury, Calderdale, Coventry, Doncaster, Dudley, Gateshead, Kirklees, Knowlsey, Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle upon Tyne, North Tyneside, Oldham, Rochdale, Rotherham, Salford, Sandwell, Sefton, Sheffield, Solihull, South Tyneside, St. Helens, Stockport, Sunderland, Tameside, Trafford, Wakefield, Walsall, Wigan, Wirral, Wolverhamptonunitary authorities: Bath and North East Somerset; Bedford; Blackburn with Darwen; Blackpool; Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole; Bracknell Forest; Brighton and Hove; City of Bristol; Buckinghamshire; Central Bedfordshire; Cheshire East; Cheshire West and Chester; Cornwall; Darlington; Derby; Dorset; Durham County*; East Riding of Yorkshire; Halton; Hartlepool; Herefordshire*; Isle of Wight*; Isles of Scilly; City of Kingston upon Hull; Leicester; Luton; Medway; Middlesbrough; Milton Keynes; North East Lincolnshire; North Lincolnshire; North Northamptonshire; North Somerset; Northumberland*; Nottingham; Peterborough; Plymouth; Portsmouth; Reading; Redcar and Cleveland; Rutland; Shropshire; Slough; South Gloucestershire; Southampton; Southend-on-Sea; Stockton-on-Tees; Stoke-on-Trent; Swindon; Telford and Wrekin; Thurrock; Torbay; Warrington; West Berkshire; West Northamptonshire; Wiltshire; Windsor and Maidenhead; Wokingham; YorkNorthern Ireland: 5 borough councils, 4 district councils, 2 city councils;borough councils: Antrim and Newtownabbey; Ards and North Down; Armagh City, Banbridge, and Craigavon; Causeway Coast and Glens; Mid and East Antrimdistrict councils: Derry City and Strabane; Fermanagh and Omagh; Mid Ulster; Newry, Murne, and Downcity councils: Belfast; Lisburn and CastlereaghScotland: 32 council areas;council areas: Aberdeen City, Aberdeenshire, Angus, Argyll and Bute, Clackmannanshire, Dumfries and Galloway, Dundee City, East Ayrshire, East Dunbartonshire, East Lothian, East Renfrewshire, City of Edinburgh, Eilean Siar (Western Isles), Falkirk, Fife, Glasgow City, Highland, Inverclyde, Midlothian, Moray, North Ayrshire, North Lanarkshire, Orkney Islands, Perth and Kinross, Renfrewshire, Shetland Islands, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, Stirling, The Scottish Borders, West Dunbartonshire, West LothianWales: 22 unitary authorities;unitary authorities: Blaenau Gwent, Bridgend, Caerphilly, Cardiff, Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Gwynedd, Isle of Anglesey, Merthyr Tydfil, Monmouthshire, Neath Port Talbot, Newport, Pembrokeshire, Powys, Rhondda Cynon Taff, Swansea, The Vale of Glamorgan, Torfaen, Wrexham
Topic: United States50 states and 1 district*; Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia*, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming
Topic: Uruguay19 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento); Artigas, Canelones, Cerro Largo, Colonia, Durazno, Flores, Florida, Lavalleja, Maldonado, Montevideo, Paysandu, Rio Negro, Rivera, Rocha, Salto, San Jose, Soriano, Tacuarembo, Treinta y Tres
Topic: Uzbekistan12 provinces (viloyatlar, singular - viloyat), 1 autonomous republic* (avtonom respublikasi), and 1 city** (shahar); Andijon Viloyati, Buxoro Viloyati [Bukhara Province], Farg'ona Viloyati [Fergana Province], Jizzax Viloyati, Namangan Viloyati, Navoiy Viloyati, Qashqadaryo Viloyati (Qarshi), Qoraqalpog'iston Respublikasi [Karakalpakstan Republic]* (Nukus), Samarqand Viloyati [Samarkand Province], Sirdaryo Viloyati (Guliston), Surxondaryo Viloyati (Termiz), Toshkent Shahri [Tashkent City]**, Toshkent Viloyati [Tashkent Province], Xorazm Viloyati (Urganch)
note: administrative divisions have the same names as their administrative centers (exceptions have the administrative center name following in parentheses)
Topic: Vanuatu6 provinces; Malampa, Penama, Sanma, Shefa, Tafea, Torba
Topic: Venezuela23 states (estados, singular - estado), 1 capital district* (distrito capital), and 1 federal dependency** (dependencia federal); Amazonas, Anzoategui, Apure, Aragua, Barinas, Bolivar, Carabobo, Cojedes, Delta Amacuro, Dependencias Federales (Federal Dependencies)**, Distrito Capital (Capital District)*, Falcon, Guarico, La Guaira, Lara, Merida, Miranda, Monagas, Nueva Esparta, Portuguesa, Sucre, Tachira, Trujillo, Yaracuy, Zulia
note: the federal dependency consists of 11 federally controlled island groups with a total of 72 individual islands
Topic: Vietnam58 provinces (tinh, singular and plural) and 5 municipalities (thanh pho, singular and plural) provinces: An Giang, Bac Giang, Bac Kan, Bac Lieu, Bac Ninh, Ba Ria-Vung Tau, Ben Tre, Binh Dinh, Binh Duong, Binh Phuoc, Binh Thuan, Ca Mau, Cao Bang, Dak Lak, Dak Nong, Dien Bien, Dong Nai, Dong Thap, Gia Lai, Ha Giang, Ha Nam, Ha Tinh, Hai Duong, Hau Giang, Hoa Binh, Hung Yen, Khanh Hoa, Kien Giang, Kon Tum, Lai Chau, Lam Dong, Lang Son, Lao Cai, Long An, Nam Dinh, Nghe An, Ninh Binh, Ninh Thuan, Phu Tho, Phu Yen, Quang Binh, Quang Nam, Quang Ngai, Quang Ninh, Quang Tri, Soc Trang, Son La, Tay Ninh, Thai Binh, Thai Nguyen, Thanh Hoa, Thua Thien-Hue, Tien Giang, Tra Vinh, Tuyen Quang, Vinh Long, Vinh Phuc, Yen Bai municipalities: Can Tho, Da Nang, Ha Noi (Hanoi), Hai Phong, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)58 provinces (tinh, singular and plural) and 5 municipalities (thanh pho, singular and plural)provinces: An Giang, Bac Giang, Bac Kan, Bac Lieu, Bac Ninh, Ba Ria-Vung Tau, Ben Tre, Binh Dinh, Binh Duong, Binh Phuoc, Binh Thuan, Ca Mau, Cao Bang, Dak Lak, Dak Nong, Dien Bien, Dong Nai, Dong Thap, Gia Lai, Ha Giang, Ha Nam, Ha Tinh, Hai Duong, Hau Giang, Hoa Binh, Hung Yen, Khanh Hoa, Kien Giang, Kon Tum, Lai Chau, Lam Dong, Lang Son, Lao Cai, Long An, Nam Dinh, Nghe An, Ninh Binh, Ninh Thuan, Phu Tho, Phu Yen, Quang Binh, Quang Nam, Quang Ngai, Quang Ninh, Quang Tri, Soc Trang, Son La, Tay Ninh, Thai Binh, Thai Nguyen, Thanh Hoa, Thua Thien-Hue, Tien Giang, Tra Vinh, Tuyen Quang, Vinh Long, Vinh Phuc, Yen Baimunicipalities: Can Tho, Da Nang, Ha Noi (Hanoi), Hai Phong, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
Topic: Virgin Islandsnone (territory of the US); there are no first-order administrative divisions as defined by the US Government, but there are 3 islands at the second order; Saint Croix, Saint John, Saint Thomas
Topic: Wallis and Futuna3 administrative precincts (circonscriptions, singular - circonscription) Alo, Sigave, Uvea
Topic: World195 countries, 71 dependent areas and other entities
Topic: Yemen22 governorates (muhafazat, singular - muhafazah); Abyan, 'Adan (Aden), Ad Dali', Al Bayda', Al Hudaydah, Al Jawf, Al Mahrah, Al Mahwit, Amanat al 'Asimah (Sanaa City), 'Amran, Arkhabil Suqutra (Socotra Archipelago), Dhamar, Hadramawt, Hajjah, Ibb, Lahij, Ma'rib, Raymah, Sa'dah, San'a' (Sanaa), Shabwah, Ta'izz
Topic: Zambia10 provinces; Central, Copperbelt, Eastern, Luapula, Lusaka, Muchinga, Northern, North-Western, Southern, Western
Topic: Zimbabwe8 provinces and 2 cities* with provincial status; Bulawayo*, Harare*, Manicaland, Mashonaland Central, Mashonaland East, Mashonaland West, Masvingo, Matabeleland North, Matabeleland South, Midlands |
20220601 | north-america | |
20220601 | countries-guatemala |
Topic: Photos of Guatemala
Topic: Introduction
Background: The Maya civilization flourished in Guatemala and surrounding regions during the first millennium A.D. After almost three centuries as a Spanish colony, Guatemala won its independence in 1821. During the second half of the 20th century, it experienced a variety of military and civilian governments, as well as a 36-year guerrilla war. In 1996, the government signed a peace agreement formally ending the internal conflict.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Central America, bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between El Salvador and Mexico, and bordering the Gulf of Honduras (Caribbean Sea) between Honduras and Belize
Geographic coordinates: 15 30 N, 90 15 W
Map references: Central America and the Caribbean
Area: total: 108,889 sq km
land: 107,159 sq km
water: 1,730 sq km
Area - comparative: slightly smaller than Pennsylvania
Land boundaries: total: 1,667 km
border countries (4): Belize 266 km; El Salvador 199 km; Honduras 244 km; Mexico 958 km
Coastline: 400 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
Climate: tropical; hot, humid in lowlands; cooler in highlands
Terrain: two east-west trending mountain chains divide the country into three regions: the mountainous highlands, the Pacific coast south of mountains, and the vast northern Peten lowlands
Elevation: highest point: Volcan Tajumulco (highest point in Central America) 4,220 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 759 m
Natural resources: petroleum, nickel, rare woods, fish, chicle, hydropower
Land use: agricultural land: 41.2% (2018 est.)
arable land: 14.2% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 8.8% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 18.2% (2018 est.)
forest: 33.6% (2018 est.)
other: 25.2% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 3,375 sq km (2012)
Major lakes (area sq km): Fresh water lake(s): Lago de Izabal - 590 sq km
Population distribution: the vast majority of the populace resides in the southern half of the country, particularly in the mountainous regions; more than half of the population lives in rural areas
Natural hazards: numerous volcanoes in mountains, with occasional violent earthquakes; Caribbean coast extremely susceptible to hurricanes and other tropical stormsvolcanism: significant volcanic activity in the Sierra Madre range; Santa Maria (3,772 m) has been deemed a Decade Volcano by the International Association of Volcanology and Chemistry of the Earth's Interior, worthy of study due to its explosive history and close proximity to human populations; Pacaya (2,552 m), which erupted in May 2010 causing an ashfall on Guatemala City and prompting evacuations, is one of the country's most active volcanoes with frequent eruptions since 1965; other historically active volcanoes include Acatenango, Almolonga, Atitlan, Fuego, and Tacana; see note 2 under "Geography - note"numerous volcanoes in mountains, with occasional violent earthquakes; Caribbean coast extremely susceptible to hurricanes and other tropical stormsvolcanism: significant volcanic activity in the Sierra Madre range; Santa Maria (3,772 m) has been deemed a Decade Volcano by the International Association of Volcanology and Chemistry of the Earth's Interior, worthy of study due to its explosive history and close proximity to human populations; Pacaya (2,552 m), which erupted in May 2010 causing an ashfall on Guatemala City and prompting evacuations, is one of the country's most active volcanoes with frequent eruptions since 1965; other historically active volcanoes include Acatenango, Almolonga, Atitlan, Fuego, and Tacana; see note 2 under "Geography - note"
Geography - note: note 1: despite having both eastern and western coastlines (Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean respectively), there are no natural harbors on the west coast note 2: Guatemala is one of the countries along the Ring of Fire, a belt of active volcanoes and earthquake epicenters bordering the Pacific Ocean; up to 90% of the world's earthquakes and some 75% of the world's volcanoes occur within the Ring of Firenote 1: despite having both eastern and western coastlines (Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean respectively), there are no natural harbors on the west coastnote 2: Guatemala is one of the countries along the Ring of Fire, a belt of active volcanoes and earthquake epicenters bordering the Pacific Ocean; up to 90% of the world's earthquakes and some 75% of the world's volcanoes occur within the Ring of Fire
Map description: Guatemala map showing major cities as well as parts of surrounding countries and the North Pacific Ocean.Guatemala map showing major cities as well as parts of surrounding countries and the North Pacific Ocean.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 17,703,190 (2022 est.)
Nationality: noun: Guatemalan(s)
adjective: Guatemalan
Ethnic groups: Mestizo (mixed Amerindian-Spanish - in local Spanish called Ladino) 56%, Maya 41.7%, Xinca (Indigenous, non-Maya) 1.8%, African descent 0.2%, Garifuna (mixed West and Central African, Island Carib, and Arawak) 0.1%, foreign 0.2% (2018 est.)
Languages: Spanish (official) 69.9%, Maya languages 29.7% (Q'eqchi' 8.3%, K'iche 7.8%, Mam 4.4%, Kaqchikel 3%, Q'anjob'al 1.2%, Poqomchi' 1%, other 4%), other 0.4% (includes Xinca and Garifuna); note - the 2003 Law of National Languages officially recognized 23 indigenous languages, including 21 Maya languages, Xinca, and Garifuna (2018 est.)
major-language sample(s):
La Libreta Informativa del Mundo, la fuente indispensable de información básica. (Spanish)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Religions: Roman Catholic 41.7%, Evangelical 38.8%, other 2.7%, atheist 0.1%, none 13.8%, unspecified 2.9% (2018 est.)
Demographic profile: Guatemala is a predominantly poor country that struggles in several areas of health and development, including infant, child, and maternal mortality, malnutrition, literacy, and contraceptive awareness and use. The country's large indigenous population is disproportionately affected. Guatemala is the most populous country in Central America and has the highest fertility rate in Latin America. It also has the highest population growth rate in Latin America, which is likely to continue because of its large reproductive-age population and high birth rate. Almost half of Guatemala's population is under age 19, making it the youngest population in Latin America. Guatemala's total fertility rate has slowly declined during the last few decades due in part to limited government-funded health programs. However, the birth rate is still more close to three children per woman and is markedly higher among its rural and indigenous populations.Guatemalans have a history of emigrating legally and illegally to Mexico, the United States, and Canada because of a lack of economic opportunity, political instability, and natural disasters. Emigration, primarily to the United States, escalated during the 1960 to 1996 civil war and accelerated after a peace agreement was signed. Thousands of Guatemalans who fled to Mexico returned after the war, but labor migration to southern Mexico continues.Guatemala is a predominantly poor country that struggles in several areas of health and development, including infant, child, and maternal mortality, malnutrition, literacy, and contraceptive awareness and use. The country's large indigenous population is disproportionately affected. Guatemala is the most populous country in Central America and has the highest fertility rate in Latin America. It also has the highest population growth rate in Latin America, which is likely to continue because of its large reproductive-age population and high birth rate. Almost half of Guatemala's population is under age 19, making it the youngest population in Latin America. Guatemala's total fertility rate has slowly declined during the last few decades due in part to limited government-funded health programs. However, the birth rate is still more close to three children per woman and is markedly higher among its rural and indigenous populations.Guatemalans have a history of emigrating legally and illegally to Mexico, the United States, and Canada because of a lack of economic opportunity, political instability, and natural disasters. Emigration, primarily to the United States, escalated during the 1960 to 1996 civil war and accelerated after a peace agreement was signed. Thousands of Guatemalans who fled to Mexico returned after the war, but labor migration to southern Mexico continues.
Age structure: 0-14 years: 33.68% (male 2,944,145/female 2,833,432)
15-24 years: 19.76% (male 1,705,730/female 1,683,546)
25-54 years: 36.45% (male 3,065,933/female 3,186,816)
55-64 years: 5.41% (male 431,417/female 496,743)
65 years and over: 4.7% (2020 est.) (male 363,460/female 442,066)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 62.3
youth dependency ratio: 54.1
elderly dependency ratio: 8.2
potential support ratio: 12.2 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 23.2 years
male: 22.6 years
female: 23.8 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 1.58% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 22.34 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 4.91 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: -1.66 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: the vast majority of the populace resides in the southern half of the country, particularly in the mountainous regions; more than half of the population lives in rural areas
Urbanization: urban population: 52.7% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 2.59% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 3.036 million GUATEMALA CITY (capital) (2022)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.04 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.01 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 0.96 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 0.87 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.68 male(s)/female
total population: 0.98 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth: 20.6 years (2014/15 est.)
note: median age at first birth among women 25-49
Maternal mortality ratio: 95 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 26.18 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 29.51 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 22.69 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 72.91 years
male: 70.88 years
female: 75.04 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 2.62 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: 60.6% (2014/15)
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 97.9% of population
rural: 92.2% of population
total: 95% of population
unimproved: urban: 2.1% of population
rural: 8% of population
total: 5% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 6.2% (2019)
Physicians density: 0.36 physicians/1,000 population (2018)
Hospital bed density: 0.4 beds/1,000 population (2017)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 90.4% of population
rural: 66.3% of population
total: 78.8% of population
unimproved: urban: 9.6% of population
rural: 33.7% of population
total: 21.2% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: 0.2% (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: 33,000 (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - deaths: (2020 est.) <1,000
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial diarrhea, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever
vectorborne diseases: dengue fever and malaria
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 21.2% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: 12.4% (2014/15)
Education expenditures: 3.3% of GDP (2020)
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 80.8%
male: 85.3%
female: 76.7% (2018)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 11 years
male: 11 years
female: 10 years (2019)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 4.6%
male: 4%
female: 5.7% (2019 est.)
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: deforestation in the Peten rainforest; soil erosion; water pollution
Environment - international agreements: party to: Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping-London Convention, Marine Dumping-London Protocol, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 2006, Wetlands
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 23.59 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 16.78 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 10.7 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: tropical; hot, humid in lowlands; cooler in highlands
Land use: agricultural land: 41.2% (2018 est.)
arable land: 14.2% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 8.8% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 18.2% (2018 est.)
forest: 33.6% (2018 est.)
other: 25.2% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 52.7% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 2.59% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 0.78% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0% of GDP (2018 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial diarrhea, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever
vectorborne diseases: dengue fever and malaria
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 2,756,741 tons (2015 est.)
Major lakes (area sq km): Fresh water lake(s): Lago de Izabal - 590 sq km
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 835 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 603.1 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 1.886 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 127.91 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Republic of Guatemala
conventional short form: Guatemala
local long form: Republica de Guatemala
local short form: Guatemala
etymology: the Spanish conquistadors used many native Americans as allies in their conquest of Guatemala; the site of their first capital (established in 1524), a former Maya settlement, was called "Quauhtemallan" by their Nahuatl-speaking Mexican allies, a name that means "land of trees" or "forested land", but which the Spanish pronounced "Guatemala"; the Spanish applied that name to a re-founded capital city three years later and eventually it became the name of the country
Government type: presidential republic
Capital: name: Guatemala City
geographic coordinates: 14 37 N, 90 31 W
time difference: UTC-6 (1 hour behind Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the Spanish conquistadors used many native Americans as allies in their conquest of Guatemala; the site of their first capital (established in 1524), a former Maya settlement, was called "Quauhtemallan" by their Nahuatl-speaking Mexican allies, a name that means "land of trees" or "forested land", but which the Spanish pronounced "Guatemala"; the Spanish applied that name to a re-founded capital city three years later and eventually it became the name of the country
Administrative divisions: 22 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento); Alta Verapaz, Baja Verapaz, Chimaltenango, Chiquimula, El Progreso, Escuintla, Guatemala, Huehuetenango, Izabal, Jalapa, Jutiapa, Peten, Quetzaltenango, Quiche, Retalhuleu, Sacatepequez, San Marcos, Santa Rosa, Solola, Suchitepequez, Totonicapan, Zacapa
Independence: 15 September 1821 (from Spain)
National holiday: Independence Day, 15 September (1821)
Constitution: history: several previous; latest adopted 31 May 1985, effective 14 January 1986; suspended and reinstated in 1994
amendments: proposed by the president of the republic, by agreement of 10 or more deputies of Congress, by the Constitutional Court, or by public petition of at least 5,000 citizens; passage requires at least two-thirds majority vote by the Congress membership and approval by public referendum, referred to as "popular consultation"; constitutional articles such as national sovereignty, the republican form of government, limitations on those seeking the presidency, or presidential tenure cannot be amended; amended 1993
Legal system: civil law system; judicial review of legislative acts
International law organization participation: has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: yes
citizenship by descent only: yes
dual citizenship recognized: yes
residency requirement for naturalization: 5 years with no absences of six consecutive months or longer or absences totaling more than a year
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal; note - active duty members of the armed forces and police by law cannot vote and are restricted to their barracks on election day
Executive branch: chief of state: President Alejandro GIAMMATTEI (since 14 January 2020); Vice President Cesar Guillermo CASTILLO Reyes (since 14 January 2020); note - the president is both chief of state and head of government
head of government: President Alejandro GIAMMATTEI (since 14 January 2020); Vice President Cesar Guillermo CASTILLO Reyes (since 14 January 2020)
cabinet: Council of Ministers appointed by the president
elections/appointments: president and vice president directly elected on the same ballot by absolute majority popular vote in 2 rounds if needed for a 4-year term (not eligible for consecutive terms); election last held on 16 June 2019 with a runoff on 11 August 2019 (next to be held in June 2023)
election results:
2019: Alejandro GIAMMATTEI elected president; percent of vote in first round - Sandra TORRES (UNE) 25.54%, Alejandro GIAMMATTEI (VAMOS) 13.95%, Edmond MULET (PHG) 11.21%, Thelma CABRERA (MLP) 10.37%, Roberto ARZU (PAN-PODEMOS) 6.08%; percent of vote in second round - Alejandro GIAMMATTEI (VAMOS) 58%, Sandra TORRES (UNE) 42%
2015: Jimmy Ernesto MORALES Cabrera elected president in second round; percent of vote in first round - Jimmy Ernesto MORALES Cabrera (FNC) 23.9%, Sandra TORRES (UNE) 19.8%, Manuel BALDIZON (LIDER) 19.6%, other 36.7%; percent of vote in second round - Jimmy Ernesto MORALES Cabrera 67.4%, Sandra TORRES 32.6%
Legislative branch: description: unicameral Congress of the Republic or Congreso de la Republica (160 seats; 128 members directly elected in multi-seat constituencies in the country's 22 departments and 32 directly elected in a single nationwide constituency by closed party-list proportional representation vote, using the D'Hondt method; members serve 4-year terms)
elections: last held on 16 June 2019 (next to be held on June 2023)
election results: percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - UNE 53, VAMOS 16, UCN 12, VALOR 9, BIEN 8, FCN-NACION 8, SEMILLA 7, TODOS 7, VIVA 7, CREO 6, PHG 6, VICTORIA 4, Winaq 4, PC 3, PU 3, URNG 3, PAN 2, MLP 1, PODEMOS 1; composition - men 129, women 31, percent of women 19.4%
Judicial branch: highest courts: Supreme Court of Justice or Corte Suprema de Justicia (consists of 13 magistrates, including the court president and organized into 3 chambers); note - the court president also supervises trial judges countrywide; Constitutional Court or Corte de Constitucionalidad (consists of 5 titular magistrates and 5 substitute magistrates)
judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court magistrates elected by the Congress of the Republic from candidates proposed by the Postulation Committee, an independent body of deans of the country's university law schools, representatives of the country's law associations, and representatives of the Courts of Appeal; magistrates elected for concurrent, renewable 5-year terms; Constitutional Court judges - 1 elected by the Congress of the Republic, 1 by the Supreme Court, 1 by the president of the republic, 1 by the (public) University of San Carlos, and 1 by the Assembly of the College of Attorneys and Notaries; judges elected for renewable, consecutive 5-year terms; the presidency of the court rotates among the magistrates for a single 1-year term
subordinate courts: numerous first instance and appellate courts
Political parties and leaders: Bienestar Nacional or BIEN [Alfonso PORTILLO and Evelyn MORATAYA]
Citizen Prosperity or PC [Hernan MEJIA]
Commitment, Renewal, and Order or CREO [Oscar CHINCHILLA]
Everyone Together for Guatemala or TODOS [Cornelio GARCIA]
Guatemalan National Revolutionary Unity or URNG-MAIZ or URNG [Walter FELIX]
Humanist Party of Guatemala or PHG [Rudio MERIDA]
Movement for the Liberation of Peoples or MLP [Vincenta JIMENEZ]
Movimiento Semilla or SEMILLA [Cesar AREVALO DE LEON]
National Advancement Party or PAN [Manuel CONDE]
National Convergence Front or FCN-NACION [Sandra SANDOVAL]
National Unity for Hope or UNE [Jorge VARGAS]
Nationalist Change Union or UCN [Carlos ROJAS]
PODEMOS [Jose LEON]
Political Movement Winaq or Winaq [Sonia GUTIERREZ Raguay]
Value or VALOR [Jose ZAMORA]
Vamos por una Guatemala Diferente or VAMOS [Alejandro GIAMMATTEI]
Victory or VICTORIA [Juan RIVERA]
Vision with Values or VIVA [Armando Damian CASTILLO Alvarado]
International organization participation: BCIE, CACM, CD, CELAC, EITI (compliant country), FAO, G-24, G-77, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICCt (signatory), ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO (correspondent), ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), LAES, LAIA (observer), MIGA, MINUSTAH, MONUSCO, NAM, OAS, OPANAL, OPCW, Pacific Alliance (observer), PCA, Petrocaribe, SICA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNIFIL, Union Latina, UNISFA, UNITAR, UNMISS, UNOCI, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Alfonso Jose QUINONEZ LEMUS (since 17 July 2020)
chancery: 2220 R Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 745-4953
FAX: [1] (202) 745-1908
email address and website:
infoembaguateeuu@minex.gob.gt
consulate(s) general: Atlanta, Chicago, Del Rio (TX), Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, McAllen (TX), Miami, New York, Oklahoma City, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Providence (RI), Raleigh (NC), San Bernardino (CA), San Francisco, Seattle
consulate(s): Lake Worth (FL), Silver Spring (MD), Tucson (AZ)
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: Ambassador William W. POPP (since 13 August 2020)
embassy: Avenida Reforma 7-01, Zone 10, Guatemala City
mailing address: 3190 Guatemala Place, Washington DC 20521-3190
telephone: [502] 2326-4000
FAX: [502] 2326-4654
email address and website:
AmCitsGuatemala@state.gov
https://gt.usembassy.gov/
Flag description: three equal vertical bands of light blue (hoist side), white, and light blue, with the coat of arms centered in the white band; the coat of arms includes a green and red quetzal (the national bird) representing liberty and a scroll bearing the inscription LIBERTAD 15 DE SEPTIEMBRE DE 1821 (the original date of independence from Spain) all superimposed on a pair of crossed rifles signifying Guatemala's willingness to defend itself and a pair of crossed swords representing honor and framed by a laurel wreath symbolizing victory; the blue bands represent the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea; the white band denotes peace and purity
note: one of only two national flags featuring a firearm, the other is Mozambique
National symbol(s): quetzal (bird); national colors: blue, white
National anthem: name: "Himno Nacional de Guatemala" (National Anthem of Guatemala)
lyrics/music: Jose Joaquin PALMA/Rafael Alvarez OVALLE
note: adopted 1897, modified lyrics adopted 1934; Cuban poet Jose Joaquin PALMA anonymously submitted lyrics to a public contest calling for a national anthem; his authorship was not discovered until 1911
National heritage: total World Heritage Sites: 3 (2 cultural, 1 mixed)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Antigua Guatemala (c), Tikal National Park (m), Archaeological Park and Ruins of Quirigua (c)
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Guatemala is the most populous country in Central America with a GDP per capita roughly half the average for Latin America and the Caribbean. The agricultural sector accounts for 13.5% of GDP and 31% of the labor force; key agricultural exports include sugar, coffee, bananas, and vegetables. Guatemala is the top remittance recipient in Central America as a result of Guatemala's large expatriate community in the US. These inflows are a primary source of foreign income, equivalent to two-thirds of the country's exports and about a tenth of its GDP. The 1996 peace accords, which ended 36 years of civil war, removed a major obstacle to foreign investment, and Guatemala has since pursued important reforms and macroeconomic stabilization. The Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR) entered into force in July 2006, spurring increased investment and diversification of exports, with the largest increases in ethanol and non-traditional agricultural exports. While CAFTA-DR has helped improve the investment climate, concerns over security, the lack of skilled workers, and poor infrastructure continue to hamper foreign direct investment. The distribution of income remains highly unequal with the richest 20% of the population accounting for more than 51% of Guatemala's overall consumption. More than half of the population is below the national poverty line, and 23% of the population lives in extreme poverty. Poverty among indigenous groups, which make up more than 40% of the population, averages 79%, with 40% of the indigenous population living in extreme poverty. Nearly one-half of Guatemala's children under age five are chronically malnourished, one of the highest malnutrition rates in the world.Guatemala is the most populous country in Central America with a GDP per capita roughly half the average for Latin America and the Caribbean. The agricultural sector accounts for 13.5% of GDP and 31% of the labor force; key agricultural exports include sugar, coffee, bananas, and vegetables. Guatemala is the top remittance recipient in Central America as a result of Guatemala's large expatriate community in the US. These inflows are a primary source of foreign income, equivalent to two-thirds of the country's exports and about a tenth of its GDP. The 1996 peace accords, which ended 36 years of civil war, removed a major obstacle to foreign investment, and Guatemala has since pursued important reforms and macroeconomic stabilization. The Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR) entered into force in July 2006, spurring increased investment and diversification of exports, with the largest increases in ethanol and non-traditional agricultural exports. While CAFTA-DR has helped improve the investment climate, concerns over security, the lack of skilled workers, and poor infrastructure continue to hamper foreign direct investment. The distribution of income remains highly unequal with the richest 20% of the population accounting for more than 51% of Guatemala's overall consumption. More than half of the population is below the national poverty line, and 23% of the population lives in extreme poverty. Poverty among indigenous groups, which make up more than 40% of the population, averages 79%, with 40% of the indigenous population living in extreme poverty. Nearly one-half of Guatemala's children under age five are chronically malnourished, one of the highest malnutrition rates in the world.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $141.5 billion (2020 est.)
$143.68 billion (2019 est.)
$138.33 billion (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 2.8% (2017 est.)
3.1% (2016 est.)
4.1% (2015 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $8,400 (2020 est.)
$8,700 (2019 est.)
$8,500 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $76.678 billion (2019 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 3.7% (2019 est.)
3.7% (2018 est.)
4.4% (2017 est.)
Credit ratings: Fitch rating: BB- (2020)
Moody's rating: Ba1 (2010)
Standard & Poors rating: BB- (2017)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 13.3% (2017 est.)
industry: 23.4% (2017 est.)
services: 63.2% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 86.3% (2017 est.)
government consumption: 9.7% (2017 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 12.3% (2017 est.)
investment in inventories: -0.2% (2017 est.)
exports of goods and services: 18.8% (2017 est.)
imports of goods and services: -26.9% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: sugar cane, bananas, oil palm fruit, maize, melons, potatoes, milk, plantains, pineapples, rubber
Industries: sugar, textiles and clothing, furniture, chemicals, petroleum, metals, rubber, tourism
Industrial production growth rate: 1.8% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 6.664 million (2017 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 31.4%
industry: 12.8%
services: 55.8% (2017 est.)
Unemployment rate: 2.3% (2017 est.)
2.4% (2016 est.)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 4.6%
male: 4%
female: 5.7% (2019 est.)
Population below poverty line: 59.3% (2014 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 48.3 (2014 est.)
56 (2011)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: 1.6%
highest 10%: 38.4% (2014)
Budget: revenues: 8.164 billion (2017 est.)
expenditures: 9.156 billion (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): -1.3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 24.7% of GDP (2017 est.)
24.5% of GDP (2016 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 10.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: calendar year
Current account balance: $1.134 billion (2017 est.)
$1.023 billion (2016 est.)
Exports: $13.12 billion (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$13.6 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$13.35 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Exports - partners: United States 33%, El Salvador 12%, Honduras 8%, Mexico 5%, Nicaragua 5% (2019)
Exports - commodities: bananas, raw sugar, coffee, cardamom, palm oil (2019)
Imports: $19.3 billion (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$21.52 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$21.17 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Imports - partners: United States 36%, China 12%, Mexico 11%, El Salvador 5% (2019)
Imports - commodities: refined petroleum, broadcasting equipment, packaged medicines, cars, delivery trucks (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $11.77 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
$9.156 billion (31 December 2016 est.)
Debt - external: $22.92 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
$21.45 billion (31 December 2016 est.)
Exchange rates: quetzales (GTQ) per US dollar -
7.323 (2017 est.)
7.5999 (2016 est.)
7.5999 (2015 est.)
7.6548 (2014 est.)
7.7322 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 92% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 99% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 85% (2019)
Electricity - production: 12.12 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 10.1 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 1.858 billion kWh (2017 est.)
Electricity - imports: 747 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 4.605 million kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 41% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 31% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 28% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 9,600 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 9,383 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 83.07 million bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 1,162 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 89,000 bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 10,810 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 97,900 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 2.96 billion cu m (1 January 2006 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 2,272,467 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 13 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 20,390,671 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 114 (2020 est.)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: due to years of underinvestment in infrastructure, has one of the lowest fixed-line tele densities in the region; rural areas rely on mobile services with little access to fixed-line access; mobile tele-density on par with region and is the most developed sector, with near universal phone connections; private investment to bring free Internet to parks; two submarine cables due for completion will support growth in fixed and mobile broadband (2020)
domestic: fixed-line teledensity roughly 13 per 100 persons; fixed-line investments are concentrating on improving rural connectivity; mobile-cellular teledensity about 114 per 100 persons (2020)
international: country code - 502; landing points for the ARCOS, AMX-1, American Movil-Texius West Coast Cable and the SAm-1 fiber-optic submarine cable system that, together, provide connectivity to South and Central America, parts of the Caribbean, and the US; connected to Central American Microwave System; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) (2019)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: 4 privately owned national terrestrial TV channels dominate TV broadcasting; multi-channel satellite and cable services are available; 1 government-owned radio station and hundreds of privately owned radio stations (2019)
Internet country code: .gt
Internet users: total: 8,429,167 (2020 est.)
percent of population: 50% (2020 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 612,000 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 3 (2020 est.)
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 3 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 5
annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 145,795 (2018)
annual freight traffic on registered air carriers: 110,000 (2018) mt-km
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: TG
Airports: total: 291 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 16
2,438 to 3,047 m: 2
1,524 to 2,437 m: 4
914 to 1,523 m: 6
under 914 m: 4 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 275
2,438 to 3,047 m: 1
1,524 to 2,437 m: 2
914 to 1,523 m: 77
under 914 m: 195 (2021)
Heliports: 1 (2021)
Pipelines: 480 km oil (2013)
Railways: total: 800 km (2018)
narrow gauge: 800 km (2018) 0.914-m gauge
note: despite the existence of a railway network, all rail service was suspended in 2007 and no passenger or freight train currently runs in the country (2018)
Roadways: total: 17,440 km (2016)
paved: 7,458 km (2016)
unpaved: 9,982 km (2016) (includes 4,548 km of rural roads)
Waterways: 990 km (2012) (260 km navigable year round; additional 730 km navigable during high-water season)
Merchant marine: total: 9
by type: oil tanker 1, other 8 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Puerto Quetzal, Santo Tomas de Castilla
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: Army of Guatemala (Ejercito de Guatemala): Land Forces (Fuerzas de Tierra), Naval Forces (Fuerza de Mar), and Air Force (Fuerza de Aire); Ministry of Interior: National Civil Police (Policia Nacional Civil; includes paramilitary units) (2022)
Military expenditures: 0.4% of GDP (2021 est.)
0.4% of GDP (2020 est.)
0.4% of GDP (2019) (approximately $530 million)
0.4% of GDP (2018) (approximately $470 million)
0.4% of GDP (2017) (approximately $460 million)
Military and security service personnel strengths: information varies; approximately 20,000 active personnel (18,000 Land Forces; 1,000 Naval Forces; 1,000 Air Forces); approximately 30,000 National Civil Police (2021)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the Guatemalan military inventory is small and mostly comprised of older US equipment; since 2010, Guatemala has received small amounts of equipment from several countries, including the US (2022)
Military service age and obligation: all male citizens between the ages of 18 and 50 are eligible for military service; in practice, most of the force is volunteer, however, a selective draft system is employed, resulting in a small portion of 17-21 year-olds conscripted; conscript service obligation varies from 1 to 2 years; women may volunteer (2021)
note - as of 2017, women made up an estimated 5-10% of the active military
Military deployments: 155 Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) (Jan 2022)
Military - note: since the 2000s, the Guatemalan Government has used the Army to support the National Civil Police (PNC; under the Ministry of Government) in internal security operations (as permitted by the constitution) to combat organized crime, gang violence, and narco-trafficking the military held power during most of the country’s 36-year civil war (1960-1996) and conducted a campaign of widespread violence and repression, particularly against the country’s majority indigenous population; more than 200,000 people were estimated to have been killed or disappeared during the conflict (2022)since the 2000s, the Guatemalan Government has used the Army to support the National Civil Police (PNC; under the Ministry of Government) in internal security operations (as permitted by the constitution) to combat organized crime, gang violence, and narco-traffickingthe military held power during most of the country’s 36-year civil war (1960-1996) and conducted a campaign of widespread violence and repression, particularly against the country’s majority indigenous population; more than 200,000 people were estimated to have been killed or disappeared during the conflict
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: annual ministerial meetings under the Organization of American States-initiated Agreement on the Framework for Negotiations and Confidence Building Measures continue to address Guatemalan land and maritime claims in Belize and the Caribbean Sea; Guatemala persists in its territorial claim to half of Belize, but agrees to Line of Adjacency to keep Guatemalan squatters out of Belize's forested interior; both countries agreed in April 2012 to hold simultaneous referenda, scheduled for 6 October 2013, to decide whether to refer the dispute to the ICJ for binding resolution, but this vote was suspended indefinitely; Mexico must deal with thousands of impoverished Guatemalans and other Central Americans who cross the porous border looking for work in Mexico and the USannual ministerial meetings under the Organization of American States-initiated Agreement on the Framework for Negotiations and Confidence Building Measures continue to address Guatemalan land and maritime claims in Belize and the Caribbean Sea; Guatemala persists in its territorial claim to half of Belize, but agrees to Line of Adjacency to keep Guatemalan squatters out of Belize's forested interior; both countries agreed in April 2012 to hold simultaneous referenda, scheduled for 6 October 2013, to decide whether to refer the dispute to the ICJ for binding resolution, but this vote was suspended indefinitely; Mexico must deal with thousands of impoverished Guatemalans and other Central Americans who cross the porous border looking for work in Mexico and the US
Refugees and internally displaced persons: IDPs: 242,000 (more than three decades of internal conflict that ended in 1996 displaced mainly the indigenous Maya population and rural peasants; ongoing drug cartel and gang violence) (2020)
Illicit drugs: a major transit country for illegal drugs destined for the United States with increasing cultivation originating from Guatemala; farmers cultivate opium poppy and cannabis |
20220601 | field-terrorist-groups | This entry provides a list of US State Department-designated Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTO) that are assessed to maintain a presence in each country. This includes cases where sympathizers, supporters, or associates of designated FTOs have carried out attacks or been arrested by security forces for terrorist-type activities in the country. See Appendix T for details on each FTO.This entry provides a list of US State Department-designated Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTO) that are assessed to maintain a presence in each country. This includes cases where sympathizers, supporters, or associates of designated FTOs have carried out attacks or been arrested by security forces for terrorist-type activities in the country. See Appendix T for details on each FTO.
Topic: AfghanistanHaqqani Taliban Network; Harakat ul-Mujahidin; Harakat ul-Jihad-i-Islami; Islamic Jihad Union; Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham-Khorasan Province; Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps/Qods Force; Jaish-e-Mohammed; Jaysh al Adl (Jundallah); Lashkar i Jhangvi; Lashkar-e Tayyiba; al-Qa’ida; al-Qa'ida in the Indian Subcontinent; Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix T
Topic: AlbaniaIslamic Revolutionary Guard Corps/Qods Force; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix T
Topic: Algeriaal-Qa'ida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM); Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS) – Algeria; al-Mulathamun Battalion (al-Mourabitoun)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix T
Topic: AustraliaIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: AustriaIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: AzerbaijanIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS); Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC)/Quds Force
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: Bahrainal-Ashtar Brigades; Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps/Qods Force
note(s) - details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
in addition to the al-Ashtar Brigades and the IGRC/Qods Force, Saraya al-Mukhtar (aka The Mukhtar Brigade) is an Iran-backed terrorist organization based in Bahrain, reportedly receiving financial and logistic support from the IGRC; Saraya al-Mukhtar’s self-described goal is to depose the Bahraini Government with the intention of paving the way for Iran to exert greater influence in Bahrain; the group was designated by the US as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist in Dec 2020
Topic: BangladeshHarakat ul-Jihad-i-Islami/Bangladesh; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham in Bangladesh; al-Qa'ida; al-Qa'ida in the Indian Subcontinent
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: BelgiumIslamic Revolutionary Guard Corps/Qods Force; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: Beninal-Qa’ida (Jama’at Nusrat al Islam wal Muslimeen); Islamic State in the Greater Sahara; Boko Haram
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: Bosnia and HerzegovinaIslamic Revolutionary Guard Corps/Qods Force
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: BulgariaIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS); Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps/Qods Force
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: Burkina FasoAnsarul Islam; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham in the Greater Sahara (ISGS); al-Mulathamun Battalion (al-Mourabitoun); Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: CameroonBoko Haram; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham – West Africa
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: CanadaIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: ChadBoko Haram; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham – West Africa
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: ColombiaNational Liberation Army (ELN); Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: Congo, Democratic Republic of theIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham – Democratic Republic of the Congo (ISIS-DRC)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: Cote d'Ivoireal-Qa'ida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM); Jama’at Nusrat al Islam wal Muslimeen (JNIM)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: CyprusIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: DenmarkIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS); Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps/Qods Force
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: Djiboutial-Shabaab
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: EgyptArmy of Islam; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham – Sinai Province; Mujahidin Shura Council in the Environs of Jerusalem; al-Qa’ida
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: Ethiopiaal-Shabaab; IRGC/Qods Force
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: European Unionsee individual EU member states
Topic: FranceIslamic Revolutionary Guard Corps/Qods Force; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS); al-Qa'ida
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: Gaza StripArmy of Islam; Abdallah Azzam Brigades; al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigade; HAMAS; Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps/Qods Force; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS)-Sinai Province; Mujahidin Shura Council in the Environs of Jerusalem; Palestine Islamic Jihad; Palestine Liberation Front; PFLP-General Command; Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: GermanyIslamic Revolutionary Guard Corps/Qods Force; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: GreeceIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS); Revolutionary Struggle; Revolutionary People's Liberation Party/Front (DHKP/C)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: IndiaHarakat ul-Mujahidin; Harakat ul-Jihad-i-Islami; Hizbul Mujahideen; Indian Mujahedeen; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham – India; Jaish-e-Mohammed; Lashkar-e Tayyiba; al-Qa’ida; al-Qa’ida in the Indian Subcontinent; IRGC/Qods Force
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: IndonesiaIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (aka Jemaah Anshorut Daulah); Jemaah Islamiyah
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: IranIslamic Revolutionary Guard Corps/Qods Force; Jaysh al Adl (Jundallah); Kurdistan Workers' Party; al-Qa’ida
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: IraqAnsar al-Islam; Asa'ib Ahl al-Haq; Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps/Qods Force; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS); Jaysh Rijal al-Tariq al-Naqshabandi; Kata'ib Hizballah; Kurdistan Workers' Party
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: IrelandContinuity Irish Republican Army; New Irish Republican Army; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS) (2019)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: IsraelIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS); Kahane Chai; Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine; Palestinian Islamic Jihad
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: ItalyIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS)
Topic: JapanAum Shinrikyo (AUM/Aleph)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: JordanIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS)
Topic: Kenyaal-Shabaab; Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps/Qods Force
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: LebanonAbdallah Azzam Brigades; al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigade; Asbat al-Ansar; Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps/Qods Force; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS); Hizballah; al-Nusrah Front (Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham); Palestine Liberation Front; PFLP-General Command; Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: LibyaAnsar al-Sharia groups; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham – Libya; al-Mulathamun Battalion (al-Mourabitoun); al-Qa'ida in the Islamic Maghreb
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: MalaysiaIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS); Jemaah Islamiyah (JI); Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: MaldivesIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS) (2020)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: MaliAnsar al-Dine; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham in the Greater Sahara; Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin; al-Mulathamun Battalion (al-Mourabitoun)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: MauritaniaAl-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM)
Topic: MoroccoIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: MozambiqueIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham - Mozambique (ISIS-M)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: NepalIndian Mujahedeen (2019)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: NetherlandsIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: New ZealandIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: NigerBoko Haram; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham in the Greater Sahara; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham – West Africa; Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin; al-Mulathamun Battalion (al-Mourabitoun)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: NigeriaBoko Haram; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham – West Africa; Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimina Fi Biladis-Sudan (Ansaru)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: North MacedoniaIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: PakistanHaqqani Network; Harakat ul-Jihad-i-Islami; Harakat ul-Mujahidin; Hizbul Mujahideen; Indian Mujahedeen; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham-Khorasan; Islamic State of ash-Sham – India; Islamic State of ash-Sham – Pakistan; Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan; Jaish-e-Mohammed; Jaysh al Adl (Jundallah); Lashkar i Jhangvi; Lashkar-e Tayyiba; Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan; al-Qa’ida; al-Qa’ida in the Indian Subcontinent
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: PeruShining Path (Sendero Luminoso)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: PhilippinesAbu Sayyaf Group; Communist Party of the Philippines/New People's Army; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham – East Asia (ISIS-EA) in the Philippines
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: PolandIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: PortugalIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS)
Topic: RomaniaIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: RussiaAum Shimrikyo (AUM/Aleph); Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham – Caucasus Province
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: Saudi ArabiaIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS); al-Qa’ida; al-Qa’ida in the Arabian Peninsula
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: SenegalJama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM)
Topic: Somaliaal-Shabaab; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham – Somalia
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: South AfricaIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: SpainBasque Fatherland and Liberty (disbanded 2018); Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS); al-Qa’ida
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: Sri LankaIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS); Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: SudanIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS), al-Qa’ida, Harakat Sawa’d Misr
Topic: SwedenIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: SwitzerlandIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: SyriaAbdallah Azzam Brigades; Ansar al-Islam; Asa’ib Ahl Al-Haq; Hizballah; Hurras al-Din; Islamic Jihad Union; Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps -- Qods Force; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham; Kata'ib Hizballah; Kurdistan Workers' Party; Mujahidin Shura Council in the Environs of Jerusalem; al-Nusrah Front (Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham); al-Qa'ida; Palestine Liberation Front; PFLP-General Command; Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: TajikistanIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: TanzaniaIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham - Mozambique
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: TogoJama’at Nusrat al Islam wal Muslimeen (JNIM)
Topic: TunisiaAnsar al-Sharia in Tunisia; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS) network in Tunisia; al-Qa'ida in the Islamic Maghreb
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: TurkeyIslamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS); Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan; Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps/Qods Force; Kurdistan Workers' Party; al-Qa'ida; Revolutionary People's Liberation Party/Front
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: Ugandaal-Shabaab; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham - Democratic Republic of Congo (ISIS-DRC)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: United KingdomContinuity Irish Republican Army; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS); New Irish Republican Army
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: United StatesIslamic Revolutionary Guard Corps/Qods Force; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS); al-Qa'ida
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: UzbekistanIslamic Jihad Union; Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham - Khorasan (ISIS-K)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: VenezuelaNational Liberation Army (ELN); Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: West BankAl-Aqsa Martyrs Brigade; HAMAS; Kahane Chai; Palestine Islamic Jihad; Palestine Liberation Front; Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: YemenIslamic Revolutionary Guard Corps/Qods Force; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham - Yemen; al-Qa'ida in the Arabian Peninsula
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T |
20220601 | countries-lesotho |
Topic: Photos of Lesotho
Topic: Introduction
Background: Paramount chief MOSHOESHOE I consolidated what would become Basutoland in the early 19th century and made himself king in 1822. Continuing encroachments by Dutch settlers from the neighboring Orange Free State caused the king to enter into an 1868 agreement with the UK by which Basutoland became a British protectorate, and after 1884, a crown colony. Upon independence in 1966, the country was renamed the Kingdom of Lesotho. The Basotho National Party ruled the country during its first two decades. King MOSHOESHOE II was exiled in 1990, but returned to Lesotho in 1992 and was reinstated in 1995 and subsequently succeeded by his son, King LETSIE III, in 1996. Constitutional government was restored in 1993 after seven years of military rule. In 1998, violent protests and a military mutiny following a contentious election prompted a brief but bloody intervention by South African and Botswana military forces under the aegis of the Southern African Development Community. Subsequent constitutional reforms restored relative political stability. Peaceful parliamentary elections were held in 2002, but the National Assembly elections in 2007 were hotly contested and aggrieved parties disputed how the electoral law was applied to award proportional seats in the Assembly. In 2012, competitive elections involving 18 parties saw Prime Minister Motsoahae Thomas THABANE form a coalition government - the first in the country's history - that ousted the 14-year incumbent, Pakalitha MOSISILI, who peacefully transferred power the following month. MOSISILI returned to power in snap elections in February 2015 after the collapse of THABANE’s coalition government and an alleged attempted military coup. In June 2017, THABANE returned to become prime minister.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Southern Africa, an enclave of South Africa
Geographic coordinates: 29 30 S, 28 30 E
Map references: Africa
Area: total: 30,355 sq km
land: 30,355 sq km
water: 0 sq km
Area - comparative: slightly smaller than Maryland
Land boundaries: total: 1,106 km
border countries (1): South Africa 1,106 km
Coastline: 0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims: none (landlocked)
Climate: temperate; cool to cold, dry winters; hot, wet summers
Terrain: mostly highland with plateaus, hills, and mountains
Elevation: highest point: Thabana Ntlenyana 3,482 m
lowest point: junction of the Orange and Makhaleng Rivers 1,400 m
mean elevation: 2,161 m
Natural resources: water, agricultural and grazing land, diamonds, sand, clay, building stone
Land use: agricultural land: 76.1% (2018 est.)
arable land: 10.1% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 0.1% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 65.9% (2018 est.)
forest: 1.5% (2018 est.)
other: 22.4% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 30 sq km (2012)
Major rivers (by length in km): Orange river source (shared with South Africa and Namibia [m]) - 2,092 km
note – [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
Major watersheds (area sq km): Atlantic Ocean drainage: Orange (941,351 sq km)
Population distribution: relatively higher population density in the western half of the nation, with the capital of Maseru, and the smaller cities of Mafeteng, Teyateyaneng, and Leribe attracting the most people as shown in this population distribution map
Natural hazards: periodic droughts
Geography - note: landlocked, an enclave of (completely surrounded by) South Africa; mountainous, more than 80% of the country is 1,800 m above sea level
Map description: Lesotho map showing major population centers of this landlocked country surrounded by South Africa.Lesotho map showing major population centers of this landlocked country surrounded by South Africa.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 2,193,970 (2022 est.)
note: estimates for this country explicitly taken into account the impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic
Nationality: noun: Mosotho (singular), Basotho (plural)
adjective: Basotho
Ethnic groups: Sotho 99.7%, Europeans, Asians, and other 0.3%
Languages: Sesotho (official) (southern Sotho), English (official), Zulu, Xhosa
Religions: Protestant 47.8% (Pentecostal 23.1%, Lesotho Evangelical 17.3%, Anglican 7.4%), Roman Catholic 39.3%, other Christian 9.1%, non-Christian 1.4%, none 2.3% (2014 est.)
Demographic profile: Lesotho faces great socioeconomic challenges. More than half of its population lives below the property line, and the country’s HIV/AIDS prevalence rate is the second highest in the world. In addition, Lesotho is a small, mountainous, landlocked country with little arable land, leaving its population vulnerable to food shortages and reliant on remittances. Lesotho’s persistently high infant, child, and maternal mortality rates have been increasing during the last decade, according to the last two Demographic and Health Surveys. Despite these significant shortcomings, Lesotho has made good progress in education; it is on-track to achieve universal primary education and has one of the highest adult literacy rates in Africa.Lesotho’s migration history is linked to its unique geography; it is surrounded by South Africa with which it shares linguistic and cultural traits. Lesotho at one time had more of its workforce employed outside its borders than any other country. Today remittances equal about 17% of its GDP. With few job options at home, a high rate of poverty, and higher wages available across the border, labor migration to South Africa replaced agriculture as the prevailing Basotho source of income decades ago. The majority of Basotho migrants were single men contracted to work as gold miners in South Africa. However, migration trends changed in the 1990s, and fewer men found mining jobs in South Africa because of declining gold prices, stricter immigration policies, and a preference for South African workers.Although men still dominate cross-border labor migration, more women are working in South Africa, mostly as domestics, because they are widows or their husbands are unemployed. Internal rural-urban flows have also become more frequent, with more women migrating within the country to take up jobs in the garment industry or moving to care for loved ones with HIV/AIDS. Lesotho’s small population of immigrants is increasingly composed of Taiwanese and Chinese migrants who are involved in the textile industry and small retail businesses.Lesotho faces great socioeconomic challenges. More than half of its population lives below the property line, and the country’s HIV/AIDS prevalence rate is the second highest in the world. In addition, Lesotho is a small, mountainous, landlocked country with little arable land, leaving its population vulnerable to food shortages and reliant on remittances. Lesotho’s persistently high infant, child, and maternal mortality rates have been increasing during the last decade, according to the last two Demographic and Health Surveys. Despite these significant shortcomings, Lesotho has made good progress in education; it is on-track to achieve universal primary education and has one of the highest adult literacy rates in Africa.Lesotho’s migration history is linked to its unique geography; it is surrounded by South Africa with which it shares linguistic and cultural traits. Lesotho at one time had more of its workforce employed outside its borders than any other country. Today remittances equal about 17% of its GDP. With few job options at home, a high rate of poverty, and higher wages available across the border, labor migration to South Africa replaced agriculture as the prevailing Basotho source of income decades ago. The majority of Basotho migrants were single men contracted to work as gold miners in South Africa. However, migration trends changed in the 1990s, and fewer men found mining jobs in South Africa because of declining gold prices, stricter immigration policies, and a preference for South African workers.Although men still dominate cross-border labor migration, more women are working in South Africa, mostly as domestics, because they are widows or their husbands are unemployed. Internal rural-urban flows have also become more frequent, with more women migrating within the country to take up jobs in the garment industry or moving to care for loved ones with HIV/AIDS. Lesotho’s small population of immigrants is increasingly composed of Taiwanese and Chinese migrants who are involved in the textile industry and small retail businesses.
Age structure: 0-14 years: 31.3% (male 309,991/female 306,321)
15-24 years: 19.26% (male 181,874/female 197,452)
25-54 years: 38.86% (male 373,323/female 391,901)
55-64 years: 4.98% (male 52,441/female 45,726)
65 years and over: 5.6% (2020 est.) (male 57,030/female 53,275)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 59.2
youth dependency ratio: 51.3
elderly dependency ratio: 7.9
potential support ratio: 12.7 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 24.7 years
male: 24.7 years
female: 24.7 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 0.76% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 23.15 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 11.05 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: -4.55 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: relatively higher population density in the western half of the nation, with the capital of Maseru, and the smaller cities of Mafeteng, Teyateyaneng, and Leribe attracting the most people as shown in this population distribution map
Urbanization: urban population: 29.9% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 2.77% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 202,000 MASERU (capital) (2018)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.01 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.01 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 1.02 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 0.74 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.48 male(s)/female
total population: 0.98 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth: 20.9 years (2014 est.)
note: median age at first birth among women 25-49
Maternal mortality ratio: 544 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 48.44 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 54 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 42.72 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 59.57 years
male: 57.57 years
female: 61.64 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 2.92 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: 64.9% (2018)
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 95.7% of population
rural: 77.2% of population
total: 82.6% of population
unimproved: urban: 4.3% of population
rural: 22.8% of population
total: 17.4% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 11.3% (2019)
Physicians density: 0.07 physicians/1,000 population
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 93.6% of population
rural: 62.4% of population
total: 71.4% of population
unimproved: urban: 6.4% of population
rural: 37.6% of population
total: 28.6% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: 21.1% (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: 280,000 (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - deaths: 4,700 (2020 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: intermediate (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial diarrhea, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 16.6% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: 10.5% (2018)
Child marriage: women married by age 15: 1% (2018)
women married by age 18: 16.4% (2018)
men married by age 18: 1.9% (2018 est.)
Education expenditures: 7.4% of GDP (2020)
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 79.4%
male: 70.1%
female: 88.3% (2015)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 12 years
male: 12 years
female: 13 years (2017)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 35.5%
male: 31.2% NA
female: 41.5% (2019 est.) NA
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: population pressure forcing settlement in marginal areas results in overgrazing, severe soil erosion, and soil exhaustion; desertification; Highlands Water Project controls, stores, and redirects water to South Africa
Environment - international agreements: party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 27.78 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 2.51 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 2.56 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: temperate; cool to cold, dry winters; hot, wet summers
Land use: agricultural land: 76.1% (2018 est.)
arable land: 10.1% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 0.1% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 65.9% (2018 est.)
forest: 1.5% (2018 est.)
other: 22.4% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 29.9% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 2.77% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 3.34% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0% of GDP (2018 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: intermediate (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial diarrhea, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever
Food insecurity: severe localized food insecurity: due to loss of income-generating activities - the number of people facing "Crisis" levels of food insecurity between January and March 2022 is estimated at 338,000, reflecting the effects of a slow economic recovery that has impinged on households’ economic capacity to access food (2022)
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 73,457 tons (2006 est.)
Major rivers (by length in km): Orange river source (shared with South Africa and Namibia [m]) - 2,092 km
note – [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
Major watersheds (area sq km): Atlantic Ocean drainage: Orange (941,351 sq km)
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 20 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 20 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 3.8 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 3.022 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Kingdom of Lesotho
conventional short form: Lesotho
local long form: Kingdom of Lesotho
local short form: Lesotho
former: Basutoland
etymology: the name translates as "Land of the Sesotho Speakers"
Government type: parliamentary constitutional monarchy
Capital: name: Maseru
geographic coordinates: 29 19 S, 27 29 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: in the Sesotho language the name means "[place of] red sandstones"
Administrative divisions: 10 districts; Berea, Butha-Buthe, Leribe, Mafeteng, Maseru, Mohale's Hoek, Mokhotlong, Qacha's Nek, Quthing, Thaba-Tseka
Independence: 4 October 1966 (from the UK)
National holiday: Independence Day, 4 October (1966)
Constitution: history: previous 1959, 1967; latest adopted 2 April 1993 (effectively restoring the 1967 version)
amendments: proposed by Parliament; passage of amendments affecting constitutional provisions, including fundamental rights and freedoms, sovereignty of the kingdom, the office of the king, and powers of Parliament, requires a majority vote by the National Assembly, approval by the Senate, approval in a referendum by a majority of qualified voters, and assent of the king; passage of amendments other than those specified provisions requires at least a two-thirds majority vote in both houses of Parliament; amended several times, last in 2011
Legal system: mixed legal system of English common law and Roman-Dutch law; judicial review of legislative acts in High Court and Court of Appeal
International law organization participation: accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction with reservations; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: yes
citizenship by descent only: yes
dual citizenship recognized: no
residency requirement for naturalization: 5 years
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: King LETSIE III (since 7 February 1996); note - King LETSIE III formerly occupied the throne from November 1990 to February 1995 while his father was in exile
head of government: Prime Minister Moeketsi MAJORO (since 20 May 2020); note - Prime Minister Thomas THABANE resigned on 19 May 2020
cabinet: consists of the prime minister, appointed by the King on the advice of the Council of State, the deputy prime minister, and 26 other ministers
elections/appointments: the monarchy is hereditary, but under the terms of the constitution that came into effect after the March 1993 election, the monarch is a "living symbol of national unity" with no executive or legislative powers; under traditional law, the college of chiefs has the power to depose the monarch, to determine next in line of succession, or to serve as regent in the event that a successor is not of mature age; following legislative elections, the leader of the majority party or majority coalition in the Assembly automatically becomes prime minister
Legislative branch: description: bicameral Parliament consists of:
Senate (33 seats; 22 principal chiefs and 11 other senators nominated by the king with the advice of the Council of State, a 13-member body of key government and non-government officials; members serve 5-year terms)
National Assembly (120 seats; 80 members directly elected in single-seat constituencies by simple majority vote and 40 elected through proportional representation; members serve 5-year terms)
elections: Senate - last nominated by the king 11 July 2017 (next NA)
National Assembly - last held on 3 June 2017 (next to be held in 2022)
election results: Senate - percent of votes by party - NA, seats by party - NA; composition - men 26, women 7, percent of women 21.2%
National Assembly - percent of votes by party - ABC 40.5%, DC 25.8%, LCD 9%, AD 7.3%, MEC 5.1%, BNP 4.1, PFD 2.3%, other 5.9%; seats by party - ABC 51, DC 30, LCD 11, AD 9, MEC 6, BNP 5, PFD 3, other 5; composition - men 95, women 27, percent of women 22.5%; note - total Parliament percent of women 22.9%
Judicial branch: highest courts: Court of Appeal (consists of the court president, such number of justices of appeal as set by Parliament, and the Chief Justice and the puisne judges of the High Court ex officio); High Court (consists of the chief justice and such number of puisne judges as set by Parliament); note - both the Court of Appeal and the High Court have jurisdiction in constitutional issues
judge selection and term of office: Court of Appeal president and High Court chief justice appointed by the monarch on the advice of the prime minister; puisne judges appointed by the monarch on advice of the Judicial Service Commission, an independent body of judicial officers and officials designated by the monarch; judges of both courts can serve until age 75
subordinate courts: Magistrate Courts; customary or traditional courts; military courts
Political parties and leaders: All Basotho Convention or ABC [Moeketsi MAJORO]
Alliance of Democrats or AD [Monyane MOLELEKI]
Basotho Action Party or BAP [Ngosa MAHAO]
Basotho National Party or BNP [Thesele MASERIBANE]
Democratic Congress or DC [Mathibeli MOKHOTHU]
Democratic Party of Lesotho or DPL [Limpho TAU]
Lesotho Congress for Democracy or LCD [Mothetjoa METSING]
Movement of Economic Change or MEC [Selibe MOCHOBOROANE]
National Independent Party or NIP [Kimetso MATHABA]
Popular Front for Democracy of PFD [Lekhetho RAKUOANE]
Reformed Congress of Lesotho or RCL [Keketso RANTSO]
International organization participation: ACP, AfDB, AU, C, CD, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO (correspondent), ITU, MIGA, NAM, OPCW, SACU, SADC, UN, UNAMID, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Sankatana Gabriel MAJA, Counselor (28 May 2021)
chancery: 2511 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 797-5533
FAX: [1] (202) 234-6815
email address and website:
lesothoembassy@verizon.net
https://www.gov.ls/
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Rebecca E. GONZALES (since 8 February 2018)
embassy: 254 Kingsway Avenue, Maseru
mailing address: 2340 Maseru Place, Washington DC 20521-2340
telephone: [266] 22312666
FAX: [266] 22310116
email address and website:
USConsularMaseru@state.gov
https://ls.usembassy.gov/
Flag description: three horizontal stripes of blue (top), white, and green in the proportions of 3:4:3; the colors represent rain, peace, and prosperity respectively; centered in the white stripe is a black Basotho hat representing the indigenous people; the flag was unfurled in October 2006 to celebrate 40 years of independence
National symbol(s): mokorotio (Basotho hat); national colors: blue, white, green, black
National anthem: name: "Lesotho fatse la bo ntat'a rona" (Lesotho, Land of Our Fathers)
lyrics/music: Francois COILLARD/Ferdinand-Samuel LAUR
note: adopted 1967; music derives from an 1823 Swiss songbook
National heritage: total World Heritage Sites: 1 (mixed)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Maloti-Drakensberg Park
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Small, mountainous, and completely landlocked by South Africa, Lesotho depends on a narrow economic base of textile manufacturing, agriculture, remittances, and regional customs revenue. About three-fourths of the people live in rural areas and engage in animal herding and subsistence agriculture, although Lesotho produces less than 20% of the nation's demand for food. Agriculture is vulnerable to weather and climate variability. Lesotho relies on South Africa for much of its economic activity; Lesotho imports 85% of the goods it consumes from South Africa, including most agricultural inputs. Households depend heavily on remittances from family members working in South Africa in mines, on farms, and as domestic workers, though mining employment has declined substantially since the 1990s. Lesotho is a member of the Southern Africa Customs Union (SACU), and revenues from SACU accounted for roughly 26% of total GDP in 2016; however, SACU revenues are volatile and expected to decline over the next 5 years. Lesotho also gains royalties from the South African Government for water transferred to South Africa from a dam and reservoir system in Lesotho. However, the government continues to strengthen its tax system to reduce dependency on customs duties and other transfers. The government maintains a large presence in the economy - government consumption accounted for about 26% of GDP in 2017. The government remains Lesotho's largest employer; in 2016, the government wage bill rose to 23% of GDP – the largest in Sub-Saharan Africa. Lesotho's largest private employer is the textile and garment industry - approximately 36,000 Basotho, mainly women, work in factories producing garments for export to South Africa and the US. Diamond mining in Lesotho has grown in recent years and accounted for nearly 35% of total exports in 2015. Lesotho managed steady GDP growth at an average of 4.5% from 2010 to 2014, dropping to about 2.5% in 2015-16, but poverty remains widespread around 57% of the total population.Small, mountainous, and completely landlocked by South Africa, Lesotho depends on a narrow economic base of textile manufacturing, agriculture, remittances, and regional customs revenue. About three-fourths of the people live in rural areas and engage in animal herding and subsistence agriculture, although Lesotho produces less than 20% of the nation's demand for food. Agriculture is vulnerable to weather and climate variability. Lesotho relies on South Africa for much of its economic activity; Lesotho imports 85% of the goods it consumes from South Africa, including most agricultural inputs. Households depend heavily on remittances from family members working in South Africa in mines, on farms, and as domestic workers, though mining employment has declined substantially since the 1990s. Lesotho is a member of the Southern Africa Customs Union (SACU), and revenues from SACU accounted for roughly 26% of total GDP in 2016; however, SACU revenues are volatile and expected to decline over the next 5 years. Lesotho also gains royalties from the South African Government for water transferred to South Africa from a dam and reservoir system in Lesotho. However, the government continues to strengthen its tax system to reduce dependency on customs duties and other transfers. The government maintains a large presence in the economy - government consumption accounted for about 26% of GDP in 2017. The government remains Lesotho's largest employer; in 2016, the government wage bill rose to 23% of GDP – the largest in Sub-Saharan Africa. Lesotho's largest private employer is the textile and garment industry - approximately 36,000 Basotho, mainly women, work in factories producing garments for export to South Africa and the US. Diamond mining in Lesotho has grown in recent years and accounted for nearly 35% of total exports in 2015. Lesotho managed steady GDP growth at an average of 4.5% from 2010 to 2014, dropping to about 2.5% in 2015-16, but poverty remains widespread around 57% of the total population.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $4.88 billion (2020 est.)
$5.49 billion (2019 est.)
$5.51 billion (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: -1.6% (2017 est.)
3.1% (2016 est.)
2.5% (2015 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $2,300 (2020 est.)
$2,600 (2019 est.)
$2,600 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $2.462 billion (2019 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 5.3% (2019 est.)
3.8% (2018 est.)
5.1% (2017 est.)
Credit ratings: Fitch rating: B (2019)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 5.8% (2016 est.)
industry: 39.2% (2016 est.)
services: 54.9% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 69.2% (2017 est.)
government consumption: 26.4% (2017 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 31.4% (2017 est.)
investment in inventories: -13.4% (2017 est.)
exports of goods and services: 40.8% (2017 est.)
imports of goods and services: -54.4% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: milk, potatoes, maize, vegetables, fruit, beef, game meat, mutton, beans, wool
Industries: food, beverages, textiles, apparel assembly, handicrafts, construction, tourism
Industrial production growth rate: 12.5% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 930,800 (2017 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 86%
industry and services: 14% (2002 est.)
note: most of the resident population is engaged in subsistence agriculture; roughly 35% of the active male wage earners work in South Africa
Unemployment rate: 28.1% (2014 est.)
25% (2008 est.)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 35.5%
male: 31.2% NA
female: 41.5% (2019 est.) NA
Population below poverty line: 49.7% (2017 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 44.9 (2017 est.)
56 (1986-87)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: 1%
highest 10%: 39.4% (2003)
Budget: revenues: 1.09 billion (2017 est.)
expenditures: 1.255 billion (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): -6% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 33.7% of GDP (2017 est.)
36.2% of GDP (2016 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 39.7% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March
Current account balance: -$102 million (2017 est.)
-$201 million (2016 est.)
Exports: $900 million (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$1.09 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$1.25 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Exports - partners: United States 29%, Belgium 26%, South Africa 25%, Switzerland 6% (2019)
Exports - commodities: diamonds, clothing and apparel, low-voltage protection equipment, wheat products, footwear (2019)
Imports: $1.96 billion (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$2.2 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$2.39 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Imports - partners: South Africa 85%, China 5% (2019)
Imports - commodities: refined petroleum, clothing and apparel, packaged medicines, delivery trucks, poultry meats (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $657.7 million (31 December 2017 est.)
$925.2 million (31 December 2016 est.)
Debt - external: $868 million (2019 est.)
$834 million (2018 est.)
Exchange rates: maloti (LSL) per US dollar -
14.48 (2017 est.)
14.71 (2016 est.)
14.71 (2015 est.)
12.76 (2014 est.)
10.85 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 36% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 63% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 26% (2019)
Electricity - production: 510 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 847.3 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - imports: 373 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 80,400 kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 100% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 1% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 0 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 0 bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 5,000 bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 5,118 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 0 cu m (1 January 2014 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 11,574 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 1 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 1,562,648 (2020)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 72.94 (2020 est.)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: small market with few business incentives; fixed-line tele-density and mobile penetration remains below regional average; introduction of mobile broadband in the country and LTE technology; 5G testing among first in region; landlocked, Lesotho has access to several submarine cables on African coast through neighboring countries yet Internet is expensive; importer of broadcasting equipment and computers from South Africa (2020)
domestic: fixed-line is less than 1 per 100 subscriptions; mobile-cellular service subscribership nearly 73 per 100 persons; rudimentary system consisting of a modest number of landlines, a small microwave radio relay system, and a small radiotelephone communication system (2020)
international: country code - 266; Internet accessibility has improved with several submarine fiber optic cables that land on African east and west coasts, but the country's land locked position makes access prices expensive; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) (2019)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: 1 state-owned TV station and 2 state-owned radio stations; government controls most private broadcast media; satellite TV subscription service available; transmissions of multiple international broadcasters obtainable (2019)
Internet country code: .ls
Internet users: total: 921,168 (2020 est.)
percent of population: 43% (2020 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 5,060 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 0.24 (2020 est.) less than 1
Topic: Transportation
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: 7P
Airports: total: 24 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 3
over 3,047 m: 1
914 to 1,523 m: 1
under 914 m: 1 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 21
914 to 1,523 m: 5
under 914 m: 16 (2021)
Roadways: total: 5,940 km (2011)
paved: 1,069 km (2011)
unpaved: 4,871 km (2011)
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: Lesotho Defense Force (LDF): Army (includes Air Wing) (2021)
note - the Lesotho Mounted Police Service is responsible for internal security and reports to the Minister of Police and Public Safety
Military expenditures: 1.5% of GDP (2021 est.)
1.6% of GDP (2020 est.)
1.8% of GDP (2019 est.) (approximately $60 million)
2.1% of GDP (2018 est.) (approximately $65 million)
2.2% of GDP (2017 est.) (approximately $70 million)
Military and security service personnel strengths: approximately 2,000 personnel (2021)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the LDF has a small inventory of older equipment from a variety of countries; since 2010, it has received only small quantities of second hand equipment from France (2021)
Military service age and obligation: 18-24 years of age for voluntary military service; no conscription; women can serve as commissioned officers (2021)
Military - note: Lesotho's declared policy for its military is the maintenance of the country's sovereignty and the preservation of internal security; in practice, external security is guaranteed by South Africa
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: South Africa has placed military units to assist police operations along the border of Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique to control smuggling, poaching, and illegal migrationSouth Africa has placed military units to assist police operations along the border of Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique to control smuggling, poaching, and illegal migration
Trafficking in persons: current situation: Lesotho is a source, transit, and destination country for women and children subjected to forced labor and sex trafficking and for men subjected to forced labor; Basotho women and children are subjected to domestic servitude and children, to a lesser extent, commercial sexual exploitation within Lesotho and South Africa; some Basotho women willingly migrate to South Africa seeking work in domestic service only to be forced into prostitution; some Basotho men who voluntarily migrate to South Africa for work become victims of forced labor in agriculture and mining or are coerced into committing crimes
tier rating: Tier 3 — Lesotho does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking and is not making significant efforts to do so, therefore it was downgraded to Tier 3; positive steps included partnering with an NGO and an international organization in awareness-raising activities, participating in a regional data collection tool, and training 27 diplomats on trafficking in persons; however, authorities did not investigate, prosecute, or convict any traffickers or officials complicit in trafficking and did not investigate concerns of official complicity in trafficking crimes restricted law enforcement actions; fewer victims were identified and received no protective services; no standard operating procedures for victim identification or implementation of the national referral mechanism; the government did not finance the Victims of Trafficking Trust Fund or the Child and Gender Protection Unit; front-line responders to trafficking crimes are inadequately trained; penalties for human trafficking are not stringent enough to serve as a deterrent (2020) |
20220601 | countries-dhekelia |
Topic: Photos of Dhekelia
Topic: Introduction
Background: By terms of the 1960 Treaty of Establishment that created the independent Republic of Cyprus, the UK retained full sovereignty and jurisdiction over two areas of almost 254 square kilometers - Akrotiri and Dhekelia. The larger of these is the Dhekelia Sovereign Base Area, which is also referred to as the Eastern Sovereign Base Area.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Eastern Mediterranean, on the southeast coast of Cyprus near Famagusta
Geographic coordinates: 34 59 N, 33 45 E
Map references: Middle East
Area: total: 131 sq km
note: area surrounds three Cypriot enclaves
Area - comparative: about three-quarters the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries: total: 108 km
border countries (1): Cyprus 108 km
Coastline: 27.5 km
Climate: temperate; Mediterranean with hot, dry summers and cool winters
Geography - note: British extraterritorial rights also extended to several small off-post sites scattered across Cyprus; several small Cypriot enclaves exist within the Sovereign Base Area (SBA); of the SBA land, 60% is privately owned and farmed, 20% is owned by the Ministry of Defense, and 20% is SBA Crown land
Map description: Dhekelia map showing the UK Sovereign Base Area as well as the adjacent part of southeast Cyprus.Dhekelia map showing the UK Sovereign Base Area as well as the adjacent part of southeast Cyprus.
Topic: People and Society
Population: approximately 15,500 on the Sovereign Base Areas of Akrotiri and Dhekelia including 9,700 Cypriots and 5,800 Service and UK-based contract personnel and dependents
Languages: English, Greek
major-language sample(s):
Το Παγκόσμιο Βιβλίο Δεδομένων, η απαραίτητη πηγή βασικών πληροφοριών. (Greek)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Age structure: 0-14 years: NA
15-24 years: NA
25-54 years: NA
55-64 years: NA
65 years and over: NA
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: NA
youth dependency ratio: NA
elderly dependency ratio: NA
potential support ratio: NA
Birth rate: NA
Death rate: NA
Contraceptive prevalence rate: NA
Drinking water source: improved: urban: NA
rural: NA
total: NA
unimproved: urban: NA
rural: NA
total: NA
Current Health Expenditure: NA
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: NA
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: NA
HIV/AIDS - deaths: NA
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: NA
Education expenditures: NA
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: netting and trapping of small migrant songbirds in the spring and autumn
Climate: temperate; Mediterranean with hot, dry summers and cool winters
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: none
conventional short form: Dhekelia
Dependency status: a special form of UK overseas territory; administered by an administrator who is also the Commander, British Forces Cyprus
Capital: name: Episkopi Cantonment (base administrative center for Akrotiri and Dhekelia); located in Akrotiri
geographic coordinates: 34 40 N, 32 51 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: "Episkopi" means "episcopal" in Greek and stems from the fact that the site previously served as the bishop's seat of an Orthodox diocese
Constitution: history: presented 3 August 1960, effective 16 August 1960 (The Sovereign Base Areas of Akrotiri and Dhekelia Order in Council 1960, serves as a basic legal document); amended 1966 (2021)
Legal system: laws applicable to the Cypriot population are, as far as possible, the same as the laws of the Republic of Cyprus; note - the Sovereign Base Area Administration has its own court system to deal with civil and criminal matters
Executive branch: chief of state: Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952)
head of government: Administrator Major General Robert J. THOMSON (since 25 September 2019); note - administrator reports to the British Ministry of Defense; the chief officer is responsible for the day-to-day running of the civil government of the Sovereign Bases
elections/appointments: the monarchy is hereditary; administrator appointed by the monarch on the advice of the Ministry of Defense
Judicial branch: highest courts: Senior Judges' Court (consists of several visiting judges from England and Wales)
judge selection and term of office: see entry for United Kingdom
subordinate courts: Resident Judges' Court; military courts
Diplomatic representation in the US: none (overseas territory of the UK)
Diplomatic representation from the US: none (overseas territory of the UK)
Flag description: the flag of the UK is used
National anthem: note: as a United Kingdom area of special sovereignty, "God Save the Queen" is official (see United Kingdom)note: as a United Kingdom area of special sovereignty, "God Save the Queen" is official (see United Kingdom)
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Economic activity is limited to providing services to the military and their families located in Dhekelia. All food and manufactured goods must be imported.
Industries: none
Exchange rates: note: uses the euronote: uses the euro
Topic: Communications
Broadcast media: British Forces Broadcast Service (BFBS) provides multi-channel satellite TV service as well as BFBS radio broadcasts to the Dhekelia Sovereign Base
Topic: Military and Security
Military - note: defense of Dhekelia (aka Eastern Sovereign Base Area) is the responsibility of the UK; includes Dhekelia Garrison and Ayios Nikolaos Station connected by a roadway |
20220601 | countries-saint-lucia |
Topic: Photos of Saint Lucia
Topic: Introduction
Background: The island, with its fine natural harbor at Castries and burgeoning sugar industry, was contested between England and France throughout the 17th and early 18th centuries (changing possession 14 times); it was finally ceded to the UK in 1814 and became part of the British Windward Islands colony. Even after the abolition of slavery on its plantations in 1834, Saint Lucia remained an agricultural island, dedicated to producing tropical commodity crops. In the mid-20th century, Saint Lucia joined the West Indies Federation (1958–1962) and in 1967 became one of the six members of the West Indies Associated States, with internal self-government. In 1979, Saint Lucia gained full independence.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Caribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and North Atlantic Ocean, north of Trinidad and Tobago
Geographic coordinates: 13 53 N, 60 58 W
Map references: Central America and the Caribbean
Area: total: 616 sq km
land: 606 sq km
water: 10 sq km
Area - comparative: three and a half times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries: total: 0 km
Coastline: 158 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
Climate: tropical, moderated by northeast trade winds; dry season January to April, rainy season May to August
Terrain: volcanic and mountainous with broad, fertile valleys
Elevation: highest point: Mount Gimie 948 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
Natural resources: forests, sandy beaches, minerals (pumice), mineral springs, geothermal potential
Land use: agricultural land: 17.4% (2018 est.)
arable land: 4.9% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 11.5% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 1% (2018 est.)
forest: 77% (2018 est.)
other: 5.6% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 30 sq km (2012)
Population distribution: most of the population is found on the periphery of the island, with a larger concentration in the north around the capital of Castries
Natural hazards: hurricanesvolcanism: Mount Gimie (948 m), also known as Qualibou, is a caldera on the west of the island; the iconic twin pyramidal peaks of Gros Piton (771 m) and Petit Piton (743 m) are lava dome remnants associated with the Soufriere volcano; there have been no historical magmatic eruptions, but a minor steam eruption in 1766 spread a thin layer of ash over a wide area; Saint Lucia is part of the volcanic island arc of the Lesser Antilles that extends from Saba in the north to Grenada in the southhurricanesvolcanism: Mount Gimie (948 m), also known as Qualibou, is a caldera on the west of the island; the iconic twin pyramidal peaks of Gros Piton (771 m) and Petit Piton (743 m) are lava dome remnants associated with the Soufriere volcano; there have been no historical magmatic eruptions, but a minor steam eruption in 1766 spread a thin layer of ash over a wide area; Saint Lucia is part of the volcanic island arc of the Lesser Antilles that extends from Saba in the north to Grenada in the south
Geography - note: the twin Pitons (Gros Piton and Petit Piton), striking cone-shaped peaks south of Soufriere, are one of the scenic natural highlights of the Caribbean
Map description: Saint Lucia map showing major population centers on this island in the Caribbean Sea.Saint Lucia map showing major population centers on this island in the Caribbean Sea.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 167,122 (2022 est.)
Nationality: noun: Saint Lucian(s)
adjective: Saint Lucian
Ethnic groups: Black/African descent 85.3%, mixed 10.9%, East Indian 2.2%, other 1.6%, unspecified 0.1% (2010 est.)
Languages: English (official), Saint Lucian Creole
Religions: Roman Catholic 61.5%, Protestant 25.5% (includes Seventh Day Adventist 10.4%, Pentecostal 8.9%, Baptist 2.2%, Anglican 1.6%, Church of God 1.5%, other Protestant 0.9%), other Christian 3.4% (includes Evangelical 2.3% and Jehovah's Witness 1.1%), Rastafarian 1.9%, other 0.4%, none 5.9%, unspecified 1.4% (2010 est.)
Age structure: 0-14 years: 19.24% (male 16,484/female 15,546)
15-24 years: 13.6% (male 11,475/female 11,165)
25-54 years: 42.83% (male 34,436/female 36,868)
55-64 years: 11.23% (male 8,624/female 10,075)
65 years and over: 13.1% (2020 est.) (male 9,894/female 11,920)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 39.4
youth dependency ratio: 25
elderly dependency ratio: 14.4
potential support ratio: 7 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 36.9 years
male: 35.7 years
female: 38 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 0.29% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 12.02 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 8.07 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: -1.09 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: most of the population is found on the periphery of the island, with a larger concentration in the north around the capital of Castries
Urbanization: urban population: 19% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 0.98% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 22,000 CASTRIES (capital) (2018)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.06 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.04 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 0.94 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 0.86 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.75 male(s)/female
total population: 0.94 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Maternal mortality ratio: 117 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 11.99 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 11.23 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 12.78 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 78.95 years
male: 76.21 years
female: 81.84 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 1.72 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: 55.5% (2011/12)
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 99.4% of population
rural: 98.5% of population
total: 98.7% of population
unimproved: urban: 0.6% of population
rural: 1.5% of population
total: 1.3% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 4.3% (2019)
Physicians density: 0.64 physicians/1,000 population (2017)
Hospital bed density: 1.3 beds/1,000 population (2017)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 97.6% of population
rural: 92.9% of population
total: 93.8% of population
unimproved: urban: 2.4% of population
rural: 7.1% of population
total: 6.2% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: 0.6% (2018)
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: (2018) <1,000
HIV/AIDS - deaths: (2018) <100
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 19.7% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: 2.8% (2012)
Education expenditures: 3.6% of GDP (2020)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 13 years
male: 12 years
female: 13 years (2020)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 37.2%
male: 39.6%
female: 34.3% (2019 est.)
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: deforestation; soil erosion, particularly in the northern region
Environment - international agreements: party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping-London Convention, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands, Whaling
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 21.22 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 0.41 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 0.27 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: tropical, moderated by northeast trade winds; dry season January to April, rainy season May to August
Land use: agricultural land: 17.4% (2018 est.)
arable land: 4.9% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 11.5% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 1% (2018 est.)
forest: 77% (2018 est.)
other: 5.6% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 19% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 0.98% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 0.01% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0% of GDP (2018 est.)
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 77,616 tons (2015 est.)
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 12.5 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 0 cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 30.4 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 300 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: none
conventional short form: Saint Lucia
etymology: named after Saint LUCY of Syracuse by French sailors who were shipwrecked on the island on 13 December 1502, the saint's feast day; Saint Lucia is the only country named specifically after a woman
note: pronounced saynt-looshuh
Government type: parliamentary democracy under a constitutional monarchy; a Commonwealth realm
Capital: name: Castries
geographic coordinates: 14 00 N, 61 00 W
time difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: in 1785, the village of Carenage was renamed Castries, after Charles Eugene Gabriel de La Croix de Castries (1727-1801), who was then the French Minister of the Navy and Colonies
Administrative divisions: 10 districts; Anse-la-Raye, Canaries, Castries, Choiseul, Dennery, Gros-Islet, Laborie, Micoud, Soufriere, Vieux-Fort
Independence: 22 February 1979 (from the UK)
National holiday: Independence Day, 22 February (1979)
Constitution: history: previous 1958, 1960 (preindependence); latest presented 20 December 1978, effective 22 February 1979
amendments: proposed by Parliament; passage requires at least two-thirds majority vote by the House of Assembly membership in the final reading and assent of the governor general; passage of amendments to various constitutional sections, such as those on fundamental rights and freedoms, government finances, the judiciary, and procedures for amending the constitution, require at least three-quarters majority vote by the House and assent of the governor general; passage of amendments approved by the House but rejected by the Senate require a majority of votes cast in a referendum; amended several times, last in 2008
Legal system: English common law
International law organization participation: has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: yes
citizenship by descent only: at least one parent must be a citizen of Saint Lucia
dual citizenship recognized: yes
residency requirement for naturalization: 8 years
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952); represented by Acting Governor General Errol CHARLES (since 11 November 2021)
head of government: Prime Minister Philip J. PIERRE (since 28 July 2021)
cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister
elections/appointments: the monarchy is hereditary; governor general appointed by the monarch; following legislative elections, the leader of the majority party or majority coalition usually appointed prime minister by governor general; deputy prime minister appointed by governor general
Legislative branch: description: bicameral Houses of Parliament consists of:
Senate (11 seats; all members appointed by the governor general; 6 on the advice of the prime minister, 3 on the advice of the leader of the opposition, and 2 upon consultation with religious, economic, and social groups; members serve 5-year terms)
House of Assembly (18 seats; 17 members directly elected in single-seat constituencies by simple majority vote and the speaker, designated from outside the Parliament; members serve 5-year terms)
elections: Senate - last appointments on 17 August 2021 (next in 2026)
House of Assembly - last held on 26 July 2021 (next to be held in 2026)
election results: Senate - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - NA; composition - men 6, women 5, percent of women 45.5%
House of Assembly - percent of vote by party - SLP 50.1%, UWP 42.9%, other o.3%, independent 6.6%; seats by party - SLP 13, UWP 2, independent 2; composition (including the speaker) - men 16, women 2, percent of women 11.1%; note - total Parliament percent of women 24.1%
Judicial branch: highest courts: the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (ECSC) is the superior court of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States; the ECSC - headquartered on St. Lucia - consists of the Court of Appeal - headed by the chief justice and 4 judges - and the High Court with 18 judges; the Court of Appeal is itinerant, traveling to member states on a schedule to hear appeals from the High Court and subordinate courts; High Court judges reside in the member states with 4 on Saint Lucia; Saint Lucia is a member of the Caribbean Court of Justice
judge selection and term of office: chief justice of Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court appointed by Her Majesty, Queen ELIZABETH II; other justices and judges appointed by the Judicial and Legal Services Commission, an independent body of judicial officials; Court of Appeal justices appointed for life with mandatory retirement at age 65; High Court judges appointed for life with mandatory retirement at age 62
subordinate courts: magistrate's court
Political parties and leaders: Saint Lucia Labor Party or SLP [Philip J. PIERRE]
United Workers Party or UWP [Allen CHASTANET]
International organization participation: ACP, AOSIS, C, Caricom, CD, CDB, CELAC, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, ISO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, NAM, OAS, OECS, OIF, OPANAL, OPCW, Petrocaribe, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Shirnaya V. STEPHEN (since 1 January 2022)
chancery: 1629 K Street NW, Suite 1250, Washington, DC 20006
telephone: [1] (202) 364-6792
FAX: [1] (202) 364-6723
email address and website:
embassydc@gosl.gov.lc
https://www.embassyofstlucia.org/
consulate(s) general: New York
Diplomatic representation from the US: embassy: the US does not have an embassy in Saint Lucia; the US Ambassador to Barbados is accredited to Saint Lucia
Flag description: cerulean blue with a gold isosceles triangle below a black arrowhead; the upper edges of the arrowhead have a white border; the blue color represents the sky and sea, gold stands for sunshine and prosperity, and white and black the racial composition of the island (with the latter being dominant); the two major triangles invoke the twin Pitons (Gros Piton and Petit Piton), cone-shaped volcanic plugs that are a symbol of the island
National symbol(s): twin pitons (volcanic peaks), Saint Lucia parrot; national colors: cerulean blue, gold, black, white
National anthem: name: Sons and Daughters of St. Lucia
lyrics/music: Charles JESSE/Leton Felix THOMAS
note: adopted 1967
National heritage: total World Heritage Sites: 1 (natural)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Pitons Management Area
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: The island nation has been able to attract foreign business and investment, especially in its offshore banking and tourism industries. Tourism is Saint Lucia's main source of jobs and income - accounting for 65% of GDP - and the island's main source of foreign exchange earnings. The manufacturing sector is the most diverse in the Eastern Caribbean area. Crops such as bananas, mangos, and avocados continue to be grown for export, but St. Lucia's once solid banana industry has been devastated by strong competition. Saint Lucia is vulnerable to a variety of external shocks, including volatile tourism receipts, natural disasters, and dependence on foreign oil. Furthermore, high public debt - 77% of GDP in 2012 - and high debt servicing obligations constrain the CHASTANET administration's ability to respond to adverse external shocks. St. Lucia has experienced anemic growth since the onset of the global financial crisis in 2008, largely because of a slowdown in tourism - airlines cut back on their routes to St. Lucia in 2012. Also, St. Lucia introduced a value added tax in 2012 of 15%, becoming the last country in the Eastern Caribbean to do so. In 2013, the government introduced a National Competitiveness and Productivity Council to address St. Lucia's high public wages and lack of productivity.The island nation has been able to attract foreign business and investment, especially in its offshore banking and tourism industries. Tourism is Saint Lucia's main source of jobs and income - accounting for 65% of GDP - and the island's main source of foreign exchange earnings. The manufacturing sector is the most diverse in the Eastern Caribbean area. Crops such as bananas, mangos, and avocados continue to be grown for export, but St. Lucia's once solid banana industry has been devastated by strong competition. Saint Lucia is vulnerable to a variety of external shocks, including volatile tourism receipts, natural disasters, and dependence on foreign oil. Furthermore, high public debt - 77% of GDP in 2012 - and high debt servicing obligations constrain the CHASTANET administration's ability to respond to adverse external shocks. St. Lucia has experienced anemic growth since the onset of the global financial crisis in 2008, largely because of a slowdown in tourism - airlines cut back on their routes to St. Lucia in 2012. Also, St. Lucia introduced a value added tax in 2012 of 15%, becoming the last country in the Eastern Caribbean to do so. In 2013, the government introduced a National Competitiveness and Productivity Council to address St. Lucia's high public wages and lack of productivity.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $2.25 billion (2020 est.)
$2.82 billion (2019 est.)
$2.78 billion (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 3% (2017 est.)
3.4% (2016 est.)
-0.9% (2015 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $12,300 (2020 est.)
$15,400 (2019 est.)
$15,300 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $1.686 billion (2017 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 0.1% (2017 est.)
-3.1% (2016 est.)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 2.9% (2017 est.)
industry: 14.2% (2017 est.)
services: 82.8% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 66.1% (2017 est.)
government consumption: 11.2% (2017 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 16.9% (2017 est.)
investment in inventories: 0.1% (2017 est.)
exports of goods and services: 62.7% (2017 est.)
imports of goods and services: -56.9% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: bananas, coconuts, fruit, tropical fruit, plantains, roots/tubers, cassava, poultry, vegetables, mangoes/guavas
Industries: tourism; clothing, assembly of electronic components, beverages, corrugated cardboard boxes, lime processing, coconut processing
Industrial production growth rate: 6% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 79,700 (2012 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 21.7%
industry: 24.7%
services: 53.6% (2002 est.)
Unemployment rate: 20% (2003 est.)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 37.2%
male: 39.6%
female: 34.3% (2019 est.)
Population below poverty line: 25% (2016 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 51.2 (2016 est.)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Budget: revenues: 398.2 million (2017 est.)
expenditures: 392.8 million (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): 0.3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 70.7% of GDP (2017 est.)
69.2% of GDP (2016 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 23.6% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March
Current account balance: $21 million (2017 est.)
-$31 million (2016 est.)
Exports: $1.22 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$188.2 million (2016 est.)
Exports - partners: United States 29%, Uruguay 16%, Barbados 8%, Trinidad and Tobago 5.5%, United Kingdom 6%, Dominica 6%, Guyana 5%, France 5% (2019)
Exports - commodities: crude petroleum, beer, jewelry, bananas, refined petroleum, rum (2019)
Imports: $1 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$575.9 million (2016 est.)
Imports - partners: Colombia 46%, United States 30%, Trinidad and Tobago 5% (2019)
Imports - commodities: crude petroleum, refined petroleum, cars, poultry meats, natural gas (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $321.8 million (31 December 2017 est.)
$320.7 million (31 December 2016 est.)
Debt - external: $570.6 million (31 December 2017 est.)
$529 million (31 December 2015 est.)
Exchange rates: East Caribbean dollars (XCD) per US dollar -
2.7 (2017 est.)
2.7 (2016 est.)
2.7 (2015 est.)
2.7 (2014 est.)
2.7 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 99.5% (2018)
electrification - urban areas: 97.5% (2018)
electrification - rural areas: 99.9% (2018)
Electricity - production: 369 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 343.2 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - imports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 89,000 kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 99% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 1% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 0 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 0 bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 3,100 bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 3,113 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 0 cu m (1 January 2014 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 38,000 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 21 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 184,944 (2018)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 97.65 (2019)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: an adequate system that is automatically switched; good interisland and international connections; broadband access; expanded FttP (Fiber to the Home) and LTE markets; regulatory development; telecom sector contributes to the overall GDP; telecom sector is a growth area (2020)
domestic: fixed-line teledensity is 20 per 100 persons and mobile-cellular teledensity is roughly 102 per 100 persons (2019)
international: country code - 1-758; landing points for the ECFS and Southern Caribbean Fiber submarine cables providing connectivity to numerous Caribbean islands; direct microwave radio relay link with Martinique and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines; tropospheric scatter to Barbados (2019)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: 3 privately owned TV stations; 1 public TV station operating on a cable network; multi-channel cable TV service available; a mix of state-owned and privately owned broadcasters operate nearly 25 radio stations including repeater transmission stations
Internet country code: .lc
Internet users: total: 97,323 (2020 est.)
percent of population: 53% (2020 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 33,000 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 18 (2020 est.)
Topic: Transportation
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: J6
Airports: total: 2 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 2
2,438 to 3,047 m: 1
1,524 to 2,437 m: 1 (2021)
Roadways: total: 1,210 km (2011)
paved: 847 km (2011)
unpaved: 363 km (2011)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Castries, Cul-de-Sac, Vieux-Fort
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: no regular military forces; Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (includes Special Service Unit, Marine Unit) (2021)
Military - note: Saint Lucia has been a member of the Caribbean Regional Security System (RSS) since its creation in 1982; RSS signatories (Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Saint Kitts, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines) agreed to prepare contingency plans and assist one another, on request, in national emergencies, prevention of smuggling, search and rescue, immigration control, fishery protection, customs and excise control, maritime policing duties, protection of off-shore installations, pollution control, national and other disasters, and threats to national security (2022)Saint Lucia has been a member of the Caribbean Regional Security System (RSS) since its creation in 1982; RSS signatories (Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Saint Kitts, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines) agreed to prepare contingency plans and assist one another, on request, in national emergencies, prevention of smuggling, search and rescue, immigration control, fishery protection, customs and excise control, maritime policing duties, protection of off-shore installations, pollution control, national and other disasters, and threats to national security
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: joins other Caribbean states to counter Venezuela's claim that Aves Island sustains human habitation, a criterion under UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, which permits Venezuela to extend its EEZ/continental shelf over a large portion of the eastern Caribbean Seajoins other Caribbean states to counter Venezuela's claim that Aves Island sustains human habitation, a criterion under UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, which permits Venezuela to extend its EEZ/continental shelf over a large portion of the eastern Caribbean Sea
Illicit drugs: a transit point for cocaine and marijuana destined for North America, Europe, and elsewhere in the Caribbeana transit point for cocaine and marijuana destined for North America, Europe, and elsewhere in the Caribbean |
20220601 | field-budget-surplus-or-deficit | This entry records the difference between national government revenues and expenditures, expressed as a percent of GDP. A positive (+) number indicates that revenues exceeded expenditures (a budget surplus), while a negative (-) number indicates the reverse (a budget deficit). Normalizing the data, by dividing the budget balance by GDP, enables easy comparisons across countries and indicates whether a national government saves or borrows money. Countries with high budget deficits (relative to their GDPs) generally have more difficulty raising funds to finance expenditures, than those with lower deficits.
Topic: Afghanistan-15.1% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Albania-2% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Algeria-9.6% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: American Samoa-2.1% (of GDP) (2016 est.)
Topic: Andorra-6.9% (of GDP) (2016)
Topic: Angola-6.7% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Anguilla0.9% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Antigua and Barbuda-2.4% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Argentina-6% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Armenia-4.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Aruba-2.7% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Australia-0.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Austria-0.7% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Azerbaijan-1.6% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Bahamas, The-2.6% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Bahrain-10.1% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Bangladesh-3.2% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Barbados-4% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Belarus2.9% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Belgium-1% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Belize-1% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Benin-6.2% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Bermuda-2.9% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Bhutan-3.4% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Bolivia-7.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Bosnia and Herzegovina2.1% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Botswana-1% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Brazil-1.1% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: British Virgin Islands0% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Brunei-17.3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Bulgaria1.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Burkina Faso-7.9% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Burma-3.2% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Burundi-5.7% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Cabo Verde-3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Cambodia-1.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Cameroon-3.4% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Canada-1% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Cayman Islands4.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Central African Republic-0.9% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Chad-1.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Chile-2.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: China-3.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Colombia-2.7% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Comoros-6.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Congo, Democratic Republic of the-0.9% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Congo, Republic of the-7% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Cook Islands3% (of GDP) (2010 est.)
Topic: Costa Rica-6.1% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Cote d'Ivoire-4.2% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Croatia0.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Cuba-10.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Curacao-0.4% (of GDP) (2012 est.)
Topic: Cyprus1.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Czechia1.6% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Denmark1.1% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Djibouti-9% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Dominica-5.9% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Dominican Republic-3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Ecuador-4.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Egypt-8.6% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: El Salvador-2.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Equatorial Guinea-3.3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Eritrea-9.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Estonia-0.3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Eswatini-8.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Ethiopia-3.2% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: European Union-3% (of GDP) (2014)
Topic: Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)-4% (of GDP) (FY09/10)
Topic: Faroe Islands-1.7% (of GDP) (2014 est.)
Topic: Fiji-4% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Finland-0.6% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: France-2.6% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: French Polynesia1.2% (of GDP) (2012)
Topic: Gabon-1.9% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Gambia, The-2.6% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Georgia-3.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Germany1.3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Ghana-6% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Gibraltar1.1% (of GDP) (2008 est.)
Topic: Greece0.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Greenland5.6% (of GDP) (2016 est.)
Topic: Grenada3.2% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Guam-1% (of GDP) (2016 est.)
Topic: Guatemala-1.3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Guernsey1.2% (of GDP) (2005)
Topic: Guinea-0.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Guinea-Bissau-1.3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Guyana-4.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Haiti-1% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Holy See (Vatican City)NA
Topic: Honduras-2.7% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Hong Kong5.2% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Hungary-2% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
note: Hungary has been under the EU Excessive Deficit Procedure since it joined the EU in 2004; in March 2012, the EU elevated its Excessive Deficit Procedure against Hungary and proposed freezing 30% of the country's Cohesion Funds because 2011 deficit reductions were not achieved in a sustainable manner; in June 2012, the EU lifted the freeze, recognizing that steps had been taken to reduce the deficit; the Hungarian deficit increased above 3% both in 2013 and in 2014 due to sluggish growth and the government's fiscal tightening
Topic: Iceland1.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: India-3.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Indonesia-2.7% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Iran-2.3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Iraq-4.2% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Ireland-0.3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Isle of Man0.3% (of GDP) (FY05/06 est.)
Topic: Israel-2% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Italy-2.3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Jamaica0.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Japan-3.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Jersey-0.4% (of GDP) (2005)
Topic: Jordan-5.1% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Kazakhstan-1.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Kenya-6.7% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Kiribati-64.1% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Korea, North-0.4% (of GDP) (2007 est.)
Topic: Korea, South1.4% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Kosovo-2.1% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Kuwait-10% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Kyrgyzstan-3.2% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Laos-5.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Latvia-0.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Lebanon-6.9% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Lesotho-6% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Liberia-4.3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Libya-25.1% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Liechtenstein1.6% (of GDP) (2012 est.)
Topic: Lithuania0.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Luxembourg1.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Macau10% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Madagascar-2.7% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Malawi-3.4% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Malaysia-3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Maldives-10.1% (of GDP) (2016 est.)
Topic: Mali-2.9% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Malta3.9% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Marshall Islands1.3% (of GDP) (2013 est.)
Topic: Mauritania-0.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Mauritius-0.3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Mexico-1.1% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Micronesia, Federated States of6.6% (of GDP) (FY12/13 est.)
Topic: Moldova-0.6% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Monaco-1% (of GDP) (2011 est.)
Topic: Mongolia-6.4% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Montenegro-5.6% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Morocco-3.6% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Mozambique-5.6% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Namibia-5.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Nauru-9.2% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Nepal-0.1% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Netherlands1.1% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: New Caledonia0% (of GDP) (2015 est.)
Topic: New Zealand1.6% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Nicaragua-2% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Niger-5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Nigeria-1.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Niue-12.6% (of GDP) (FY04/05)
Topic: North Macedonia-2.7% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Northern Mariana Islands3.7% (of GDP) (2016 est.)
Topic: Norway4.4% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Oman-13.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Pakistan-5.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Palau8.8% (of GDP) (2016 est.)
Topic: Panama-1.6% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Papua New Guinea-4.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Paraguay-1.1% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Peru-3.1% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Philippines-2.2% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Poland-1.7% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Portugal-3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Puerto Rico-0.7% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Qatar-5.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Romania-2.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Russia-1.4% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Rwanda-4.3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Saint Kitts and Nevis1.7% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Saint Lucia0.3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Saint Pierre and Miquelon3.8% (of GDP) (1996 est.)
Topic: Saint Vincent and the Grenadines-0.6% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Samoa-4.7% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: San Marino-2.9% (of GDP) (2011 est.)
Topic: Sao Tome and Principe-2.4% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Saudi Arabia-8.9% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Senegal-3.6% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Serbia0.2% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Seychelles-0.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Sierra Leone-7.9% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Singapore-0.3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Slovakia-1% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Slovenia0% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Solomon Islands-2.9% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Somalia-0.1% (of GDP) (2014 est.)
Topic: South Africa-4.4% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: South Sudan-1.3% (of GDP) (FY2017/18 est.)
Topic: Spain-3.1% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Sri Lanka-5.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Sudan-10.6% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Suriname-7.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: SvalbardNA
Topic: Sweden1.3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Switzerland1.1% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Syria-8.7% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Taiwan-0.1% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Tajikistan-1.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Tanzania-1.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Thailand-3.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Timor-Leste-75.7% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Togo-3.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Tonga0% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Trinidad and Tobago-8.2% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Tunisia-5.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Turkey-1.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Turkmenistan-2.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Tuvalu25.6% (of GDP) (2013 est.)
Topic: Uganda-4.1% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Ukraine-1.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: United Arab Emirates-0.2% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: United Kingdom-1.9% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: United States-3.4% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Uruguay-3.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Uzbekistan0.3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Vanuatu-0.9% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Venezuela-46.1% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Vietnam-6.7% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Virgin Islands-0.4% (of GDP) (2016 est.)
Topic: Wallis and Futuna-0.8% (of GDP) (2015 est.) NA
Topic: West Bank0.4% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: World-3% (of GDP) (2016 est.)
Topic: Yemen-5.2% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Zambia-7.3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Topic: Zimbabwe-9.6% (of GDP) (2017 est.) |
20220601 | field-total-fertility-rate | This entry gives a figure for the average number of children that would be born per woman if all women lived to the end of their childbearing years and bore children according to a given fertility rate at each age. The total fertility rate (TFR) is a more direct measure of the level of fertility than the crude birth rate, since it refers to births per woman. This indicator shows the potential for population change in the country. A rate of two children per woman is considered the replacement rate for a population, resulting in relative stability in terms of total numbers. Rates above two children indicate populations growing in size and whose median age is declining. Higher rates may also indicate difficulties for families, in some situations, to feed and educate their children and for women to enter the labor force. Rates below two children indicate populations decreasing in size and growing older. Global fertility rates are in general decline and this trend is most pronounced in industrialized countries, especially Western Europe, where populations are projected to decline dramatically over the next 50 years.
Topic: Afghanistan4.62 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Albania1.54 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Algeria2.51 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: American Samoa2.21 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Andorra1.45 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Angola5.83 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Anguilla1.72 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Antigua and Barbuda1.95 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Argentina2.18 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Armenia1.65 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Aruba1.83 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Australia1.73 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Austria1.51 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Azerbaijan1.86 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Bahamas, The1.98 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Bahrain1.67 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Bangladesh2.09 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Barbados1.7 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Belarus1.51 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Belgium1.77 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Belize2.62 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Benin5.43 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Bermuda1.9 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Bhutan1.79 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Bolivia2.33 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Bosnia and Herzegovina1.36 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Botswana2.39 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Brazil1.8 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: British Virgin Islands1.35 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Brunei1.74 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Bulgaria1.5 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Burkina Faso4.27 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Burma2.02 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Burundi5.03 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Cabo Verde2.13 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Cambodia2.24 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Cameroon4.55 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Canada1.57 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Cayman Islands1.82 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Central African Republic4.04 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Chad5.46 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Chile1.76 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: China1.45 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Christmas IslandNA
Topic: Cocos (Keeling) Islands(2021 est.) NA
Topic: Colombia1.95 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Comoros2.78 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Congo, Democratic Republic of the5.63 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Congo, Republic of the4.36 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Cook Islands2.07 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Costa Rica1.86 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Cote d'Ivoire3.53 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Croatia1.45 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Cuba1.71 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Curacao1.98 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Cyprus1.48 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Czechia1.49 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Denmark1.77 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Djibouti2.15 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Dominica2.02 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Dominican Republic2.21 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Ecuador2.04 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Egypt2.88 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: El Salvador2.05 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Equatorial Guinea4.26 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Eritrea3.58 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Estonia1.61 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Eswatini2.44 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Ethiopia3.99 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: European Union(2021 est.) 1.62 children born/woman
Topic: Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)NA
Topic: Faroe Islands2.29 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Fiji2.26 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Finland1.74 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: France2.03 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: French Polynesia1.81 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Gabon3.31 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Gambia, The3.79 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Gaza Strip3.44 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Georgia1.75 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Germany1.57 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Ghana3.66 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Gibraltar1.9 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Greece1.4 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Greenland1.91 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Grenada1.93 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Guam2.78 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Guatemala2.62 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Guernsey1.58 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Guinea4.85 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Guinea-Bissau4.69 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Guyana2.06 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Haiti2.43 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Honduras2.01 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Hong Kong1.22 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Hungary1.48 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Iceland1.95 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: India2.1 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Indonesia2.01 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Iran1.93 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Iraq3.25 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Ireland1.92 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Isle of Man1.89 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Israel2.56 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Italy1.22 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Jamaica2.06 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Japan1.38 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Jersey1.66 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Jordan2.96 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Kazakhstan2.11 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Kenya3.29 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Kiribati2.2 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Korea, North1.9 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Korea, South1.1 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Kosovo1.9 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Kuwait2.24 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Kyrgyzstan2.5 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Laos2.35 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Latvia1.54 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Lebanon1.71 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Lesotho2.92 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Liberia4.79 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Libya3.09 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Liechtenstein1.69 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Lithuania1.61 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Luxembourg1.63 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Macau1.22 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Madagascar3.62 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Malawi3.4 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Malaysia1.75 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Maldives1.71 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Mali5.54 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Malta1.5 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Marshall Islands2.76 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Mauritania3.53 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Mauritius1.35 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Mexico1.68 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Micronesia, Federated States of2.24 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Moldova1.59 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Monaco1.53 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Mongolia1.91 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Montenegro1.81 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Montserrat1.32 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Morocco2.29 children born/woman (2022 est.)
note: does not include data from the former Western Sahara
Topic: Mozambique4.81 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Namibia2.98 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Nauru2.62 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Nepal1.9 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Netherlands1.78 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: New Caledonia1.86 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: New Zealand1.86 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Nicaragua1.8 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Niger6.82 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Nigeria4.62 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Niue(2021 est.) NA
Topic: Norfolk IslandNA
Topic: North Macedonia1.51 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Northern Mariana Islands2.63 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Norway1.83 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Oman2.7 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Pakistan3.46 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Palau1.7 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Panama2.39 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Papua New Guinea3.92 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Paraguay1.89 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Peru2.2 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Philippines2.78 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Pitcairn IslandsNA
Topic: Poland1.4 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Portugal1.43 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Puerto Rico1.24 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Qatar1.9 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Romania1.63 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Russia1.6 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Rwanda3.33 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Saint Barthelemy1.64 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha1.6 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Saint Kitts and Nevis1.76 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Saint Lucia1.72 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Saint Martin1.8 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Saint Pierre and Miquelon1.59 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Saint Vincent and the Grenadines1.75 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Samoa2.42 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: San Marino1.53 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Sao Tome and Principe3.56 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Saudi Arabia1.92 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Senegal4.27 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Serbia1.46 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Seychelles1.82 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Sierra Leone3.8 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Singapore1.16 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Sint Maarten1.99 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Slovakia1.46 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Slovenia1.6 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Solomon Islands2.87 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Somalia5.31 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: South Africa2.18 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: South Sudan5.32 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Spain1.27 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Sri Lanka1.98 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Sudan4.6 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Suriname1.92 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Svalbard(2021 est.) NA
Topic: Sweden1.67 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Switzerland1.58 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Syria2.8 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Taiwan1.08 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Tajikistan2.45 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Tanzania4.39 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Thailand1.54 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Timor-Leste4.21 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Togo4.23 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Tokelau(2021 est.) NA
Topic: Tonga2.76 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Trinidad and Tobago1.63 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Tunisia2 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Turkey1.93 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Turkmenistan2.03 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Turks and Caicos Islands1.7 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Tuvalu2.83 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Uganda5.36 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Ukraine1.56 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: United Arab Emirates1.64 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: United Kingdom1.63 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: United States1.84 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Uruguay1.76 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Uzbekistan1.73 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Vanuatu2.66 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Venezuela2.22 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Vietnam2.05 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Virgin Islands2 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Wallis and Futuna1.71 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: West Bank2.96 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: World2.42 children born/woman (2020 est.)
Topic: Yemen3.01 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Zambia4.56 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Topic: Zimbabwe3.89 children born/woman (2022 est.) |
20220601 | field-merchant-marine | This entry provides the total and the number of each type of privately or publicly owned commercial ship for each country; military ships are not included; the five ships by type include: bulk carrier - for cargo such as coal, grain, cement, ores, and gravel; container ship - for loads in truck-size containers, a transportation system called containerization; general cargo - also referred to as break-bulk containers - for a wide variety of packaged merchandise, such as textiles, furniture and machinery; oil tanker - for crude oil and petroleum products; other - includes chemical carriers, dredgers, liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers, refrigerated cargo ships called reefers, tugboats, passenger vessels (cruise and ferry), and offshore supply ships
Topic: Albaniatotal: 70
by type: general cargo 47, oil tanker 1, other 22 (2021)
Topic: Algeriatotal: 114
by type: bulk carrier 1, container ship 2, general cargo 11, oil tanker 11, other 89 (2021)
Topic: Angolatotal: 54
by type: general cargo 13, oil tanker 8, other 33 (2021)
Topic: Anguillatotal: 2
by type: other 2 (2021)
Topic: Antigua and Barbudatotal: 677
by type: bulk carrier 24, container ship 123, general cargo 473, oil tanker 2, other 55 (2021)
Topic: Argentinatotal: 202
by type: container ship 1,bulk carrier 1 general cargo 8, oil tanker 33, other 159 (2021)
Topic: Arubatotal: 1
by type: other 1 (2021)
Topic: Australiatotal: 581
by type: bulk carrier 2, general cargo 76, oil tanker 7, other 496 (2021)
Topic: Austriatotal: 1
by type: other 1 (2021)
Topic: Azerbaijantotal: 305
by type: general cargo 38, oil tanker 43, other 224 (2021)
Topic: Bahamas, Thetotal: 1,323
by type: bulk carrier 333, container ship 45, general cargo 64, oil tanker 224, other 657 (2021)
Topic: Bahraintotal: 205
by type: general cargo 12, oil tanker 4, other 189 (2021)
Topic: Bangladeshtotal: 468
by type: bulk carrier 48, container ship 6, general cargo 140, oil tanker 144, other 130 (2021)
Topic: Barbadostotal: 165
by type: bulk carrier 46, general cargo 103, other 16 (2021)
Topic: Belarustotal: 4
by type: other 4 (2021)
Topic: Belgiumtotal: 201
by type: bulk carrier 19, container ship 7, general cargo 16, oil tanker 21, other 138 (2021)
Topic: Belizetotal: 813
by type: bulk carrier 54, container ship 1, general cargo 428, oil tanker 70, other 260 (2021)
Topic: Benintotal: 6
by type: other 6 (2021)
Topic: Bermudatotal: 147
by type: container ship 12, oil tanker 18, other 117 (2021)
Topic: Boliviatotal: 45
by type: general cargo 29, oil tanker 2, other 14 (2021)
Topic: Braziltotal: 864
by type: bulk carrier 11, container ship 19, general cargo 42, oil tanker 31, other 761 (2021)
Topic: British Virgin Islandstotal: 30
by type: general cargo 3, other 27 (2021)
Topic: Bruneitotal: 96
by type: general cargo 18, oil tanker 3, other 75 (2021)
Topic: Bulgariatotal: 79
by type: bulk carrier 4, general cargo 14, oil tanker 8, other 53 (2021)
Topic: Burmatotal: 95
by type: bulk carrier 2, general cargo 39, oil tanker 5, other 49 (2021)
Topic: Cabo Verdetotal: 46
by type: general cargo 16, oil tanker 3, other 27 (2021)
Topic: Cambodiatotal: 245
by type: container ship 2, general cargo 162, oil tanker 18, other 63 (2021)
Topic: Cameroontotal: 94
by type: bulk carrier 3, container ship 1,general cargo 35, oil tanker 24, other 31 (2021)
Topic: Canadatotal: 679
by type: bulk carrier 22, container ship 1, general cargo 66, oil tanker 15, other 575 (2021)
Topic: Cayman Islandstotal: 160
by type: bulk carrier 32, container ship 1, general cargo 1, oil tanker 23, other 103 (2021)
Topic: Chiletotal: 231
by type: bulk carrier 6, container ship 5, general cargo 58, oil tanker 14, other 148 (2021)
Topic: Chinatotal: 6,662
by type: bulk carrier 1,558, container ship 341, general cargo 957, oil tanker 1,061, other 2,745 (2021)
Topic: Colombiatotal: 122
by type: general cargo 23, oil tanker 7, other 92 (2021)
Topic: Comorostotal: 236
by type: bulk carrier 8, container ship 7, general cargo 112, oil tanker 31, other 78 (2021)
Topic: Congo, Democratic Republic of thetotal: 22
by type: general cargo 4, oil tanker 2, other 16 (2021)
Topic: Congo, Republic of thetotal: 11
by type: general cargo 1, oil tanker 1, other 9 (2021)
Topic: Cook Islandstotal: 194
by type: bulk carrier 19, container ship 1, general cargo 57, oil tanker 54, other 63 (2021)
Topic: Costa Ricatotal: 11
by type: other 11 (2021)
Topic: Cote d'Ivoiretotal: 25
by type: oil tanker 2, other 23 (2021)
Topic: Croatiatotal: 354
by type: bulk carrier 14, general cargo 32, oil tanker 16, other 292 (2021)
Topic: Cubatotal: 59
by type: general cargo 12, oil tanker 7, other 40 (2021)
Topic: Curacaototal: 63
by type: general cargo 6, oil tanker 1, other 56 (2021)
Topic: Cyprustotal: 1,051
by type: bulk carrier 269, container ship 182, general cargo 197, oil tanker 59, other 344 (2021)
Topic: Denmarktotal: 717
by type: bulk carrier 8, container ship 148, general cargo 68, oil tanker 105, other 388 (2021)
Topic: Djiboutitotal: 33
by type: bulk carrier 1, container ship 1, general cargo 2, oil tanker 8, other 21 (2021)
Topic: Dominicatotal: 93
by type: general cargo 30, oil tanker 19, other 44 (2021)
Topic: Dominican Republictotal: 38
by type: container ship 1, general cargo 2, oil tanker 1, other 34 (2021)
Topic: Ecuadortotal: 145
by type: container ship 1, general cargo 7, oil tanker 27, other 110 (2021)
Topic: Egypttotal: 421
by type: bulk carrier 14, container ship 8, general cargo 27, oil tanker 40, other 332 (2021)
Topic: El Salvadortotal: 2
by type: other 2 (2021)
Topic: Equatorial Guineatotal: 42
by type: bulk carrier 1, general cargo 8, oil tanker 6, other 27 (2021)
Topic: Eritreatotal: 9
by type: general cargo 4, oil tanker 1, other 4 (2021)
Topic: Estoniatotal: 68
by type: general cargo 2, oil tanker 4, other 62 (2021)
Topic: Ethiopiatotal: 11
by type: general cargo 9, oil tanker 2 (2020)
Topic: Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)total: 2
by type: general cargo 1, other 1 (2021)
Topic: Faroe Islandstotal: 101
by type: container ships 6, general cargo 48, oil tanker 1, other 46 (2021)
Topic: Fijitotal: 73
by type: general cargo 20, oil tanker 4, other 49 (2021)
Topic: Finlandtotal: 272
by type: bulk carrier 9, container ship 1, general cargo 74, oil tanker 4, other 184 (2021)
Topic: Francetotal: 548
by type: container ship 29, general cargo 50, oil tanker 28, other 441 (2021)
note: includes Monaco
Topic: French Polynesiatotal: 24
by type: general cargo 14, other 10 (2021)
Topic: French Southern and Antarctic Landstotal: 2
by type: other 2 (2021)
Topic: Gabontotal: 62
by type: bulk carrier 1, general cargo 17, oil tanker 17, other 27 (2021)
Topic: Gambia, Thetotal: 8
by type: other 8 (2021)
Topic: Georgiatotal: 25
by type: bulk carrier 2, general cargo 3, other 20 (2021)
Topic: Germanytotal: 599
by type: container ship 77, general cargo 85, oil tanker 36, other 401 (2021)
Topic: Ghanatotal: 51
by type: general cargo 7, oil tanker 3, other 41 (2021)
Topic: Gibraltartotal: 202
by type: bulk carrier 8, container ship 19, general cargo 55, oil tanker 20, other 100 (2021)
Topic: Greecetotal: 1,236
by type: bulk carrier 158, container ship 5, general cargo 89, oil tanker 337, other 647 (2021)
Topic: Greenlandtotal: 8
by type: other 8 (2021)
Topic: Grenadatotal: 6
by type: general cargo 3, other 3 (2021)
Topic: Guamtotal: 3
by type: other 3 (2021)
Topic: Guatemalatotal: 9
by type: oil tanker 1, other 8 (2021)
Topic: Guineatotal: 2
by type: other 2 (2021)
Topic: Guinea-Bissautotal: 8
by type: general cargo 5, other 3 (2021)
Topic: Guyanatotal: 56
by type: general cargo 26, oil tanker 7, other 23 (2021)
Topic: Haititotal: 4
by type: general cargo 3, other 1 (2021)
Topic: Hondurastotal: 505
by type: bulk carrier 1, general cargo 244, oil tanker 82, other 178 (2021)
Topic: Hong Kongtotal: 2,718
by type: bulk carrier 1,158, container ship 558, general cargo 184, oil tanker 388, other 430 (2021)
Topic: Hungarytotal: 1
by type: other 1 (2021)
Topic: Icelandtotal: 41
by type: general cargo 5, oil tanker 2, other 34 (2021)
Topic: Indiatotal: 1,801
by type: bulk carrier 63, container ship 22, general cargo 587, oil tanker 136, other 993 (2021)
Topic: Indonesiatotal: 10,427
by type: bulk carrier 148, container ship 226, general cargo 2,238, oil tanker 676, other 7,139 (2021)
Topic: Irantotal: 893
by type: bulk carrier 32, container ship 31, general cargo 371, oil tanker 84, other 375 (2021)
Topic: Iraqtotal: 68
by type: general cargo 1, oil tanker 6, other 61 (2021)
Topic: Irelandtotal: 96
by type: bulk carrier 12, general cargo 36, oil tanker 1, other 47 (2021)
Topic: Israeltotal: 41
by type: container ship 6, general cargo 2, oil tanker 4, other 29 (2021)
Topic: Italytotal: 1,296
by type: bulk carrier 36, container ship 7, general cargo 111, oil tanker 103, other 1,039 (2021)
Topic: Jamaicatotal: 43
by type: bulk carrier 1, container ship 5, general cargo 9, oil tanker 1, other 27 (2021)
Topic: Japantotal: 5,201
by type: bulk carrier 148, container ship 45, general cargo 1,900, oil tanker 666, other 2,442 (2021)
Topic: Jordantotal: 35
by type: general cargo 6, oil tanker 1, other 28 (2021)
Topic: Kazakhstantotal: 119
by type: general cargo 3, oil tanker 7, other 109 (2021)
Topic: Kenyatotal: 26
by type: oil tanker 3, other 23 (2021)
Topic: Kiribatitotal: 88
by type: bulk carrier 3, general cargo 35, oil tanker 12, other 38 (2021)
Topic: Korea, Northtotal: 264
by type: bulk carrier 8, container ship 5, general cargo 189, oil tanker 33, other 29 (2021)
Topic: Korea, Southtotal: 1,904
by type: bulk carrier 78, container ship 91, general cargo 360, oil tanker 184, other 1,191 (2021)
Topic: Kuwaittotal: 165
by type: general cargo 15, oil tanker 28, other 122 (2021)
Topic: Laostotal: 1
by type: general cargo 1 (2021)
Topic: Latviatotal: 70
by type: general cargo 22, oil tanker 9, other 39 (2021)
Topic: Lebanontotal: 48
by type: bulk carrier 2, general cargo 31, oil tanker 1, other 14 (2021)
Topic: Liberiatotal: 3,942
by type: bulk carrier 1,487, container ship 878, general cargo 131, oil tanker 851, other 595 (2021)
Topic: Libyatotal: 94
by type: general cargo 2, oil tanker 12, other 80 (2021)
Topic: Liechtensteintotal: 20
by type: bulk carrier 16, general cargo 1, other 3 (includes Switzerland) (2021)
Topic: Lithuaniatotal: 64
by type: container ship 4, general cargo 24, oil tanker 2, other 34 (2021)
Topic: Luxembourgtotal: 153
by type: bulk carrier 4, container ship 1, general cargo 23, oil tanker 3, other 122 (2021)
Topic: Macautotal: 1
by type: other 1 (2021)
Topic: Madagascartotal: 27
by type: general cargo 14, oil tanker 2, other 11 (2021)
Topic: Malaysiatotal: 1,769
by type: bulk carrier 16, container ship 28, general cargo 174, oil tanker 153, other 1,398 (2021)
Topic: Maldivestotal: 68
by type: general cargo 21, oil tanker 19, other 28 (2021)
Topic: Maltatotal: 2,137
by type: bulk carrier 601, container ship 310, general cargo 218, oil tanker 412, other 596 (2021)
Topic: Marshall Islandstotal: 3,817
by type: bulk carrier 1,733, container ship 248, general cargo 66, oil tanker 970, other 800 (2021)
Topic: Mauritaniatotal: 5
by type: general cargo 2, other 3 (2021)
Topic: Mauritiustotal: 29
by type: general cargo 1, oil tanker 4, other 24 (2021)
Topic: Mexicototal: 671
by type: container ship 1, bulk carrier 4, general cargo 11, oil tanker 31, other 624 (2021)
Topic: Micronesia, Federated States oftotal: 38
by type: general cargo 19, oil tanker 4, other 15 (2021)
Topic: Moldovatotal: 147
by type: bulk carrier 5, container ship 5, general cargo 97, oil tanker 7, other 33 (2021)
Topic: Mongoliatotal: 302
by type: bulk carrier 4, container ship 7, general cargo 131, oil tanker 64, other 96 (2021)
Topic: Montenegrototal: 17
by type: bulk carrier 4, other 13 (2021)
Topic: Moroccototal: 93
by type: container ship 6, general cargo 5, oil tanker 2, other 80 (2021)
Topic: Mozambiquetotal: 30
by type: general cargo 9, other 21 (2021)
Topic: Namibiatotal: 14
by type: general cargo 1, other 13 (2021)
Topic: Naurutotal: 3
by type: oil tanker 1, other 2 (2021)
Topic: Netherlandstotal: 1,199
by type: bulk carrier 10, container ship 40, general cargo 559, oil tanker 26, other 564 (2021)
Topic: New Caledoniatotal: 24
by type: general cargo 5, oil tanker 1, other 18 (2021)
Topic: New Zealandtotal: 115
by type: container ship 1, general cargo 12, oil tanker 4, other 98 (2021)
Topic: Nicaraguatotal: 5
by type: general cargo 1, oil tanker 1, other 3 (2021)
Topic: Nigertotal: 1
by type: general cargo 1 (2021)
Topic: Nigeriatotal: 791
by type: general cargo 14, oil tanker 110, other 667 (2021)
Topic: Niuetotal: 69
by type: bulk carrier 3, container ship 2, general cargo 25, oil tanker 7, other 32 (2021)
Topic: Northern Mariana Islandstotal: 1
by type: other 1 (2019)
Topic: Norwaytotal: 1,644
by type: bulk carrier 109, container ship 1, general cargo 242, oil tanker 96, other 1,196 (2021)
Topic: Omantotal: 57
by type: general cargo 10, other 47 (2021)
Topic: Pakistantotal: 57
by type: bulk carrier 5, oil tanker 7, other 45 (2021)
Topic: Palautotal: 264
by type: bulk carrier 16, container ship 7, general cargo 107, oil tanker 40, other 94 (2021)
Topic: Panamatotal: 7,980
by type: bulk carrier 2,697, container ship 643, general cargo 1,381, oil tanker 771, other 2,488 (2021)
Topic: Papua New Guineatotal: 177
by type: container ship 6, general cargo 81, oil tanker 3, other 87 (2021)
Topic: Paraguaytotal: 110
by type: container ship 3, general cargo 25, oil tanker 5, other 77 (2021)
note: as of 2017, Paraguay registered 2,012 fluvial vessels of which 1,741 were commercial barges
Topic: Perutotal: 98
by type: general cargo 1, oil tanker 8, other 89 (2021)
Topic: Philippinestotal: 1,805
by type: bulk carrier 62, container ship 44, general cargo 716, oil tanker 205, other 778 (2021)
Topic: Polandtotal: 143
by type: general cargo 7, oil tanker 6, other 130 (2021)
Topic: Portugaltotal: 726
by type: bulk carrier 86, container ship 267, general cargo 137, oil tanker 27, other 209 (2021)
Topic: Qatartotal: 129
by type: bulk carrier 9, container ship 4, general cargo 4, oil tanker 5, other 107 (2021)
Topic: Romaniatotal: 121
by type: general cargo 11, oil tanker 6, other 104 (2021)
Topic: Russiatotal: 2,873
by type: bulk carrier 13, container ship 17, general cargo 946, oil tanker 406, other 1,491 (2021)
Topic: Saint Kitts and Nevistotal: 244
by type: bulk carrier 6, container ship 7, general cargo 45, oil tanker 53, other 133 (2021)
Topic: Saint Vincent and the Grenadinestotal: 792
by type: bulk carrier 27, container ship 17, general cargo 155, oil tanker 16, other 577 (2021)
Topic: Samoatotal: 12
by type: general cargo 3, oil tanker 3, other 6 (2021)
Topic: Sao Tome and Principetotal: 22
by type: general cargo 13, oil tanker 2, other 7 (2021)
Topic: Saudi Arabiatotal: 392
by type: bulk carrier 5, container ship 1, general cargo 21, oil tanker 58, other 307 (2021)
Topic: Senegaltotal: 35
by type: general cargo 5, oil tanker 1, other 29 (2021)
Topic: Seychellestotal: 27
by type: general cargo 5, oil tanker 6, other 16 (2021)
Topic: Sierra Leonetotal: 591
by type: bulk carrier 30, container ship 9, general cargo 319, oil tanker 108, other 125 (2021)
Topic: Singaporetotal: 3,321
by type: bulk carrier 576, container ship 514, general cargo 113, oil tanker 699, other 1,419 (2021)
Topic: Sloveniatotal: 9
by type: other 9 (2021)
Topic: Solomon Islandstotal: 24
by type: general cargo 8, oil tanker 1, other 15 (2021)
Topic: Somaliatotal: 4
by type: general cargo 1, other 3 (2021)
Topic: South Africatotal: 105
by type: bulk carrier 2, general cargo 1, oil tanker 7, other 95 (2021)
Topic: Spaintotal: 478
by type: bulk carrier 1, general cargo 36, oil tanker 24, other 417 (2021)
Topic: Sri Lankatotal: 90
by type: bulk carrier 6, general cargo 13, oil tanker 11, other 60 (2021)
Topic: Sudantotal: 15
by type: other 15 (2021)
Topic: Surinametotal: 10
by type: general cargo 5, oil tanker 3, other 2 (2021)
Topic: Swedentotal: 370
by type: general cargo 49, oil tanker 22, other 299 (2021)
Topic: Switzerlandtotal: 20
by type: bulk carrier 16, general cargo 1, other 3 (includes Liechtenstein) (2021)
Topic: Syriatotal: 28
by type: bulk carrier 1, general cargo 11, other 16 (2021)
Topic: Taiwantotal: 429
by type: bulk carrier 37, container ship 49, general cargo 57, oil tanker 33, other 253 (2021)
Topic: Tanzaniatotal: 314
by type: bulk carrier 4, container ship 6, general cargo 144, oil tanker 49, other 111 (2021)
Topic: Thailandtotal: 839
by type: bulk carrier 26, container ship 27, general cargo 94, oil tanker 251, other 441 (2021)
Topic: Timor-Lestetotal: 1
by type: other 1 (2021)
Topic: Togototal: 411
by type: bulk carrier 1, container ship 9, general cargo 265, oil tanker 56, other 80 (2021)
Topic: Tongatotal: 32
by type: container ship 4, general cargo 13, oil tanker 1, other 14 (2021)
Topic: Trinidad and Tobagototal: 105
by type: general cargo 1, other 104 (2021)
Topic: Tunisiatotal: 71
by type: container ship 1, general cargo 8 oil tanker 1, other 61 (2021)
Topic: Turkeytotal: 1,217
by type: bulk carrier 39, container ship 41, general cargo 317, oil tanker 126, other 694 (2021)
Topic: Turkmenistantotal: 73
by type: general cargo 6, oil tanker 8, other 59 (2021)
Topic: Turks and Caicos Islandstotal: 3
by type: general cargo 1, other 2 (2021)
Topic: Tuvalutotal: 245
by type: bulk carrier 22, container ship 3, general cargo 32, oil tanker 21, other 167 (2021)
Topic: Ukrainetotal: 409
by type: bulk carrier 1, container ship 1, general cargo 84, oil tanker 15, other 308 (2021)
Topic: United Arab Emiratestotal: 623
by type: bulk carrier 1, container ship 3, general cargo 117, oil tanker 19, other 483 (2021)
Topic: United Kingdomtotal: 1,249
by type: bulk carrier 140, container ship 59, general cargo 109, oil tanker 84, other 857 (2021)
Topic: United Statestotal: 3,627
by type: bulk carrier 4, container ship 60, general cargo 103, oil tanker 69, other 3,391 (2021)
Topic: Uruguaytotal: 61
by type: container ship 1, general cargo 4, oil tanker 4, other 52 (2021)
Topic: Vanuatutotal: 306
by type: bulk carrier 18, container ship 2, general cargo 55, oil tanker 2, other 229 (2021)
Topic: Venezuelatotal: 281
by type: bulk carrier 4, container ship 1, general cargo 26, oil tanker 18, other 232 (2021)
Topic: Vietnamtotal: 1,926
by type: bulk carrier 116, container ship 41, general cargo 1,193, oil tanker 125, other 451 (2021)
Topic: Virgin Islandstotal: 1,868
by type: bulk carrier 91, container ship 39, general cargo 1,205, oil tanker 118, other 415 (2019)
Topic: Wallis and Futunatotal: 1
by type: other 1 (2021)
Topic: Worldtotal: 98,202
by type: bulk carrier 12,319, container ship 5,428, general cargo 18,993, oil tanker 11,243, other 50,219 (2021)
Topic: Yementotal: 34
by type: general cargo 2, oil tanker 4, other 28 (2021)
Topic: Zambiatotal: 2
by type: general cargo 1, oil tanker 1 (2021) |
20220601 | field-railways | This entry states the total route length of the railway network and of its component parts by gauge, which is the measure of the distance between the inner sides of the load-bearing rails. The four typical types of gauges are: broad, standard, narrow, and dual. Other gauges are listed in a note. Some 60% of the world's railways use the standard gauge of 1.4 m (4.7 ft). Gauges vary by country and sometimes within countries. The choice of gauge during initial construction was mainly in response to local conditions and the intent of the builder. Narrow-gauge railways were cheaper to build and could negotiate sharper curves, broad-gauge railways gave greater stability and permitted higher speeds. Standard-gauge railways were a compromise between narrow and broad gauges.
Topic: Albaniatotal: 677 km (2015) (447 km of major railway lines and 230 km of secondary lines)
standard gauge: 677 km (2015) 1.435-m gauge
Topic: Algeriatotal: 3,973 km (2014)
standard gauge: 2,888 km (2014) 1.432-m gauge (283 km electrified)
narrow gauge: 1,085 km (2014) 1.055-m gauge
Topic: Angolatotal: 2,852 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 2,729 km (2014) 1.067-m gauge
123 km 0.600-m gauge
Topic: Argentinatotal: 36,917 km (2014)
standard gauge: 2,745.1 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge (41.1 km electrified)
narrow gauge: 7,523.3 km (2014) 1.000-m gauge
broad gauge: 26,391 km (2014) 1.676-m gauge (149 km electrified)
258 km 0.750-m gauge
Topic: Armeniatotal: 780 km (2014)
broad gauge: 780 km (2014) 1.520-m gauge (780 km electrified)
note: 726 km operational
Topic: Australiatotal: 33,343 km (2015)
standard gauge: 17,446 km (2015) 1.435-m gauge (650 km electrified)
narrow gauge: 12,318 km (2015) 1.067-m gauge (2,075.5 km electrified)
broad gauge: 3,247 km (2015) 1.600-m gauge (372 km electrified)
Topic: Austriatotal: 5,800 km (2017)
standard gauge: 5,300 km 1.435-m gauge (3,826 km electrified) (2016)
Topic: Azerbaijantotal: 2,944 km (2017)
broad gauge: 2,944.3 km (2017) 1.520-m gauge (approx. 1,767 km electrified)
Topic: Bangladeshtotal: 2,460 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 1,801 km (2014) 1.000-m gauge
broad gauge: 659 km (2014) 1.676-m gauge
Topic: Belarustotal: 5,528 km (2014)
standard gauge: 25 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge
broad gauge: 5,503 km (2014) 1.520-m gauge (874 km electrified)
Topic: Belgiumtotal: 3,592 km (2014)
standard gauge: 3,592 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge (2,960 km electrified)
Topic: Benintotal: 438 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 438 km (2014) 1.000-m gauge
Topic: Boliviatotal: 3,960 km (2019)
narrow gauge: 3,960 km (2014) 1.000-m gauge
Topic: Bosnia and Herzegovinatotal: 965 km (2014)
standard gauge: 965 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge (565 km electrified)
Topic: Botswanatotal: 888 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 888 km (2014) 1.067-m gauge
Topic: Braziltotal: 29,850 km (2014)
standard gauge: 194 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge
narrow gauge: 23,341.6 km (2014) 1.000-m gauge (24 km electrified)
broad gauge: 5,822.3 km (2014) 1.600-m gauge (498.3 km electrified)
dual gauge: 492 km (2014) 1.600-1.000-m gauge
Topic: Bulgariatotal: 5,114 km (2014)
standard gauge: 4,989 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge (2,880 km electrified)
narrow gauge: 125 km (2014) 0.760-m gauge
Topic: Burkina Fasototal: 622 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 622 km (2014) 1.000-m gauge
note: another 660 km of this railway extends into Cote d'Ivoire
Topic: Burmatotal: 5,031 km (2008)
narrow gauge: 5,031 km (2008) 1.000-m gauge
Topic: Cambodiatotal: 642 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 642 km (2014) 1.000-m gauge
note: under restoration
Topic: Cameroontotal: 987 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 987 km (2014) 1.000-m gauge
note: railway connections generally efficient but limited; rail lines connect major cities of Douala, Yaounde, Ngaoundere, and Garoua; passenger and freight service provided by CAMRAIL
Topic: Canadatotal: 77,932 km (2014) note: 129 km electrified (2021)
standard gauge: 77,932 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge
Topic: Chiletotal: 7,282 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 3,853.5 km (2014) 1.000-m gauge
broad gauge: 3,428 km (2014) 1.676-m gauge (1,691 km electrified)
Topic: Chinatotal: 50,000 km (2018) 1.435-m gauge (100,000 km electrified); 104,0000 traditional, 29,000 high-speed
Topic: Christmas Islandtotal: 18 km (2017)
standard gauge: 18 km (2017) 1.435-m (not in operation)
note: the 18-km Christmas Island Phosphate Company Railway between Flying Fish Cove and South Point was decommissioned in 1987; some tracks and scrap remain in place
Topic: Colombiatotal: 2,141 km (2015)
standard gauge: 150 km (2015) 1.435-m gauge
narrow gauge: 1,991 km (2015) 0.914-m gauge
Topic: Congo, Democratic Republic of thetotal: 4,007 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 3,882 km (2014) 1.067-m gauge (858 km electrified)
125 1.000-m gauge
Topic: Congo, Republic of thetotal: 510 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 510 km (2014) 1.067-m gauge
Topic: Costa Ricatotal: 278 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 278 km (2014) 1.067-m gauge
note: the entire rail network fell into disrepair and out of use at the end of the 20th century; since 2005, certain sections of rail have been rehabilitated
Topic: Cote d'Ivoiretotal: 660 km (2008)
narrow gauge: 660 km (2008) 1.000-m gauge
note: an additional 622 km of this railroad extends into Burkina Faso
Topic: Croatiatotal: 2,722 km (2014)
standard gauge: 2,722 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge (980 km electrified)
Topic: Cubatotal: 8,125 km (2017)
standard gauge: 8,195 km (2017) 1.435-m gauge (124 km electrified)
narrow gauge: 172 km (2017) 1.000-m gauge
note: As of 2013, 70 km of standard gauge and 12 km of narrow gauge track were not for public use
Topic: Czechiatotal: 9,408 km (2017)
standard gauge: 9,385 km (2017) 1.435-m gauge (3,218 km electrified)
narrow gauge: 23 km (2017) 0.760-m gauge
Topic: Denmarktotal: 3,476 km (2017)
standard gauge: 3,476 km (2017) 1.435-m gauge (1,756 km electrified)
Topic: Djiboutitotal: 97 km (2017) (Djibouti segment of the 756 km Addis Ababa-Djibouti railway)
standard gauge: 97 km (2017) 1.435-m gauge
Topic: Dominican Republictotal: 496 km (2014)
standard gauge: 354 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge
narrow gauge: 142 km (2014) 0.762-m gauge
Topic: Ecuadortotal: 965 km (2022)
narrow gauge: 965 km (2022) 1.067-m gauge
note: passenger service limited to certain sections of track, mostly for tourist trains
Topic: Egypttotal: 5,085 km (2014)
standard gauge: 5,085 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge (62 km electrified)
Topic: El Salvadortotal: 13 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 12.5 km (2014) 0.914-m gauge
Topic: Eritreatotal: 306 km (2018)
narrow gauge: 306 km (2018) 0.950-m gauge
Topic: Estoniatotal: 2,146 km (2016)
broad gauge: 2,146 km (2016) 1.520-m and 1.524-m gauge (132 km electrified)
note: includes 1,510 km public and 636 km non-public railway
Topic: Eswatinitotal: 301 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 301 km (2014) 1.067-m gauge
Topic: Ethiopiatotal: 659 km (2017) (Ethiopian segment of the 756 km Addis Ababa-Djibouti railroad)
standard gauge: 659 km (2017) 1.435-m gauge
note: electric railway with redundant power supplies; under joint control of Djibouti and Ethiopia and managed by a Chinese contractor
Topic: European Uniontotal: (2013) 230,548 km
Topic: Fijitotal: 597 km (2008)
narrow gauge: 597 km (2008) 0.600-m gauge
note: belongs to the government-owned Fiji Sugar Corporation; used to haul sugarcane during the harvest season, which runs from May to December
Topic: Finlandtotal: 5,926 km (2016)
broad gauge: 5,926 km (2016) 1.524-m gauge (3,270 km electrified)
Topic: Francetotal: 29,640 km (2014)
standard gauge: 29,473 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge (15,561 km electrified)
narrow gauge: 167 km (2014) 1.000-m gauge (63 km electrified)
Topic: Gabontotal: 649 km (2014)
standard gauge: 649 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge
Topic: Georgiatotal: 1,363 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 37 km (2014) 0.912-m gauge (37 km electrified)
broad gauge: 1,326 km (2014) 1.520-m gauge (1,251 km electrified)
Topic: Germanytotal: 33,590 km (2017)
standard gauge: 33,331 km (2015) 1.435-m gauge (19,973 km electrified)
narrow gauge: 220 km 1.000-m gauge (79 km electrified)
15 km 0.900-m gauge, 24 km 0.750-m gauge (2015)
Topic: Ghanatotal: 1,300 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 947 km (2014) 1.067-m gauge
Topic: Greecetotal: 2,548 km (2014)
standard gauge: 1,565 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge (764 km electrified)
narrow gauge: 961 km (2014) 1.000-m gauge
22 0.750-m gauge
Topic: Guatemalatotal: 800 km (2018)
narrow gauge: 800 km (2018) 0.914-m gauge
note: despite the existence of a railway network, all rail service was suspended in 2007 and no passenger or freight train currently runs in the country (2018)
Topic: Guineatotal: 1,086 km (2017)
standard gauge: 279 km (2017) 1.435-m gauge
narrow gauge: 807 km (2017) 1.000-m gauge
Topic: Hondurastotal: 699 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 164 km (2014) 1.067-m gauge
115 km 1.057-m gauge
420 km 0.914-m gauge
Topic: Hungarytotal: 8,049 km (2014)
standard gauge: 7,794 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge (2,889 km electrified)
narrow gauge: 219 km (2014) 0.760-m gauge
broad gauge: 36 km (2014) 1.524-m gauge
Topic: Indiatotal: 68,525 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 1,604 km (2014) 1.000-m gauge
broad gauge: 63,950 km (2014) (39, 329 km electrified)
Topic: Indonesiatotal: 8,159 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 8,159 km (2014) 1.067-m gauge (565 km electrified)
note: 4,816 km operational
Topic: Irantotal: 8,484 km (2014)
standard gauge: 8,389.5 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge (189.5 km electrified)
broad gauge: 94 km (2014) 1.676-m gauge
Topic: Iraqtotal: 2,272 km (2014)
standard gauge: 2,272 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge
Topic: Irelandtotal: 4,301 km (2018)
narrow gauge: 1,930 km (2018) 0.914-m gauge (operated by the Irish Peat Board to transport peat to power stations and briquetting plants)
broad gauge: 2,371 km (2018) 1.600-m gauge (53 km electrified)
Topic: Isle of Mantotal: 63 km (2008)
narrow gauge: 6 km (2008) 1.076-m gauge (6 km electrified)
57 0.914-m gauge (29 km electrified) note: primarily summer tourist attractions
Topic: Israeltotal: 1,599 km (2019) (2019)
standard gauge: 1,384 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge
Topic: Italytotal: 20,182 km (2014)
standard gauge: 18,770.1 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge (12,893.6 km electrified)
narrow gauge: 122.3 km (2014) 1.000-m gauge (122.3 km electrified)
1289.3 0.950-m gauge (151.3 km electrified)
Topic: Japantotal: 27,311 km (2015)
standard gauge: 4,800 km (2015) 1.435-m gauge (4,800 km electrified)
narrow gauge: 124 km (2015) 1.372-m gauge (124 km electrified)
dual gauge: 132 km (2015) 1.435-1.067-m gauge (132 km electrified)
22.207 km 1.067-m gauge (15,430 km electrified)
48 km 0.762-m gauge (48 km electrified)
Topic: Jordantotal: 1,596 km (2020)
narrow gauge: 509 km (2014) 1.050-m gauge
Topic: Kazakhstantotal: 16,614 km (2017)
broad gauge: 16,614 km (2017) 1.520-m gauge (4,200 km electrified)
Topic: Kenyatotal: 3,819 km (2018)
standard gauge: 485 km (2018) 1.435-m gauge
narrow gauge: 3,334 km (2018) 1.000-m gauge
Topic: Korea, Northtotal: 7,435 km (2014)
standard gauge: 7,435 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge (5,400 km electrified)
note: figures are approximate; some narrow-gauge railway also exists
Topic: Korea, Southtotal: 3,979 km (2016)
standard gauge: 3,979 km (2016) 1.435-m gauge (2,727 km electrified)
Topic: Kosovototal: 333 km (2015)
standard gauge: 333 km (2015) 1.435-m gauge
Topic: Kyrgyzstantotal: 424 km (2018)
broad gauge: 424 km (2018) 1.520-m gauge
Topic: Latviatotal: 1,860 km (2018)
narrow gauge: 34 km (2018) 0.750-m gauge
broad gauge: 1,826 km (2018) 1.520-m gauge
Topic: Lebanontotal: 401 km (2017)
standard gauge: 319 km (2017) 1.435-m gauge
narrow gauge: 82 km (2017) 1.050-m gauge
note: rail system is still unusable due to damage sustained from fighting in the 1980s and in 2006
Topic: Liberiatotal: 429 km (2008)
standard gauge: 345 km (2008) 1.435-m gauge
narrow gauge: 84 km (2008) 1.067-m gauge
note: most sections of the railways inoperable due to damage sustained during the civil wars from 1980 to 2003, but many are being rebuilt
Topic: Liechtensteintotal: 9 km (2018)
standard gauge: 9 km (2018) 1.435-m gauge (electrified)
note: belongs to the Austrian Railway System connecting Austria and Switzerland
Topic: Lithuaniatotal: 1,768 km (2014)
standard gauge: 22 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge
broad gauge: 1,746 km (2014) 1.520-m gauge (122 km electrified)
Topic: Luxembourgtotal: 275 km (2014)
standard gauge: 275 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge (275 km electrified)
Topic: Madagascartotal: 836 km (2018)
narrow gauge: 836 km (2018) 1.000-m gauge
Topic: Malawitotal: 767 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 767 km (2014) 1.067-m gauge
Topic: Malaysiatotal: 1,851 km (2014)
standard gauge: 59 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge (59 km electrified)
narrow gauge: 1,792 km (2014) 1.000-m gauge (339 km electrified)
Topic: Malitotal: 593 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 593 km (2014) 1.000-m gauge
Topic: Mauritaniatotal: 728 km (2014)
standard gauge: 728 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge
Topic: Mexicototal: 23,389 km (2017)
standard gauge: 23,389 km (2017) 1.435-m gauge (27 km electrified)
Topic: Moldovatotal: 1,171 km (2014)
standard gauge: 14 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge
broad gauge: 1,157 km (2014) 1.520-m gauge
Topic: Monaconote: Monaco has a single railway station but does not operate its own train service; the French operator SNCF operates rail services in Monaco
Topic: Mongoliatotal: 1,815 km (2017)
broad gauge: 1,815 km (2017) 1.520-m gauge
note: national operator Ulaanbaatar Railway is jointly owned by the Mongolian Government and by the Russian State Railway
Topic: Montenegrototal: 250 km (2017)
standard gauge: 250 km (2017) 1.435-m gauge (224 km electrified)
Topic: Moroccototal: 2,067 km (2014)
standard gauge: 2,067 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge (1,022 km electrified)
Topic: Mozambiquetotal: 4,787 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 4,787 km (2014) 1.067-m gauge
Topic: Namibiatotal: 2,628 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 2,628 km (2014) 1.067-m gauge
Topic: Nepaltotal: 59 km (2018)
narrow gauge: 59 km (2018) 0.762-m gauge
Topic: Netherlandstotal: 3,058 km (2016)
standard gauge: 3,058 km (2016) 1.435-m gauge (2,314 km electrified)
Topic: New Zealandtotal: 4,128 km (2018)
narrow gauge: 4,128 km (2018) 1.067-m gauge (506 km electrified)
Topic: Nigeriatotal: 3,798 km (2014)
standard gauge: 293 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge
narrow gauge: 3,505 km (2014) 1.067-m gauge
note: as of the end of 2018, there were only six operational locomotives in Nigeria primarily used for passenger service; the majority of the rail lines are in a severe state of disrepair and need to be replaced
Topic: North Macedoniatotal: 925 km (2017)
standard gauge: 925 km (2017) 1.435-m gauge (313 km electrified)
Topic: Norwaytotal: 4,200 km (2019)
standard gauge: 4,200 km (2019) 1.435-m gauge (2,480 km electrified)
Topic: Pakistantotal: 11,881 km (2019)
narrow gauge: 389 km (2019) 1.000-m gauge
broad gauge: 11,492 km (2019) 1.676-m gauge (293 km electrified)
Topic: Panamatotal: 77 km (2014)
standard gauge: 77 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge
Topic: Paraguaytotal: 30 km (2014)
standard gauge: 30 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge
Topic: Perutotal: 1,940 km (2017)
standard gauge: 1,730.4 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge (34 km electrified)
narrow gauge: 124 km (2014) 0.914-m gauge
Topic: Philippinestotal: 77 km (2017)
standard gauge: 49 km (2017) 1.435-m gauge
narrow gauge: 28 km (2017) 1.067-m gauge
Topic: Polandtotal: 19,231 km (2016)
standard gauge: 18,836 km (2016) 1.435-m gauge (11,874 km electrified)
broad gauge: 395 km (2016) 1.524-m gauge
Topic: Portugaltotal: 3,075 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 108.1 km (2014) 1.000-m gauge
broad gauge: 2,439 km (2014) 1.668-m gauge (1,633.4 km electrified)
other: 528 km (2014) (gauge unspecified)
Topic: Romaniatotal: 11,268 km (2014)
standard gauge: 10,781 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge (3,292 km electrified)
narrow gauge: 427 km (2014) 0.760-m gauge
broad gauge: 60 km (2014) 1.524-m gauge
Topic: Russiatotal: 87,157 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 957 km (2014) 1.067-m gauge (on Sakhalin Island)
broad gauge: 86,200 km (2014) 1.520-m gauge (40,300 km electrified)
note: an additional 30,000 km of non-common carrier lines serve industries
Topic: Saint Kitts and Nevistotal: 50 km (2008)
narrow gauge: 50 km (2008) 0.762-m gauge on Saint Kitts for tourists
Topic: Saudi Arabiatotal: 5,410 km (2016)
standard gauge: 5,410 km (2016) 1.435-m gauge (with branch lines and sidings)
Topic: Senegaltotal: 906 km (2017) (713 km operational in 2017)
narrow gauge: 906 km (2017) 1.000-m gauge
Topic: Serbiatotal: 3,809 km (2015)
standard gauge: 3,809 km (2015) 1.435-m gauge (3,526 km one-track lines and 283 km double-track lines) out of which 1,279 km electrified (1,000 km one-track lines and 279 km double-track lines)
Topic: Slovakiatotal: 3,580 km (2016)
standard gauge: 3,435 km (2016) 1.435-m gauge (1,587 km electrified)
narrow gauge: 46 km (2016) 1.000-m or 0.750-m gauge
broad gauge: 99 km (2016) 1.520-m gauge
Topic: Sloveniatotal: 1,229 km (2014)
standard gauge: 1,229 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge (503 km electrified)
Topic: South Africatotal: 20,986 km (2014)
standard gauge: 80 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge (80 km electrified)
narrow gauge: 19,756 km (2014) 1.065-m gauge (8,271 km electrified)
other: (2014) 1,150 km (passenger rail, gauge unspecified, 1,115.5 km electrified)
Topic: South Sudantotal: 248 km (2018)
note: a narrow gauge, single-track railroad between Babonosa (Sudan) and Wau, the only existing rail system, was repaired in 2010 with $250 million in UN funds, but is not currently operational
Topic: Spaintotal: 15,333 km (2017) (9,699 km electrified)
standard gauge: 2,571 km (2017) 1.435-m gauge (2,571 km electrified)
narrow gauge: 1,207 km (2017) 1.000-m gauge (400 km electrified)
broad gauge: 11,333 km (2017) 1.668-m gauge (6,538 km electrified)
mixed gauge: 190 km 1.668-m and 1.435m gage (190.1 km electrified); 28 km 0.914-m gauge (28 km electrified); 4 km 0.600-m gauge
Topic: Sri Lankatotal: 1,562 km (2016)
broad gauge: 1,562 km (2016) 1.676-m gauge
Topic: Sudantotal: 7,251 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 5,851 km (2014) 1.067-m gauge
1,400 km 0.600-m gauge for cotton plantations
Topic: Swedentotal: 14,127 km (2016)
standard gauge: 14,062 km (2016) 1.435-m gauge (12,322 km electrified)
narrow gauge: 65 km (2016) 0.891-m gauge (65 km electrified)
Topic: Switzerlandtotal: 5,690 km (2015) (includes 19 km in neighboring countries)
standard gauge: 3,836 km (2015) 1.435-m gauge (3,634 km electrified)
narrow gauge: 1,630 km (2015) 1.200-m gauge (2 km electrified) (includes 19 km in neighboring countries)
1188 km 1.000-m gauge (1,167.3 km electrified)
36 km 0.800-m gauge (36.4 km electrified)
Topic: Syriatotal: 2,052 km (2014)
standard gauge: 1,801 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge
narrow gauge: 251 km (2014) 1.050-m gauge
Topic: Taiwantotal: 1,613 km (2018)
standard gauge: 345 km (2018) 1.435-m gauge (345 km electrified)
narrow gauge: 1,118.1 km (2018) 1.067-m gauge (793.9 km electrified)
150 0.762-m gauge note: the 0.762-gauge track belongs to three entities: the Forestry Bureau, Taiwan Cement, and TaiPower
Topic: Tajikistantotal: 680 km (2014)
broad gauge: 680 km (2014) 1.520-m gauge
Topic: Tanzaniatotal: 4,097 km
standard gauge: 421 km
narrow gauge: 1,969 km (2014) 1.067 m gauge
broad gauge: 2,707 km 1.000 m guage
2707 km 1.000-m gauge
Topic: Thailandtotal: 4,127 km (2017)
standard gauge: 84 km (2017) 1.435-m gauge (84 km electrified)
narrow gauge: 4,043 km (2017) 1.000-m gauge
Topic: Togototal: 568 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 568 km (2014) 1.000-m gauge
Topic: Tunisiatotal: 2,173 km (2014) (1,991 in use)
standard gauge: 471 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge
narrow gauge: 1,694 km (2014) 1.000-m gauge (65 km electrified)
dual gauge: 8 km (2014) 1.435-1.000-m gauge
Topic: Turkeytotal: 12,710 km (2018)
standard gauge: 11,497 km (2018) 1.435-m gauge (1.435 km high speed train)
Topic: Turkmenistantotal: 5,113 km (2017)
broad gauge: 5,113 km (2017) 1.520-m gauge
Topic: Ugandatotal: 1,244 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 1,244 km (2014) 1.000-m gauge
Topic: Ukrainetotal: 21,733 km (2014)
standard gauge: 49 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge (49 km electrified)
broad gauge: 21,684 km (2014) 1.524-m gauge (9,250 km electrified)
Topic: United Kingdomtotal: 16,837 km (2015)
standard gauge: 16,534 km (2015) 1.435-m gauge (5,357 km electrified)
broad gauge: 303 km (2015) 1.600-m gauge (in Northern Ireland)
Topic: United Statestotal: 293,564 km (2014)
standard gauge: 293,564.2 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge
Topic: Uruguaytotal: 1,673 km (2016) (operational; government claims overall length is 2,961 km)
standard gauge: 1,673 km (2016) 1.435-m gauge
Topic: Uzbekistantotal: 4,642 km (2018)
broad gauge: 4,642 km (2018) 1.520-m gauge (1,684 km electrified)
Topic: Venezuelatotal: 447 km (2014)
standard gauge: 447 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge (41.4 km electrified)
Topic: Vietnamtotal: 2,600 km (2014)
standard gauge: 178 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge; 253 km mixed gauge
narrow gauge: 2,169 km (2014) 1.000-m gauge
Topic: Worldtotal: 1,148,186 km (2013)
Topic: Zambiatotal: 3,126 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 3,126 km (2014) 1.067-m gauge
note: includes 1,860 km of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA)
Topic: Zimbabwetotal: 3,427 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 3,427 km (2014) 1.067-m gauge (313 km electrified) |
20220601 | countries-israel |
Topic: Photos of Israel
Topic: Introduction
Background: Israel has emerged as a regional economic and military powerhouse, leveraging its booming high-tech sector, massive defense industry, and concerns about Iran to foster partnerships around the world. The State of Israel was established in 1948. The UN General Assembly had proposed to partition the British Mandate for Palestine into an Arab and Jewish state. Arab states rejected the UN plan and were subsequently defeated militarily in the 1948 war that followed the withdrawal of the British on 14 May 1948. Israel was admitted as a member of the UN in 1949 and saw rapid population growth, primarily due to migration from Europe and the Middle East, over the following years. Israel and its Arab neighbors fought wars in 1967 and 1973 and Israel signed peace treaties with Egypt in 1979 and Jordan in 1994. Israel took control of the West Bank and Gaza Strip in the course of the 1967 war, and subsequently administered those territories through military authorities. Israel and Palestinian officials signed interim agreements in the 1990s that created an interim period of Palestinian self-rule in parts of the West Bank and Gaza. Israel withdrew from Gaza in 2005. While the most recent formal efforts between Israel and the Palestinian Authority to negotiate final status issues occurred in 2013-2014, the US continues its efforts to advance peace. Immigration to Israel continues, with more than 20,000 new immigrants, mostly Jewish, in 2020.
The Israeli economy has undergone a dramatic transformation in the last 25 years, led by cutting-edge, high-tech sectors. Offshore gas discoveries in the Mediterranean, most notably in the Tamar and Leviathan gas fields, place Israel at the center of a potential regional natural gas market. However, longer-term structural issues such as low labor force participation among minority populations, low workforce productivity, high costs for housing and consumer staples, and a lack of competition, remain a concern for many Israelis and an important consideration for Israeli politicians. Former Prime Minister Benjamin NETANYAHU dominated Israel's political landscape from 2009 to June 2021, becoming Israel's longest serving prime minister before he was unseated by Naftali BENNETT, after Israel's fourth election in two years. BENNETT formed the most ideologically diverse coalition in Israel's history, including the participation of an Arab-Israeli party. Under the terms of the coalition agreement, BENNETT would remain as prime minister until August 2023, then Alternate Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Yair LAPID would succeed him. Israel signed normalization agreements – brokered by the US – with Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and Morocco in late 2020 and reached an agreement with Sudan in early 2021.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Middle East, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Egypt and Lebanon
Geographic coordinates: 31 30 N, 34 45 E
Map references: Middle East
Area: total: 21,937 sq km
land: 21,497 sq km
water: 440 sq km
Area - comparative: slightly larger than New Jersey
Land boundaries: total: 1,068 km
border countries (6): Egypt 208 km; Gaza Strip 59 km; Jordan 327 km (20 km are within the Dead Sea); Lebanon 81 km; Syria 83 km; West Bank 330 km
Coastline: 273 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
continental shelf: to depth of exploitation
Climate: temperate; hot and dry in southern and eastern desert areas
Terrain: Negev desert in the south; low coastal plain; central mountains; Jordan Rift Valley
Elevation: highest point: Mitspe Shlagim 2,224 m; note - this is the highest named point, the actual highest point is an unnamed dome slightly to the west of Mitspe Shlagim at 2,236 m; both points are on the northeastern border of Israel, along the southern end of the Anti-Lebanon mountain range
lowest point: Dead Sea -431 m
mean elevation: 508 m note - does not include elevation data from the Golan Heights
Natural resources: timber, potash, copper ore, natural gas, phosphate rock, magnesium bromide, clays, sand
Land use: agricultural land: 23.8% (2018 est.)
arable land: 13.7% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 3.8% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 6.3% (2018 est.)
forest: 7.1% (2018 est.)
other: 69.1% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 2,250 sq km (2012)
Major lakes (area sq km): Salt water lake(s): Dead Sea (shared with Jordan and West Bank) - 1,020 sq km
note - endorheic hypersaline lake; 9.6 times saltier than the ocean; lake shore is 431 meters below sea level
Population distribution: population concentrated in and around Tel-Aviv, as well as around the Sea of Galilee; the south remains sparsely populated with the exception of the shore of the Gulf of Aqaba
Natural hazards: sandstorms may occur during spring and summer; droughts; periodic earthquakes
Geography - note: note 1: Lake Tiberias (Sea of Galilee) is an important freshwater source; the Dead Sea is the second saltiest body of water in the world (after Lake Assal in Djibouti)
note 2: the Malham Cave in Mount Sodom is the world's longest salt cave at 10 km (6 mi); its survey is not complete and its length will undoubtedly increase; Mount Sodom is actually a hill some 220 m (722 ft) high that is 80% salt (multiple salt layers covered by a veneer of rock)
note 3: in March 2019, there were 380 Israeli settlements,to include 213 settlements and 132 outposts in the West Bank, and 35 settlements in East Jerusalem; there are no Israeli settlements in the Gaza Strip, as all were evacuated in 2005 (2019)
Map description: Israel map showing major cities and significant features including - but not limited to - Jerusalem, the Golan Heights, the Gaza Strip, and the West Bank. Note that in 2017 the US recognized Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and in 2019 recognized the Golan Heights as part of Israel.Israel map showing major cities and significant features including - but not limited to - Jerusalem, the Golan Heights, the Gaza Strip, and the West Bank. Note that in 2017 the US recognized Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and in 2019 recognized the Golan Heights as part of Israel.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 8,914,885 (2022 est.) (includes populations of the Golan Heights or Golan Sub-District and also East Jerusalem, which was annexed by Israel after 1967)
note: approximately 227,100 Israeli settlers live in East Jerusalem (2019); following the March 2019 US recognition of the Golan Heights as being part of Israel, The World Factbook no longer includes Israeli settler population of the Golan Heights (estimated at 23,400 in 2019) in its overall Israeli settler total
Nationality: noun: Israeli(s)
adjective: Israeli
Ethnic groups: Jewish 74% (of which Israel-born 78.7%, Europe/America/Oceania-born 14.8%, Africa-born 4.2%, Asia-born 2.3%), Arab 21.1%, other 4.9% (2020 est.)
Languages: Hebrew (official), Arabic (special status under Israeli law), English (most commonly used foreign language)
major-language sample(s):
ספר עובדות העולם, המקור החיוני למידע בסיסי (Hebrew)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Religions: Jewish 74%, Muslim 18%, Christian 1.9%, Druze 1.6%, other 4.5% (2020 est.)
Age structure: 0-14 years: 26.76% (male 1,187,819/female 1,133,365)
15-24 years: 15.67% (male 694,142/female 665,721)
25-54 years: 37.2% (male 1,648,262/female 1,579,399)
55-64 years: 8.4% (male 363,262/female 365,709)
65 years and over: 11.96% (2020 est.) (male 467,980/female 569,816)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 67.3
youth dependency ratio: 46.6
elderly dependency ratio: 20.8
potential support ratio: 4.8 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 30.4 years
male: 29.8 years
female: 31 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 1.44% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 17.41 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 5.05 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: 2.02 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: population concentrated in and around Tel-Aviv, as well as around the Sea of Galilee; the south remains sparsely populated with the exception of the shore of the Gulf of Aqaba
Urbanization: urban population: 92.8% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 1.51% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 4.344 million Tel Aviv-Yafo, 1.164 million Haifa, 957,000 JERUSALEM (capital) (2022)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.05 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.04 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 1.04 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 1.01 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.7 male(s)/female
total population: 1.01 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth: 27.7 years (2019 est.)
Maternal mortality ratio: 3 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 3.56 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 3.82 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 3.28 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 83.35 years
male: 81.45 years
female: 85.34 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 2.56 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: NA
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 100% of population
rural: 100% of population
total: 100% of population
unimproved: urban: 0% of population
rural: 0% of population
total: 0% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 7.5% (2019)
Physicians density: 4.63 physicians/1,000 population (2018)
Hospital bed density: 3 beds/1,000 population (2018)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 100% of population
rural: 99.3% of population
total: 99.9% of population
unimproved: urban: 0% of population
rural: 0.7% of population
total: 0.1% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: 0.2% (2018)
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: 9,000 (2018)
HIV/AIDS - deaths: (2018) <100
Major infectious diseases: note: on 21 March 2022, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Travel Alert for polio in Asia; Israel is currently considered a high risk to travelers for circulating vaccine-derived polioviruses (cVDPV); vaccine-derived poliovirus (VDPV) is a strain of the weakened poliovirus that was initially included in oral polio vaccine (OPV) and that has changed over time and behaves more like the wild or naturally occurring virus; this means it can be spread more easily to people who are unvaccinated against polio and who come in contact with the stool or respiratory secretions, such as from a sneeze, of an “infected” person who received oral polio vaccine; the CDC recommends that before any international travel, anyone unvaccinated, incompletely vaccinated, or with an unknown polio vaccination status should complete the routine polio vaccine series; before travel to any high-risk destination, CDC recommends that adults who previously completed the full, routine polio vaccine series receive a single, lifetime booster dose of polio vaccinenote: on 21 March 2022, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Travel Alert for polio in Asia; Israel is currently considered a high risk to travelers for circulating vaccine-derived polioviruses (cVDPV); vaccine-derived poliovirus (VDPV) is a strain of the weakened poliovirus that was initially included in oral polio vaccine (OPV) and that has changed over time and behaves more like the wild or naturally occurring virus; this means it can be spread more easily to people who are unvaccinated against polio and who come in contact with the stool or respiratory secretions, such as from a sneeze, of an “infected” person who received oral polio vaccine; the CDC recommends that before any international travel, anyone unvaccinated, incompletely vaccinated, or with an unknown polio vaccination status should complete the routine polio vaccine series; before travel to any high-risk destination, CDC recommends that adults who previously completed the full, routine polio vaccine series receive a single, lifetime booster dose of polio vaccine
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 26.1% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: NA
Education expenditures: 6.2% of GDP (2018)
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 97.8%
male: 98.7%
female: 96.8% (2011)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 16 years
male: 15 years
female: 17 years (2019)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 7.9%
male: 7.6%
female: 8.2% (2020 est.)
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: limited arable land and restricted natural freshwater resources; desertification; air pollution from industrial and vehicle emissions; groundwater pollution from industrial and domestic waste, chemical fertilizers, and pesticides
Environment - international agreements: party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands, Whaling
signed, but not ratified: Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Marine Life Conservation
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 19.46 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 65.17 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 13.02 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: temperate; hot and dry in southern and eastern desert areas
Land use: agricultural land: 23.8% (2018 est.)
arable land: 13.7% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 3.8% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 6.3% (2018 est.)
forest: 7.1% (2018 est.)
other: 69.1% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 92.8% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 1.51% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 0% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0% of GDP (2018 est.)
Major infectious diseases: note: on 21 March 2022, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Travel Alert for polio in Asia; Israel is currently considered a high risk to travelers for circulating vaccine-derived polioviruses (cVDPV); vaccine-derived poliovirus (VDPV) is a strain of the weakened poliovirus that was initially included in oral polio vaccine (OPV) and that has changed over time and behaves more like the wild or naturally occurring virus; this means it can be spread more easily to people who are unvaccinated against polio and who come in contact with the stool or respiratory secretions, such as from a sneeze, of an “infected” person who received oral polio vaccine; the CDC recommends that before any international travel, anyone unvaccinated, incompletely vaccinated, or with an unknown polio vaccination status should complete the routine polio vaccine series; before travel to any high-risk destination, CDC recommends that adults who previously completed the full, routine polio vaccine series receive a single, lifetime booster dose of polio vaccinenote: on 21 March 2022, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Travel Alert for polio in Asia; Israel is currently considered a high risk to travelers for circulating vaccine-derived polioviruses (cVDPV); vaccine-derived poliovirus (VDPV) is a strain of the weakened poliovirus that was initially included in oral polio vaccine (OPV) and that has changed over time and behaves more like the wild or naturally occurring virus; this means it can be spread more easily to people who are unvaccinated against polio and who come in contact with the stool or respiratory secretions, such as from a sneeze, of an “infected” person who received oral polio vaccine; the CDC recommends that before any international travel, anyone unvaccinated, incompletely vaccinated, or with an unknown polio vaccination status should complete the routine polio vaccine series; before travel to any high-risk destination, CDC recommends that adults who previously completed the full, routine polio vaccine series receive a single, lifetime booster dose of polio vaccine
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 5.4 million tons (2015 est.)
municipal solid waste recycled annually: 1.35 million tons (2017 est.)
percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 25% (2017 est.)
Major lakes (area sq km): Salt water lake(s): Dead Sea (shared with Jordan and West Bank) - 1,020 sq km
note - endorheic hypersaline lake; 9.6 times saltier than the ocean; lake shore is 431 meters below sea level
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 983 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 72 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 1.249 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 1.78 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: State of Israel
conventional short form: Israel
local long form: Medinat Yisra'el
local short form: Yisra'el
former: Mandatory Palestine
etymology: named after the ancient Kingdom of Israel; according to Biblical tradition, the Jewish patriarch Jacob received the name "Israel" ("He who struggles with God") after he wrestled an entire night with an angel of the Lord; Jacob's 12 sons became the ancestors of the Israelites, also known as the Twelve Tribes of Israel, who formed the Kingdom of Israel
Government type: parliamentary democracy
Capital: name: Jerusalem; note - the US recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s capital in December 2017 without taking a position on the specific boundaries of Israeli sovereignty
geographic coordinates: 31 46 N, 35 14 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, Friday before the last Sunday in March; ends the last Sunday in October
etymology: Jerusalem's settlement may date back to 2800 B.C.; it is named Urushalim in Egyptian texts of the 14th century B.C.; "uru-shalim" likely means "foundation of [by] the god Shalim", and derives from Hebrew/Semitic "yry", "to found or lay a cornerstone", and Shalim, the Canaanite god of dusk and the nether world; Shalim was associated with sunset and peace and the name is based on the same S-L-M root from which Semitic words for "peace" are derived (Salam or Shalom in modern Arabic and Hebrew); this confluence has thus led to naming interpretations such as "The City of Peace" or "The Abode of Peace"
Administrative divisions: 6 districts (mehozot, singular - mehoz); Central, Haifa, Jerusalem, Northern, Southern, Tel Aviv
Independence: 14 May 1948 (following League of Nations mandate under British administration)
National holiday: Independence Day, 14 May (1948); note - Israel declared independence on 14 May 1948, but the Jewish calendar is lunar and the holiday may occur in April or May
Constitution: history: no formal constitution; some functions of a constitution are filled by the Declaration of Establishment (1948), the Basic Laws, and the Law of Return (as amended)
amendments: proposed by Government of Israel ministers or by the Knesset; passage requires a majority vote of Knesset members and subject to Supreme Court judicial review; 11 of the 13 Basic Laws have been amended at least once, latest in 2020 (Basic Law: the Knesset)
Legal system: mixed legal system of English common law, British Mandate regulations, and Jewish, Christian, and Muslim religious laws
International law organization participation: has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; withdrew acceptance of ICCt jurisdiction in 2002
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: no
citizenship by descent only: at least one parent must be a citizen of Israel
dual citizenship recognized: yes, but naturalized citizens are not allowed to maintain dual citizenship
residency requirement for naturalization: 3 out of the 5 years preceding the application for naturalization
note: Israeli law (Law of Return, 5 July 1950) provides for the granting of citizenship to any Jew - defined as a person being born to a Jewish mother or having converted to Judaism while renouncing any other religion - who immigrates to and expresses a desire to settle in Israel on the basis of the Right of aliyah; the 1970 amendment of this act extended the right to family members including the spouse of a Jew, any child or grandchild, and the spouses of children and grandchildren
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal; 17 years of age for municipal elections
Executive branch: chief of state: President Isaac HERZOG (since 7 July 2021)
head of government: Prime Minister Naftali BENNETT (since 13 June 2021)
cabinet: Cabinet selected by prime minister and approved by the Knesset
elections/appointments: president indirectly elected by the Knesset for a single 7-year term; election last held on 2 June 2021 (next to be held in June 2028); following legislative elections, the president, in consultation with party leaders, tasks a Knesset member (usually the member of the largest party) with forming a new government
election results: Issac HERZOG elected president; Knesset vote - Issac HERZOG (independent) 87, Miriam PERETZ (independent) 26, invalid/blank 7
Legislative branch: description: unicameral Knesset (120 seats; members directly elected in a single nationwide constituency by closed-list proportional representation vote, with a 3.25% vote threshold to gain representation; members serve 4-year terms)
elections: last held on 23 March 2021 (next to be held in 2025)
election results: percent by party - Likud 24.2%, Yesh Atid 13.9%, Shas 7.2%, Blue and White 6.6%, Yamina 6.2%, Labor 6.1%, UTJ 5.6%, Yisrael Beiteinu 5.6%, Religious Zionist Party 5.1%, Joint List 4.8%, New Hope 4.7%, Meretz 4.6%, Ra'am 3.8%, other 0.5%; seats by party - Likud 30, Yesh Atid 17, Shas 9, Blue and White 8, Yamina 7, Labor 7, UTJ 7, Yisrael Beiteinu 7, Religious Zionist Party 6, Joint List 6, New Hope 6, Meretz 6, Ra'am 4; composition as of March 2022 - men 84, women 36, percentage of women 30%
Judicial branch: highest courts: Supreme Court (consists of the president, deputy president, 13 justices, and 2 registrars) and normally sits in panels of 3 justices; in special cases, the panel is expanded with an uneven number of justices
judge selection and term of office: judges selected by the 9-member Judicial Selection Committee, consisting of the Minister of Justice (chair), the president of the Supreme Court, two other Supreme Court justices, 1 other Cabinet minister, 2 Knesset members, and 2 representatives of the Israel Bar Association; judges can serve up to mandatory retirement at age 70
subordinate courts: district and magistrate courts; national and regional labor courts; family and juvenile courts; special and Rabbinical courts
Political parties and leaders: Blue and White [Benny GANTZ]
Joint Arab List [Ayman ODEH] (alliance includes Hadash, Ta’al, Balad)
Labor [Merav MICHAELI]
Likud [Binyamin NETANYAHU]
Meretz [Nitzan HOROWITZ]
New Hope [Gideon SA'AR]
United Arab List [Mansour ABBAS]
Religious Zionist Party [Bezalel SMOTRICH, chairperson]
SHAS [Aryeh DERI]
United Torah Judaism, or UTJ [Yaakov LITZMAN] (alliance includes Agudat Israel and Degel HaTorah)
Yamina [Naftali BENNETT]
Yesh Atid [Yair LAPID]
Yisrael Beiteinu [Avigdor LIEBERMAN]
Blue and White [Benny GANTZ]
Joint Arab List [Ayman ODEH] (alliance includes Hadash, Ta’al, Balad)
Labor [Merav MICHAELI]
Likud [Binyamin NETANYAHU]
Meretz [Nitzan HOROWITZ]
New Hope [Gideon SA'AR]
United Arab List [Mansour ABBAS]
Religious Zionist Party [Bezalel SMOTRICH, chairperson]
SHAS [Aryeh DERI]
United Torah Judaism, or UTJ [Yaakov LITZMAN] (alliance includes Agudat Israel and Degel HaTorah)
Yamina [Naftali BENNETT]
Yesh Atid [Yair LAPID]
Yisrael Beiteinu [Avigdor LIEBERMAN]
International organization participation: BIS, BSEC (observer), CE (observer), CERN, CICA, EBRD, FAO, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, IMSO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, OAS (observer), OECD, OPCW (signatory), OSCE (partner), Pacific Alliance (observer), Paris Club, PCA, SELEC (observer), UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Michael HERZOG (since 5 September 2021)
chancery: 3514 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 364-5500
FAX: [1] (202) 364-5607
email address and website:
consular@washington.mfa.gov.il
https://embassies.gov.il/washington/Pages/default.aspx
consulate(s) general: Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, San Francisco
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: ambassador Thomas NIDES (since 29 November 2021)
embassy: 14 David Flusser Street, Jerusalem, 9378322
mailing address: 6350 Jerusalem Place, Washington DC 20521-6350
telephone: [972] (2) 630-4000
FAX: [972] (2) 630-4070
email address and website:
JerusalemACS@state.gov
https://il.usembassy.gov/
branch office(s): Tel Aviv
note: on 14 May 2018, the US Embassy relocated to Jerusalem from Tel Aviv; on 4 March 2019, Consulate General Jerusalem merged into US Embassy Jerusalem to form a single diplomatic mission
Flag description: white with a blue hexagram (six-pointed linear star) known as the Magen David (Star of David or Shield of David) centered between two equal horizontal blue bands near the top and bottom edges of the flag; the basic design resembles a traditional Jewish prayer shawl (tallit), which is white with blue stripes; the hexagram as a Jewish symbol dates back to medieval times
note: the Israeli flag proclamation states that the flag colors are sky blue and white, but the exact shade of blue has never been set and can vary from a light to a dark blue
National symbol(s): Star of David (Magen David), menorah (seven-branched lampstand); national colors: blue, white
National anthem: name: "Hatikvah" (The Hope)
lyrics/music: Naftali Herz IMBER/traditional, arranged by Samuel COHEN
note: adopted 2004, unofficial since 1948; used as the anthem of the Zionist movement since 1897; the 1888 arrangement by Samuel COHEN is thought to be based on the Romanian folk song "Carul cu boi" (The Ox Driven Cart)
National heritage: total World Heritage Sites: 9 (all cultural)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Masada; Old City of Acre; White City of Tel-Aviv - the Modern Movement; Biblical Tels - Megiddo, Hazor, Beer Sheba; Incense Route - Desert Cities in the Negev; Bahá’i Holy Places; Sites of Human Evolution at Mount Carmel; Caves of Maresha and Bet-Guvrin; Necropolis of Bet She’arim
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Israel has a technologically advanced free market economy. Cut diamonds, high-technology equipment, and pharmaceuticals are among its leading exports. Its major imports include crude oil, grains, raw materials, and military equipment. Israel usually posts sizable trade deficits, which are offset by tourism and other service exports, as well as significant foreign investment inflows. Since March 2020, economic growth has slowed compared to recent historical averages, but Israel's slump has been less severe than in other Middle Eastern countries because of its swift vaccine roll-out and diversified economic base. Between 2016 and 2019, growth averaged 3.6% per year, led by exports. Israel's new government is hoping to pass the country's first budget in two years, which, combined with prudent fiscal policy and strong global trade ties would probably enable Israel to recover from economic challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Natural gas fields discovered off Israel's coast since 2009 have brightened Israel's energy security outlook. The Tamar and Leviathan fields were some of the world's largest offshore natural gas finds in the last decade. In 2020, Israel began exporting gas to Egypt and Jordan. Income inequality and high housing and commodity prices continue to be a concern for many Israelis. Israel's income inequality and poverty rates are among the highest of OECD countries, and there is a broad perception among the public that a small number of "tycoons" have a cartel-like grip over the major parts of the economy. Government officials have called for reforms to boost the housing supply and to increase competition in the banking sector to address these public grievances. Despite calls for reforms, the restricted housing supply continues to impact younger Israelis seeking to purchase homes. Tariffs and non-tariff barriers, coupled with guaranteed prices and customs tariffs for farmers kept food prices high. Private consumption is expected to drive growth through 2021, with consumers benefitting from low inflation and a strong currency. In the long term, Israel faces structural issues including low labor participation rates for its fastest growing social segments - the ultraorthodox and Arab-Israeli communities. Also, Israel's progressive, globally competitive, knowledge-based technology sector employs only about 8% of the workforce, with the rest mostly employed in manufacturing and services - sectors which face downward wage pressures from global competition. Expenditures on educational institutions remain low compared to most other OECD countries with similar GDP per capita.Israel has a technologically advanced free market economy. Cut diamonds, high-technology equipment, and pharmaceuticals are among its leading exports. Its major imports include crude oil, grains, raw materials, and military equipment. Israel usually posts sizable trade deficits, which are offset by tourism and other service exports, as well as significant foreign investment inflows. Since March 2020, economic growth has slowed compared to recent historical averages, but Israel's slump has been less severe than in other Middle Eastern countries because of its swift vaccine roll-out and diversified economic base. Between 2016 and 2019, growth averaged 3.6% per year, led by exports. Israel's new government is hoping to pass the country's first budget in two years, which, combined with prudent fiscal policy and strong global trade ties would probably enable Israel to recover from economic challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Natural gas fields discovered off Israel's coast since 2009 have brightened Israel's energy security outlook. The Tamar and Leviathan fields were some of the world's largest offshore natural gas finds in the last decade. In 2020, Israel began exporting gas to Egypt and Jordan. Income inequality and high housing and commodity prices continue to be a concern for many Israelis. Israel's income inequality and poverty rates are among the highest of OECD countries, and there is a broad perception among the public that a small number of "tycoons" have a cartel-like grip over the major parts of the economy. Government officials have called for reforms to boost the housing supply and to increase competition in the banking sector to address these public grievances. Despite calls for reforms, the restricted housing supply continues to impact younger Israelis seeking to purchase homes. Tariffs and non-tariff barriers, coupled with guaranteed prices and customs tariffs for farmers kept food prices high. Private consumption is expected to drive growth through 2021, with consumers benefitting from low inflation and a strong currency. In the long term, Israel faces structural issues including low labor participation rates for its fastest growing social segments - the ultraorthodox and Arab-Israeli communities. Also, Israel's progressive, globally competitive, knowledge-based technology sector employs only about 8% of the workforce, with the rest mostly employed in manufacturing and services - sectors which face downward wage pressures from global competition. Expenditures on educational institutions remain low compared to most other OECD countries with similar GDP per capita.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $353.39 billion (2020 est.)
$362.23 billion (2019 est.)
$350.15 billion (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: -2.6% (2020 est.)
3.28% (2019 est.)
3.69% (2018 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $38,300 (2020 est.)
$40,000 (2019 est.)
$39,400 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $394.93 billion (2019 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 1.8% (2020 est.)
0.8% (2019 est.)
0.8% (2018 est.)
Credit ratings: Fitch rating: A+ (2016)
Moody's rating: A1 (2008)
Standard & Poors rating: AA- (2018)
Note: The year refers to the year in which the current credit rating was first obtained.
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 2.4% (2017 est.)
industry: 26.5% (2017 est.)
services: 69.5% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 55.1% (2017 est.)
government consumption: 22.8% (2017 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 20.1% (2017 est.)
investment in inventories: 0.7% (2017 est.)
exports of goods and services: 28.9% (2017 est.)
imports of goods and services: -27.5% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: milk, potatoes, poultry, tomatoes, carrots, turnips, tangerines/mandarins, green chillies/peppers, eggs, vegetables
Industries: high-technology products (including aviation, communications, computer-aided design and manufactures, medical electronics, fiber optics), wood and paper products, potash and phosphates, food, beverages, and tobacco, caustic soda, cement, pharmaceuticals, construction, metal products, chemical products, plastics, cut diamonds, textiles, footwear
Industrial production growth rate: 3.5% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 3.893 million (2020 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 1.1%
industry: 17.3%
services: 81.6% (2015 est.)
Unemployment rate: 4.4% (2020 est.)
3.81% (2019 est.)
4% (2018 est.)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 7.9%
male: 7.6%
female: 8.2% (2020 est.)
Population below poverty line: 22% (2014 est.)
note: Israel's poverty line is $7.30 per person per day
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 37 (2018 est.)
39 (2016 est.)
39.2 (2008)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: 1.7%
highest 10%: 31.3% (2010)
Budget: revenues: 93.11 billion (2017 est.)
expenditures: 100.2 billion (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): -2% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 72.6% of GDP (2020 est.)
59.6% of GDP (2019 est.)
60.4% of GDP (2018 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 26.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: calendar year
Current account balance: $20.642 billion (2020 est.)
$13.411 billion (2019 est.)
$7.888 billion (2018 est.)
Exports: $113.87 billion (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$115.57 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$110.05 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Exports - partners: United States 26%, China 9%, United Kingdom 7% (2020)
Exports - commodities: diamonds, packaged medicines, medical instruments, integrated circuits, refined petroleum (2019)
Imports: $96.53 billion (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$108.26 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$107.74 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Imports - partners: United States 12%, China 11%, Germany 7.5%, Switzerland 7%, Turkey 6% (2020)
Imports - commodities: diamonds, cars, crude petroleum, refined petroleum, broadcasting equipment (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $173.292 billion (2020 est.)
$113 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
$95.45 billion (31 December 2016 est.)
Debt - external: $132.5 billion (31 December 2020 est.)
$99.886 billion (2019 est.)
$94.247 billion (2018 est.)
Exchange rates: new Israeli shekels (ILS) per US dollar -
3.44 (2020 est.)
3.4684 (2019 est.)
3.7332 (2018 est.)
3.8869 (2014 est.)
3.5779 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Electricity - production: 63.09 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 55 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 5.2 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - imports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 17.59 million kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 95% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 5% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 390 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 231,600 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 12.73 million bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 294,300 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 242,200 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 111,700 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 98,860 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Natural gas - production: 9.826 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 9.995 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 509.7 million cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 176 billion cu m (1 January 2018 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 3.37 million (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 39 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 12.27 million (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 142 (2020 est.)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: Israel has a highly developed economy with focus on technology products; investment in cyber-security industry and hub for start-ups; near universal broadband delivery to households and mobile penetration; LTE coverage, expanded fiber network with plans for 5G; emergency law allows mobile tracking; importer of broadcast equipment, integrated circuits, and computers from China; submarine cable connectivity to Europe (2020)
domestic: good system of coaxial cable and microwave radio relay; all systems are digital; competition among both fixed-line and mobile cellular providers results in good coverage countrywide; fixed-line nearly 36 per 100 and nearly 132 per 100 for mobile-cellular subscriptions (2020)
international: country code - 972; landing points for the MedNautilus Submarine System, Tameres North, Jonah and Lev Submarine System, submarine cables that provide links to Europe, Cyprus, and parts of the Middle East; satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (2 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) (2019)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: the Israel Broadcasting Corporation (est 2015) broadcasts on 3 channels, two in Hebrew and the other in Arabic; multi-channel satellite and cable TV packages provide access to foreign channels; the Israeli Broadcasting Corporation broadcasts on 8 radio networks with multiple repeaters and Israel Defense Forces Radio broadcasts over multiple stations; about 15 privately owned radio stations; overall more than 100 stations and repeater stations (2019)
Internet country code: .il
Internet users: total: 8,293,590 (2020 est.)
percent of population: 90% (2020 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 2,602,079 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 30 (2020 est.)
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 6 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 64
annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 7,404,373 (2018)
annual freight traffic on registered air carriers: 994.54 million (2018) mt-km
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: 4X
Airports: total: 42 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 33
over 3,047 m: 3
2,438 to 3,047 m: 5
1,524 to 2,437 m: 5
914 to 1,523 m: 12
under 914 m: 8 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 9
914 to 1,523 m: 3
under 914 m: 6 (2021)
Heliports: 3 (2021)
Pipelines: 763 km gas, 442 km oil, 261 km refined products (2013)
Railways: total: 1,599 km (2019) (2019)
standard gauge: 1,384 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge
Roadways: total: 19,555 km (2017)
paved: 19,555 km (2017) (includes 449 km of expressways)
Merchant marine: total: 41
by type: container ship 6, general cargo 2, oil tanker 4, other 29 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Ashdod, Elat (Eilat), Hadera, Haifa
container port(s) (TEUs): Ashdod (1,584,000) (2019)
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: Israel Defense Forces (IDF): Ground Forces, Israel Naval Force (IN, includes commandos), Israel Air Force (IAF, includes air defense); Ministry of Public Security: Border Police (2021)
note - the Border Police is a unit within the Israel Police with its own organizational and command structure; it works both independently as well as in cooperation with or in support of the Israel Police and the IDF
Military expenditures: 5% of GDP (2021 est.)
5% of GDP (2020 est.)
5.2% of GDP (2019 est.) (approximately $20 billion)
5.3% of GDP (2018 est.) (approximately $19.9 billion)
5.5% of GDP (2017 est.) (approximately $19.7 billion)
Military and security service personnel strengths: approximately 173,000 active personnel (130,000 Ground Forces; 9,000 Naval; 34,000 Air Force) (2021)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the majority of the IDF's inventory is comprised of weapons that are domestically-produced or imported from Europe and the US; since 2010, the US is the leading supplier of arms to Israel; Israel has a broad defense industrial base that can develop, produce, support, and sustain a wide variety of weapons systems for both domestic use and export, particularly armored vehicles, unmanned aerial systems, air defense, and guided missiles (2021)
Military service age and obligation: 18 years of age for compulsory military service; 17 years of age for voluntary military service; Jews and Druze can be conscripted; Christians, Circassians, and Muslims may volunteer; both sexes are obligated to military service; conscript liability 48 months for officers, 32 months for other ranks, 24 for women; conscript service obligation - 32 months for enlisted men and about 24 months for enlisted women (varies based on military occupation), 48 months for officers; pilots commit to 9-year service; reserve obligation to age 41-51 (men), age 24 (women) (2021)
note(s) - women have served in the Israeli military since its establishment in 1948; as of 2021, women made up about 35% of IDF personnel; more than 90% of military specialties, including combat specialties, were open to women and more than 3,000 women were serving in combat units; the IDF's first mixed-gender infantry unit, the Caracal Battalion, was established in 2004; as of 2021, conscripts comprised about 70% of the IDF ground forces
Military - note: the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) has operated in the Golan between Israel and Syria since 1974 to monitor the ceasefire following the 1973 Arab-Israeli War and supervise the areas of separation between the two countries; as of February 2022, UNDOF consisted of about 1,100 personnel
as of 2022 and since the outbreak of the Syrian civil war in 2011, Israel has routinely carried out air strikes in Syria targeting Iranian, Iranian-backed militia and Hizballah forces, and some Syrian Government troops; over the same period, the IDF has carried out numerous strikes against Hizballah in Lebanon in response to attacks on Israeli territory; Israel fought a month-long war in Lebanon with Hizballah in 2006 (see Appendix-T for details on Hizballah) as of 2021, the IDF also conducted frequent operations against the HAMAS and Palestine Islamic Jihad (PIJ) terrorist groups operating out of the Gaza Strip; since seizing control of the Gaza Strip in 2007, HAMAS has claimed responsibility for numerous rocket attacks into Israel and organized protests at the border between Gaza and Israel, resulting in violent clashes, casualties, and reprisal military actions by the IDF; HAMAS and Israel fought an 11-day conflict in May of 2021, which ended in an informal truce; sporadic clashes continued through 2021, including incendiary balloon attacks from Palestinian territory and retaliatory IDF strikes; PIJ has conducted numerous attacks on Israel since the 1980s, including a barrage of mortar and rocket strikes in February 2020 (see Appendix-T for more details on HAMAS and Palestine Islamic Jihad)
Israel has Major Non-NATO Ally (MNNA) status with the US; MNNA is a designation under US law that provides foreign partners with certain benefits in the areas of defense trade and security cooperation; while MNNA status provides military and economic privileges, it does not entail any security commitmentsas of 2022 and since the outbreak of the Syrian civil war in 2011, Israel has routinely carried out air strikes in Syria targeting Iranian, Iranian-backed militia and Hizballah forces, and some Syrian Government troops; over the same period, the IDF has carried out numerous strikes against Hizballah in Lebanon in response to attacks on Israeli territory; Israel fought a month-long war in Lebanon with Hizballah in 2006 (see Appendix-T for details on Hizballah)as of 2021, the IDF also conducted frequent operations against the HAMAS and Palestine Islamic Jihad (PIJ) terrorist groups operating out of the Gaza Strip; since seizing control of the Gaza Strip in 2007, HAMAS has claimed responsibility for numerous rocket attacks into Israel and organized protests at the border between Gaza and Israel, resulting in violent clashes, casualties, and reprisal military actions by the IDF; HAMAS and Israel fought an 11-day conflict in May of 2021, which ended in an informal truce; sporadic clashes continued through 2021, including incendiary balloon attacks from Palestinian territory and retaliatory IDF strikes; PIJ has conducted numerous attacks on Israel since the 1980s, including a barrage of mortar and rocket strikes in February 2020 (see Appendix-T for more details on HAMAS and Palestine Islamic Jihad)
Israel has Major Non-NATO Ally (MNNA) status with the US; MNNA is a designation under US law that provides foreign partners with certain benefits in the areas of defense trade and security cooperation; while MNNA status provides military and economic privileges, it does not entail any security commitments
Topic: Terrorism
Terrorist group(s): Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS); Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine; Palestinian Islamic Jihad
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: West Bank is Israeli-occupied with current status subject to the Israeli-Palestinian Interim Agreement - permanent status to be determined through further negotiation; in 2002, Israel began construction of a "seam line" separation barrier along parts of the Green Line and within the West Bank; as of mid-2020, plans were to continue barrier construction; Israel withdrew its settlers and military from the Gaza Strip and from four settlements in the West Bank in August 2005; Golan Heights is Israeli-controlled (Lebanon claims the Shab'a Farms area of Golan Heights); in March 2019, the US Government recognized Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights; since 1948, about 350 peacekeepers from the UN Truce Supervision Organization headquartered in Jerusalem monitor ceasefires, supervise armistice agreements, prevent isolated incidents from escalating, and assist other UN personnel in the regionWest Bank is Israeli-occupied with current status subject to the Israeli-Palestinian Interim Agreement - permanent status to be determined through further negotiation; in 2002, Israel began construction of a "seam line" separation barrier along parts of the Green Line and within the West Bank; as of mid-2020, plans were to continue barrier construction; Israel withdrew its settlers and military from the Gaza Strip and from four settlements in the West Bank in August 2005; Golan Heights is Israeli-controlled (Lebanon claims the Shab'a Farms area of Golan Heights); in March 2019, the US Government recognized Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights; since 1948, about 350 peacekeepers from the UN Truce Supervision Organization headquartered in Jerusalem monitor ceasefires, supervise armistice agreements, prevent isolated incidents from escalating, and assist other UN personnel in the region
Refugees and internally displaced persons: refugees (country of origin): 12,181 (Eritrea), 5,061 (Ukraine) (2019)
stateless persons: 42 (mid-year 2021)
Illicit drugs: increasingly concerned about ecstasy, cocaine, and heroin abuse; drugs arrive in country from Lebanon and, increasingly, from Jordan; money-laundering center |
20220601 | countries-burma |
Topic: Photos of Burma
Topic: Introduction
Background: Burma, colonized by Britain in the 19th century and granted independence post-World War II, contains ethnic Burman and scores of other ethnic and religious minority groups that have all resisted external efforts to consolidate control of the country throughout its history, extending to the several minority groups today that possess independent fighting forces and control pockets of territory. Burman and armed ethnic minorities fought off-and-on until military Gen. NE WIN seized power in 1962. He ruled Burma until 1988 when a military junta took control. In 1990, the junta permitted an election but then rejected the results when the main opposition National League for Democracy (NLD) and its leader AUNG SAN SUU KYI (ASSK) won in a landslide. The junta placed ASSK under house arrest for much of the next 20 years, until November 2010. In 2007, rising fuel prices in Burma led pro-democracy activists and Buddhist monks to launch a "Saffron Revolution" consisting of large protests against the ruling junta, which violently suppressed the movement by killing an unknown number of participants and arresting thousands. The regime prevented new elections until it had drafted a constitution designed to preserve its control; it passed the new constitution in its 2008 referendum, days after Cyclone Nargis killed at least 138,000. The junta conducted an election in 2010, but the NLD boycotted the vote, and the military’s Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) easily won; international observers denounced the election as flawed.
With former or current military officers installed in its most senior positions, Burma began a halting process of political and economic reforms. Officials freed prisoners, brokered ceasefires with ethnic armed organizations (EAOs), amended courts, expanded civil liberties, brought ASSK into government in 2012, and permitted the NLD in 2015 to take power after a sweeping electoral win. However, Burma’s first credibly elected civilian government, with ASSK as the de facto head of state, faced strong headwinds after five decades of military dictatorship. The NLD government drew international criticism for blocking investigations of Burma’s military for operations, which the U.S. Department of State determined constituted genocide, on its Rohingya population that killed thousands and forced more than 740,000 Rohingya to flee into neighboring Bangladesh. The military did not support an NLD pledge in 2019 to examine reforming the military’s 2008 constitution. When the 2020 elections resulted in further NLD gains, the military denounced them as fraudulent. This challenge led Commander-in-Chief Sr. General MIN AUNG HLAING (MAH) to launch a coup in February 2021 that has left Burma reeling with the return to authoritarian rule, the detention of ASSK and thousands of pro-democracy actors, and renewed brutal repression against protestors, widespread violence, and economic decline.Burma, colonized by Britain in the 19th century and granted independence post-World War II, contains ethnic Burman and scores of other ethnic and religious minority groups that have all resisted external efforts to consolidate control of the country throughout its history, extending to the several minority groups today that possess independent fighting forces and control pockets of territory. Burman and armed ethnic minorities fought off-and-on until military Gen. NE WIN seized power in 1962. He ruled Burma until 1988 when a military junta took control. In 1990, the junta permitted an election but then rejected the results when the main opposition National League for Democracy (NLD) and its leader AUNG SAN SUU KYI (ASSK) won in a landslide. The junta placed ASSK under house arrest for much of the next 20 years, until November 2010. In 2007, rising fuel prices in Burma led pro-democracy activists and Buddhist monks to launch a "Saffron Revolution" consisting of large protests against the ruling junta, which violently suppressed the movement by killing an unknown number of participants and arresting thousands. The regime prevented new elections until it had drafted a constitution designed to preserve its control; it passed the new constitution in its 2008 referendum, days after Cyclone Nargis killed at least 138,000. The junta conducted an election in 2010, but the NLD boycotted the vote, and the military’s Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) easily won; international observers denounced the election as flawed.
With former or current military officers installed in its most senior positions, Burma began a halting process of political and economic reforms. Officials freed prisoners, brokered ceasefires with ethnic armed organizations (EAOs), amended courts, expanded civil liberties, brought ASSK into government in 2012, and permitted the NLD in 2015 to take power after a sweeping electoral win. However, Burma’s first credibly elected civilian government, with ASSK as the de facto head of state, faced strong headwinds after five decades of military dictatorship. The NLD government drew international criticism for blocking investigations of Burma’s military for operations, which the U.S. Department of State determined constituted genocide, on its Rohingya population that killed thousands and forced more than 740,000 Rohingya to flee into neighboring Bangladesh. The military did not support an NLD pledge in 2019 to examine reforming the military’s 2008 constitution. When the 2020 elections resulted in further NLD gains, the military denounced them as fraudulent. This challenge led Commander-in-Chief Sr. General MIN AUNG HLAING (MAH) to launch a coup in February 2021 that has left Burma reeling with the return to authoritarian rule, the detention of ASSK and thousands of pro-democracy actors, and renewed brutal repression against protestors, widespread violence, and economic decline.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Southeastern Asia, bordering the Andaman Sea and the Bay of Bengal, between Bangladesh and Thailand
Geographic coordinates: 22 00 N, 98 00 E
Map references: Southeast Asia
Area: total: 676,578 sq km
land: 653,508 sq km
water: 23,070 sq km
Area - comparative: slightly smaller than Texas
Land boundaries: total: 6,522 km
border countries (5): Bangladesh 271 km; China 2,129 km; India 1,468 km; Laos 238 km; Thailand 2,416 km
Coastline: 1,930 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
Climate: tropical monsoon; cloudy, rainy, hot, humid summers (southwest monsoon, June to September); less cloudy, scant rainfall, mild temperatures, lower humidity during winter (northeast monsoon, December to April)
Terrain: central lowlands ringed by steep, rugged highlands
Elevation: highest point: Gamlang Razi 5,870 m
lowest point: Andaman Sea/Bay of Bengal 0 m
mean elevation: 702 m
Natural resources: petroleum, timber, tin, antimony, zinc, copper, tungsten, lead, coal, marble, limestone, precious stones, natural gas, hydropower, arable land
Land use: agricultural land: 19.2% (2018 est.)
arable land: 16.5% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 2.2% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 0.5% (2018 est.)
forest: 48.2% (2018 est.)
other: 32.6% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 22,950 sq km (2012)
Major rivers (by length in km): Mekong (shared with China [s], Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam [m]) - 4,350 km; Salween river mouth (shared with China [s] and Thailand) - 3,060 km; Irrawaddy river mouth (shared with China [s]) - 2,809 km; Chindwin - 1,158 km
note – [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
Major watersheds (area sq km): Indian Ocean drainage: Brahmaputra (651,335 sq km), Ganges (1,016,124 sq km), Irrawaddy (413,710 sq km), Salween (271,914 sq km)
Pacific Ocean drainage: Mekong (805,604 sq km)
Population distribution: population concentrated along coastal areas and in general proximity to the shores of the Irrawaddy River; the extreme north is relatively underpopulated
Natural hazards: destructive earthquakes and cyclones; flooding and landslides common during rainy season (June to September); periodic droughts
Geography - note: strategic location near major Indian Ocean shipping lanes; the north-south flowing Irrawaddy River is the country's largest and most important commercial waterway
Map description: Burma map showing major cities as well as parts of surrounding countries and the Andaman Sea.Burma map showing major cities as well as parts of surrounding countries and the Andaman Sea.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 57,526,449 (2022 est.)
Nationality: noun: Burmese (singular and plural)
adjective: Burmese
Ethnic groups: Burman (Bamar) 68%, Shan 9%, Karen 7%, Rakhine 4%, Chinese 3%, Indian 2%, Mon 2%, other 5%
note: government recognizes 135 indigenous ethnic groups
Languages: Burmese (official)
major-language sample(s):
ကမ္ဘာ့အချက်အလက်စာအုပ်- အခြေခံအချက်အလက်တွေအတွက် မရှိမဖြစ်တဲ့ အရင်းအမြစ် (Burmese)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
note: minority ethnic groups use their own languages
Religions: Buddhist 87.9%, Christian 6.2%, Muslim 4.3%, Animist 0.8%, Hindu 0.5%, other 0.2%, none 0.1% (2014 est.)
note: religion estimate is based on the 2014 national census, including an estimate for the non-enumerated population of Rakhine State, which is assumed to mainly affiliate with the Islamic faith; as of December 2019, Muslims probably make up less than 3% of Burma's total population due to the large outmigration of the Rohingya population since 2017
Demographic profile: Burma’s 2014 national census – the first in more than 30 years – revealed that the country’s total population is approximately 51.5 million, significantly lower than the Burmese Government’s prior estimate of 61 million. The Burmese Government assumed that the 2% population growth rate between 1973 and 1983 remained constant and that emigration was zero, ignoring later sample surveys showing declining fertility rates and substantial labor migration abroad in recent decades. These factors reduced the estimated average annual growth rate between 2003 and 2014 to about .9%. Among Southeast Asian countries, Burma’s life expectancy is among the lowest and its infant and maternal mortality rates are among the highest. The large difference in life expectancy between women and men has resulted in older age cohorts consisting of far more women than men. Burma’s demographic transition began in the 1950s, when mortality rates began to drop. Fertility did not start to decrease until the 1960s, sustaining high population growth until the decline accelerated in the 1980s. The birth rate has held fairly steady from 2000 until today. Since the 1970s, the total fertility rate (TFR) has fallen more than 60%, from almost 6 children per woman to 2.2 in 2016. The reduced TFR is largely a result of women marrying later and more women never marrying, both being associated with greater educational attainment and labor force participation among women. TFR, however, varies regionally, between urban and rural areas, by educational attainment, and among ethnic groups, with fertility lowest in urban areas (where it is below replacement level). The shift in Burma’s age structure has been slow (45% of the population is still under 25 years of age) and uneven among its socioeconomic groups. Any economic boost from the growth of the working-age population is likely to take longer to develop, to have a smaller impact, and to be distributed unequally. Rural poverty and unemployment continue to drive high levels of internal and international migration. The majority of labor migration is internal, mainly from rural to urban areas. The new government’s growing regional integration, reforms, and improved diplomatic relations are increasing the pace of international migration and destination choices. As many as 4-5 million Burmese, mostly from rural areas and several ethnic groups, have taken up unskilled jobs abroad in agriculture, fishing, manufacturing, and domestic service. Thailand is the most common destination, hosting about 70% of Burma’s international migrants, followed by Malaysia, China, and Singapore. Burma is a patchwork of more than 130 religious and ethnic groups, distinguishing it as one of the most diverse countries in the region. Ethnic minorities face substantial discrimination, and the Rohingya, the largest Muslim group, are arguably the most persecuted population in the country. The Burmese Government and the Buddhist majority see the Rohingya as a threat to identity, competitors for jobs and resources, terrorists, and some still resent them for their alliance with Burma’s British colonizers during its 19th century. Since at least the 1960s, they have been subjected to systematic human rights abuses, violence, marginalization, and disenfranchisement, which authorities continue to deny. Despite living in Burma for centuries, many Burmese see the Rohingya as illegal Bengali immigrants and refer to them Bengalis. As a result, the Rohingya have been classified as foreign residents and stripped of their citizenship, rendering them one of the largest stateless populations in the world. Hundreds of thousands of Burmese from various ethnic groups have been internally displaced (an estimated 644,000 as of year-end 2016) or have fled to neighboring countries over the decades because of persecution, armed conflict, rural development projects, drought, and natural disasters. Bangladesh has absorbed the most refugees from Burma, with an estimated 33,000 officially recognized and 200,000 to 500,000 unrecognized Rohingya refugees, as of 2016. An escalation in violation has caused a surge in the inflow of Rohingya refugees since late August 2017, raising the number to an estimated 870,000. As of June 2017, another approximately 132,500 refugees, largely Rohingya and Chin, were living in Malaysia, and more than 100,000, mostly Karen, were housed in camps along the Burma-Thailand border. Burma’s 2014 national census – the first in more than 30 years – revealed that the country’s total population is approximately 51.5 million, significantly lower than the Burmese Government’s prior estimate of 61 million. The Burmese Government assumed that the 2% population growth rate between 1973 and 1983 remained constant and that emigration was zero, ignoring later sample surveys showing declining fertility rates and substantial labor migration abroad in recent decades. These factors reduced the estimated average annual growth rate between 2003 and 2014 to about .9%. Among Southeast Asian countries, Burma’s life expectancy is among the lowest and its infant and maternal mortality rates are among the highest. The large difference in life expectancy between women and men has resulted in older age cohorts consisting of far more women than men.Burma’s demographic transition began in the 1950s, when mortality rates began to drop. Fertility did not start to decrease until the 1960s, sustaining high population growth until the decline accelerated in the 1980s. The birth rate has held fairly steady from 2000 until today. Since the 1970s, the total fertility rate (TFR) has fallen more than 60%, from almost 6 children per woman to 2.2 in 2016. The reduced TFR is largely a result of women marrying later and more women never marrying, both being associated with greater educational attainment and labor force participation among women. TFR, however, varies regionally, between urban and rural areas, by educational attainment, and among ethnic groups, with fertility lowest in urban areas (where it is below replacement level).The shift in Burma’s age structure has been slow (45% of the population is still under 25 years of age) and uneven among its socioeconomic groups. Any economic boost from the growth of the working-age population is likely to take longer to develop, to have a smaller impact, and to be distributed unequally. Rural poverty and unemployment continue to drive high levels of internal and international migration. The majority of labor migration is internal, mainly from rural to urban areas. The new government’s growing regional integration, reforms, and improved diplomatic relations are increasing the pace of international migration and destination choices. As many as 4-5 million Burmese, mostly from rural areas and several ethnic groups, have taken up unskilled jobs abroad in agriculture, fishing, manufacturing, and domestic service. Thailand is the most common destination, hosting about 70% of Burma’s international migrants, followed by Malaysia, China, and Singapore. Burma is a patchwork of more than 130 religious and ethnic groups, distinguishing it as one of the most diverse countries in the region. Ethnic minorities face substantial discrimination, and the Rohingya, the largest Muslim group, are arguably the most persecuted population in the country. The Burmese Government and the Buddhist majority see the Rohingya as a threat to identity, competitors for jobs and resources, terrorists, and some still resent them for their alliance with Burma’s British colonizers during its 19th century. Since at least the 1960s, they have been subjected to systematic human rights abuses, violence, marginalization, and disenfranchisement, which authorities continue to deny. Despite living in Burma for centuries, many Burmese see the Rohingya as illegal Bengali immigrants and refer to them Bengalis. As a result, the Rohingya have been classified as foreign residents and stripped of their citizenship, rendering them one of the largest stateless populations in the world. Hundreds of thousands of Burmese from various ethnic groups have been internally displaced (an estimated 644,000 as of year-end 2016) or have fled to neighboring countries over the decades because of persecution, armed conflict, rural development projects, drought, and natural disasters. Bangladesh has absorbed the most refugees from Burma, with an estimated 33,000 officially recognized and 200,000 to 500,000 unrecognized Rohingya refugees, as of 2016. An escalation in violation has caused a surge in the inflow of Rohingya refugees since late August 2017, raising the number to an estimated 870,000. As of June 2017, another approximately 132,500 refugees, largely Rohingya and Chin, were living in Malaysia, and more than 100,000, mostly Karen, were housed in camps along the Burma-Thailand border.
Age structure: 0-14 years: 25.97% (male 7,524,869/female 7,173,333)
15-24 years: 17% (male 4,852,122/female 4,769,412)
25-54 years: 42.76% (male 11,861,971/female 12,337,482)
55-64 years: 8.22% (male 2,179,616/female 2,472,681)
65 years and over: 6.04% (2020 est.) (male 1,489,807/female 1,928,778)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 46.5
youth dependency ratio: 37.3
elderly dependency ratio: 9.1
potential support ratio: 10.9 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 29.2 years
male: 28.3 years
female: 30 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 0.78% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 16.34 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 7.13 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: -1.37 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: population concentrated along coastal areas and in general proximity to the shores of the Irrawaddy River; the extreme north is relatively underpopulated
Urbanization: urban population: 31.8% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 1.85% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 5.514 million RANGOON (Yangon) (capital), 1.501 million Mandalay (2022)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.05 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.02 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 0.96 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 0.89 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.63 male(s)/female
total population: 0.97 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth: 24.7 years (2015/16 est.)
note: median age at first birth among women 25-49
Maternal mortality ratio: 250 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 32.94 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 36.18 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 29.52 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 69.92 years
male: 68.27 years
female: 71.67 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 2.02 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: 52.2% (2015/16)
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 95.4% of population
rural: 80.7% of population
total: 85.3% of population
unimproved: urban: 4.6% of population
rural: 19.3% of population
total: 14.7% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 4.7% (2019)
Physicians density: 0.68 physicians/1,000 population (2018)
Hospital bed density: 1 beds/1,000 population (2017)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 93.9% of population
rural: 81.3% of population
total: 85.2% of population
unimproved: urban: 6.1% of population
rural: 18.7% of population
total: 14.8% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: 0.6% (2019 est.)
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: 240,000 (2019 est.)
HIV/AIDS - deaths: 7,700 (2019 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: very high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial and protozoal diarrhea, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever
vectorborne diseases: dengue fever, malaria, and Japanese encephalitis
animal contact diseases: rabies
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 5.8% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: 19.1% (2017/18)
Child marriage: women married by age 15: 1.9% (2016)
women married by age 18: 16% (2016)
men married by age 18: 5% (2016 est.)
Education expenditures: 2% of GDP (2019)
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 89.1%
male: 92.4%
female: 86.3% (2019)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 11 years
male: 10 years
female: 11 years (2018)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 1.5%
male: 1.4%
female: 1.6% (2019 est.)
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: deforestation; industrial pollution of air, soil, and water; inadequate sanitation and water treatment contribute to disease; rapid depletion of the country's natural resources
Environment - international agreements: party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 2006, Wetlands
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 34.69 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 25.28 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 42.2 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: tropical monsoon; cloudy, rainy, hot, humid summers (southwest monsoon, June to September); less cloudy, scant rainfall, mild temperatures, lower humidity during winter (northeast monsoon, December to April)
Land use: agricultural land: 19.2% (2018 est.)
arable land: 16.5% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 2.2% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 0.5% (2018 est.)
forest: 48.2% (2018 est.)
other: 32.6% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 31.8% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 1.85% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 1.69% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0.01% of GDP (2018 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: very high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial and protozoal diarrhea, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever
vectorborne diseases: dengue fever, malaria, and Japanese encephalitis
animal contact diseases: rabies
Food insecurity: severe localized food insecurity: due to conflict, political instability, and economic constraints - the political crisis, following the military takeover on 1 February 2021, resulted in increased tensions and unrest throughout the country; the current uncertain political situation may further compromise the fragile situation of vulnerable households and the Rohingya IDPs residing in the country; armed conflict between the military and non‑state armed groups led to population displacements, disrupted agricultural activities and limited access for humanitarian support especially in Rakhine, Chin, Kachin, Kayin, Kayah and Shan states; income losses and a decline in remittances, due to the impact of the COVID‑19 pandemic, have affected the food security situation of vulnerable households (2022)
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 4,677,307 tons (2000 est.)
Major rivers (by length in km): Mekong (shared with China [s], Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam [m]) - 4,350 km; Salween river mouth (shared with China [s] and Thailand) - 3,060 km; Irrawaddy river mouth (shared with China [s]) - 2,809 km; Chindwin - 1,158 km
note – [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
Major watersheds (area sq km): Indian Ocean drainage: Brahmaputra (651,335 sq km), Ganges (1,016,124 sq km), Irrawaddy (413,710 sq km), Salween (271,914 sq km)
Pacific Ocean drainage: Mekong (805,604 sq km)
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 3.323 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 498.4 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 29.57 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 1,167,800,000,000 cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Union of Burma
conventional short form: Burma
local long form: Pyidaungzu Thammada Myanma Naingngandaw (translated as the Republic of the Union of Myanmar)
local short form: Myanma Naingngandaw
former: Socialist Republic of the Union of Burma, Union of Myanmar
etymology: both "Burma" and "Myanmar" derive from the name of the majority Burman (Bamar) ethnic group
note: since 1989 the military authorities in Burma and the deposed parliamentary government have promoted the name Myanmar as a conventional name for their state; the US Government has not officially adopted the name
Government type: parliamentary republic
Capital: name: Nay Pyi Taw (note - Yangon, aka Rangoon, is the former capital)
geographic coordinates: 19 74 N, 96 12 E
time difference: UTC+6.5 (11.5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: Nay Pyi Taw translates as: "Great City of the Sun" or "Abode of Kings"
Administrative divisions: 7 regions (taing-myar, singular - taing), 7 states (pyi ne-myar, singular - pyi ne), 1 union territory regions: Ayeyarwady (Irrawaddy), Bago, Magway, Mandalay, Sagaing, Tanintharyi, Yangon (Rangoon) states: Chin, Kachin, Kayah, Karen, Mon, Rakhine, Shan union territory: Nay Pyi Taw7 regions (taing-myar, singular - taing), 7 states (pyi ne-myar, singular - pyi ne), 1 union territoryregions: Ayeyarwady (Irrawaddy), Bago, Magway, Mandalay, Sagaing, Tanintharyi, Yangon (Rangoon)states: Chin, Kachin, Kayah, Karen, Mon, Rakhine, Shanunion territory: Nay Pyi Taw
Independence: 4 January 1948 (from the UK)
National holiday: Independence Day, 4 January (1948); Union Day, 12 February (1947)
Constitution: history: previous 1947, 1974 (suspended until 2008); latest drafted 9 April 2008, approved by referendum 29 May 2008
amendments: proposals require at least 20% approval by the Assembly of the Union membership; passage of amendments to sections of the constitution on basic principles, government structure, branches of government, state emergencies, and amendment procedures requires 75% approval by the Assembly and approval in a referendum by absolute majority of registered voters; passage of amendments to other sections requires only 75% Assembly approval; military granted 25% of parliamentary seats by default; amended 2015
Legal system: mixed legal system of English common law (as introduced in codifications designed for colonial India) and customary law
International law organization participation: has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; non-party state to the ICCt
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: no
citizenship by descent only: both parents must be citizens of Burma
dual citizenship recognized: no
residency requirement for naturalization: none
note: an applicant for naturalization must be the child or spouse of a citizen
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: Prime Minister, State Administration Council (SAC) Chair, Sr. Gen. MIN AUNG HLAING (since 1 August 2021); note - MIN AUNG HLAING self-appointed himself to the role of prime minister of a “caretaker” provisional government that subsumed the SAC on 1 August 2021; the SAC, chaired by MIN AUNG HLAING, served as the executive governing body since 2 February 2021, following the 1 February 2021 military takeover of the government and the declaration of a state of emergency and still exists under the provisional government according to state media
head of government: Prime Minister, State Administration Council (SAC) Chair, Sr. Gen. MIN AUNG HLAING (since 1 August 2021); note - MIN AUNG HLAING self-appointed himself to the role of prime minister of a “caretaker” provisional government that subsumed the SAC on 1 August 2021; the SAC, chaired by MIN AUNG HLAING, served as the executive governing body since 2 February 2021, following the 1 February 2021 military takeover of the government and the declaration of a state of emergency and still exists under the provisional government according to state media
cabinet: Cabinet appointments shared by the president and the commander-in-chief; note - after 1 February, the military junta replaced the cabinet
elections/appointments: prior to the military takeover, president was indirectly elected by simple majority vote by the full Assembly of the Union from among 3 vice-presidential candidates nominated by the Presidential Electoral College (consists of members of the lower and upper houses and military members); the other 2 candidates become vice-presidents (president elected for a 5-year term); election last held on 28 March 2018; the military junta pledged to hold new elections in 2023
election results: WIN MYINT elected president; Assembly of the Union vote - WIN MYINT (NLD) 403, MYINT SWE (USDP) 211, HENRY VAN THIO (NLD) 18, 4 votes canceled (636 votes cast); note - WIN MYINT and other key leaders of the ruling NLD party were placed under arrest following the military takeover on 1 February 2021
state counsellor: State Counselor AUNG SAN SUU KYI (since 6 April 2016); note - under arrest since 1 February 2021; formerly served as minister of foreign affairs and minister for the office of the president
note: a parliamentary bill creating the position of "state counsellor" was signed into law by former President HTIN KYAW on 6 April 2016; a state counsellor serves the equivalent term of the president and is similar to a prime minister in that the holder acts as a link between the parliament and the executive branch
Legislative branch: description: bicameral Assembly of the Union or Pyidaungsu consists of:
House of Nationalities or Amyotha Hluttaw, (224 seats; 168 members directly elected in single-seat constituencies by absolute majority vote with a second round if needed and 56 appointed by the military; members serve 5-year terms)
House of Representatives or Pyithu Hluttaw, (440 seats, currently 433; 330 members directly elected in single-seat constituencies by simple majority vote and 110 appointed by the military; members serve 5-year terms); note - on 1 February 2021, the military dissolved the Assembly of the Union; the State Administration Council (SAC) governs in place of the Assembly of the Union
elections: House of Nationalities - last held on 8 November 2020 (next to be held in 2025)
House of Representatives - last held on 8 November 2020 (next to be held in 2025); note - the military junta overturned the results of the 8 November legislative elections
election results: House of Nationalities - percent of vote by party - NLD 61.6%, USDP 3.1%, ANP 1.8%, MUP 1.3%, KSDP 1.3%, other 5.9%, military appointees 25%; seats by party - NLD 138, USDP 7, ANP 4, MUP 3, KSPD 3, SNLD 2, TNP 2, other 2, canceled due to insurgency 7, military appointees 56
House of Representatives - percent of vote by party - NLD 58.6%, USDP 5.9%, SNLD 3.0%, other 7.5%, military 25%; seats by party - NLD 258, USDP 26, SNLD 13, ANP 4, PNO 3, TNP 3, MUP 2, KSPD 2, other 4, canceled due to insurgency 15, military appointees 110
Judicial branch: highest courts: Supreme Court of the Union (consists of the chief justice and 7-11 judges)
judge selection and term of office: chief justice and judges nominated by the president, with approval of the Lower House, and appointed by the president; judges normally serve until mandatory retirement at age 70
subordinate courts: High Courts of the Region; High Courts of the State; Court of the Self-Administered Division; Court of the Self-Administered Zone; district and township courts; special courts (for juvenile, municipal, and traffic offenses); courts martial
Political parties and leaders: Arakan National Party or ANP [THAR TUN HLA]
Democratic Party or DP [U THU WAI]
Kayah State Democratic Party or KySDP
Kayin People's Party or KPP [TUN AUNG MYINT]
Kokang Democracy and Unity Party or KDUP [LUO XINGGUANG]
La Hu National Development Party or LHNDP [KYA HAR SHAL]
Lisu National Development Party or LNDP [U ARKI DAW]
Mon Unity Party (formed in 2019 from the All Mon Region Democracy Party and Mon National Party)
National Democratic Force or NDF [KHIN MAUNG SWE]
National League for Democracy or NLD [AUNG SAN SUU KYI]
National Unity Party or NUP [U HAN SHWE]
Pa-O National Organization or PNO [AUNG KHAM HTI]
People's Party [KO KO GYI]
Shan Nationalities Democratic Party or SNDP [SAI AI PAO]
Shan Nationalities League for Democracy or SNLD [KHUN HTUN OO]
Ta'ang National Party or TNP [AIK MONE]
Tai-Leng Nationalities Development Party or TNDP [ U SAI HTAY AUNG]
Union Solidarity and Development Party or USDP [THAN HTAY]
Unity and Democracy Party of Kachin State or UDPKS [U KHAT HTEIN NAN]
Wa Democratic Party or WDP [KHUN HTUN LU]
Wa National Unity Party or WNUP [NYI PALOTE]
Zomi Congress for Democracy or ZCD [PU CIN SIAN THANG]
numerous smaller parties
International organization participation: ADB, ARF, ASEAN, BIMSTEC, CP, EAS, EITI (candidate country), FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO (correspondent), ITU, ITUC (NGOs), NAM, OPCW (signatory), SAARC (observer), UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); HTWE Hteik Tin Lwin (Charge d'Affaires)
chancery: 2300 S Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 332-3344; [1] (202) 332-4250
FAX: [1] (202) 332-4351
email address and website:
pyi.thayar@verizon.net; washington-embassy@mofa.gov.mm
http://www.mewashingtondc.com/wordpress/
consulate(s) general: Los Angeles, New York
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Thomas J. VAJDA (since 19 January 2021)
embassy: 110 University Avenue, Kamayut Township, Rangoon
mailing address: 4250 Rangoon Place, Washington DC 20521-4250
telephone: [95] (1) 753-6509
FAX: [95] (1) 751-1069
email address and website:
ACSRangoon@state.gov
https://mm.usembassy.gov/
Flag description: design consists of three equal horizontal stripes of yellow (top), green, and red; centered on the green band is a large white five-pointed star that partially overlaps onto the adjacent colored stripes; the design revives the triband colors used by Burma from 1943-45, during the Japanese occupation
National symbol(s): chinthe (mythical lion); national colors: yellow, green, red, white
National anthem: name: "Kaba Ma Kyei" (Till the End of the World, Myanmar)
lyrics/music: SAYA TIN
note: adopted 1948; Burma is among a handful of non-European nations that have anthems rooted in indigenous traditions; the beginning portion of the anthem is a traditional Burmese anthem before transitioning into a Western-style orchestrated work
National heritage: total World Heritage Sites: 2 (both cultural)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Pyu Ancient Cities, Bagan
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Since Burma began the transition to a civilian-led government in 2011, the country initiated economic reforms aimed at attracting foreign investment and reintegrating into the global economy. Burma established a managed float of the Burmese kyat in 2012, granted the Central Bank operational independence in July 2013, enacted a new anti-corruption law in September 2013, and granted licenses to 13 foreign banks in 2014-16. State Counsellor AUNG SAN SUU KYI and the ruling National League for Democracy, who took power in March 2016, have sought to improve Burma’s investment climate following the US sanctions lift in October 2016 and reinstatement of Generalized System of Preferences trade benefits in November 2016. In October 2016, Burma passed a foreign investment law that consolidates investment regulations and eases rules on foreign ownership of businesses. Burma’s economic growth rate recovered from a low growth under 6% in 2011 but has been volatile between 6% and 8% between 2014 and 2018. Burma’s abundant natural resources and young labor force have the potential to attract foreign investment in the energy, garment, information technology, and food and beverage sectors. The government is focusing on accelerating agricultural productivity and land reforms, modernizing and opening the financial sector, and developing transportation and electricity infrastructure. The government has also taken steps to improve transparency in the mining and oil sectors through publication of reports under the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) in 2016 and 2018. Despite these improvements, living standards have not improved for the majority of the people residing in rural areas. Burma remains one of the poorest countries in Asia – approximately 26% of the country’s 51 million people live in poverty. The isolationist policies and economic mismanagement of previous governments have left Burma with poor infrastructure, endemic corruption, underdeveloped human resources, and inadequate access to capital, which will require a major commitment to reverse. The Burmese Government has been slow to address impediments to economic development such as unclear land rights, a restrictive trade licensing system, an opaque revenue collection system, and an antiquated banking system.Since Burma began the transition to a civilian-led government in 2011, the country initiated economic reforms aimed at attracting foreign investment and reintegrating into the global economy. Burma established a managed float of the Burmese kyat in 2012, granted the Central Bank operational independence in July 2013, enacted a new anti-corruption law in September 2013, and granted licenses to 13 foreign banks in 2014-16. State Counsellor AUNG SAN SUU KYI and the ruling National League for Democracy, who took power in March 2016, have sought to improve Burma’s investment climate following the US sanctions lift in October 2016 and reinstatement of Generalized System of Preferences trade benefits in November 2016. In October 2016, Burma passed a foreign investment law that consolidates investment regulations and eases rules on foreign ownership of businesses.Burma’s economic growth rate recovered from a low growth under 6% in 2011 but has been volatile between 6% and 8% between 2014 and 2018. Burma’s abundant natural resources and young labor force have the potential to attract foreign investment in the energy, garment, information technology, and food and beverage sectors. The government is focusing on accelerating agricultural productivity and land reforms, modernizing and opening the financial sector, and developing transportation and electricity infrastructure. The government has also taken steps to improve transparency in the mining and oil sectors through publication of reports under the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) in 2016 and 2018.Despite these improvements, living standards have not improved for the majority of the people residing in rural areas. Burma remains one of the poorest countries in Asia – approximately 26% of the country’s 51 million people live in poverty. The isolationist policies and economic mismanagement of previous governments have left Burma with poor infrastructure, endemic corruption, underdeveloped human resources, and inadequate access to capital, which will require a major commitment to reverse. The Burmese Government has been slow to address impediments to economic development such as unclear land rights, a restrictive trade licensing system, an opaque revenue collection system, and an antiquated banking system.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $247.24 billion (2020 est.)
$274.69 billion (2019 est.)
$270.11 billion (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 6.8% (2017 est.)
5.9% (2016 est.)
7% (2015 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $4,500 (2020 est.)
$5,100 (2019 est.)
$5,000 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $76.606 billion (2019 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 8.8% (2019 est.)
6.8% (2018 est.)
4.6% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 24.1% (2017 est.)
industry: 35.6% (2017 est.)
services: 40.3% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 59.2% (2017 est.)
government consumption: 13.8% (2017 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 33.5% (2017 est.)
investment in inventories: 1.5% (2017 est.)
exports of goods and services: 21.4% (2017 est.)
imports of goods and services: -28.6% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: rice, sugar cane, beans, vegetables, milk, maize, poultry, groundnuts, fruit, plantains
Industries: agricultural processing; wood and wood products; copper, tin, tungsten, iron; cement, construction materials; pharmaceuticals; fertilizer; oil and natural gas; garments; jade and gems
Industrial production growth rate: 8.9% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 22.3 million (2017 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 70%
industry: 7%
services: 23% (2001 est.)
Unemployment rate: 4% (2017 est.)
4% (2016 est.)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 1.5%
male: 1.4%
female: 1.6% (2019 est.)
Population below poverty line: 24.8% (2017 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 30.7 (2017 est.)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: 2.8%
highest 10%: 32.4% (1998)
Budget: revenues: 9.108 billion (2017 est.)
expenditures: 11.23 billion (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): -3.2% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 33.6% of GDP (2017 est.)
35.7% of GDP (2016 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 13.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March
Current account balance: $240 million (2019 est.)
-$2.398 billion (2018 est.)
Exports: $17.52 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$15.73 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
note: official export figures are grossly underestimated due to the value of timber, gems, narcotics, rice, and other products smuggled to Thailand, China, and Bangladesh
Exports - partners: China 24%, Thailand 24%, Japan 7%, Germany 5% (2019)
Exports - commodities: natural gas, clothing products, rice, copper, dried legumes (2019)
Imports: $17.36 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$18.66 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
note: import figures are grossly underestimated due to the value of consumer goods, diesel fuel, and other products smuggled in from Thailand, China, Malaysia, and India
Imports - partners: China 43%, Thailand 15%, Singapore 12%, Indonesia 5% (2019)
Imports - commodities: refined petroleum, broadcasting equipment, fabrics, motorcycles, packaged medicines (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $4.924 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
$4.63 billion (31 December 2016 est.)
Debt - external: $6.594 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
$8.2 billion (31 December 2016 est.)
Exchange rates: kyats (MMK) per US dollar -
1,361.9 (2017 est.)
1,234.87 (2016 est.)
1,234.87 (2015 est.)
1,162.62 (2014 est.)
984.35 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 51% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 76% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 39% (2019)
Electricity - production: 17.32 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 14.93 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - imports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 5.205 million kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 39% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 61% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 1% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 11,000 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 1,824 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 139 million bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 13,330 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 123,000 bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 102,600 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 18.41 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 4.502 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 14.07 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 637.1 billion cu m (1 January 2018 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 523,951 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 1 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 78,548,329 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 144 (2020 est.)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: Burma, one of the least developed telecom markets in Asia, saw growth in mobile and broadband services through foreign competition and roll out of 4G and 5G networks; infrastructure development challenged by flooding, unreliable electricity, inefficient bureaucracy, and corruption; digital divide affects rural areas; fixed broadband remains low due to number of fixed-lines and near saturation of the mobile platform; healthy m-banking platform; tests for NB-IoT; benefit from launch of regional satellite; government utilizes intermittent censorship and shut-down of Internet in political crisis; top importer of broadcasting equipment from China (2021) (2020)
domestic: fixed-line is just under 1 per 100, while mobile-cellular is roughly 90 per 100 (2019)
international: country code - 95; landing points for the SeaMeWe-3, SeaMeWe-5, AAE-1 and Singapore-Myanmar optical telecommunications submarine cable that provides links to Asia, the Middle East, Africa, Southeast Asia, Australia and Europe; satellite earth stations - 2, Intelsat (Indian Ocean) and ShinSat (2019)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: government controls all domestic broadcast media; 2 state-controlled TV stations with 1 of the stations controlled by the armed forces; 2 pay-TV stations are joint state-private ventures; access to satellite TV is limited; 1 state-controlled domestic radio station and 9 FM stations that are joint state-private ventures; transmissions of several international broadcasters are available in parts of Burma; the Voice of America (VOA), Radio Free Asia (RFA), BBC Burmese service, the Democratic Voice of Burma (DVB), and Radio Australia use shortwave to broadcast in Burma; VOA, RFA, and DVB produce daily TV news programs that are transmitted by satellite to audiences in Burma; in March 2017, the government granted licenses to 5 private broadcasters, allowing them digital free-to-air TV channels to be operated in partnership with government-owned Myanmar Radio and Television (MRTV) and will rely upon MRTV’s transmission infrastructure; following the February 2021 military coup, the regime revoked the media licenses of most independent outlets, including the free-to-air licenses for DVB and Mizzima (2022)
Internet country code: .mm
Internet users: total: 19,043,428 (2020 est.)
percent of population: 35% (2020 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 688,185 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 1.3 (2020 est.)
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 8 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 42
annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 3,407,788 (2018)
annual freight traffic on registered air carriers: 4.74 million (2018) mt-km
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: XY
Airports: total: 64 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 36
over 3,047 m: 12
2,438 to 3,047 m: 11
1,524 to 2,437 m: 12
under 914 m: 1 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 28
over 3,047 m: 1
1,524 to 2,437 m: 4
914 to 1,523 m: 10
under 914 m: 13 (2021)
Heliports: 11 (2021)
Pipelines: 3739 km gas, 1321 km oil (2017)
Railways: total: 5,031 km (2008)
narrow gauge: 5,031 km (2008) 1.000-m gauge
Roadways: total: 157,000 km (2013)
paved: 34,700 km (2013)
unpaved: 122,300 km (2013)
Waterways: 12,800 km (2011)
Merchant marine: total: 95
by type: bulk carrier 2, general cargo 39, oil tanker 5, other 49 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Mawlamyine (Moulmein), Sittwe
river port(s): Rangoon (Yangon) (Rangoon River)
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: Burmese Defense Service (Tatmadaw): Army (Tatmadaw Kyi), Navy (Tatmadaw Yay), Air Force (Tatmadaw Lay); People’s Militia; Ministry of Home Affairs: People's Police Force; Border Guard Forces/Police (2022)
note(s) - under the 2008 constitution, the Tatmadaw controls appointments of senior officials to lead the Ministry of Defense, the Ministry of Border Affairs, and the Ministry of Home Affairs; in March 2022, a new law gave the commander-in-chief of the Tatmadaw the authority to appoint or remove the head of the police force
Military expenditures: 4.1% of GDP (2019 est.) (approximately $7.7 billion)
4.4% of GDP (2018 est.) (approximately $8.1 billion)
4.7% of GDP (2017 est.) (approximately $7.8 billion)
4.9% of GDP (2016 est.) (approximately $7.8 billion)
5.1% of GDP (2015 est.) (approximately $7.9 billion)
Military and security service personnel strengths: estimates vary widely, from approximately 300,000 to as many as 400,000 total active duty personnel (2021)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the Burmese military inventory is comprised mostly of older Chinese and Russian/Soviet-era equipment with a smaller mix of more modern acquisitions; since 2010, China and Russia are the leading suppliers of military hardware; Burma has a limited defense industry, including a growing shipbuilding capability (2021)
Military service age and obligation: 18-35 years of age (men) and 18-27 years of age (women) for voluntary military service; no conscription (a 2010 law reintroducing conscription has not yet entered into force); 2-year service obligation; male (ages 18-45) and female (ages 18-35) professionals (including doctors, engineers, mechanics) serve up to 3 years; service terms may be stretched to 5 years in an officially declared emergency (2021)
Military - note: since the country's founding, the armed forces have been heavily involved in domestic politics, running the country for five decades following a military coup in 1962; prior to the 2021 coup, the military already controlled three key security ministries (Defense, Border, and Home Affairs), one of two vice presidential appointments, 25% of the parliamentary seats, and had a proxy political party, the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP)
as of 2022, the military owned and operated two business conglomerates that had over 100 subsidiaries and close ties to other companies; the business activities of these conglomerates included banking and insurance, hotels, tourism, jade and ruby mining, timber, construction, real estate, and the production of palm oil, sugar, soap, cement, beverages, drinking water, coal, and gas; some of the companies supplied goods and services to the military, such as food, clothing, insurance, and cellphone service; the military also managed a film industry, publishing houses, and television stations
as of 2022, the military's primary operational focus was internal security, particularly attempts to quell civilian armed resistance to the coup and counterinsurgency operations against ethnic-based insurgent groups; these operations have resulted in numerous civilian casualties, human rights abuses, and internal displacement ethnic-based armed groups have been fighting against the Burmese Government since the country’s 1948 independence; as of 2022, there were approximately 20 such groups operating in Burma with strengths of a few hundred up to more than 20,000 estimated fighters; they reportedly controlled about one-third of the country’s territory, primarily in the border regions; key groups included the United Wa State Army, Karen National Union, Kachin Independence Army, Arakan Army, Ta’ang National Liberation Army, and the Myanmar Nationalities Democratic Alliance Army as of 2022, 10 ethnic ethnic armed groups had signed a 2015 Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement with the government; following the 2021 coup, several armed ethnic groups have added their support to anti-junta resistance groups or joined forces with local units of the armed wing of Burma's pro-democracy movement, known collectively as the People's Defense Force (PDF); the PDF consisted of hundreds of loosely-organized groups of fighters as of 2022, Burma also had a large number (estimates run into the thousands) of armed militias which took many different forms and varied in allegiances and size; most were pro-military government and associated with the Tatmadaw; some were integrated within the Tatmadaw’s command structure as Border Guard Forces (BGF); the BGF were organized as 325-man battalions, which included a mix of militia forces, ethnic armed groups, and government soldiers; they were armed, supplied, and paid by the Tatmadaw; other pro-military government militias were not integrated within the Tatmadaw command structure, but received direction from the military and were recognized as government militias; the amount of support they received from the Tatmadaw varied depending on local security conditions; the third type of pro-military government militias were small community-based units that were armed, coordinated, and trained by local Tatmadaw forces and activated as needed; as of 2022, the military government was reportedly raising new militia units to help combat the popular uprising
since the country's founding, the armed forces have been heavily involved in domestic politics, running the country for five decades following a military coup in 1962; prior to the 2021 coup, the military already controlled three key security ministries (Defense, Border, and Home Affairs), one of two vice presidential appointments, 25% of the parliamentary seats, and had a proxy political party, the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP)
as of 2022, the military owned and operated two business conglomerates that had over 100 subsidiaries and close ties to other companies; the business activities of these conglomerates included banking and insurance, hotels, tourism, jade and ruby mining, timber, construction, real estate, and the production of palm oil, sugar, soap, cement, beverages, drinking water, coal, and gas; some of the companies supplied goods and services to the military, such as food, clothing, insurance, and cellphone service; the military also managed a film industry, publishing houses, and television stations
as of 2022, the military's primary operational focus was internal security, particularly attempts to quell civilian armed resistance to the coup and counterinsurgency operations against ethnic-based insurgent groups; these operations have resulted in numerous civilian casualties, human rights abuses, and internal displacementethnic-based armed groups have been fighting against the Burmese Government since the country’s 1948 independence; as of 2022, there were approximately 20 such groups operating in Burma with strengths of a few hundred up to more than 20,000 estimated fighters; they reportedly controlled about one-third of the country’s territory, primarily in the border regions; key groups included the United Wa State Army, Karen National Union, Kachin Independence Army, Arakan Army, Ta’ang National Liberation Army, and the Myanmar Nationalities Democratic Alliance Armyas of 2022, 10 ethnic ethnic armed groups had signed a 2015 Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement with the government; following the 2021 coup, several armed ethnic groups have added their support to anti-junta resistance groups or joined forces with local units of the armed wing of Burma's pro-democracy movement, known collectively as the People's Defense Force (PDF); the PDF consisted of hundreds of loosely-organized groups of fighters as of 2022, Burma also had a large number (estimates run into the thousands) of armed militias which took many different forms and varied in allegiances and size; most were pro-military government and associated with the Tatmadaw; some were integrated within the Tatmadaw’s command structure as Border Guard Forces (BGF); the BGF were organized as 325-man battalions, which included a mix of militia forces, ethnic armed groups, and government soldiers; they were armed, supplied, and paid by the Tatmadaw; other pro-military government militias were not integrated within the Tatmadaw command structure, but received direction from the military and were recognized as government militias; the amount of support they received from the Tatmadaw varied depending on local security conditions; the third type of pro-military government militias were small community-based units that were armed, coordinated, and trained by local Tatmadaw forces and activated as needed; as of 2022, the military government was reportedly raising new militia units to help combat the popular uprising
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: over half of Burma's population consists of diverse ethnic groups who have substantial numbers of kin in neighboring countries; Bangladesh struggles to accommodate 912,000 Rohingya, Burmese Muslim minority from Rakhine State, living as refugees in Cox's Bazar; Burmese border authorities are constructing a 200 km (124 mi) wire fence designed to deter illegal cross-border transit and tensions from the military build-up along border with Bangladesh in 2010; Bangladesh referred its maritime boundary claims with Burma and India to the International Tribunal on the Law of the Sea; Burmese forces attempting to dig in to the largely autonomous Shan State to rout local militias tied to the drug trade, prompts local residents to periodically flee into neighboring Yunnan Province in China; fencing along the India-Burma international border at Manipur's Moreh town is in progress to check illegal drug trafficking and movement of militants; over 100,000 mostly Karen refugees and asylum seekers fleeing civil strife, political upheaval, and economic stagnation in Burma were living in remote camps in Thailand near the border as of May 2017over half of Burma's population consists of diverse ethnic groups who have substantial numbers of kin in neighboring countries; Bangladesh struggles to accommodate 912,000 Rohingya, Burmese Muslim minority from Rakhine State, living as refugees in Cox's Bazar; Burmese border authorities are constructing a 200 km (124 mi) wire fence designed to deter illegal cross-border transit and tensions from the military build-up along border with Bangladesh in 2010; Bangladesh referred its maritime boundary claims with Burma and India to the International Tribunal on the Law of the Sea; Burmese forces attempting to dig in to the largely autonomous Shan State to rout local militias tied to the drug trade, prompts local residents to periodically flee into neighboring Yunnan Province in China; fencing along the India-Burma international border at Manipur's Moreh town is in progress to check illegal drug trafficking and movement of militants; over 100,000 mostly Karen refugees and asylum seekers fleeing civil strife, political upheaval, and economic stagnation in Burma were living in remote camps in Thailand near the border as of May 2017
Refugees and internally displaced persons: IDPs: 505,000 (government offensives against armed ethnic minority groups near its borders with China and Thailand, natural disasters, forced land evictions) (2020)
stateless persons: 600,000 (mid-year 2021); note - Rohingya Muslims, living predominantly in Rakhine State, are Burma's main group of stateless people; the Burmese Government does not recognize the Rohingya as a "national race" and stripped them of their citizenship under the 1982 Citizenship Law, categorizing them as "non-nationals" or "foreign residents"; under the Rakhine State Action Plan drafted in October 2014, the Rohingya must demonstrate their family has lived in Burma for at least 60 years to qualify for a lesser naturalized citizenship and the classification of Bengali or be put in detention camps and face deportation; native-born but non-indigenous people, such as Indians, are also stateless; the Burmese Government does not grant citizenship to children born outside of the country to Burmese parents who left the country illegally or fled persecution, such as those born in Thailand; the number of stateless persons has decreased dramatically because hundreds of thousands of Rohingya have fled to Bangladesh since 25 August 2017 to escape violence
note: estimate does not include stateless IDPs or stateless persons in IDP-like situations because they are included in estimates of IDPs (2017)
Trafficking in persons: current situation: human traffickers exploit men, women, and children through forced labor, and women and children in sex trafficking in Burma and abroad; Burmese men are forced to work domestically and abroad in fishing, manufacturing, forestry, agriculture, and construction; fishermen are lured into forced labor in remote waters and offshore by recruitment agencies in Burma and Southeast Asia; Burmese women increasingly are lured to China for marriage under false pretenses and are subjected to sex trafficking, forced concubinage and childbearing, and forced domestic labor; men, women, and children in ethnic minority areas are at increased risk of sex trafficking and forced labor in farming, manufacturing, and construction; men and boys are recruited locally by traffickers for forced labor in oil palm, banana, and rubber plantations, in mining, fishing, and bamboo, teak, rice, and sugarcane harvesting; some military personnel, civilian brokers, border guard officials, and ethnic armed groups continue to recruit child soldiers, particularly in conflict areas
tier rating: Tier 3 — Burma does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking and is not making significant efforts to do so; authorities increased the investigation and prosecution of trafficking crimes, including those involving officials, and the investigation of forced labor in the fishing sector; the government identified and referred more victims to care and enacted legislation enhancing protections for child victims; however, a policy or pattern of forced labor existed; the use of children in labor and support roles by the military increased in conflict zones in Rakhine and Shan States; displacement resulting from military conflict made Rohingya and other ethnic groups vulnerable to human trafficking; the constitutionally guaranteed power of the military continued to limit the government’s ability to address forced adult labor and child soldier recruitment; although authorities allocated increased funding to victim protection, most services to trafficking victims were provided by NGOs and foreign donors (2020)
Illicit drugs: a major source of illicit methamphetamine and opiates; illicit import of precursor chemicals from China increased production and trafficking of synthetic drugs; second-largest opium poppy cultivator in Asia, with an estimated 20,200 hectares grown in 2019; “Yaba,” a tablet containing methamphetamine, caffeine, and other stimulants, is produced in Burma and trafficked regionally; ethnic armed organizations, military-affiliated militias, and transnational criminal organizations oversee billion dollar a drug production and trafficking industry; drugs produced in Burma are trafficked beyond Southeast Asia to Australia, New Zealand, and Japan; not a major source or transit country for drugs entering the United States a major source of illicit methamphetamine and opiates; illicit import of precursor chemicals from China increased production and trafficking of synthetic drugs; second-largest opium poppy cultivator in Asia, with an estimated 20,200 hectares grown in 2019; “Yaba,” a tablet containing methamphetamine, caffeine, and other stimulants, is produced in Burma and trafficked regionally; ethnic armed organizations, military-affiliated militias, and transnational criminal organizations oversee billion dollar a drug production and trafficking industry; drugs produced in Burma are trafficked beyond Southeast Asia to Australia, New Zealand, and Japan; not a major source or transit country for drugs entering the United States |
20220601 | field-military-and-security-forces | This entry lists the military and security forces subordinate to defense ministries or the equivalent (typically ground, naval, air, and marine forces), as well as those belonging to interior ministries or the equivalent (typically gendarmeries, border/coast guards, paramilitary police, and other internal security forces).
Topic: Afghanistanas of 2022, the Taliban had established a Ministry of Defense and named commanders and deputy commanders for 8 regional corps; in December 2021, it announced the formation of a police force (2022)
Topic: AlbaniaRepublic of Albania Armed Forces (Forcat e Armatosura të Republikës së Shqipërisë (FARSH)): Land Forces, Navy Forces (includes Coast Guard), Air Forces
Ministry of Interior: Guard of the Republic, State Police (includes the Border and Migration Police) (2022)
note - the State Police are primarily responsible for internal security, while the Guard of the Republic protects senior state officials, foreign dignitaries, and certain state properties
Topic: AlgeriaAlgerian People's National Army (ANP): Land Forces, Naval Forces (includes coast guard), Air Forces, Territorial Air Defense Forces, Republican Guard (under ANP, but responsible to the President), National Gendarmerie; Ministry of Interior: General Directorate of National Security (national police) (2022)
Topic: Andorrano regular military forces; Police Corps of Andorra
Topic: AngolaAngolan Armed Forces (Forcas Armadas Angolanas, FAA): Army, Navy (Marinha de Guerra Angola, MGA), Angolan National Air Force (Forca Aerea Nacional Angolana, FANA; under operational control of the Army); Rapid Reaction Police (paramilitary) (2022)
Topic: Antigua and BarbudaAntigua and Barbuda Defense Force (ABDF): Coast Guard and the Antigua and Barbuda Regiment (2022)
Topic: ArgentinaArmed Forces of the Argentine Republic (Fuerzas Armadas de la República Argentina): Argentine Army (Ejercito Argentino, EA), Navy of the Argentine Republic (Armada Republica, ARA; includes naval aviation and naval infantry), Argentine Air Force (Fuerza Aerea Argentina, FAA); Ministry of Security: Gendarmería Nacional Argentina (National Gendarmerie), Coast Guard (Prefectura Naval) (2022)
Topic: ArmeniaArmenian Armed Forces: Armenian Army (includes land, air, air defense forces) (2022)
Topic: Arubano regular military forces; Aruban Militia (ARUMIL) (2022)
Topic: AustraliaAustralian Defense Force (ADF): Australian Army (includes Special Operations Command), Royal Australian Navy (includes Naval Aviation Force), Royal Australian Air Force (2022)
Topic: AustriaAustrian Armed Forces: Land Forces, Air Forces, Cyber Forces, Special Forces (2022)
Topic: AzerbaijanLand Forces (Combined Arms Army), Air Forces, Navy Forces; Ministry of Internal Affairs: State Border Service (includes Coast Guard), Internal Security Troops (2021)
Topic: Bahamas, TheRoyal Bahamas Defense Force (RBDF): includes land, air, maritime elements (2022)
note - the Royal Bahamas Police Force maintains internal security; the Defense Force is primarily responsible for external security but also provides security at a detention center for migrants and performs some domestic security functions, such as guarding embassies; both report to the minister of national security
Topic: BahrainBahrain Defense Force (BDF): Royal Bahraini Army (includes the Royal Guard), Royal Bahraini Navy, Royal Bahraini Air Force; Ministry of Interior: National Guard, Special Security Forces Command (SSFC), Coast Guard
(2022)
note(s) - the Royal Guard is officially under the command of the Army, but exercises considerable autonomy; the National Guard's primary mission is to guard critical infrastructure such as the airport and oil fields; while the Guard is under the Ministry of Interior, it reports directly to the king
Topic: BangladeshBangladesh Defense Force: Bangladesh Army, Bangladesh Navy, Bangladesh Air Force; Ministry of Home Affairs: Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), Bangladesh Coast Guard, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), Ansars, Village Defense Party (VDP) (2022)
note(s) - the RAB, Ansars, and VDP are paramilitary organizations for internal security; the RAB is a joint task force founded in 2004 and composed of members of the police, army, navy, air force, and border guards seconded to the RAB from their respective units; its mandate includes internal security, intelligence gathering related to criminal activities, and government-directed investigations
Topic: BarbadosBarbados Defense Force: The Barbados Regiment, The Barbados Coast Guard (2022)
Topic: BelarusBelarus Armed Forces: Army, Air and Air Defense Force, Special Operations Force, Special Troops (electronic warfare, signals, engineers, biological/chemical/nuclear protection troops, etc); Ministry of Interior: State Border Troops, Militia, Internal Troops (2021)
Topic: BelgiumBelgian Armed Forces: Land Component, Marine (Naval) Component, Air Component, Medical Service (2022)
Topic: BelizeBelize Defense Force (BDF): Army, Air Wing; Belize Coast Guard (2022)
note - the Ministry of National Defense and Border Security is responsible for oversight of the BDF and the Coast Guard, while the Ministry of Home Affairs and New Growth Industries has responsibility for police and prisons
Topic: BeninBenin Armed Forces (Forces Armees Beninoises, FAB): Army, Navy, Air Force; Ministry of Interior and Public Security: Republican Police (Police Republicaine, DGPR) (2022)
Topic: BermudaRoyal Bermuda Regiment; Bermuda Police Service (2022)
note - the Royal Bermuda Regiment is a reserve multi-role battalion that carries out two primary functions – providing military aid to civil authorities and humanitarian and disaster relief
Topic: BhutanRoyal Bhutan Army (includes Royal Bodyguard and an air wing); National Militia; Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs: Royal Bhutan Police (2022)
note - the Royal Bhutan Police (RBP) agency is responsible for internal security; the Army is responsible for external threats but also has responsibility for some internal security functions, including conducting counterinsurgency operations, guarding forests, and providing security for prominent persons
Topic: BoliviaBolivian Armed Forces: Bolivian Army (Ejercito de Boliviano, EB), Bolivian Naval Force (Fuerza Naval Boliviana, FNB), Bolivian Air Force (Fuerza Aerea Boliviana, FAB); Ministry of Government: National Police (Policía Nacional de Bolivia, PNB; includes paramilitary Anti-Narcotics Special Forces (Fuerza Especial de Lucha Contra el Narcotráfico, FELCN)) and an Anti-Terrorist Group (GAT) (2022)
note(s) - the National Police is part of the reserves for the Armed Forces; the police and military share for border enforcement
Topic: Bosnia and HerzegovinaArmed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina (AFBiH or Oruzanih Snaga Bosne i Hercegovine, OSBiH): Operations Command (includes Army, Air, and Air Defense units), Support Command (2022)
Topic: BotswanaBotswana Defense Force (BDF): Ground Forces Command, Air Arm Command, Defense Logistics Command (2022)
note - both the armed forces and the Botswana Police Service report to the Ministry of Defense, Justice, and Security
Topic: BrazilBrazilian Armed Forces: Brazilian Army (Exercito Brasileiro, EB), Brazilian Navy (Marinha do Brasil, MB, includes Naval Aviation (Aviacao Naval Brasileira) and Marine Corps (Corpo de Fuzileiros Navais)), Brazilian Air Force (Forca Aerea Brasileira, FAB) (2021)
Topic: British Indian Ocean Territoryno regular military forces
Topic: BruneiRoyal Brunei Armed Forces: Royal Brunei Land Force, Royal Brunei Navy, Royal Brunei Air Force (2022)
Topic: BulgariaBulgarian Armed Forces: Land Forces (Army), Naval Forces, Bulgarian Air Forces (Voennovazdushni Sili, VVS), Joint Special Forces; Ministry of Interior: Border Guards (2022)
Topic: Burkina FasoArmed Forces of Burkina Faso (FABF): Army of Burkina Faso (L’Armee de Terre, LAT), Air Force of Burkina Faso (Force Aerienne de Burkina Faso, FABF), National Gendarmerie; Volunteers for the Defense of the Fatherland (VDP) (2022)
note(s) - the National Gendarmerie officially reports to the Ministry of Defense, but usually operates in support of the Ministry of Security and the Ministry of Justice; Gendarmerie troops are typically integrated with Army forces in anti-terrorism operations; the VDP is a civilian defense force established in 2019 to act as auxiliaries to the military in the fight against militants
Topic: BurmaBurmese Defense Service (Tatmadaw): Army (Tatmadaw Kyi), Navy (Tatmadaw Yay), Air Force (Tatmadaw Lay); People’s Militia; Ministry of Home Affairs: People's Police Force; Border Guard Forces/Police (2022)
note(s) - under the 2008 constitution, the Tatmadaw controls appointments of senior officials to lead the Ministry of Defense, the Ministry of Border Affairs, and the Ministry of Home Affairs; in March 2022, a new law gave the commander-in-chief of the Tatmadaw the authority to appoint or remove the head of the police force
Topic: BurundiNational Defense Forces (Forces de Defense Nationale, FDN): Army (includes maritime wing, air wing); Ministry of Public Security: National Police (Police Nationale du Burundi) (2022)
Topic: Cabo VerdeCabo Verdean Armed Forces (FACV): Army (also called the National Guard, GN; includes a small air component), Cabo Verde Coast Guard (Guardia Costeira de Cabo Verde, GCCV); Ministry of Internal Affairs: National Police (2022)
Topic: CambodiaRoyal Cambodian Armed Forces: Royal Cambodian Army, Royal Khmer Navy, Royal Cambodian Air Force, Royal Gendarmerie; the National Committee for Maritime Security (performs Coast Guard functions and has representation from military and civilian agencies); Ministry of Interior: Cambodian National Police (2022)
Topic: CameroonCameroon Armed Forces (Forces Armees Camerounaises, FAC): Army (L'Armee de Terre), Navy (Marine Nationale Republique, MNR, includes naval infantry), Air Force (Armee de l'Air du Cameroun, AAC), Rapid Intervention Battalion (Bataillons d’Intervention Rapide, BIR), National Gendarmerie, Presidential Guard (2022)
note(s) - the National Police and the National Gendarmerie are responsible for internal security; the Police report to the General Delegation of National Security, while the Gendarmerie reports to the Secretariat of State for Defense in charge of the Gendarmerie; the Rapid Intervention Battalion (BIR) maintains its own command and control structure and reports directly to the president; it is a large brigade-sized force comprised of approximately 9 battalions, detachments, or groups (5 infantry, 1 airborne, 1 amphibious, 1 armored reconnaissance, and 1 counter-terrorism)
Topic: CanadaCanadian Forces: Canadian Army, Royal Canadian Navy, Royal Canadian Air Force, Canadian Joint Operations Command, Canadian Special Operations Forces Command; Primary Reserve (army, air, naval reserves); Coast Guard (Department of Fisheries and Oceans) (2022)
note - the Army reserves include the Canadian Rangers, which provides a limited presence in Canada's northern, coastal, and isolated areas for sovereignty, public safety, and surveillance roles
Topic: Cayman Islandsno regular military forces; Royal Cayman Islands Police Service
Topic: Central African RepublicCentral African Armed Forces (Forces Armees Centrafricaines, FACA): Army (includes an air squadron, Escadrille Centrafricaine); Ministry of Interior: National Gendarmerie (Gendarmerie Nationale), National Police (2022)
note - in 2019-2021, CAR created three Mixed Special Security units (Unités Spéciales Mixtes de Sécurité or USMS), regionally based battalion-sized units comprised of about 40% government and 60% rebel soldiers that are intended to provide security along transportation corridors and at mining sites; the units are intended to be transitional in nature with a scheduled deployment time of two years
Topic: ChadChadian National Army (Armee Nationale du Tchad, ANT): Ground Forces (l'Armee de Terre, AdT), Chadian Air Force (l'Armee de l'Air Tchadienne, AAT), General Direction of the Security Services of State Institutions (Direction Generale des Services de Securite des Institutions de l'Etat, GDSSIE); National Gendarmerie; Ministry of Public Security and Immigration: National Nomadic Guard of Chad (GNNT), Chadian National Police (2022)
note(s) - the GDSSIE, formerly known as the Republican Guard, is the presidential guard force and is considered to be Chad's elite military unit; it is reportedly a division-size unit with infantry, armor, and special forces/anti-terrorism regiments (known as the Special Anti-Terrorist Group or SATG, aka Division of Special Anti-Terrorist Groups or DGSAT)
Topic: ChileArmed Forces of Chile (Fuerzas Armadas de Chile): Chilean Army (Ejército de Chile), Chilean Navy (Armada de Chile, includes marine units and coast guard or Maritime Territory and Merchant Marine Directorate (Directemar)), Chilean Air Force (Fuerza Aerea de Chile, FACh); Ministry of the Interior and Public Security: Carabineros de Chile (National Police Force) (2022)
note - Carabineros de Chile are responsible to both the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of the Interior
Topic: ChinaPeople's Liberation Army (PLA): Ground Forces, Navy (PLAN, includes marines and naval aviation), Air Force (PLAAF, includes airborne forces), Rocket Force (strategic missile force), and Strategic Support Force (information, electronic, and cyber warfare, as well as space forces); People's Armed Police (PAP, includes Coast Guard, Border Defense Force, Internal Security Forces); PLA Reserve Force (2022)
note(s) - the Strategic Support Force includes the Space Systems Department, which is responsible for nearly all PLA space operations, including space launch and support, space surveillance, space information support, space telemetry, tracking, and control, and space warfare
the PAP is a paramilitary police component of China’s armed forces that is under the command of the Central Military Commission (CMC) and charged with internal security, law enforcement, counterterrorism, and maritime rights protection
in 2018, the Coast Guard was moved from the State Oceanic Administration to the PAP; in 2013, China merged four of its five major maritime law enforcement agencies – the China Marine Surveillance (CMS), Maritime Police, Fishery Law Enforcement (FLE), and Anti-Smuggling Police – into a unified coast guard
Topic: ColombiaMilitary Forces of Colombia (Fuerzas Militares de Colombia): National Army (Ejercito Nacional), Republic of Colombia Navy (Armada Republica de Colombia, ARC; includes Coast Guard), Colombian Air Force (Fuerza Aerea de Colombia, FAC); Colombian National Police (civilian force that is under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Defense) (2022)
Topic: ComorosNational Army for Development (l'Armee Nationale de Developpement, AND): Comoran Security Force (also called Comoran Defense Force (Force Comorienne de Defense, FCD), includes Gendarmerie); Ministry of Interior: Coast Guard, Federal Police, National Directorate of Territorial Safety (2021)
note - when the Gendarmerie serves as the judicial police, it reports to the Minister of Justice
Topic: Congo, Democratic Republic of theArmed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (Forces d'Armees de la Republique Democratique du Congo, FARDC): Land Forces, National Navy (La Marine Nationale), Congolese Air Force (Force Aerienne Congolaise, FAC); Republican Guard; Ministry of Interior: Congolese National Police, Directorate General for Migration (2022)
note - the Republican Guard is a division-size element consisting of approximately 5 regiments; it is regarded as the country’s best equipped and trained military unit and is under the direct control of the president
Topic: Congo, Republic of theCongolese Armed Forces (Forces Armees Congolaises, FAC): Army (Armee de Terre), Navy, Congolese Air Force (Armee de l'Air Congolaise), Gendarmerie (2022)
Topic: Cook Islandsno regular military forces; Cook Islands Police Service
Topic: Costa Ricano regular military forces; Ministry of Public Security: the Public Force (Fuerza Pública (National Police)), Air Surveillance Service (Servicio de Vigilancia Aérea), National Coast Guard Service (Servicio Nacional de Guardacostas), Border Police (Policia de Fronteras); Ministry of Presidency: Directorate of Intelligence and Security (DIS), Special Intervention Unit (UEI) (2022)
note - Costa Rica's armed forces were constitutionally abolished in 1949
Topic: Cote d'IvoireArmed Forces of Cote d'Ivoire (Forces Armees de Cote d'Ivoire, FACI; aka Republican Forces of Ivory Coast, FRCI): Army (Armee de Terre), Navy (Marine Nationale), Cote Air Force (Force Aerienne Cote), Special Forces (Forces Speciale); National Gendarmerie (under the Ministry of Defense); Ministry of Security and Civil Protection: National Police; Coordination Center for Operational Decisions (a mix of police, gendarmerie, and FACI personnel for assisting police in providing security in some large cities) (2022)
Topic: CroatiaArmed Forces of the Republic of Croatia (Oruzane Snage Republike Hrvatske, OSRH): Ground Forces (Hrvatska Kopnena Vojska, HKoV), Naval Forces (Hrvatska Ratna Mornarica, HRM, includes Coast Guard), Air Force and Air Defense Forces; Military Police Force supports each of the three Croatian military forces (2022)
Topic: CubaRevolutionary Armed Forces (Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias, FAR): Revolutionary Army (Ejercito Revolucionario, ER), Revolutionary Navy (Marina de Guerra Revolucionaria, MGR, includes Marine Corps), Revolutionary Air and Air Defense Forces (Defensas Anti-Aereas y Fuerza Aerea Revolucionaria, DAAFAR); Paramilitary forces: Youth Labor Army (Ejercito Juvenil del Trabajo, EJT), Territorial Militia Troops (Milicia de Tropas de Territoriales, MTT), Civil Defense Force; Ministry of Interior: Border Guards, State Security, National Revolutionary Police (2022)
Topic: Curacaono regular military forces; Curaçao Militia (CURMIL) (2021)
Topic: CyprusRepublic of Cyprus: Cypriot National Guard (Ethniki Froura, EF, includes Army Land Forces, Naval Command, Air Command) (2022)
Topic: CzechiaCzech Armed Forces: Land Forces; Air Forces; Cyber Forces; Special Forces (2022)
Topic: DenmarkDanish Armed Forces (Forsvaret): Royal Danish Army, Royal Danish Navy, Royal Danish Air Force, Danish Home Guard (Reserves) (2022)
note - the Danish military maintains a Joint Arctic Command with the mission of protecting the sovereignty of the Kingdom of Denmark in the Arctic Region, including the Faroe Islands and Greenland; the command also conducts maritime pollution prevention, environmental monitoring, fishery inspections, search and rescue, hydrographical surveys, and provides support to governmental science missions
Topic: DjiboutiDjibouti Armed Forces (FAD): Army, Navy, Air Force; Djibouti Coast Guard; Ministry of Interior: National Gendarmerie, National Police (2022)
note - the National Police is responsible for security within Djibouti City and has primary control over immigration and customs procedures for all land border-crossing points, while the National Gendarmerie is responsible for all security outside of Djibouti City, as well as for protecting critical infrastructure within the city, such as the international airport
Topic: Dominicano regular military forces; Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force (includes Coast Guard) under the Ministry of Justice, Immigration, and National Security (2022)
Topic: Dominican RepublicArmed Forces of the Dominican Republic: Army (Ejercito Nacional, EN), Navy (Marina de Guerra, MdG, includes naval infantry), Dominican Air Force (Fuerza Aerea Dominicana, FAD) (2022)
note(s) - in addition to the military, the Ministry of Armed Forces directs the Airport Security Authority and Civil Aviation, Port Security Authority, the Tourist Security Corps, and Border Security Corps; the National Police (Policia Nacional) are under the Ministry of Interior
Topic: EcuadorEcuadorian Armed Forces: the Ecuadorian Army (Ejército Ecuatoriano), Ecuadorian Navy (Armada del Ecuador, Fuerza Naval del Ecuador, FNE, includes naval infantry, naval aviation, coast guard), Ecuadorian Air Force (Fuerza Aerea Ecuatoriana, FAE) (2022)
note - the National Police of Ecuador (Policía Nacional del Ecuador) is under the Ministry of Government
Topic: EgyptEgyptian Armed Forces (EAF): Army (includes Republican Guard), Navy (includes Coast Guard), Air Force, Air Defense Command, Border Guard Forces; Interior Ministry: Public Security Sector Police, the Central Security Force, National Security Sector (2022)
note(s) - the Public Security Sector Police are responsible for law enforcement nationwide; the Central Security Force protects infrastructure and is responsible for crowd control; the National Security Sector is responsible for internal security threats and counterterrorism along with other security services; in addition to its external defense duties, the EAF also has a mandate to assist police in protecting vital infrastructure during a state of emergency; military personnel were granted full arrest authority in 2011 but normally only use this authority during states of emergency and “periods of significant turmoil”
Topic: El Salvadorthe Armed Force of El Salvador (La Fuerza Armada de El Salvador, FAES): Army of El Salvador (Ejercito de El Salvador, ES), Navy of El Salvador (Fuerza Naval de El Salvador, FNES), Salvadoran Air Force (Fuerza Aerea Salvadorena, FAS); Ministry of Justice and Public Security: National Civil Police (Policia Nacional Civil, PNC) (2022)
note - in 2016, El Salvador created a 1,000-strong combined Army commando and special police unit to combat criminal gang violence
Topic: Equatorial GuineaEquatorial Guinea Armed Forces (Fuerzas Armadas de Guinea Ecuatorial, FAGE): Equatorial Guinea National Guard (Guardia Nacional de Guinea Ecuatorial, GNGE (Army)), Navy, Air Force; Gendarmerie (2022)
note - the Gendarmerie reports to the Ministry of National Defense and is responsible for security outside cities and for special events; military personnel also fulfill some police functions in border areas, sensitive sites, and high-traffic areas
Topic: EritreaEritrean Defense Forces: Eritrean Ground Forces, Eritrean Navy, Eritrean Air Force (includes Air Defense Force) (2022)
Topic: EstoniaEstonian Defense Forces: Land Forces, Navy, Air Force, Estonian Defense League (Reserves) (2022)
Topic: EswatiniUmbutfo Eswatini Defense Force (UEDF): Army (includes a small air wing) (2022)
Topic: EthiopiaEthiopian National Defense Force (ENDF): Ground Forces, Ethiopian Air Force (Ye Ityopya Ayer Hayl, ETAF) (2022)
note(s) - in January 2020 the Ethiopian Government announced it had re-established a navy, which was disbanded in 1996; in March 2019 Ethiopia signed a defense cooperation agreement with France which stipulated that France would support the establishment of an Ethiopian navy, which will reportedly be based out of Djibouti
in 2018, Ethiopia established a Republican Guard military unit responsible to the Prime Minister for protecting senior officials
Topic: European Unionthe EU's Common Security and Defense Policy (CSDP) provides the civilian, military, and political structures for EU crisis management and security issues; the highest bodies are: the Political and Security Committee (PSC), which meets at the ambassadorial level as a preparatory body for the Council of the EU; it assists with defining policies and preparing a crisis response the European Union Military Committee (EUMC) is the EU's highest military body; it is composed of the chiefs of defense (CHODs) of the Member States, who are regularly represented by their permanent Military Representatives; the EUMC provides the PSC with advice and recommendations on all military matters within the EU the Committee for Civilian Aspects of Crisis Management (CIVCOM) provides advice and recommendations to the PSC in parallel with the EUMC on civilian aspects of crisis management the Politico-Military Group (PMG) provides advice and recommendations to the PSC on political aspects of EU military and civil-military issues, including concepts, capabilities and operations and missions, and monitors implementation other bodies set up under the CSDP include; the Security and Defense Policy Directorate (SECDEFPOL), the Integrated approach for Security and Peace Directorate (ISP), the EU Military Staff (EUMS), the Civilian Planning and Conduct Capability (CPCC), the Military Planning and Conduct Capability (MPCC), the European Defense Agency, the European Security and Defense College (ESDC), the EU Institute for Security Studies, and the EU Satellite Center (2021)the EU's Common Security and Defense Policy (CSDP) provides the civilian, military, and political structures for EU crisis management and security issues; the highest bodies are:the Political and Security Committee (PSC), which meets at the ambassadorial level as a preparatory body for the Council of the EU; it assists with defining policies and preparing a crisis responsethe European Union Military Committee (EUMC) is the EU's highest military body; it is composed of the chiefs of defense (CHODs) of the Member States, who are regularly represented by their permanent Military Representatives; the EUMC provides the PSC with advice and recommendations on all military matters within the EUthe Committee for Civilian Aspects of Crisis Management (CIVCOM) provides advice and recommendations to the PSC in parallel with the EUMC on civilian aspects of crisis managementthe Politico-Military Group (PMG) provides advice and recommendations to the PSC on political aspects of EU military and civil-military issues, including concepts, capabilities and operations and missions, and monitors implementationother bodies set up under the CSDP include; the Security and Defense Policy Directorate (SECDEFPOL), the Integrated approach for Security and Peace Directorate (ISP), the EU Military Staff (EUMS), the Civilian Planning and Conduct Capability (CPCC), the Military Planning and Conduct Capability (MPCC), the European Defense Agency, the European Security and Defense College (ESDC), the EU Institute for Security Studies, and the EU Satellite Center (2021)
Topic: Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)no regular military forces
Topic: Faroe Islandsno regular military forces or conscription (2021)
Topic: FijiRepublic of Fiji Military Force (RFMF): Land Force Command, Maritime Command; Fiji Police Force (2021)
the RFMF is subordinate to the president as the commander in chief, while the Fiji Police Force reports to the the Ministry of Defense, National Security, and Policing
Topic: FinlandFinnish Defense Forces (FDF): Army (Maavoimat), Navy (Merivoimat), Air Force (Ilmavoimat); Ministry of the Interior: Border Guard (Rajavartiolaitos) (2022)
note - the Border Guard becomes part of the FDF in wartime
Topic: FranceFrench Armed Forces (Forces Armées Françaises): Army (Armee de Terre; includes Foreign Legion), Navy (Marine Nationale), Air and Space Force (Armee de l’Air et de l’Espace); includes Air Defense), National Guard (Reserves), National Gendarmerie (paramilitary police force that is a branch of the Armed Forces but under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of the Interior; also has additional duties to the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Justice) (2022)
Topic: French Polynesiano regular military forces
Topic: GabonGabonese Defense Forces (Forces de Defense Gabonaise): Land Forces (Army), Navy, Air Forces, National Gendarmerie; Republican Guard (land forces under direct presidential control) (2022)
Topic: Gambia, TheGambia Armed Forces: the Gambian National Army (GNA), Gambia Navy, Gambia Air Force, Republican National Guard (responsible for VIP protection, riot control, and presidential security) (2022)
Topic: Gaza StripHAMAS does not have a conventional military in the Gaza Strip but maintains security forces in addition to its military wing, the 'Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades; the military wing reports to the HAMAS Political Bureau; there are several other militant groups operating in the Gaza Strip, most notably the Al-Quds Brigades of Palestine Islamic Jihad, which are usually but not always beholden to HAMAS's authority (2021)
Topic: GeorgiaGeorgian Defense Forces: Land Forces (includes Aviation and Air Defense Forces), Special Operations Forces, National Guard; Ministry of Internal Affairs: Border Police, Coast Guard (includes Georgian naval forces, which were merged with the Coast Guard in 2009) (2022)
Topic: GermanyFederal Armed Forces (Bundeswehr): Army (Heer), Navy (Deutsche Marine, includes naval air arm), Air Force (Luftwaffe, includes air defense), Joint Support Service (Streitkraeftebasis, SKB), Central Medical Service (Zentraler Sanitaetsdienst, ZSanDstBw), Cyber and Information Space Command (Kommando Cyber- und Informationsraum, Kdo CIR) (2022)
Topic: GhanaGhana Armed Forces: Army, Navy, Air Force (2022)
Topic: GibraltarRoyal Gibraltar Regiment (2022)
Topic: GreeceHellenic Armed Forces: Hellenic Army (Ellinikos Stratos, ES; includes National Guard reserves), Hellenic Navy (Elliniko Polemiko Navtiko, EPN), Hellenic Air Force (Elliniki Polemiki Aeroporia, EPA; includes air defense); Ministry of Shipping Affairs and Island Policy: Coast Guard (2022)
note - the police (under the Ministry of Citizen Protection) and the armed forces (Ministry of National Defense) share law enforcement duties in certain border areas; border protection is coordinated by a deputy minister for national defense
Topic: Greenlandno regular military forces or conscription
Topic: Grenadano regular military forces; the Royal Grenada Police Force (under the Ministry of National Security) includes a Coast Guard and a paramilitary Special Services Unit
Topic: GuatemalaArmy of Guatemala (Ejercito de Guatemala): Land Forces (Fuerzas de Tierra), Naval Forces (Fuerza de Mar), and Air Force (Fuerza de Aire); Ministry of Interior: National Civil Police (Policia Nacional Civil; includes paramilitary units) (2022)
Topic: GuineaNational Armed Forces: Army, Guinean Navy (Armee de Mer or Marine Guineenne), Guinean Air Force (Force Aerienne de Guinee), Presidential Security Battalion (Battailon Autonome de la Sécurité Presidentielle, BASP), Gendarmerie (2022)
note - the National Gendarmerie is overseen by the Ministry of Defense, while the National Police is under the Ministry of Security; the Gendarmerie and National Police share responsibility for internal security, but only the Gendarmerie can arrest police or military officials
Topic: Guinea-BissauPeople's Revolutionary Armed Force (FARP): Army, Navy, Air Force
Ministry of Internal Administration: Guard Nacional (a gendarmerie force), Public Order Police, Border Police, Rapid Intervention Police, Maritime Police (2022)
note - the Public Order Police is responsible for maintaining law and order, while the Judicial Police, under the Ministry of Justice, has primary responsibility for investigating drug trafficking, terrorism, and other transnational crimes
Topic: Guyanathe Guyana Defense Force is a unified force with ground, air, and coast guard components, as well as a militia (Guyana People's Militia) (2022)
Topic: Haitithe Haitian Armed Forces (FAdH), disbanded in 1995, began to be reconstituted in 2017 to assist with natural disaster relief, border security, and combating transnational crime; it established an Army command in 2018 (2022)
note - the Haitian National Police (under the Ministry of Justice and Public Security) has a number of specialized units, including a coast guard, a presidential guard, and a paramilitary rapid-response Motorized Intervention Unit or BIM
Topic: Holy See (Vatican City)Pontifical Swiss Guard Corps (Corpo della Guardia Svizzera Pontificia); the Gendarmerie Corps of Vatican City (Corpo della Gendarmeriais) is a police force that helps augment the Pontifical Swiss Guard Corps during the Pope’s appearances, as well as providing general security, traffic direction, and investigative duties for the Vatican City State (2022)
Topic: HondurasHonduran Armed Forces (Fuerzas Armadas de Honduras, FFAA): Army (Ejercito), Honduran Naval Force (FNH; includes marines), Honduran Air Force (Fuerza Aerea Hondurena, FAH), Honduran Military Police of Public Order (PMOP); Security Secretariat: Public Security Forces (includes Honduran National Police paramilitary units) (2022)
note - the PMOP was created in 2013 as part of an effort by the Honduran Government to expand the military’s role in law enforcement alongside the Honduran National Police (HNP), particularly against narcotics trafficking and organized crime; since its creation, the PMOP’s role in internal security has expanded; it was used against election protesters in 2017, for example, and it has been accused of human rights violations; as of 2022, the PMOP was composed of 8 battalions of military personnel (approximately 5,000 troops) who have undergone some police training; it reported to military authorities but conducted operations sanctioned by both civilian security officials and military leaders
Topic: Hong Kongno regular indigenous military forces; Hong Kong Police Force (specialized units include the Police Counterterrorism Response Unit, the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Bureau, the Special Duties Unit, the Airport Security Unit, and the VIP Protection Unit)
the Hong Kong garrison of China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) includes elements of the PLA Army, PLA Navy, and PLA Air Force; these forces are under the direct leadership of the Central Military Commission in Beijing and under administrative control of the adjacent Southern Theater Command (2021)
Topic: Hungarythe Hungarian Defense Forces are a unified force (Joint Force Command) with Land Forces, Air Forces, and Logistics components (2022)
Topic: Icelandno regular military forces; Ministry of Interior: Icelandic Coast Guard (includes both air and maritime elements); Icelandic National Police (2022)
Topic: IndiaIndian Armed Forces: Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard; Defense Security Corps (provides security for Ministry of Defense sites); Ministry of Home Affairs paramilitary forces: Central Armed Police Forces (includes Assam Rifles, Border Security Force, Central Industrial Security Force, Central Reserve Police Force, Indo-Tibetan Border Police, National Security Guards, Sashastra Seema Bal) (2022)
note - the Assam Rifles are under the administrative control of the Ministry of Home Affairs, while operational control falls under the Ministry of Defense (specifically the Indian Army)
Topic: IndonesiaIndonesian National Armed Forces (Tentara Nasional Indonesia, TNI): Army (TNI-Angkatan Darat (TNI-AD)), Navy (TNI-Angkatan Laut (TNI-AL), includes Marine Corps (Korps Marinir, KorMar), Naval Aviation Center (PUSPENERBAL)), Air Force (TNI-Angkatan Udara (TNI-AU)), National Air Defense Command (Komando Pertahanan Udara Nasional (Kohanudnas)), Armed Forces Special Operations Command (Kopassus), Strategic Reserve Command (Kostrad), National Army Reserve Component (Komcad) (2022)
note(s) - in 2014, Indonesia created a Maritime Security Agency (Bakamla) to coordinate the actions of all maritime security agencies, including the Navy, the Indonesian Sea and Coast Guard (Kesatuan Penjagaan Laut dan Pantai, KPLP), the Water Police (Polair), Customs (Bea Cukai), and Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries
the Indonesian National Police includes a paramilitary Mobile Brigade Corps (BRIMOB); following the Bali terror bombing in 2002, the National Police formed a special counter-terrorism force called Detachment 88 (Densus or Detasemen Khusus 88 Antiteror)
Topic: IranIslamic Republic of Iran Regular Forces (Artesh): Ground Forces, Navy (includes marines), Air Force, Air Defense Forces; Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (Sepah, IRGC): Ground Forces, Navy (includes marines), Aerospace Force (controls strategic missile force), Qods Force (aka Quds Force; special operations), Cyber Electronic Command, Basij Paramilitary Forces (Popular Mobilization Army); Law Enforcement Forces (border and security troops, assigned to the armed forces in wartime) (2022)
note(s) - the Artesh Navy operates Iran’s larger warships and operates in the Gulf of Oman, the Caspian Sea, and deep waters in the region and beyond; the IRGC Navy has responsibility for the closer-in Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz; the Basij is a volunteer paramilitary group with local organizations across the country, which sometimes acts as an auxiliary law enforcement unit subordinate to IRGC ground forces
Topic: IraqMinistry of Defense: Iraqi Army, Army Aviation Command, Iraqi Navy, Iraqi Air Force, Iraqi Air Defense Command, Special Forces Command, Special Security Division (Green Zone protection)
National-Level Security Forces: Iraqi Counterterrorism Service (CTS), Prime Minister's Special Forces Division, Presidential Brigades
Ministry of Interior: Federal Police Forces Command, Border Guard Forces Command, Federal Intelligence and Investigations Agency, Emergency Response Division, Facilities Protection Directorate, and Provincial Police
Ministry of Oil: Energy Police Directorate
Kurdistan Regional Government Ministry of Peshmerga: Regional Guard Brigades, Unit (or Division) 70 Forces, Unit (or Division) 80 Forces, special operations/counter-terrorism forces (Counter Terrorism Group, CTG and Counter Terrorism Directorate, CTD); note - Unit 70 and the CTG are associated with the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) political party, while Unit 80 and the CTD are associated with the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP); Kurdistan Regional Government Ministry of Interior: Zeravani and Emergency Response Forces (paramilitary internal security forces)
Popular Mobilization Committee (PMC): Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), Tribal Mobilization Forces (TMF); the PMF and TMF are a collection of approximately 60 militias of widely varied sizes and political interests (2022)
Topic: IrelandIrish Defense Forces (Oglaigh na h-Eireannn): Army, Air Corps, Naval Service, Reserve Defense Forces (2022)
Topic: IsraelIsrael Defense Forces (IDF): Ground Forces, Israel Naval Force (IN, includes commandos), Israel Air Force (IAF, includes air defense); Ministry of Public Security: Border Police (2021)
note - the Border Police is a unit within the Israel Police with its own organizational and command structure; it works both independently as well as in cooperation with or in support of the Israel Police and the IDF
Topic: ItalyItalian Armed Forces: Army (Esercito Italiano, EI), Navy (Marina Militare Italiana, MMI; includes aviation, marines), Italian Air Force (Aeronautica Militare Italiana, AMI); Carabinieri Corps (Arma dei Carabinieri, CC) (2021)
note(s) - the Carabinieri is the national gendarmerie; for its civil police functions, the Carabinieri falls under the control of the Ministry of the Interior; the Financial Guard (Guardia di Finanza) under the Ministry of Economy and Finance is a force with military status and nationwide remit for financial crime investigations, including narcotics trafficking, smuggling, and illegal immigration
Topic: JamaicaJamaica Defense Force (JDF): Jamaica Regiment (Ground Forces), Maritime-Air-Cyber Command (includes Coast Guard, Air Wing, Military Intelligence Unit, Special Activities Regiment, and Military Cyber Corps), Support Brigade (logistics, engineers, health service, and military police); Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) (2021)
note - both the JDF and JCF are under the Ministry of National Security
Topic: JapanJapan Self-Defense Force (JSDF): Ground Self-Defense Force (Rikujou Jieitai, GSDF; includes aviation), Maritime Self-Defense Force (Kaijou Jieitai, MSDF; includes naval aviation), Air Self-Defense Force (Koukuu Jieitai, ASDF); Japan Coast Guard (Ministry of Land, Transport, Infrastructure and Tourism) (2021)
Topic: JordanJordanian Armed Forces (JAF): Royal Jordanian Army (includes Special Operations Forces, Border Guards, Royal Guard), Royal Jordanian Air Force, Royal Jordanian Coast Guard; Ministry of Interior: Public Security Directorate (includes national police, the Gendarmerie, and the Civil Defense Directorate) (2021)
Topic: KazakhstanArmed Forces of the Republic of Kazakhstan: Land Forces, Naval Forces, Air and Air Defense Forces; Ministry of Internal Affairs: National Police, National Guard, Border Service (includes Coast Guard), Committee for National Security (2021)
Topic: KenyaKenya Defense Forces: Kenya Army, Kenya Navy, Kenya Air Force (2021)
note - the National Police Service maintains internal security and reports to the Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government; it includes a paramilitary General Service Unit; the Kenya Coast Guard Service (established 2018) is under the Ministry of Interior, but led by a military officer and comprised of personnel from the military, as well as the National Police Service, intelligence services, and other government agencies
Topic: Kiribatino regular military forces; Kiribati Police and Prison Service (Ministry of Justice)
Topic: Korea, NorthKorean People's Army (KPA): KPA Ground Forces, KPA Navy, KPA Air Force and Air Defense Forces, KPA Strategic Forces (missile forces); KPA Special Forces (special operations forces)
Security Guard Command (aka Bodyguard Command; protects the Kim family, other senior leadership figures, and government facilities); Ministry of Public Security: Border Guards, civil security forces (2021)
note - the North also has a large paramilitary force organized into the Worker Peasant Red Guard and Red Youth Guard; these organizations are present at all levels of government (province, county, ward) and are under the control of the Korean Workers' Party in peacetime, but revert to KPA control in crisis or war; they are often mobilized for domestic projects, such as road building and agricultural support
Topic: Korea, SouthArmed Forces of the Republic of Korea: Republic of Korea Army (ROKA), Navy (ROKN, includes Marine Corps, ROKMC), Air Force (ROKAF); Military reserves include Mobilization Reserve Forces (First Combat Forces) and Homeland Defense Forces (Regional Combat Forces); Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries: Korea Coast Guard (2022)
note - in January 2022, the South Korean military announced the formation of a space branch
Topic: KosovoKosovo Security Force (KSF): Land Force Command; Logistics Command; Doctrine and Training Command; National Guard Command (2021)
Topic: KuwaitKuwaiti Armed Forces: Kuwaiti Land Forces (KLF), Kuwaiti Navy, Kuwaiti Air Force (Al-Quwwat al-Jawwiya al-Kuwaitiya; includes Kuwaiti Air Defense Force, KADF), 25th Commando Brigade, and the Kuwait Emiri Guard Brigade; Kuwaiti National Guard (KNG); Coast Guard (Ministry of Interior) (2021)
note(s) - the Kuwait Emiri Guard Authority and the 25th Commando Brigade exercise independent command authority within the Kuwaiti Armed Forces, although activities such as training and equipment procurement are often coordinated with the other services; the Kuwaiti National Guard reports directly to the prime minister and amir and possesses an independent command structure, equipment inventory, and logistics corps separate from the Ministry of Defense, the regular armed services, and the Ministry of Interior
Topic: KyrgyzstanKyrgyz Armed Forces: Land Forces, Air Defense Forces, National Guard; State Border Service; Internal Troops; State Committee for National Security (2021)
Topic: LaosLao People's Armed Forces (LPAF): Lao People's Army (LPA, includes Riverine Force), Air Force, Self-Defense Militia Forces
Ministry of Public Security (internal security and law enforcement): local, traffic, immigration, and security police, as well as village police auxiliaries and other armed police units (2021)
Topic: LatviaNational Armed Forces (Nacionalie Brunotie Speki): Land Forces (Latvijas Sauszemes Speki), Naval Force (Latvijas Juras Speki, includes Coast Guard (Latvijas Kara Flote)), Air Force (Latvijas Gaisa Speki), National Guard (2021)
Topic: LebanonLebanese Armed Forces (LAF): Army Command (includes Presidential Guard Brigade, Land Border Regiments), Naval Forces, Air Forces; Ministry of Interior: Internal Security Forces Directorate (law enforcement; includes Mobile Gendarmerie), Directorate for General Security (DGS; border control, some domestic security duties) (2021)
note(s) - the commander of the LAF is also the commander of the Army; the LAF patrols external borders, while official checkpoints are under the authority of Directorate for General Security
Topic: LesothoLesotho Defense Force (LDF): Army (includes Air Wing) (2021)
note - the Lesotho Mounted Police Service is responsible for internal security and reports to the Minister of Police and Public Safety
Topic: LiberiaArmed Forces of Liberia (AFL): Army, Liberian Coast Guard, Air Wing (2021)
note(s) - the AFL Air Wing was previously disbanded in 2005 and has been under development since 2019; the Liberian National Police and the Liberian Drug Enforcement Agency are under the Ministry of Justice
Topic: LibyaLibya lacks a nationwide military and the interim government, the Government of National Unity (GNU), relies on its cooperation with disparate militias that it cannot entirely control for security; the GNU has access to various ground, air, and naval/coast guard forces comprised of a mix of semi-regular military units, militias, civilian volunteers, and foreign troops and mercenaries
the Libyan National Army (LNA), under de facto LNA commander Khalifa HAFTER, also includes various ground, air, and naval units comprised of semi-regular military personnel, militias, and foreign troops and mercenaries; as of late 2021, the LNA continued to operate independently from the GNU and exerted influence throughout eastern, central, and southern Libya (2021)
note - the Stability Support Authority (SSA) is a state-funded militia established in January 2021 by the GNU; it is tasked with securing government buildings and officials, participating in combat operations, apprehending those suspected of national security crimes, and cooperating with other security bodies
Topic: Liechtensteinno regular military forces; the National Police is responsible for all matters relating to the safety and security of Liechtenstein (2021)
Topic: LithuaniaLithuanian Armed Forces (Lietuvos Ginkluotosios Pajegos): Land Forces (Sausumos Pajegos), Naval Forces (Karines Juru Pajegos), Air Forces (Karines Oro Pajegos), Special Operations Forces (Specialiuju Operaciju Pajegos); National Defense Volunteer Forces (Savanoriu Pajegos); National Riflemen's Union (paramilitary force that acts as an additional reserve force) (2021)
Topic: LuxembourgLuxembourg Army (l'Armée Luxembourgeoise) (2021)
Topic: Macauno regular indigenous military forces; Macau Public Security Police Force (includes the Police Intervention Tactical Unit or UTIP for counterterrorism operations) (2021)
Topic: MadagascarPeople's Armed Forces: Army, Navy, Air Force; National Gendarmerie (operates under the Ministry of Defense); Ministry of Public Security: National Police (2021)
note - the National Gendarmerie is responsible for maintaining law and order in rural areas at the village level, protecting government facilities, and operating a maritime police contingent; the National Police is responsible for maintaining law and order in urban areas
Topic: MalawiMalawi Defense Force (MDF): Army (includes marine unit), Air Force (established as a separate service August 2019; previously was an air wing under the Army) (2021)
note - the Malawi Police Service is under the Ministry of Homeland Security
Topic: MalaysiaMalaysian Armed Forces (Angkatan Tentera Malaysia, ATM): Malaysian Army (Tentera Darat Malaysia), Royal Malaysian Navy (Tentera Laut Diraja Malaysia, TLDM), Royal Malaysian Air Force (Tentera Udara Diraja Malaysia, TUDM); Ministry of Home Affairs: the Royal Malaysian Police (PRMD, includes the General Operations Force, a paramilitary force with a variety of roles, including patrolling borders, counter-terrorism, maritime security, and counterinsurgency) (2021)
note - Malaysia created a National Special Operations Force in 2016 for combating terrorism threats; the force is comprised of personnel from the Armed Forces, the Royal Malaysian Police, and the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (Malaysian Coast Guard)
Topic: Maldivesthe Republic of Maldives has no distinct army, navy, or air force but a single security unit called the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) comprised of ground forces, an air element, a coastguard, a presidential security division, and a special protection group (2021)
Topic: MaliMalian Armed Forces (FAMa): Army (Armee de Terre; includes a riverine patrol force), Republic of Mali Air Force (Force Aerienne de la Republique du Mali, FARM); National Gendarmerie; National Guard (Garde National du Mali) (2021)
note(s) - the Gendarmerie and the National Guard are under the authority of the Ministry of Defense and Veterans Affairs (Ministere De La Defense Et Des Anciens Combattants, MDAC), but operational control is shared between the MDAC and the Ministry of Internal Security and Civil Protection
the Gendarmerie's primary mission is internal security and public order; its duties also include territorial defense, humanitarian operations, intelligence gathering, and protecting private property, mainly in rural areas; as of 2021, the Gendarmerie was comprised of approximately 8 paramilitary companies and a mobile intervention unit
the National Guard is a military force responsible for providing security to government facilities and institutions, prison service, public order, humanitarian operations, some border security, and intelligence gathering; as of 2021, it had approximately 8 companies of troops, including a camel corps for patrolling the deserts and borders of northern Mali
Topic: MaltaArmed Forces of Malta (AFM, includes land, maritime, and air elements, plus a Volunteer Reserve Force) (2021)
Topic: Marshall Islandsno regular military forces; the national police (Marshall Islands Police Department, MIPD), local police forces, and the Sea Patrol (maritime police) maintain internal security; the MIPD and Sea Patrol report to the Ministry of Justice; local police report to their respective local government councils
Topic: MauritaniaMauritanian Armed Forces: Army, Mauritanian Navy (Marine Mauritanienne), Islamic Republic of Mauritania Air Group (Groupement Aerienne Islamique de Mauritanie, GAIM); Gendarmerie (Ministry of Defense); Ministry of Interior and Decentralization: National Guard, General Group for Road Safety (2021)
note(s) - the Gendarmerie is responsible for maintaining civil order around metropolitan areas and providing law enforcement services in rural areas; the National Guard performs a limited police function in keeping with its peacetime role of providing security at government facilities, to include prisons; the General Group for Road Safety maintains security on roads and operates checkpoints throughout the country
Topic: Mauritiusno regular military forces; the Mauritius Police Force (MPF) includes a paramilitary unit known as the Special Mobile Force, which includes a motorized infantry battalion and 2 light armored squadrons; the MPF also has a Police Helicopter Squadron, a Special Support Unit (riot police), and the National Coast Guard (also includes an air squadron) (2021)
Topic: MexicoSecretariat of National Defense (Secretaria de Defensa Nacional, SEDENA): Army (Ejercito), Mexican Air Force (Fuerza Aerea Mexicana, FAM); Secretariat of the Navy (Secretaria de Marina, SEMAR): Mexican Navy (Armada de Mexico (ARM), includes Naval Air Force (FAN), Mexican Naval Infantry Corps (Cuerpo de Infanteria de Marina, Mexmar or CIM)); Secretariat of Public Security and Civilian Protection (Secretaria de Seguridad y Proteccion Ciudadana): National Guard (Guardia Nacional) (2022)
note - the National Guard was formed in 2019 and consists of personnel from the former Federal Police (disbanded in December 2019) and military police units of the Army and Navy; while the Guard is part of the civilian-led Secretariat of Security and Civilian Protection, the Secretariat of National Defense has day-to-day operational control; in addition, the armed forces provide the commanders and the training; the Guard, along with state and municipal police are responsible for enforcing the law and maintaining order; the military also actively supports police operations
Topic: Micronesia, Federated States ofno military forces; Federated States of Micronesia National Police (includes a maritime wing)
Topic: MoldovaNational Army: Land Forces (Fortele Terestre ale Republicii Moldova, FTRM); Air Forces (Forţele Aeriene ale Republicii Moldova, FARM); Carabinieri Troops (a component of the Ministry of Internal Affairs that also has official status as a service of the Armed Forces during wartime; it is a quasi-militarized gendarmerie responsible for protecting public buildings, maintaining public order, and other national security functions) (2021)
Topic: Monacono regular military forces; Ministry of Interior: Compagnie des Carabiniers du Prince (Prince’s Company of Carabiniers (Palace Guard)), Corps des Sapeurs-pompiers de Monaco (Fire and Emergency), Police Department
Topic: MongoliaMongolian Armed Forces (Mongol ulsyn zevsegt huchin): General Purpose Troops (Mongolian Army), Air/Air Defense Force, Cyber Security, Special Forces, Civil Engineering, Civil Defense Forces; Border Troops; Internal Security Troops
Ministry of Justice and Home Affairs: National Police Agency, General Authority for Border Protection (2021)
Topic: Montenegrothe Armed Forces of the Republic of Montenegro: joint force with land, air, and naval elements (2021)
Topic: Montserratno regular military forces; Royal Montserrat Defence Force (ceremonial, civil defense duties), Montserrat Police Force
Topic: MoroccoRoyal Armed Forces: Royal Moroccan Army (includes the Moroccan Royal Guard), Royal Moroccan Navy (includes Coast Guard, marines), Royal Moroccan Air Force; Ministry of Defense (aka Administration of National Defense): Royal Moroccan Gendarmerie; Ministry of Interior: National Police, Auxiliary Forces (provides support to the Gendarmerie and National Police; includes a Mobile Intervention Corps, a motorized paramilitary security force that supplements the military and the police as needed) (2021)
note(s) - the National Police manages internal law enforcement in cities; the Royal Gendarmerie is responsible for law enforcement in rural regions and on national highways
Topic: MozambiqueArmed Defense Forces of Mozambique (Forcas Armadas de Defesa de Mocambique, FADM): Mozambique Army, Mozambique Navy (Marinha de Guerra de Mocambique, MGM), Mozambique Air Force (Forca Aerea de Mocambique, FAM)
Ministry of Interior: Mozambique National Police (PRM), the National Criminal Investigation Service (SERNIC), Rapid Intervention Unit (UIR; police special forces), Border Security Force
other security forces include the Presidential Guard and the Force for the Protection of High-Level Individuals (2021)
note - the FADM and other security forces are referred to collectively as the Defense and Security Forces (DFS)
Topic: NamibiaNamibian Defense Force (NDF): Army, Navy, Air Force
Ministry of Safety and Security: Namibian Police Force (includes a paramilitary Special Field Force responsible for protecting borders and government installations) (2021)
Topic: Nauruno regular military forces; the police force, under the Minister for Police and Emergency Services, maintains internal security and, as necessary, external security
Topic: NepalNepal Army (includes Air Wing); Nepal Armed Police Force (under the Ministry of Home Affairs; paramilitary force responsible for border and internal security, including counter-insurgency, and assisting the Army in the event of an external invasion) (2021)
Topic: NetherlandsRoyal Netherlands Army, Royal Netherlands Navy (includes Naval Air Service and Marine Corps), Royal Netherlands Air Force, Royal Netherlands Marechaussee (Military Constabulary) (2021)
note - the Netherlands Coast Guard and the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard are civilian in nature, but managed by the Royal Netherlands Navy
Topic: New Caledoniano regular military forces; France bases land, air, and naval forces on New Caledonia (Forces Armées de la Nouvelle-Calédonie, FANC)
Topic: New ZealandNew Zealand Defense Force (NZDF): New Zealand Army, Royal New Zealand Navy, Royal New Zealand Air Force (2021)
Topic: NicaraguaArmy of Nicaragua (Ejercito de Nicaragua, EN): Land Forces (Fuerza Terrestre); Naval Forces (Fuerza Naval); Air Forces (Fuerza Aérea); Special Operations Command (Comando de Operaciones Especiales); Nicaraguan National Police (2021)
note - both the military and the police report directly to the president
Topic: NigerNigerien Armed Forces (Forces Armees Nigeriennes, FAN): Army, Nigerien Air Force, Niger Gendarmerie (GN); Ministry of Interior, Public Security, Decentralization, and Customary and Religious Affairs: Niger National Guard (GNN; aka Republican Guard), National Police (includes the Directorate of Territorial Surveillance, which is charged with border management) (2021)
note - the Gendarmerie is subordinate to the Ministry of Defense and has primary responsibility for rural security; the National Guard is responsible for domestic security and the protection of high-level officials and government buildings
Topic: NigeriaNigerian Armed Forces: Army, Navy (includes Coast Guard), Air Force; Ministry of Interior: Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC, a paramilitary agency commissioned to assist the military in the management of threats to internal security, including attacks and natural disasters) (2021)
Topic: Niueno regular indigenous military forces; Police Force
Topic: North MacedoniaArmy of the Republic of North Macedonia (ARSM; includes a General Staff and subordinate Operations Command, Logistic Support Command, Training and Doctrine Command, Center for Electronic Reconnaissance, Aviation Brigade, and Honor Guard Battalion) (2021)
note - the Operations Command includes air, ground, special operations, support, and reserve forces
Topic: NorwayNorwegian Armed Forces: Norwegian Army (Haeren), Royal Norwegian Navy (Kongelige Norske Sjoeforsvaret; includes Coastal Rangers and Coast Guard (Kystvakt)), Royal Norwegian Air Force (Kongelige Norske Luftforsvaret), Norwegian Special Forces, Norwegian Cyber Defense Force, Home Guard (Heimevernet, HV) (2021)
Topic: OmanSultan's Armed Forces (SAF): Royal Army of Oman (RAO), Royal Navy of Oman (RNO), Royal Air Force of Oman (RAFO), Royal Guard of Oman (RGO); Royal Oman Police (ROP): Civil Defense, Immigration, Customs, Royal Oman Police Coast Guard (2021)
Topic: PakistanPakistan Army (includes National Guard), Pakistan Navy (includes Marine forces, Maritime Security Agency), Pakistan Air Force (Pakistan Fizaia); Ministry of Interior: Frontier Corps, Pakistan Rangers (2021)
note(s) - the National Guard is a paramilitary force and one of the Army's reserve forces, along with the Pakistan Army Reserve, the Frontier Corps, and the Pakistan Rangers; the Frontier Corps is a paramilitary force which operates in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas; its primary mission is security of the Pakistan-Afghanistan border; the Pakistan Rangers are also a paramilitary force which operate in Sindh and Punjab
Topic: Palauno regular military forces; the Ministry of Justice includes divisions/bureaus for public security, police functions, and maritime law enforcement
Topic: Panamano regular military forces; Ministry of Public Security: the Panama National Police (La Policía Nacional de Panamá, PNP), National Air-Naval Service (Servicio Nacional Aeronaval, SENAN), National Border Service (Servicio Nacional de Fronteras, SENAFRONT) (2021)
note - the PNP includes paramilitary special forces units for counterterrorism and counternarcotics missions; in addition to its 3 regionally-based border security brigades, SENAFRONT includes a special forces brigade, which is comprised of special forces, counternarcotics, maritime, and rapid reaction units
Topic: Papua New GuineaPapua New Guinea Defense Force (PNGDF; includes land, maritime, and air elements); Ministry of Police: Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (2021)
Topic: ParaguayArmed Forces Command (Commando de las Fuerzas Militares): Army (Ejercito), Navy (Armada, includes marines), Air Force (Fuerza Aerea)
Ministry of Internal Affairs: the National Police of Paraguay includes the Special Police Operations Force (Fuerza de Operaciones Policiales Especiales) (2022)
Topic: PeruJoint Command of the Armed Forces of Peru (CCFFAA): Peruvian Army (Ejercito del Peru), Peruvian Navy (Marina de Guerra del Peru, MGP, includes naval infantry and Coast Guard), Air Force of Peru (Fuerza Aerea del Peru, FAP); Ministry of the Interior (Ministerio del Interior): Peruvian National Police (Policía Nacional del Perú, PNP) (2021)
Topic: PhilippinesArmed Forces of the Philippines (AFP): Army, Navy (includes Marine Corps), Air Force (2021)
note(s) - the Philippine Coast Guard is an armed and uniformed service under the Department of Transportation; it would be attached to the AFP in wartime; the Philippine National Police Force (PNP) falls under the Ministry of Interior and Local Government
the Philippine Government also arms and supports civilian militias; the AFP controls Civilian Armed Force Geographical Units, while the Civilian Volunteer Organizations fall under PNP command
Topic: PolandPolish Armed Forces: Land Forces (Wojska Ladowe), Navy (Marynarka Wojenna), Air Force (Sily Powietrzne), Special Forces (Wojska Specjalne), Territorial Defense Force (Wojska Obrony Terytorialnej); Ministry of the Interior: Border Guard (includes coast guard duties) (2021)
note - the Polish Armed Forces are organized into a General Staff, an Armed Forces General Command, an Armed Forces Operational Command, Territorial Defense Forces (established 2017), Military Police, and the Warsaw Garrison Command
Topic: PortugalPortuguese Armed Forces: Portuguese Army (Exercito Portuguesa), Portuguese Navy (Marinha Portuguesa; includes Marine Corps), Portuguese Air Force (Forca Aerea Portuguesa, FAP); Portuguese National Republican Guard (Guarda Nacional Republicana, GNR) (2021)
note - the GNR is a national gendarmerie force comprised of military personnel with law enforcement, internal security, civil defense, disaster response, and coast guard duties; it is responsible to the Minister of Internal Administration and to the Minister of National Defense; in the event of war or crisis, it may be placed under the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces
Topic: Puerto Ricono regular indigenous military forces; National Guard, State Guard, Police Force
Topic: QatarQatari Amiri Land Force (QALF, includes Emiri Guard), Qatari Amiri Navy (QAN, includes Coast Guard), Qatari Amiri Air Force (QAAF); Internal Security Forces: Mobile Gendarmerie (2021)
Topic: RomaniaRomanian Armed Forces: Land Forces, Naval Forces, Air Force; Ministry of Internal Affairs: Romanian Gendarmerie (2021)
Topic: RussiaArmed Forces of the Russian Federation: Ground Troops (Sukhoputnyye Voyskia, SV), Navy (Voyenno-Morskoy Flot, VMF), Aerospace Forces (Vozdushno-Kosmicheskiye Sily, VKS); Airborne Troops (Vozdushno-Desantnyye Voyska, VDV), and Missile Troops of Strategic Purpose (Raketnyye Voyska Strategicheskogo Naznacheniya, RVSN) referred to commonly as Strategic Rocket Forces, are independent "combat arms," not subordinate to any of the three branches
Federal National Guard Troops Service of the Russian Federation (National Guard (FSVNG), Russian Guard, or Rosgvardiya): created in 2016 as an independent agency for internal/regime security, combating terrorism and narcotics trafficking, protecting important state facilities and government personnel, and supporting border security; forces under the National Guard include the Special Purpose Mobile Units (OMON), Special Rapid Response Detachment (SOBR), and Interior Troops (VV); these troops were originally under the command of the Interior Ministry (MVD); also nominally under the National Guard’s command are the forces of Chechen Republic head Ramzan KADYROV
Federal Security Services (FSB): Federal Border Guard Service (includes land and maritime forces) (2021)
note - the Air Force and Aerospace Defense Forces were merged into the VKS in 2015; VKS responsibilities also include launching military and dual‐use satellites, maintaining military satellites, and monitoring and defending against space threats
Topic: RwandaRwanda Defense Force (RDF): Rwanda Army (Rwanda Land Force), Rwanda Air Force (Force Aerienne Rwandaise, FAR), Rwanda Reserve Force, Special Units (2021)
Topic: Saint Kitts and NevisMinistry of National Security: St. Kitts and Nevis Defense Force (SKNDF), St. Kitts and Nevis Coast Guard, the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (2021)
Topic: Saint Luciano regular military forces; Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (includes Special Service Unit, Marine Unit) (2021)
Topic: Saint Martinno armed forces; Saint Martin Police Force (Korps Politie Sint Marteen)
Topic: Saint Vincent and the Grenadinesno regular military forces; the Special Services Unit (SSU) is the paramilitary arm of the Royal Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVPF)
Topic: Samoano regular military forces; Samoa Police Force (Ministry of Police)
Topic: San Marinono regular military forces; Voluntary Military Corps (Corpi Militari), which includes a Uniformed Militia (performs ceremonial duties and limited police support functions) and Guard of the Great and General Council (defends the Captains Regent and the Great and General Council, participates in official ceremonies, cooperates with the maintenance of public order on special occasions, and performs guard duties during parliamentary sittings); the Police Corps includes the Gendarmerie, which is responsible for maintaining public order, protecting citizens and their property, and providing assistance during disasters (2021)
Topic: Sao Tome and PrincipeArmed Forces of Sao Tome and Principe (Forcas Armadas de Sao Tome e Principe, FASTP): Army, Coast Guard of Sao Tome e Principe (Guarda Costeira de Sao Tome e Principe, GCSTP), Presidential Guard, National Guard (2021)
Topic: Saudi ArabiaMinistry of Defense: Royal Saudi Land Forces, Royal Saudi Naval Forces (includes marines, special forces, naval aviation), Royal Saudi Air Force, Royal Saudi Air Defense Forces, Royal Saudi Strategic Missiles Force; Ministry of the National Guard (SANG); Ministry of Interior: police, Border Guard, Facilities Security Force; State Security Presidency: General Directorate of Investigation (Mabahith), Special Security Forces, Special Emergency Forces (2021)
note - SANG (also known as the White Army) is a land force separate from the Ministry of Defense that is responsible for internal security, protecting the royal family, and external defense
Topic: SenegalSenegalese Armed Forces (Forces Armées Sénégalaises, FAS): Army, Senegalese National Navy (Marine Senegalaise, MNS), Senegalese Air Force (Armee de l'Air du Senegal), National Gendarmerie (includes Territorial and Mobile components); Ministry of Interior: National Police (2021)
note - the National Police operates in major cities, while the Gendarmerie primarily operates outside urban areas
Topic: SerbiaSerbian Armed Forces (Vojska Srbije, VS): Land Forces (includes Riverine Component, consisting of a river flotilla on the Danube), Air and Air Defense Forces, Serbian Guard; Ministry of Interior: Gendarmerie (2021)
note: the Guard is a brigade-sized unit that is directly subordinate to the Serbian Armed Forces Chief of General Staff
Topic: SeychellesSeychelles People’s Defense Forces (SPDF): Army (includes infantry, special forces, and a presidential security unit), Coast Guard, and Air Force; Ministry of Internal Affairs: Seychelles Police Force (includes unarmed police and an armed paramilitary Police Special Support Wing, the Anti-Narcotics Bureau, and the Marine Police Unit) (2021)
note - the military reports to the president, who acts as minister of defense
Topic: Sierra LeoneRepublic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF): operates under a Joint Force Command with Land Forces, Maritime Forces, and an Air Wing (2021)
Topic: SingaporeSingapore Armed Forces (aka Singapore Defense Force): Singapore Army, Republic of Singapore Navy, Republic of Singapore Air Force (includes air defense); Police Coast Guard (subordinate to the Singapore Police Force) (2021)
note(s) - in 2022, the SAF announced that it would form a Digital and Intelligence Service (DIS) by the end of the year; in 2009, Singapore established a multi-agency national Maritime Security Task Force (MSTF) to work with law enforcement and maritime agencies to guard Singapore’s waters, including conducting daily patrols, as well as boarding and escort operations in the Singapore Strait; the MSTF is subordinate to the Singapore Navy
Topic: Sint Maartenno regular military forces; Police Department for local law enforcement, supported by the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee (Gendarmerie), the Dutch Caribbean Police Force (Korps Politie Caribisch Nederland, KPCN), and the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard (DCCG or Kustwacht Caribisch Gebied (KWCARIB))
Topic: SlovakiaArmed Forces of the Slovak Republic (Ozbrojene Sily Slovenskej Republiky): Land Forces (Slovenské Pozemné Sily), Air Forces (Slovenské Vzdušné Sily), Special Operations Forces (Sily Pre Speciálne Operácie) (2021)
Topic: SloveniaSlovenian Armed Forces (Slovenska Vojska, SV): structured as a combined force with air, land, maritime, special operations, combat support, and combat service support elements (2021)
Topic: Solomon Islandsno regular military forces; the Royal Solomon Islands Police is responsible for internal and external security and reports to the Ministry of Police, National Security, and Correctional Services
Topic: SomaliaMinistry of Defense: Somali National Army (SNA); Ministry of Internal Security: Somali National Police (SNP, includes a maritime unit and a Turkish-trained commando unit known as Harmacad, or Cheetah) (2021)
note(s) - Somalia also has numerous militia and regional forces operating throughout the country; these forces include ones that are clan- and warlord-based, semi-official paramilitary and special police forces (aka darwish), and externally-sponsored militias; the SNA is attempting to incorporate some of these militia units; in addition, Somaliland has army and naval forces under the Somaliland Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces
Topic: South AfricaSouth African National Defense Force (SANDF): South African Army (includes Reserve Force), South African Navy (SAN), South African Air Force (SAAF), South African Military Health Services; South African Police Service (includes Special Task Force for counterterrorism, counterinsurgency, and hostage rescue operations) (2021)
Topic: South SudanSouth Sudan People’s Defense Force (SSPDF): Ground Force (includes Presidential Guard, aka Tiger Division), Air Force, Air Defense Forces; National Unified Forces (pending formation) (2021)
note - numerous irregular/militia forces operate in the country with official knowledge
Topic: SpainSpanish Armed Forces: Army (Ejercito de Tierra), Spanish Navy (Armada Espanola, AE, includes Marine Corps), Spanish Air Force (Ejercito del Aire Espanola, EdA); Civil Guard (Guardia Civil) (2021)
note - the Civil Guard is a military force with police duties (including coast guard) under both the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of the Interior; it also responds to the needs of the Ministry of Finance
Topic: Sri LankaSri Lanka Army (includes National Guard and the Volunteer Force), Sri Lanka Navy (includes Marine Corps), Sri Lanka Air Force, Sri Lanka Coast Guard; Civil Security Department (Home Guard); Sri Lanka National Police: Special Task Force (counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency) (2021)
Topic: SudanSudanese Armed Forces (SAF): Ground Force, Navy, Sudanese Air Force; Rapid Support Forces (RSF); Reserve Department (formerly the paramilitary Popular Defense Forces); Border Guards (Ministry of Defense)
Ministry of Interior: security police, special forces police, traffic police, and the combat-trained Central Reserve Police (2022)
note - the RSF is a semi-autonomous paramilitary force formed in 2013 to fight armed rebel groups in Sudan, with Mohammed Hamdan DAGALO (aka Hemeti) as its commander (he is also a member of the Sovereign Council); it was initially placed under the National Intelligence and Security Service, then came under the direct command of former president Omar al-BASHIR, who boosted the RSF as his own personal security force; as a result, the RSF was better funded and equipped than the regular armed forces; the RSF has since recruited from all parts of Sudan beyond its original Darfuri Arab groups but remains under the personal patronage and control of DAGALO; the RSF has been accused of committing rights abuses against civilians; it is also reportedly involved in business enterprises, such as gold mining; in late 2019, Sovereign Council Chairman and SAF Commander-in-Chief General Abd-al-Fatah al-BURHAN said the RSF would be fully integrated into the SAF, but did not give a timeline
Topic: SurinameSuriname Army (National Leger, NL): Army, Navy, Air Force, Military Police (2021)
Topic: Svalbardno regular military forces
Topic: SwedenSwedish Armed Forces (Forsvarsmakten): Army, Navy, Air Force; Home Guard (2021)
Topic: SwitzerlandSwiss Armed Forces: Land Forces, Swiss Air Force (Schweizer Luftwaffe) (2021)
Topic: SyriaSyrian Armed Forces: Syrian Arab Army (includes Republican Guard), Syrian Naval Forces, Syrian Air Forces, Syrian Air Defense Forces, National Defense Forces (pro-government militia and auxiliary forces) (2021)
note - as of 2021, the Syrian military was supported by numerous pro-government and pro-Iranian militia forces
Topic: TaiwanTaiwan Armed Forces: Army, Navy (includes Marine Corps), Air Force; Taiwan Coast Guard Administration (a law enforcement organization with homeland security functions during peacetime and national defense missions during wartime) (2021)
note - the Armed Forces also have Military Police and Armed Forces Reserve commands
Topic: TajikistanArmed Forces of the Republic of Tajikistan: Land Forces, Mobile Forces, Air and Air Defense Forces; National Guard; Ministry of Internal Affairs: Internal Troops (reserves for Armed Forces in wartime); State Committee on National Security: Border Guard Forces (2021)
Topic: TanzaniaTanzania People's Defense Forces (TPDF or Jeshi la Wananchi la Tanzania, JWTZ): Land Forces, Naval Forces, Air Force, National Building Army (Jeshi la Kujenga Taifa, JKT), People's Militia (Reserves); Ministry of Home Affairs: Tanzania Police force (includes paramilitary Police Field Force) (2022)
note - the National Building Army is a paramilitary organization under the Defense Forces that provides 6 months of military and vocational training to individuals as part of their 2 years of public service; after completion of training, some graduates join the regular Defense Forces while the remainder become part of the People's (or Citizen's) Militia
Topic: ThailandRoyal Thai Armed Forces (Kongthap Thai, RTARF): Royal Thai Army (Kongthap Bok Thai, RTA), Royal Thai Navy (Kongthap Ruea Thai, RTN; includes Royal Thai Marine Corps), Royal Thai Air Force (Kongthap Akaat Thai, RTAF); Office of the Prime Minister: Royal Thai Police; Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC; oversees counter-insurgency operations, as well as countering terrorism, narcotics and weapons trafficking, and other internal security duties; primarily run by the Army) (2021)
note(s) - official paramilitary forces in Thailand include the Thai Rangers (Thahan Phran or "Hunter Soldiers") under the Army; the Paramilitary Marines under the Navy; the Border Patrol Police (BPP) under the Royal Thai Police; the Volunteer Defense Corps (VDC or O So) and National Defense Volunteers (NDV), both under the Ministry of Interior; there are also several government-backed volunteer militias created to provide village security against insurgents in the deep south or to assist the ISOC
Topic: Timor-LesteTimor-Leste Defense Force (Falintil-Forcas de Defesa de Timor-L'este, Falintil (F-FDTL)): Joint Headquarters with Land, Air, Naval, Service Support, and Education/Training components; National Police (Polícia Nacional de Timor-Leste, PNTL) (2021)
Topic: TogoTogolese Armed Forces (Forces Armees Togolaise, FAT): Togolese Army (l'Armee de Terre), Togolese Navy (Forces Naval Togolaises), Togolese Air Force (Armee de l’Air), National Gendarmerie (2021)
note - the Gendarmerie falls under the Ministry of Defense but also reports to the Ministry of Security and Civil Protection on many matters involving law enforcement and internal security
Topic: TongaTonga Defense Services (His Majesty's Armed Forces): Joint Force headquarters, Territorial Forces, Land Force, Tonga Navy, Training Wing, Air Wing, and Support Unit (2021)
Topic: Trinidad and TobagoTrinidad and Tobago Defense Force (TTDF): Army/Land Forces (Trinidad and Tobago Regiment), Coast Guard, Air Guard, Defense Force Reserves; Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) (2021)
note - the Ministry of National Security oversees defense, immigration, and the police
Topic: TunisiaTunisian Armed Forces (Forces Armees Tunisiennes, FAT): Tunisian Army (includes Tunisian Air Defense Force), Tunisian Navy, Tunisia Air Force; Ministry of Interior: National Police, National Guard (2021)
note - the National Police has primary responsibility for law enforcement in the major cities, while the National Guard (gendarmerie) oversees border security and patrols smaller towns and rural areas
Topic: TurkeyTurkish Armed Forces (TSK): Turkish Land Forces (Turk Kara Kuvvetleri), Turkish Naval Forces (Turk Deniz Kuvvetleri; includes naval air and naval infantry), Turkish Air Forces (Turk Hava Kuvvetleri); Ministry of Interior: Gendarmerie of the Turkish Republic (aka Gendarmerie General Command), Turkish Coast Guard Command (2021)
note(s) - the Gendarmerie is responsible for the maintenance of the public order in areas that fall outside the jurisdiction of police forces (generally in rural areas); in wartime, the Gendarmerie and Coast Guard would be placed under the operational control of the Land Forces and Naval Forces, respectively
Topic: TurkmenistanArmed Forces of Turkmenistan: Land Forces, Navy, Air and Air Defense Forces; Federal Border Guard Service (2021)
Topic: Tuvaluno regular military forces; Tuvalu Police Force (Ministry of Justice, Communications, and Foreign Affairs)
Topic: UgandaUganda People's Defense Force (UPDF): Land Forces, Air Forces, Marine Forces, Special Forces Command, Reserve Force (2021)
note - in 2018, President MUSEVENI created a volunteer force of Local Defense Units under the military to beef up local security in designated parts of the country
Topic: UkraineArmed Forces of Ukraine (Zbroyni Syly Ukrayiny, ZSU): Ground Forces (Sukhoputni Viys’ka), Naval Forces (Viys’kovo-Mors’ki Syly, VMS), Air Forces (Povitryani Syly, PS), Air Assault Forces (Desantno-shturmovi Viyska, DShV), Ukrainian Special Operations Forces (UASOF), Territorial Defense Forces (Reserves); Ministry of Internal Affairs: National Guard of Ukraine, State Border Guard Service of Ukraine (includes Maritime Border Guard) (2021)
Topic: United Arab EmiratesUnited Arab Emirates Armed Forces: Land Forces, Navy Forces, Air Force, Presidential Guard; Ministry of Interior: Critical Infrastructure Coastal Patrol Agency (CICPA) (2021)
note - the Presidential Guard includes a Special Operations Command
Topic: United KingdomBritish Army, Royal Navy (includes Royal Marines), Royal Air Force (2021)
note - in 2021 the UK formed a joint service Space Command staffed by Army, Navy, and Air Force personnel, as well as civilians and key members of the commercial sector to manage space operations, training, and capabilities; in 2019, the UK formed the Strategic Command (formerly Joint Forces Command) to develop and manage the British military's medical services, training and education, defense intelligence, and information systems across the land, sea, air, space, and cyber domains; national-level special forces (UK Special Forces, UKSF) also fall under Strategic Command; in addition, the command manages joint overseas operations
Topic: United StatesUnited States Armed Forces: US Army, US Navy (includes Marine Corps), US Air Force, US Space Force; US Coast Guard (administered in peacetime by the Department of Homeland Security, but in wartime reports to the Department of the Navy); National Guard (Army National Guard and Air National Guard) (2021)
note - the Army National Guard and the Air National Guard are reserve components of their services and operate in part under state authority
Topic: UruguayArmed Forces of Uruguay (Fuerzas Armadas del Uruguay): National Army (Ejercito Nacional), National Navy (Armada Nacional, includes Coast Guard (Prefectura Nacional Naval)), Uruguayan Air Force (Fuerza Aerea); Guardia Nacional Republicana (paramilitary regiment of the National Police) (2022)
Topic: UzbekistanArmed Forces of Uzbekistan: Army, Air and Air Defense Forces; National Guard; Ministry of Interior: Internal Security Troops, Border Guards, Security Service (2021)
note - the National Guard, also under the Ministry of Defense, ensures public order and security of diplomatic missions, radio and television broadcasting, and other state entities
Topic: Vanuatuno regular military forces; Vanuatu Police Force (VPF; includes Vanuatu Mobile Force (VMF) and Police Maritime Wing (VPMW)) (2021)
Topic: VenezuelaBolivarian National Armed Forces (Fuerza Armada Nacional Bolivariana, FANB): Bolivarian Army (Ejercito Bolivariano, EB), Bolivarian Navy (Armada Bolivariana, AB; includes marines, Coast Guard), Bolivarian Military Aviation (Aviacion Militar Bolivariana, AMB; includes a joint-service Aerospace Defense Command (Comando de Defensa Aeroespacial Integral, CODAI), Bolivarian Militia (Milicia Bolivariana), Bolivarian National Guard (Guardia Nacional Bolivaria, GNB)
Bolivarian National Police: Special Action Forces (Fuerzas de Acciones Especiales, FAES) (2021)
note(s) - the Bolivarian Militia was added as a "special component" to the FANB in 2020; the National Guard is responsible for maintaining public order, guarding the exterior of key government installations and prisons, conducting counter-narcotics operations, monitoring borders, and providing law enforcement in remote areas; it reports to both the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Interior, Justice, and Peace
the FAES police paramilitary unit was created by President MADURO after the 2017 anti-government protests to bolster internal security; it has been accused of multiple human rights abuses
Topic: VietnamPeople's Army of Vietnam (PAVN; aka Vietnam People's Army, VPA): Ground Forces, Navy (includes naval infantry), Air Force and Air Defense, Border Defense Force, and Vietnam Coast Guard; Vietnam People's Public Security Ministry; Vietnam Civil Defense Force (2021)
note(s) - the Public Security Ministry is responsible for internal security and controls the national police, a special national security investigative agency, and other internal security units; the Vietnam Coast Guard was established in 1998 as the Vietnam Marine Police and renamed in 2013; Vietnam officially established a maritime self-defense force (civilian militia) in 2010 after the National Assembly passed the Law on Militia and Self-Defense Forces in 2009; the Vietnam Fisheries Resources Surveillance (VFRS), established in 2013, is responsible for patrolling, monitoring for fishing violations, and carrying out fishery inspections; it is armed, allowed to use force if necessary, and works in tandem with the Vietnam Coast Guard
Topic: West Bankper the Oslo Accords, the PA is not permitted a conventional military but maintains security and police forces; PA security personnel have operated almost exclusively in the West Bank since HAMAS seized power in the Gaza Strip in 2007; PA forces include National Security Forces, Presidential Guard, Civil Police, Civil Defense, Preventive Security Organization, the General Intelligence Organization, and the Military Intelligence Organization (2021)
note(s) - the National Security Forces conduct gendarmerie-style security operations in circumstances that exceed the capabilities of the civil police; it is the largest branch of the Palestinian Authority security service and acts as the Palestinian army; the Presidential Guard protects facilities and provides dignitary protection; the Preventive Security Organization is responsible for internal intelligence gathering and investigations related to internal security cases, including political dissent
Topic: Yemenas of 2021, military and security forces operating in Yemen consisted of a patchwork of government, non-state, and foreign-backed regular, semi-regular/militia, and paramilitary forces, often with informal command organizations and conflicting, fluid, or overlapping agendas, loyalties, and relationships; in addition, the Huthis maintained opposition military and security forces Republic of Yemen Government (ROYG) forces; Ministry of Defense: Yemeni National Army, Air Force and Air Defense, Navy and Coastal Defense Forces, Border Guard, Strategic Reserve Forces (includes Special Forces and Presidential Protection Brigades, which are under the Ministry of Defense but responsible to the president), Popular Committee Forces (government-backed tribal militia); Ministry of Interior: Special Security Forces (paramilitary; formerly known as Central Security Forces), Political Security Organization (state security), National Security Bureau (intelligence), Counterterrorism Unit Saudi-backed forces: paramilitary/militia border security brigades based largely on tribal or regional affiliation (deployed along the Saudi-Yemen border, especially the areas bordering the governorates of Saada and Al-Jawf) United Arab Emirates-backed forces included tribal and regionally-based militia and paramilitary forces (concentrated in the southern governates): Southern Transitional Council (STC) forces, including the Security Belt Forces, the Shabwani and Hadrami “Elite” Forces, the Support and Backup Forces (aka Logistics and Support Forces), Facilities Protection Forces, and Anti-Terrorism Forces; Republican Forces; Joint Forces; note – under the 2019 Riyadh Agreement, the STC forces were to be incorporated into Yemen’s Ministries of Defense and Interior under the authority of the HADI government Huthi: ground, air/air defense, coastal defense, presidential protection, special operations, missile, and tribal militia forces
note – a considerable portion--up to 70 percent by some estimates--of Yemen’s military and security forces defected in whole or in part to former president SALAH and the Huthi opposition in 2011-2015as of 2021, military and security forces operating in Yemen consisted of a patchwork of government, non-state, and foreign-backed regular, semi-regular/militia, and paramilitary forces, often with informal command organizations and conflicting, fluid, or overlapping agendas, loyalties, and relationships; in addition, the Huthis maintained opposition military and security forcesRepublic of Yemen Government (ROYG) forces; Ministry of Defense: Yemeni National Army, Air Force and Air Defense, Navy and Coastal Defense Forces, Border Guard, Strategic Reserve Forces (includes Special Forces and Presidential Protection Brigades, which are under the Ministry of Defense but responsible to the president), Popular Committee Forces (government-backed tribal militia); Ministry of Interior: Special Security Forces (paramilitary; formerly known as Central Security Forces), Political Security Organization (state security), National Security Bureau (intelligence), Counterterrorism UnitSaudi-backed forces: paramilitary/militia border security brigades based largely on tribal or regional affiliation (deployed along the Saudi-Yemen border, especially the areas bordering the governorates of Saada and Al-Jawf)United Arab Emirates-backed forces included tribal and regionally-based militia and paramilitary forces (concentrated in the southern governates): Southern Transitional Council (STC) forces, including the Security Belt Forces, the Shabwani and Hadrami “Elite” Forces, the Support and Backup Forces (aka Logistics and Support Forces), Facilities Protection Forces, and Anti-Terrorism Forces; Republican Forces; Joint Forces; note – under the 2019 Riyadh Agreement, the STC forces were to be incorporated into Yemen’s Ministries of Defense and Interior under the authority of the HADI governmentHuthi: ground, air/air defense, coastal defense, presidential protection, special operations, missile, and tribal militia forces
Topic: ZambiaZambia Defense Force (ZDF): Zambia Army, Zambia Air Force, Zambia National Service (support organization that also does public work projects); Defense Force Medical Service; Ministry of Home Affairs: Zambia Police (includes a paramilitary battalion) (2021)
Topic: ZimbabweZimbabwe Defense Forces (ZDF): Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA), Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) (2021) |
20220601 | countries-cocos-keeling-islands |
Topic: Photos of Cocos (Keeling) Islands
Topic: Introduction
Background: British captain William KEELING discovered Cocos (Keeling) Islands in 1609 and they were named the Cocos Islands in 1622 for their coconut trees. Some maps began referring to them as the Keeling Islands in 1703. In 1825, Scottish trader John CLUNIES-ROSS was trying to get to Christmas Island but was blown off-course and landed on Cocos (Keeling) Islands. The next year, a British trader hired John’s brother to bring slaves and a harem of Malay women to create the first permanent settlement on the island. By the 1830s, the Clunies-Ross family had firmly established themselves as the leaders of the islands and they ruled Cocos (Keeling) Islands in a feudal style until 1978.
The UK annexed the islands in 1857 and administered them from Ceylon after 1878 and from Singapore after 1886. Cocos (Keeling) Islands hosted a cable relaying station and was attacked by the Germans in World War I. The Japanese similarly attacked the islands in World War II. The UK transferred the islands to Australia in 1955, which officially named the islands the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, and in 1978, Australia bought all the land held by the Clunies-Ross family, ending their control of the islands’ governance. In a referendum in 1984, most islanders voted to integrate with Australia, and Western Australian laws have applied on the islands since 1992. British captain William KEELING discovered Cocos (Keeling) Islands in 1609 and they were named the Cocos Islands in 1622 for their coconut trees. Some maps began referring to them as the Keeling Islands in 1703. In 1825, Scottish trader John CLUNIES-ROSS was trying to get to Christmas Island but was blown off-course and landed on Cocos (Keeling) Islands. The next year, a British trader hired John’s brother to bring slaves and a harem of Malay women to create the first permanent settlement on the island. By the 1830s, the Clunies-Ross family had firmly established themselves as the leaders of the islands and they ruled Cocos (Keeling) Islands in a feudal style until 1978.
The UK annexed the islands in 1857 and administered them from Ceylon after 1878 and from Singapore after 1886. Cocos (Keeling) Islands hosted a cable relaying station and was attacked by the Germans in World War I. The Japanese similarly attacked the islands in World War II. The UK transferred the islands to Australia in 1955, which officially named the islands the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, and in 1978, Australia bought all the land held by the Clunies-Ross family, ending their control of the islands’ governance. In a referendum in 1984, most islanders voted to integrate with Australia, and Western Australian laws have applied on the islands since 1992. Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Southeastern Asia, group of islands in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Indonesia, about halfway between Australia and Sri Lanka
Geographic coordinates: 12 30 S, 96 50 E
Map references: Southeast Asia
Area: total: 14 sq km
land: 14 sq km
water: 0 sq km
note: includes the two main islands of West Island and Home Island
Area - comparative: about 24 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
Land boundaries: total: 0 km
Coastline: 26 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
Climate: tropical with high humidity, moderated by the southeast trade winds for about nine months of the year
Terrain: flat, low-lying coral atolls
Elevation: highest point: South Point on South Island 9 m
lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m
Natural resources: fish
Land use: agricultural land: 0% (2018 est.)
forest: 0% (2018 est.)
other: 100% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: NA
Population distribution: only Home Island and West Island are populated
Natural hazards: cyclone season is October to April
Geography - note: note 1: there are 27 coral islands in the group; apart from North Keeling Island, which lies 30 km north of the main group, the islands form a horseshoe-shaped atoll surrounding a lagoon; North Keeling Island was declared a national park in 1995 and is administered by Parks Australia; the population on the two inhabited islands generally is split between the ethnic Europeans on West Island and the ethnic Malays on Home Island; the islands are thickly covered with coconut palms and other vegetation
note 2: site of a World War I naval battle in November 1914 between the Australian light cruiser HMAS Sydney and the German raider SMS Emden; after being heavily damaged in the engagement, the Emden was beached by her captain on North Keeling Island
Map description: Cocos (Keeling) Island map showing the Australian territory in the Indian Ocean.Cocos (Keeling) Island map showing the Australian territory in the Indian Ocean.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 596 (July 2014 est.)
Nationality: noun: Cocos Islander(s)
adjective: Cocos Islander
Ethnic groups: Europeans, Cocos Malays
Languages: Malay (Cocos dialect) 68.8%, English 22.3%, unspecified 8.9%; note - data represent language spoken at home (2016 est.)
major-language sample(s):
Buku Fakta Dunia, sumber yang diperlukan untuk maklumat asas. (Malay)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Religions: Muslim (predominantly Sunni) 75%, Anglican 3.5%, Roman Catholic 2.2%, none 12.9%, unspecified 6.3% (2016 est.)
Age structure: 0-14 years: NA
15-24 years: NA
25-54 years: NA
55-64 years: NA
65 years and over: NA
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: NA
youth dependency ratio: NA
elderly dependency ratio: NA
potential support ratio: NA
Population growth rate: NA
Birth rate: NA
Death rate: 8.89 deaths/1,000 population (2021 est.)
Net migration rate: (2021 est.) NA
Population distribution: only Home Island and West Island are populated
Infant mortality rate: total: NA
male: NA
female: (2021 est.) NA
Life expectancy at birth: total population: NA
male: NA
female: (2021 est.) NA
Total fertility rate: (2021 est.) NA
Contraceptive prevalence rate: NA
Drinking water source: improved: urban: NA
rural: NA
total: NA
unimproved: urban: NA
rural: NA
total: NA
Current Health Expenditure: NA
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: NA
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: NA
HIV/AIDS - deaths: NA
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: NA
Education expenditures: NA
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: freshwater resources are limited to rainwater accumulations in natural underground reservoirs; illegal fishing a concern
Climate: tropical with high humidity, moderated by the southeast trade winds for about nine months of the year
Land use: agricultural land: 0% (2018 est.)
forest: 0% (2018 est.)
other: 100% (2018 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Territory of Cocos (Keeling) Islands
conventional short form: Cocos (Keeling) Islands
etymology: the name refers to the abundant coconut trees on the islands and to English Captain William KEELING, the first European to sight the islands in 1609
Government type: non-self-governing overseas territory of Australia
Dependency status: non-self governing territory of Australia; administered from Canberra by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Cities & Regional Development
Capital: name: West Island
geographic coordinates: 12 10 S, 96 50 E
time difference: UTC+6.5 (11.5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Administrative divisions: none (territory of Australia)
Independence: none (territory of Australia)
National holiday: Australia Day (commemorates the arrival of the First Fleet of Australian settlers), 26 January (1788)
Constitution: history: 23 November 1955 (Cocos (Keeling) Islands Act 1955)
amendments: amended many times, last in 2020
Legal system: common law based on the Australian model
Citizenship: see Australia
Suffrage: 18 years of age
Executive branch: chief of state: Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952); represented by Governor General of the Commonwealth of Australia General David HURLEY (since 1 July 2019)
head of government: Administrator Natasha GRIGGS (since 5 October 2017)
cabinet: NA
elections/appointments: the monarchy is hereditary; governor general appointed by the monarch on the recommendation of the Australian prime minister; administrator appointed by the governor general for a 2-year term and represents the monarch and Australia
Legislative branch: description: unicameral Cocos (Keeling) Islands Shire Council (7 seats; members directly elected by simple majority vote to serve 4-year terms with 4 members renewed every 2 years)
elections: last held on 16 October 2021 (next to be held in October 2023)
election results: percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - NA; composition - men 4, women 3, percent of women 42.9%
Judicial branch: highest courts: under the terms of the Territorial Law Reform Act 1992, Western Australia provides court services as needed for the island including the Supreme Court and subordinate courts (District Court, Magistrate Court, Family Court, Children's Court, and Coroners' Court)
Political parties and leaders: none
International organization participation: none
Diplomatic representation in the US: none (territory of Australia)
Diplomatic representation from the US: embassy: none (territory of Australia)
Flag description: the flag of Australia is used
National anthem: note: as a territory of Australia, "Advance Australia Fair" remains official as the national anthem, while "God Save the Queen" serves as the royal anthem (see Australia)note: as a territory of Australia, "Advance Australia Fair" remains official as the national anthem, while "God Save the Queen" serves as the royal anthem (see Australia)
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Coconuts, grown throughout the islands, are the sole cash crop. Small local gardens and fishing contribute to the food supply, but additional food and most other necessities must be imported from Australia. There is a small tourist industry.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): NANA
Real GDP growth rate: 1% (2003)
Agricultural products: vegetables, bananas, pawpaws, coconuts
Industries: copra products, tourism
Labor force: NA
Labor force - by occupation: note: the Cocos Islands Cooperative Society Ltd. employs construction workers, stevedores, and lighterage workers; tourism is the other main source of employmentnote: the Cocos Islands Cooperative Society Ltd. employs construction workers, stevedores, and lighterage workers; tourism is the other main source of employment
Unemployment rate: 0.1% (2011)
60% (2000 est.)
Budget: revenues: NA
expenditures: NA
Fiscal year: 1 July - 30 June
Exports: NANA
Exports - partners: United States 57%, Ireland 15% (2019)
Exports - commodities: computers, packaged medicines, precious metal watches, office machinery/parts, chemical analysis instruments (2019)
Imports: NANA
Imports - partners: Australia 73%, United Arab Emirates 15%, Netherlands 5% (2019)
Imports - commodities: gold, x-ray equipment, cars, prefabricated buildings, packaged medicines (2019)
Exchange rates: Australian dollars (AUD) per US dollar -
1.311 (2017 est.)
1.3442 (2016 est.)
1.3442 (2015)
1.3291 (2014)
1.1094 (2013)
Topic: Communications
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: telephone service is part of the Australian network; an operational local mobile-cellular network available; wireless Internet connectivity available
domestic: local area code - 08
international: international code - 61 8; telephone, telex, and facsimile communications with Australia and elsewhere via satellite; satellite earth station - 1 (Intelsat)
Broadcast media: 1 local radio station staffed by community volunteers; satellite broadcasts of several Australian radio and TV stations available (2017)
Internet country code: .cc
Topic: Transportation
Airports: total: 1 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 1
2,438 to 3,047 m: 1 (2021)
Roadways: total: 22 km (2007)
paved: 10 km (2007)
unpaved: 12 km (2007)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Port Refuge
Topic: Military and Security
Military - note: defense is the responsibility of Australia
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: nonenone |
20220601 | countries-akrotiri |
Topic: Photos of Akrotiri
Topic: Introduction
Background: By terms of the 1960 Treaty of Establishment that created the independent Republic of Cyprus, the UK retained full sovereignty and jurisdiction over two areas of almost 254 square kilometers - Akrotiri and Dhekelia. The southernmost and smallest of these is the Akrotiri Sovereign Base Area, which is also referred to as the Western Sovereign Base Area.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Eastern Mediterranean, peninsula on the southwest coast of Cyprus
Geographic coordinates: 34 37 N, 32 58 E
Map references: Middle East
Area: total: 123 sq km
note: includes a salt lake and wetlands
Area - comparative: about 0.7 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries: total: 48 km
border countries (1): Cyprus 48 km
Coastline: 56.3 km
Climate: temperate; Mediterranean with hot, dry summers and cool winters
Geography - note: British extraterritorial rights also extended to several small off-post sites scattered across Cyprus; of the Sovereign Base Area (SBA) land, 60% is privately owned and farmed, 20% is owned by the Ministry of Defense, and 20% is SBA Crown land
Map description: Akrotiri map showing the UK Sovereign Base Area as well as the adjacent part of south Cyprus.
Topic: People and Society
Population: (2020) approximately 18,195 on the Sovereign Base Areas of Akrotiri and Dhekelia including 11,000 Cypriots and 7,195 Service and UK-based contract personnel and dependents
Languages: English, Greek
major-language sample(s):
Το Παγκόσμιο Βιβλίο Δεδομένων, η απαραίτητη πηγή βασικών πληροφοριών. (Greek)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Age structure: 0-14 years: NA
15-24 years: NA
25-54 years: NA
55-64 years: NA
65 years and over: NA
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: NA
youth dependency ratio: NA
elderly dependency ratio: NA
potential support ratio: NA
Birth rate: NA
Death rate: NA
Contraceptive prevalence rate: NA
Drinking water source: improved: urban: NA
rural: NA
total: NA
unimproved: urban: NA
rural: NA
total: NA
Current Health Expenditure: NA
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: NA
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: NA
HIV/AIDS - deaths: NA
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: NA
Education expenditures: NA
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: hunting around the salt lake; note - breeding place for loggerhead and green turtles; only remaining colony of griffon vultures is on the base
Climate: temperate; Mediterranean with hot, dry summers and cool winters
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: none
conventional short form: Akrotiri
etymology: named for the village that lies within the Western Sovereign Base Area on Cyprus
Dependency status: a special form of UK overseas territory; administered by an administrator who is also the Commander, British Forces Cyprus
Capital: name: Episkopi Cantonment (base administrative center for Akrotiri and Dhekelia)
geographic coordinates: 34 40 N, 32 51 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: "Episkopi" means "episcopal" in Greek and stems from the fact that the site previously served as the bishop's seat of an Orthodox diocese
Constitution: history: presented 3 August 1960, effective 16 August 1960 (The Sovereign Base Areas of Akrotiri and Dhekelia Order in Council 1960 serves as a basic legal document)
amendments: amended 1966
Legal system: laws applicable to the Cypriot population are, as far as possible, the same as the laws of the Republic of Cyprus; note - the Sovereign Base Area Administration has its own court system to deal with civil and criminal matters
Executive branch: chief of state: Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952)
head of government: Administrator Major General Robert J. THOMSON (since 25 September 2019); note - administrator reports to the British Ministry of Defense; the chief officer is responsible for the day-to-day running of the civil government of the Sovereign Bases
elections/appointments: the monarchy is hereditary; administrator appointed by the monarch on the advice of the Ministry of Defense
Judicial branch: highest courts: Senior Judges' Court (consists of several visiting judges from England and Wales)
judge selection and term of office: see entry for United Kingdom
subordinate courts: Resident Judges' Court; Courts Martial
Diplomatic representation in the US: none (overseas territory of the UK)
Diplomatic representation from the US: embassy: none (overseas territory of the UK)
Flag description: the flag of the UK is used
National anthem: note: as a UK area of special sovereignty, "God Save the Queen" is official (see United Kingdom)note: as a UK area of special sovereignty, "God Save the Queen" is official (see United Kingdom)
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Economic activity is limited to providing services to the military and their families located in Akrotiri. All food and manufactured goods must be imported.
Exchange rates: note: uses the euronote: uses the euro
Topic: Communications
Broadcast media: British Forces Broadcast Service (BFBS) provides multi-channel satellite TV service as well as BFBS radio broadcasts to the Akrotiri Sovereign Base Area
Topic: Transportation
Airports: total: 1 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: 2,438 to 3,047 m: 1 (2021)
Topic: Military and Security
Military - note: defense is the responsibility of the UK; Akrotiri (aka the Western Sovereign Base Area) has a full RAF base, headquarters for British Forces Cyprus, and the Episkopi Cantonment |
20220601 | field-imports-country-comparison | |
20220601 | countries-heard-island-and-mcdonald-islands |
Topic: Photos of Heard Island and McDonald Islands
Topic: Introduction
Background: American sailor John HEARD discovered Heard Island in 1853 and thought it was a glacier that had broken away from Antarctica. Fellow American William MCDONALD discovered the McDonald Islands the following year. Starting in 1855, sealers lived on the islands harvesting elephant seal oil; by the time the practice was ended in 1877, most of the islands’ seals were killed. The UK formally claimed the islands in 1910 and Australian explorer Douglas MAWSON visited Heard Island in 1929. In 1947, the UK transferred the islands to Australia for its Antarctica research, but Australia closed the research station on Heard Island in 1954 when it opened a new research station on the Antarctic continent. McDonald Island has been an active volcano since it emerged from dormancy in 1992, and the island doubled in size after an eruption in 1996. In 1997, the islands were named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Populated by a large number of bird species, seals, and penguins, the islands are primarily used for research with limited fishing being permitted in the surrounding waters. American sailor John HEARD discovered Heard Island in 1853 and thought it was a glacier that had broken away from Antarctica. Fellow American William MCDONALD discovered the McDonald Islands the following year. Starting in 1855, sealers lived on the islands harvesting elephant seal oil; by the time the practice was ended in 1877, most of the islands’ seals were killed. The UK formally claimed the islands in 1910 and Australian explorer Douglas MAWSON visited Heard Island in 1929. In 1947, the UK transferred the islands to Australia for its Antarctica research, but Australia closed the research station on Heard Island in 1954 when it opened a new research station on the Antarctic continent. McDonald Island has been an active volcano since it emerged from dormancy in 1992, and the island doubled in size after an eruption in 1996. In 1997, the islands were named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Populated by a large number of bird species, seals, and penguins, the islands are primarily used for research with limited fishing being permitted in the surrounding waters. Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: islands in the Indian Ocean, about two-thirds of the way from Madagascar to Antarctica
Geographic coordinates: 53 06 S, 72 31 E
Map references: Antarctic Region
Area: total: 412 sq km
land: 412 sq km
water: 0 sq km
Area - comparative: slightly more than two times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries: total: 0 km
Coastline: 101.9 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
Climate: antarctic
Terrain: Heard Island - 80% ice-covered, bleak and mountainous, dominated by a large massif (Big Ben) and an active volcano (Mawson Peak); McDonald Islands - small and rocky
Elevation: highest point: Mawson Peak on Big Ben volcano 2,745 m
lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m
Natural resources: fish
Land use: agricultural land: 0% (2011 est.)
other: 100% (2018 est.)
Natural hazards: Mawson Peak, an active volcano, is on Heard Island
Geography - note: Mawson Peak on Heard Island is the highest Australian mountain (at 2,745 meters, it is taller than Mt. Kosciuszko in Australia proper), and one of only two active volcanoes located in Australian territory, the other being McDonald Island; in 1992, McDonald Island broke its dormancy and began erupting; it has erupted several times since, most recently in 2005
Map description: Heard Island and McDonald Islands map shows the position of this Australian territory in the Indian Ocean.Heard Island and McDonald Islands map shows the position of this Australian territory in the Indian Ocean.
Topic: People and Society
Population: uninhabited
Age structure: 0-14 years: NA
15-24 years: NA
25-54 years: NA
55-64 years: NA
65 years and over: NA
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: NA
youth dependency ratio: NA
elderly dependency ratio: NA
potential support ratio: NA
Birth rate: NA
Death rate: NA
Contraceptive prevalence rate: NA
Drinking water source: improved: urban: NA
rural: NA
total: NA
unimproved: urban: NA
rural: NA
total: NA
Current Health Expenditure: NA
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: NA
rural: NA
total: NA
unimproved: urban: NA
rural: NA
total: NA
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: NA
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: NA
HIV/AIDS - deaths: NA
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: NA
Education expenditures: NA
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: none; uninhabited and mostly ice covered
Climate: antarctic
Land use: agricultural land: 0% (2011 est.)
other: 100% (2018 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Territory of Heard Island and McDonald Islands
conventional short form: Heard Island and McDonald Islands
abbreviation: HIMI
etymology: named after American Captain John HEARD, who sighted the island on 25 November 1853, and American Captain William McDONALD, who discovered the islands on 4 January 1854
Dependency status: territory of Australia; administered from Canberra by the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment (Australian Antarctic Division)
Legal system: the laws of Australia apply where applicable
Diplomatic representation in the US: none (territory of Australia)
Diplomatic representation from the US: embassy: none (territory of Australia)
Flag description: the flag of Australia is used
National heritage: total World Heritage Sites: 1 (natural); note - excerpted from the Australia entry
selected World Heritage Site locales: Heard Island and McDonald Islands
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: The islands have no indigenous economic activity, but the Australian Government allows limited fishing in the surrounding waters. Visits to Heard Island typically focus on terrestrial and marine research and infrequent private expeditions.
Topic: Communications
Internet country code: .hm
Topic: Transportation
Ports and terminals: none; offshore anchorage only
Topic: Military and Security
Military - note: defense is the responsibility of Australia; Australia conducts fisheries patrols
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: nonenone |
20220601 | field-refined-petroleum-products-imports-country-comparison | |
20220601 | countries-iran-travel-facts |
US State Dept Travel Advisory: The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens DO NOT TRAVEL to Iran due to the risk of kidnapping and the arbitrary arrest and detention of U.S. citizens. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws and special circumstances in this country.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements: US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. They should also make sure they have at least 1 blank page in their passport for any entry stamp and or visa that will be required. A visa is required. US citizens will need to get in touch with the country’s embassy or nearest consulate to obtain a visa prior to visiting the country.
US Embassy/Consulate: None; the US Interests Section is located in the Embassy of Switzerland; US citizens may call US Dept of State (202)-501-4444; EMER: (202) 485-7600; Embassy of Switzerland, US Foreign Interests Section No. 39, Shahid Mousavi (Golestan 5th), Pasdaran Ave., Tehran, Iran
Telephone Code: 98
Local Emergency Phone: Ambulance: 115; Fire: 123; Police: 110
Vaccinations: An International Certificate of Vaccination for yellow fever is required for travelers arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission and for travelers having transited through the airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. See WHO recommendations.
http://www.who.int/
Climate: Mostly arid or semiarid, subtropical along Caspian coast
Currency (Code): Iranian rials (IRR)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s): 230 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): C, F
Major Languages: Persian Farsi, Azeri and other Turkic dialects, Kurdish, Gilaki and Mazandarani, Luri, Balochi, Arabic
Major Religions: Muslim 99.4% (Shia 90-95%, Sunni 5-10%), other (includes Zoroastrian, Jewish, and Christian) 0.3%
Time Difference: UTC+3.5 (8.5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time); daylight saving time: +1hr, begins fourth Wednesday in March, ends fourth Friday in September
Potable Water: Yes, but some opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit: Suggested
Road Driving Side: Right
Tourist Destinations: Persepolis; Chogha Zanbil; Anzali Lagoon; Chalus Road; Naqsh-e Jahan Square; Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System; Naqsh-e Rostam
Major Sports: Varzesh-e-Bastani (martial art), wrestling, polo
Cultural Practices: In Iran, it is customary to decline food or other offerings even when you want them. The provider will most often insist, whereupon one should humbly accept.
Tipping Guidelines: Tipping is not common. Offer the bellhop a little something for carrying bags to your room.Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444
Page last updated: Monday, April 18, 2022 |
20220601 | references-hydrographic-data-codes | IHO 23-4th: Limits of Oceans and Seas, Special Publication 23, Draft 4th Edition 1986, published by the International Hydrographic Bureau of the International Hydrographic Organization.IHO 23-3rd: Limits of Oceans and Seas, Special Publication 23, 3rd Edition 1953, published by the International Hydrographic Organization.ACIC M 49-1: Chart of Limits of Seas and Oceans, revised January 1958, published by the Aeronautical Chart and Information Center (ACIC), United States Air Force.DIAM 65-18: Geopolitical Data Elements and Related Features, Data Standard No. 4, Defense Intelligence Agency Manual 65-18, December 1994, published by the Defense Intelligence Agency.The US Government has not yet adopted a standard for hydrographic codes similar to the Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) 10-4 country codes. The names and limits of the following oceans and seas are not always directly comparable because of differences in the customers, needs, and requirements of the individual organizations. Even the number of principal water bodies varies from organization to organization. Factbook users, for example, find the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific Ocean entries useful, but none of the following standards include those oceans in their entirety. Nor is there any provision for combining codes or overcodes to aggregate water bodies. The recently delimited Southern Ocean is not included. |
20220601 | countries-chile |
Topic: Photos of Chile
Topic: Introduction
Background: Indigenous groups inhabited central and southern Chile for several thousands of years, living in mixed pastoralist and settled communities, ending with the Inka ruling the north of the country for nearly a century prior to the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century. The Captaincy General of Chile was founded by the Spanish in 1541, lasting until Chile declared its independence in 1810. The subsequent struggle became tied to other South American independence conflicts, with a decisive victory over the Spanish not being achieved until 1818. In the War of the Pacific (1879-83), Chile defeated Peru and Bolivia to win its current northernmost regions. By the 1880s, the Chilean central government cemented its control over the central and southern regions inhabited by Mapuche Indigenous peoples. Between 1891 and 1973, a series of elected governments succeeded each other until the three-year-old Marxist government of Salvador ALLENDE was overthrown in 1973 by a military coup led by General Augusto PINOCHET, who ruled until a democratically-elected president was inaugurated in 1990. Economic reforms, maintained consistently since the 1980s, contributed to steady growth, reduced poverty rates by over half, and helped secure the country's commitment to democratic and representative government. Chile has increasingly assumed regional and international leadership roles befitting its status as a stable, democratic nation.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Southern South America, bordering the South Pacific Ocean, between Argentina and Peru
Geographic coordinates: 30 00 S, 71 00 W
Map references: South America
Area: total: 756,102 sq km
land: 743,812 sq km
water: 12,290 sq km
note: includes Easter Island (Isla de Pascua) and Isla Sala y Gomez
Area - comparative: slightly smaller than twice the size of Montana
Land boundaries: total: 7,801 km
border countries (3): Argentina 6,691 km; Bolivia 942 km; Peru 168 km
Coastline: 6,435 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
continental shelf: 200/350 nm
Climate: temperate; desert in north; Mediterranean in central region; cool and damp in south
Terrain: low coastal mountains, fertile central valley, rugged Andes in east
Elevation: highest point: Nevado Ojos del Salado 6,893 m (highest volcano in the world)
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 1,871 m
Natural resources: copper, timber, iron ore, nitrates, precious metals, molybdenum, hydropower
Land use: agricultural land: 21.1% (2018 est.)
arable land: 1.7% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 0.6% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 18.8% (2018 est.)
forest: 21.9% (2018 est.)
other: 57% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 11,100 sq km (2012)
Major lakes (area sq km): Fresh water lake(s): Lago General Carrera (shared with Argentina) - 2,240 sq km; Lago O'Higgins (shared with Argentina) - 1,010 sq km; Lago Llanquihue - 800 sq km; Lago Fagnano (shared with Argentina) - 590 sq km
Population distribution: 90% of the population is located in the middle third of the country around the capital of Santiago; the far north (anchored by the Atacama Desert) and the extreme south are relatively underpopulated
Natural hazards: severe earthquakes; active volcanism; tsunamisvolcanism: significant volcanic activity due to more than three-dozen active volcanoes along the Andes Mountains; Lascar (5,592 m), which last erupted in 2007, is the most active volcano in the northern Chilean Andes; Llaima (3,125 m) in central Chile, which last erupted in 2009, is another of the country's most active; Chaiten's 2008 eruption forced major evacuations; other notable historically active volcanoes include Cerro Hudson, Calbuco, Copahue, Guallatiri, Llullaillaco, Nevados de Chillan, Puyehue, San Pedro, and Villarrica; see note 2 under "Geography - note"severe earthquakes; active volcanism; tsunamisvolcanism: significant volcanic activity due to more than three-dozen active volcanoes along the Andes Mountains; Lascar (5,592 m), which last erupted in 2007, is the most active volcano in the northern Chilean Andes; Llaima (3,125 m) in central Chile, which last erupted in 2009, is another of the country's most active; Chaiten's 2008 eruption forced major evacuations; other notable historically active volcanoes include Cerro Hudson, Calbuco, Copahue, Guallatiri, Llullaillaco, Nevados de Chillan, Puyehue, San Pedro, and Villarrica; see note 2 under "Geography - note"
Geography - note: note 1: the longest north-south trending country in the world, extending across 39 degrees of latitude; strategic location relative to sea lanes between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans (Strait of Magellan, Beagle Channel, Drake Passage) note 2: Chile is one of the countries along the Ring of Fire, a belt of active volcanoes and earthquake epicenters bordering the Pacific Ocean; up to 90% of the world's earthquakes and some 75% of the world's volcanoes occur within the Ring of Fire note 3: the Atacama Desert - the driest desert in the world - spreads across the northern part of the country; Ojos del Salado (6,893 m) in the Atacama Desert is the highest active volcano in the world, Chile's tallest mountain, and the second highest in the Western Hemisphere and the Southern Hemisphere - its small crater lake (at 6,390 m) is the world's highest lake note 1: the longest north-south trending country in the world, extending across 39 degrees of latitude; strategic location relative to sea lanes between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans (Strait of Magellan, Beagle Channel, Drake Passage)note 2: Chile is one of the countries along the Ring of Fire, a belt of active volcanoes and earthquake epicenters bordering the Pacific Ocean; up to 90% of the world's earthquakes and some 75% of the world's volcanoes occur within the Ring of Firenote 3: the Atacama Desert - the driest desert in the world - spreads across the northern part of the country; Ojos del Salado (6,893 m) in the Atacama Desert is the highest active volcano in the world, Chile's tallest mountain, and the second highest in the Western Hemisphere and the Southern Hemisphere - its small crater lake (at 6,390 m) is the world's highest lake
Map description: Chile map showing major cities as well as parts of surrounding countries and the South Pacific Ocean.Chile map showing major cities as well as parts of surrounding countries and the South Pacific Ocean.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 18,430,408 (2022 est.)
Nationality: noun: Chilean(s)
adjective: Chilean
Ethnic groups: White and non-Indigenous 88.9%, Mapuche 9.1%, Aymara 0.7%, other Indigenous groups 1% (includes Rapa Nui, Likan Antai, Quechua, Colla, Diaguita, Kawesqar, Yagan or Yamana), unspecified 0.3% (2012 est.)
Languages: Spanish 99.5% (official), English 10.2%, Indigenous 1% (includes Mapudungun, Aymara, Quechua, Rapa Nui), other 2.3%, unspecified 0.2%; note - shares sum to more than 100% because some respondents gave more than one answer on the census (2012 est.)
major-language sample(s):
La Libreta Informativa del Mundo, la fuente indispensable de información básica. (Spanish)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Religions: Roman Catholic 60%, Evangelical 18%, atheist or agnostic 4%, none 17% (2018 est.)
Demographic profile: Chile is in the advanced stages of demographic transition and is becoming an aging society - with fertility below replacement level, low mortality rates, and life expectancy on par with developed countries. Nevertheless, with its dependency ratio nearing its low point, Chile could benefit from its favorable age structure. It will need to keep its large working-age population productively employed, while preparing to provide for the needs of its growing proportion of elderly people, especially as women - the traditional caregivers - increasingly enter the workforce. Over the last two decades, Chile has made great strides in reducing its poverty rate, which is now lower than most Latin American countries. However, its severe income inequality ranks as the worst among members of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. Unequal access to quality education perpetuates this uneven income distribution.Chile has historically been a country of emigration but has slowly become more attractive to immigrants since transitioning to democracy in 1990 and improving its economic stability (other regional destinations have concurrently experienced deteriorating economic and political conditions). Most of Chile's small but growing foreign-born population consists of transplants from other Latin American countries, especially Peru.Chile is in the advanced stages of demographic transition and is becoming an aging society - with fertility below replacement level, low mortality rates, and life expectancy on par with developed countries. Nevertheless, with its dependency ratio nearing its low point, Chile could benefit from its favorable age structure. It will need to keep its large working-age population productively employed, while preparing to provide for the needs of its growing proportion of elderly people, especially as women - the traditional caregivers - increasingly enter the workforce. Over the last two decades, Chile has made great strides in reducing its poverty rate, which is now lower than most Latin American countries. However, its severe income inequality ranks as the worst among members of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. Unequal access to quality education perpetuates this uneven income distribution.Chile has historically been a country of emigration but has slowly become more attractive to immigrants since transitioning to democracy in 1990 and improving its economic stability (other regional destinations have concurrently experienced deteriorating economic and political conditions). Most of Chile's small but growing foreign-born population consists of transplants from other Latin American countries, especially Peru.
Age structure: 0-14 years: 19.79% (male 1,836,240/female 1,763,124)
15-24 years: 13.84% (male 1,283,710/female 1,233,238)
25-54 years: 42.58% (male 3,882,405/female 3,860,700)
55-64 years: 11.98% (male 1,034,049/female 1,145,022)
65 years and over: 11.81% (2020 est.) (male 902,392/female 1,245,890)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 45.9
youth dependency ratio: 28.1
elderly dependency ratio: 17.9
potential support ratio: 5.6 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 35.5 years
male: 34.3 years
female: 36.7 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 0.66% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 12.75 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 6.52 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: 0.33 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: 90% of the population is located in the middle third of the country around the capital of Santiago; the far north (anchored by the Atacama Desert) and the extreme south are relatively underpopulated
Urbanization: urban population: 87.9% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 0.78% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 6.857 million SANTIAGO (capital), 1.000 million Valparaiso, 902,000 Concepcion (2022)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.04 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.04 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.04 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 1.01 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 0.91 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.56 male(s)/female
total population: 0.97 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Maternal mortality ratio: 13 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 6.55 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 7.12 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 5.95 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 79.79 years
male: 76.8 years
female: 82.92 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 1.76 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: 76.3% (2015/16)
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 100% of population
rural: 100% of population
total: 100% of population
unimproved: urban: 0% of population
rural: 0% of population
total: 0% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 9.3% (2019)
Physicians density: 2.59 physicians/1,000 population (2018)
Hospital bed density: 2.1 beds/1,000 population (2018)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 100% of population
rural: 100% of population
total: 100% of population
unimproved: urban: 0% of population
rural: 0% of population
total: 0% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: 0.6% (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: 77,000 (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - deaths: (2018) <1000
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 28% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: 0.5% (2014)
Education expenditures: 5.4% of GDP (2018)
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 96.4%
male: 96.3%
female: 96.3% (2017)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 17 years
male: 17 years
female: 17 years (2019)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 24.9%
male: 23.7%
female: 26.6% (2020 est.)
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: air pollution from industrial and vehicle emissions; water pollution from raw sewage; noise pollution; improper garbage disposal; soil degradation; widespread deforestation and mining threaten the environment; wildlife conservation
Environment - international agreements: party to: Antarctic-Environmental Protection, Antarctic-Marine Living Resources, Antarctic Seals, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping-London Convention, Marine Dumping-London Protocol, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands, Whaling
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 21.03 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 85.82 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 15.97 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: temperate; desert in north; Mediterranean in central region; cool and damp in south
Land use: agricultural land: 21.1% (2018 est.)
arable land: 1.7% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 0.6% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 18.8% (2018 est.)
forest: 21.9% (2018 est.)
other: 57% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 87.9% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 0.78% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 0.49% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0.01% of GDP (2018 est.)
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 6.517 million tons (2009 est.)
municipal solid waste recycled annually: 24,113 tons (2009 est.)
percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 0.4% (2009 est.)
Major lakes (area sq km): Fresh water lake(s): Lago General Carrera (shared with Argentina) - 2,240 sq km; Lago O'Higgins (shared with Argentina) - 1,010 sq km; Lago Llanquihue - 800 sq km; Lago Fagnano (shared with Argentina) - 590 sq km
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 1.267 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 4.744 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 29.42 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 923.06 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Republic of Chile
conventional short form: Chile
local long form: Republica de Chile
local short form: Chile
etymology: derivation of the name is unclear, but it may come from the Mapuche word "chilli" meaning "limit of the earth" or from the Quechua "chiri" meaning "cold"
Government type: presidential republic
Capital: name: Santiago; note - Valparaiso is the seat of the national legislature
geographic coordinates: 33 27 S, 70 40 W
time difference: UTC-3 (2 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins second Sunday in August; ends second Sunday in May; note - Punta Arenas observes DST throughout the year
time zone note: Chile has three time zones: the continental portion at UTC-3; the southern Magallanes region, which does not use daylight savings time and remains at UTC-3 for the summer months; and Easter Island at UTC-5
etymology: Santiago is named after the biblical figure Saint James (ca. A.D. 3-44), patron saint of Spain, but especially revered in Galicia; "Santiago" derives from the local Galician evolution of the Vulgar Latin "Sanctu Iacobu"; Valparaiso derives from the Spanish "Valle Paraiso" meaning "Paradise Valley"
Administrative divisions: 16 regions (regiones, singular - region); Aysen, Antofagasta, Araucania, Arica y Parinacota, Atacama, Biobio, Coquimbo, Libertador General Bernardo O'Higgins, Los Lagos, Los Rios, Magallanes y de la Antartica Chilena (Magallanes and Chilean Antarctica), Maule, Nuble, Region Metropolitana (Santiago), Tarapaca, Valparaiso
note: the US does not recognize any claims to Antarctica
Independence: 18 September 1810 (from Spain)
National holiday: Independence Day, 18 September (1810)
Constitution: history: many previous; latest adopted 11 September 1980, effective 11 March 1981; a referendum held on 25 October 2020 approved forming a convention to draft a new constitution, and on 15-16 May 2021, a referendum was held to elect members to the convention
amendments: proposed by members of either house of the National Congress or by the president of the republic; passage requires at least three-fifths majority vote of the membership in both houses and approval by the president; passage of amendments to constitutional articles, such as the republican form of government, basic rights and freedoms, the Constitutional Tribunal, electoral justice, the Council of National Security, or the constitutional amendment process, requires at least two-third majority vote by both houses of Congress and approval by the president; the president can opt to hold a referendum when Congress and the president disagree on an amendment; amended many times, last in 2020
Legal system: civil law system influenced by several West European civil legal systems; judicial review of legislative acts by the Constitutional Tribunal
International law organization participation: has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: yes
citizenship by descent only: yes
dual citizenship recognized: yes
residency requirement for naturalization: 5 years
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: President Gabriel BORIC (since 11 March 2022); note - the president is both chief of state and head of government
head of government: President Gabriel BORIC (since 11 March 2022)
cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the president
elections/appointments: president directly elected by absolute majority popular vote in 2 rounds if needed for a single 4-year term; election last held on 21 November 2021 with a runoff held on 19 December 2021 (next to be held on 23 November 2025 with runoff if needed on 20 December)
election results:
2021: Gabriel BORIC elected president in second round; percent of vote in first round - Jose Antonio KAST (FSC) 27.9%; Gabriel BORIC (AD) 25.8%; Franco PARISI (PDG) 12.8%; Sebastian SICHEL (ChP+) 12.8%; Yasna PROVOSTE (New Social Pact) 11.6%; other 9.1%; percent of vote in second round - Gabriel BORIC (AD) 55.9%; Jose Antonio KAST (FSC) 44.1%
2017: Sebastian PINERA Echenique elected president in second round; percent of vote in first round - Sebastian PINERA Echenique (independent) 36.6%; Alejandro GUILLIER (independent) 22.7%; Beatriz SANCHEZ (independent) 20.3%; Jose Antonio KAST (independent) 7.9%; Carolina GOIC (PDC) 5.9%; Marco ENRIQUEZ-OMINAMI (PRO) 5.7%; other 0.9%; percent of vote in second round - Sebastian PINERA Echenique 54.6%, Alejandro GUILLIER 45.4%
Legislative branch: description: bicameral National Congress or Congreso Nacional consists of:
Senate or Senado (50 seats); members directly elected in multi-seat constituencies by open party-list proportional representation vote to serve 8-year terms with one-half of the membership renewed every 4 years)
Chamber of Deputies or Camara de Diputados (155 seats; members directly elected in multi-seat constituencies by open party-list proportional representation vote to serve 4-year terms)
elections:
Senate - last held on 21 November 2021 (next to be held on 23 November 2025)
Chamber of Deputies - last held on 21 November 2021 (next to be held on 23 November 2025)
election results:
Senate - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - ChP+ 12 (RN 5, UDI 5, EVOPOLI 2), NPS 8 (PS 4, PPD 2, PDC 2), PLR 1, AD 4 (PCCh 2, FREVS 2) independent 2; composition - men 38, women 12, percent of women 24%
Chamber of Deputies - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - ChP+ 53 (RN 25, UDI 23, EVOPOLI 4, PRI 1), AD 37 (PCCh 12, CS 9, RD 8, Commons 6, FREVS 2), NPS 37 (PS 13, PDC 8, PPD 7, PL 4, PRSD 4, CIU 1), FSC 15 (PLR 14, PCC 1), PDG 6, DA 3, PEV 2, IU 1, independent 1; composition - men 100, women 55, percent of women 35.5%; note - overall National Congress percent of women 32.7%
Judicial branch: highest courts: Supreme Court or Corte Suprema (consists of a court president and 20 members or ministros); Constitutional Court (consists of 10 members) which is independent of he rest of the judiciary; Elections Qualifying Court (consists of 5 members)
judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court president and judges (ministers) appointed by the president of the republic and ratified by the Senate from lists of candidates provided by the court itself; judges appointed for life with mandatory retirement at age 70; Constitutional Court members appointed - 3 by the Supreme Court, 3 by the president of the republic, 2 by the Chamber of Deputies, and 2 by the Senate; members serve 9-year terms with partial membership replacement every 3 years (the court reviews constitutionality of legislation); Elections Qualifying Court members appointed by lottery - 1 by the former president or vice president of the Senate and 1 by the former president or vice president of the Chamber of Deputies, 2 by the Supreme Court, and 1 by the Appellate Court of Valparaiso; members appointed for 4-year terms
subordinate courts: Courts of Appeal; oral criminal tribunals; military tribunals; local police courts; specialized tribunals and courts in matters such as family, labor, customs, taxes, and electoral affairs
Political parties and leaders: Approve Dignity (Apruebo Dignidad) coalition or AD - (includes PC, RD, and CS) [Gabriel BORIC]
Broad Front Coalition (Frente Amplio) or FA (includes RD, PL, PH, PEV, Igualdad, and Poder) [Beatriz SANCHEZ]
Broad Social Movement of Leftist Citizens (includes former MAS and Izquierda Ciudadana) [Fernando ZAMORANO]
Chile We Can Do More or ChP+ [Sebastian SICHEL] (includes EVOPOLI, PRI, RN, UDI)
Christian Conservative Party or PCC [Antaris VARELA]
Christian Democratic Party or PDC [Yasna PROVOSTE]
Christian Social Front or FSC [Jose Antonio KAST] (includes PCC, PLR)
Citizen Power (Poder) [Karina OLIVA]
Citizens or CIU [María Ignacia GOMEZ Martinez]
Commons (Comunes) [Javiera TORO]
Communist Party of Chile or PCCh [Guillermo TEILLIER del Valle]
Democratic Revolution or RD [Rodrigo ECHECOPAR]
Dignity Now or DA [Pamela JILES Moreno and Guillermo GONZALEZ Castro]
Equality Party (Igualdad) [Guillermo GONZALEZ Castro]
Green Ecological Party or PEV [Felix GONZALEZ]
Humanist Party or PH [Octavio GONZALEZ]
Independent Democratic Union or UDI [Javier MACAYA]
Independent Regionalist Democratic Party or PRI [Hugo ORTIZ de Filippi]
Liberal Party (Partido Liberal de Chile) or PL [Luis Felipe RAMOS]
National Renewal or RN [Francisco CHAHUAN]
New Social Pact or NPS [Yasna PROVOSTE] (includes PDC, PL, PPD, PRSD, PS)
Party for Democracy or PPD [Natalia PERGIENTILI Domenech]
Party of the People or PDG [Franco PARISI]
Political Evolution or EVOPOLI [Hernan LARRAIN MATTE]
Progressive Party or PRO [Marco Antonio ENRIQUEZ-OMINAMI Gumucio]
Radical Social Democratic Party or PRSD [Carlos MALDONADO Curti]
Republican Party or PLR [Jose Antonio KAST]
Social Convergence or CS [Gabriel BORIC]
Social Green Regionalist Federation or FREVS [Jaime Francisco MULET Martinez]
Socialist Party or PS [Alvaro Antonio ELIZALDE Soto]
United Independents or IU [Cristian Alejandro CONTRERAS Radovic]
International organization participation: APEC, BIS, CAN (associate), CD, CELAC, FAO, G-15, G-77, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, IMSO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), LAES, LAIA, Mercosur (associate), MIGA, MINUSTAH, NAM, OAS, OECD (enhanced engagement), OPANAL, OPCW, Pacific Alliance, PCA, PROSUR, SICA (observer), UN, UNASUR, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNFICYP, UNHCR, UNIDO, Union Latina, UNMOGIP, UNTSO, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Beatriz DE LA FUENTE FUENTES (since 8 March 2022)
chancery: 1732 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
telephone: [1] (202) 785-1746
FAX: [1] (202) 887-5579
email address and website:
echile.eeuu@minrel.gob.cl
https://chile.gob.cl/estados-unidos/en/
consulate(s) general: Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, San Francisco
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Richard H. GLENN (since August 2020)
embassy: Avenida Andres Bello 2800, Las Condes, Santiago
mailing address: 3460 Santiago Place, Washington DC 20521-3460
telephone: [56] (2) 2330-3000
FAX: [56] (2) 2330-3710
email address and website:
SantiagoUSA@state.gov
https://cl.usembassy.gov/
Flag description: two equal horizontal bands of white (top) and red; a blue square the same height as the white band at the hoist-side end of the white band; the square bears a white five-pointed star in the center representing a guide to progress and honor; blue symbolizes the sky, white is for the snow-covered Andes, and red represents the blood spilled to achieve independence
note: design influenced by the US flag
National symbol(s): huemul (mountain deer), Andean condor; national colors: red, white, blue
National anthem: name: "Himno Nacional de Chile" (National Anthem of Chile)
lyrics/music: Eusebio LILLO Robles and Bernardo DE VERA y Pintado/Ramon CARNICER y Battle
note: music adopted 1828, original lyrics adopted 1818, adapted lyrics adopted 1847; under Augusto PINOCHET's military rule, a verse glorifying the army was added; however, as a protest, some citizens refused to sing this verse; it was removed when democracy was restored in 1990
National heritage: total World Heritage Sites: 7 (all cultural)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Rapa Nui National Park; Churches of Chiloe; Historic Valparaiso; Humberstone and Santa Laura Saltpeter Works; Sewell Mining Town; Qhapaq Ñan/Andean Road System; Chinchorro archeological sites
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Chile has a market-oriented economy characterized by a high level of foreign trade and a reputation for strong financial institutions and sound policy that have given it the strongest sovereign bond rating in South America. Exports of goods and services account for approximately one-third of GDP, with commodities making up some 60% of total exports. Copper is Chile’s top export and provides 20% of government revenue. From 2003 through 2013, real growth averaged almost 5% per year, despite a slight contraction in 2009 that resulted from the global financial crisis. Growth slowed to an estimated 1.4% in 2017. A continued drop in copper prices prompted Chile to experience its third consecutive year of slow growth. Chile deepened its longstanding commitment to trade liberalization with the signing of a free trade agreement with the US, effective 1 January 2004. Chile has 26 trade agreements covering 60 countries including agreements with the EU, Mercosur, China, India, South Korea, and Mexico. In May 2010, Chile signed the OECD Convention, becoming the first South American country to join the OECD. In October 2015, Chile signed the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade agreement, which was finalized as the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and signed at a ceremony in Chile in March 2018. The Chilean Government has generally followed a countercyclical fiscal policy, under which it accumulates surpluses in sovereign wealth funds during periods of high copper prices and economic growth, and generally allows deficit spending only during periods of low copper prices and growth. As of 31 October 2016, those sovereign wealth funds - kept mostly outside the country and separate from Central Bank reserves - amounted to more than $23.5 billion. Chile used these funds to finance fiscal stimulus packages during the 2009 economic downturn. In 2014, then-President Michelle BACHELET introduced tax reforms aimed at delivering her campaign promise to fight inequality and to provide access to education and health care. The reforms are expected to generate additional tax revenues equal to 3% of Chile’s GDP, mostly by increasing corporate tax rates to OECD averages.Chile has a market-oriented economy characterized by a high level of foreign trade and a reputation for strong financial institutions and sound policy that have given it the strongest sovereign bond rating in South America. Exports of goods and services account for approximately one-third of GDP, with commodities making up some 60% of total exports. Copper is Chile’s top export and provides 20% of government revenue. From 2003 through 2013, real growth averaged almost 5% per year, despite a slight contraction in 2009 that resulted from the global financial crisis. Growth slowed to an estimated 1.4% in 2017. A continued drop in copper prices prompted Chile to experience its third consecutive year of slow growth. Chile deepened its longstanding commitment to trade liberalization with the signing of a free trade agreement with the US, effective 1 January 2004. Chile has 26 trade agreements covering 60 countries including agreements with the EU, Mercosur, China, India, South Korea, and Mexico. In May 2010, Chile signed the OECD Convention, becoming the first South American country to join the OECD. In October 2015, Chile signed the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade agreement, which was finalized as the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and signed at a ceremony in Chile in March 2018. The Chilean Government has generally followed a countercyclical fiscal policy, under which it accumulates surpluses in sovereign wealth funds during periods of high copper prices and economic growth, and generally allows deficit spending only during periods of low copper prices and growth. As of 31 October 2016, those sovereign wealth funds - kept mostly outside the country and separate from Central Bank reserves - amounted to more than $23.5 billion. Chile used these funds to finance fiscal stimulus packages during the 2009 economic downturn. In 2014, then-President Michelle BACHELET introduced tax reforms aimed at delivering her campaign promise to fight inequality and to provide access to education and health care. The reforms are expected to generate additional tax revenues equal to 3% of Chile’s GDP, mostly by increasing corporate tax rates to OECD averages.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $445.88 billion (2020 est.)
$473.19 billion (2019 est.)
$468.77 billion (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 1.03% (2019 est.)
4% (2018 est.)
1.41% (2017 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $23,300 (2020 est.)
$25,000 (2019 est.)
$25,000 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $282.655 billion (2019 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 2.2% (2019 est.)
2.7% (2018 est.)
2.1% (2017 est.)
Credit ratings: Fitch rating: A- (2020)
Moody's rating: A1 (2018)
Standard & Poors rating: A+ (2017)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 4.2% (2017 est.)
industry: 32.8% (2017 est.)
services: 63% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 62.3% (2017 est.)
government consumption: 14% (2017 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 21.5% (2017 est.)
investment in inventories: 0.5% (2017 est.)
exports of goods and services: 28.7% (2017 est.)
imports of goods and services: -27% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: grapes, apples, wheat, sugar beet, milk, potatoes, tomatoes, maize, poultry, pork
Industries: copper, lithium, other minerals, foodstuffs, fish processing, iron and steel, wood and wood products, transport equipment, cement, textiles
Industrial production growth rate: -0.4% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 7.249 million (2020 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 9.2%
industry: 23.7%
services: 67.1% (2013)
Unemployment rate: 7.22% (2019 est.)
7.33% (2018 est.)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 24.9%
male: 23.7%
female: 26.6% (2020 est.)
Population below poverty line: 8.6% (2017 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 44.4 (2017 est.)
57.1 (2000)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: 1.7%
highest 10%: 41.5% (2013 est.)
Budget: revenues: 57.75 billion (2017 est.)
expenditures: 65.38 billion (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): -2.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 23.6% of GDP (2017 est.)
21% of GDP (2016 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 20.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: calendar year
Current account balance: -$10.933 billion (2019 est.)
-$10.601 billion (2018 est.)
Exports: $79.8 billion (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$78.02 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$84.65 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Exports - partners: China 32%, United States 14%, Japan 9%, South Korea 7% (2019)
Exports - commodities: copper, wood pulp, fish fillets, pitted fruits, wine (2019)
Imports: $66.43 billion (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$80.17 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$85.11 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Imports - partners: China 24%, United States 20%, Brazil 8%, Germany 5%, Argentina 5% (2019)
Imports - commodities: refined petroleum, crude petroleum, cars, broadcasting equipment, delivery trucks (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $38.98 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
$40.49 billion (31 December 2016 est.)
Debt - external: $193.298 billion (2019 est.)
$181.089 billion (2018 est.)
Exchange rates: Chilean pesos (CLP) per US dollar -
738.81 (2020 est.)
770.705 (2019 est.)
674.25 (2018 est.)
658.93 (2014 est.)
570.37 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Electricity - production: 76.09 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 73.22 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - imports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 24.53 million kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 59% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 26% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 15% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 3,000 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 169,600 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 150 million bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 216,200 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 354,500 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 7,359 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 166,400 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Natural gas - production: 1.218 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 5.125 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 277.5 million cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 4.446 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 97.97 billion cu m (1 January 2018 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 2,567,938 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 13 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 25,068,249 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 131 (2020 est.)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: Chile’s telecom systems are highly competitive and rapidly evolving; mobile penetration rate is among the highest in South America; deployment of 5G networks expected; fixed broadband penetration is high for region, with fast and inexpensive services; government initiatives provide high-capacity connectivity across the country and increase fixed-line broadband penetration; progress with national satellite system; schools received free broadband as part of the ‘Connectivity for Education 2030’ program; submarine cable project to link Chile with New Zealand and Australia; importer of broadcasting equipment from USA (2020)
domestic: number of fixed-line connections have dropped to about 13 per 100 in recent years as mobile-cellular usage continues to increase, reaching 131 telephones per 100 persons; domestic satellite system with 3 earth stations (2020)
international: country code - 56; landing points for the Pan-Am, Prat, SAm-1, American Movil-Telxius West Coast Cable, FOS Quellon-Chacabuco, Fibra Optical Austral, SAC and Curie submarine cables providing links to the US, Caribbean and to Central and South America; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) (2019)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: national and local terrestrial TV channels, coupled with extensive cable TV networks; the state-owned Television Nacional de Chile (TVN) network is self-financed through commercial advertising revenues and is not under direct government control; large number of privately owned TV stations; about 250 radio stations
Internet country code: .cl
Internet users: total: 16,822,264 (2020 est.)
percent of population: 88% (2020 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 3,763,826 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 20 (2020 est.)
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 9 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 173
annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 19,517,185 (2018)
annual freight traffic on registered air carriers: 1,226,440,000 (2018) mt-km
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: CC
Airports: total: 481 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 90
over 3,047 m: 5
2,438 to 3,047 m: 7
1,524 to 2,437 m: 23
914 to 1,523 m: 31
under 914 m: 24 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 391
2,438 to 3,047 m: 5
1,524 to 2,437 m: 11
914 to 1,523 m: 56
under 914 m: 319 (2021)
Heliports: 1 (2021)
Pipelines: 3160 km gas, 781 km liquid petroleum gas, 985 km oil, 722 km refined products (2013)
Railways: total: 7,282 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 3,853.5 km (2014) 1.000-m gauge
broad gauge: 3,428 km (2014) 1.676-m gauge (1,691 km electrified)
Roadways: total: 77,801 km (2016)
Merchant marine: total: 231
by type: bulk carrier 6, container ship 5, general cargo 58, oil tanker 14, other 148 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Coronel, Huasco, Lirquen, Puerto Ventanas, San Antonio, San Vicente, Valparaiso
container port(s) (TEUs): San Antonio (1,709,635), Valparaiso (898,715) (2019)
LNG terminal(s) (import): Mejillones, Quintero
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: Armed Forces of Chile (Fuerzas Armadas de Chile): Chilean Army (Ejército de Chile), Chilean Navy (Armada de Chile, includes marine units and coast guard or Maritime Territory and Merchant Marine Directorate (Directemar)), Chilean Air Force (Fuerza Aerea de Chile, FACh); Ministry of the Interior and Public Security: Carabineros de Chile (National Police Force) (2022)
note - Carabineros de Chile are responsible to both the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of the Interior
Military expenditures: 1.9% of GDP (2021 est.)
2% of GDP (2020 est.)
1.9% of GDP (2019) (approximately $7.33 billion)
1.9% of GDP (2018) (approximately $7.2 billion)
2% of GDP (2017) (approximately $7.1 billion)
Military and security service personnel strengths: approximately 75,000 active armed forces personnel (45,000 Army; 20,000 Navy; 10,000 Air Force); approximately 50,000 Carabineros (2022)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the Chilean military inventory is comprised of a wide mix of mostly Western equipment and some domestically-produced systems; since 2010, it has received military hardware from nearly 15 countries with Germany and the US as the leading suppliers; Chile's defense industry has capabilities in military aircraft, ships, and vehicles (2021)
Military service age and obligation: 18-45 years of age for voluntary male and female military service; selective compulsory service (there are usually enough volunteers to make compulsory service unnecessary); service obligation is a minimum of 12 months for Army and 22 months for Navy and Air Force (2021)
note - as of 2021, women comprised approximately 18% of the armed forces
Military - note: the Chilean Army was founded in 1810, but traces its origins back to the Army of the Kingdom of Chile, which was established by the Spanish Crown in the early 1600s; the Navy traces its origins to 1817; it was first led by a British officer and its first ships were largely crewed by American, British, and Irish sailors; by the 1880s, the Chilean Navy was one of the most powerful in the Americas, and included the world’s first protected cruiser (a ship with an armored deck to protect vital machine spaces); Chile's military aviation was inaugurated in 1913 with the creation of a military aviation schoolthe Chilean Army was founded in 1810, but traces its origins back to the Army of the Kingdom of Chile, which was established by the Spanish Crown in the early 1600s; the Navy traces its origins to 1817; it was first led by a British officer and its first ships were largely crewed by American, British, and Irish sailors; by the 1880s, the Chilean Navy was one of the most powerful in the Americas, and included the world’s first protected cruiser (a ship with an armored deck to protect vital machine spaces); Chile's military aviation was inaugurated in 1913 with the creation of a military aviation school
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: Chile and Peru rebuff Bolivia's reactivated claim to restore the Atacama corridor, ceded to Chile in 1884, but Chile has offered instead unrestricted but not sovereign maritime access through Chile to Bolivian natural gas; Chile rejects Peru's unilateral legislation to change its latitudinal maritime boundary with Chile to an equidistance line with a southwestern axis favoring Peru; in October 2007, Peru took its maritime complaint with Chile to the ICJ; territorial claim in Antarctica (Chilean Antarctic Territory) partially overlaps Argentine and British claims; the joint boundary commission, established by Chile and Argentina in 2001, has yet to map and demarcate the delimited boundary in the inhospitable Andean Southern Ice Field (Campo de Hielo Sur)Chile and Peru rebuff Bolivia's reactivated claim to restore the Atacama corridor, ceded to Chile in 1884, but Chile has offered instead unrestricted but not sovereign maritime access through Chile to Bolivian natural gas; Chile rejects Peru's unilateral legislation to change its latitudinal maritime boundary with Chile to an equidistance line with a southwestern axis favoring Peru; in October 2007, Peru took its maritime complaint with Chile to the ICJ; territorial claim in Antarctica (Chilean Antarctic Territory) partially overlaps Argentine and British claims; the joint boundary commission, established by Chile and Argentina in 2001, has yet to map and demarcate the delimited boundary in the inhospitable Andean Southern Ice Field (Campo de Hielo Sur)
Refugees and internally displaced persons: refugees (country of origin): 448,138 (Venezuela) (economic and political crisis; includes Venezuelans who have claimed asylum or have received alternative legal stay) (2020)
Illicit drugs: transshipment country for cocaine destined for Europe and the region; some money laundering activity, especially through the Iquique Free Trade Zone; imported precursors passed on to Bolivia; domestic cocaine consumption is rising, making Chile a significant consumer of cocaine |
20220601 | field-net-migration-rate-country-comparison | |
20220601 | countries-united-states-pacific-island-wildlife-refuges |
Topic: Photos of United States Pacific Island Wildlife Refuges
Topic: Introduction
Background: All of the following US Pacific island territories except Midway Atoll constitute the Pacific Remote Islands National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) Complex and as such are managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service of the US Department of the Interior. Midway Atoll NWR has been included in a Refuge Complex with the Hawaiian Islands NWR and also designated as part of Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument. These remote refuges are the most widespread collection of marine- and terrestrial-life protected areas on the planet under a single country's jurisdiction. They sustain many endemic species including corals, fish, shellfish, marine mammals, seabirds, water birds, land birds, insects, and vegetation not found elsewhere.Baker Island: The US took possession of the island in 1857. Its guano deposits were mined by US and British companies during the second half of the 19th century. In 1935, a short-lived attempt at colonization began on this island but was disrupted by World War II and thereafter abandoned. The island was established as a NWR in 1974.; Howland Island: Discovered by the US early in the 19th century, the uninhabited atoll was officially claimed by the US in 1857. Both US and British companies mined for guano deposits until about 1890. In 1935, a short-lived attempt at colonization began on this island, similar to the effort on nearby Baker Island, but was disrupted by World War II and thereafter abandoned. The famed American aviatrix Amelia EARHART disappeared while seeking out Howland Island as a refueling stop during her 1937 round-the-world flight; Earhart Light, a day beacon near the middle of the west coast, was named in her memory. The island was established as a NWR in 1974.; Jarvis Island: First discovered by the British in 1821, the uninhabited island was annexed by the US in 1858 but abandoned in 1879 after tons of guano had been removed. The UK annexed the island in 1889 but never carried out plans for further exploitation. The US occupied and reclaimed the island in 1935. It was abandoned in 1942 during World War II. The island was established as a NWR in 1974.; Johnston Atoll: Both the US and the Kingdom of Hawaii annexed Johnston Atoll in 1858, but it was the US that mined the guano deposits until the late 1880s. Johnston and Sand Islands were designated wildlife refuges in 1926. The US Navy took over the atoll in 1934. Subsequently, the US Air Force assumed control in 1948. The site was used for high-altitude nuclear tests in the 1950s and 1960s. Until late in 2000 the atoll was maintained as a storage and disposal site for chemical weapons. Munitions destruction, cleanup, and closure of the facility were completed by May 2005. The Fish and Wildlife Service and the US Air Force are currently discussing future management options; in the interim, Johnston Atoll and the three-mile Naval Defensive Sea around it remain under the jurisdiction and administrative control of the US Air Force.; Kingman Reef: The US annexed the reef in 1922. Its sheltered lagoon served as a way station for flying boats on Hawaii-to-American Samoa flights during the late 1930s. There are no terrestrial plants on the reef, which is frequently awash, but it does support abundant and diverse marine fauna and flora. In 2001, the waters surrounding the reef out to 12 nm were designated a NWR.; Midway Islands: The US took formal possession of the islands in 1867. The laying of the transpacific cable, which passed through the islands, brought the first residents in 1903. Between 1935 and 1947, Midway was used as a refueling stop for transpacific flights. The US naval victory over a Japanese fleet off Midway in 1942 was one of the turning points of World War II. The islands continued to serve as a naval station until closed in 1993. Today the islands are a NWR and are the site of the world's largest Laysan albatross colony.; Palmyra Atoll: The Kingdom of Hawaii claimed the atoll in 1862, and the US included it among the Hawaiian Islands when it annexed the archipelago in 1898. The Hawaii Statehood Act of 1959 did not include Palmyra Atoll, which is now partly privately owned by the Nature Conservancy with the rest owned by the Federal government and managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service. These organizations are managing the atoll as a wildlife refuge. The lagoons and surrounding waters within the 12-nm US territorial seas were transferred to the US Fish and Wildlife Service and designated a NWR in January 2001.All of the following US Pacific island territories except Midway Atoll constitute the Pacific Remote Islands National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) Complex and as such are managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service of the US Department of the Interior. Midway Atoll NWR has been included in a Refuge Complex with the Hawaiian Islands NWR and also designated as part of Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument. These remote refuges are the most widespread collection of marine- and terrestrial-life protected areas on the planet under a single country's jurisdiction. They sustain many endemic species including corals, fish, shellfish, marine mammals, seabirds, water birds, land birds, insects, and vegetation not found elsewhere.Baker Island: The US took possession of the island in 1857. Its guano deposits were mined by US and British companies during the second half of the 19th century. In 1935, a short-lived attempt at colonization began on this island but was disrupted by World War II and thereafter abandoned. The island was established as a NWR in 1974.; Howland Island: Discovered by the US early in the 19th century, the uninhabited atoll was officially claimed by the US in 1857. Both US and British companies mined for guano deposits until about 1890. In 1935, a short-lived attempt at colonization began on this island, similar to the effort on nearby Baker Island, but was disrupted by World War II and thereafter abandoned. The famed American aviatrix Amelia EARHART disappeared while seeking out Howland Island as a refueling stop during her 1937 round-the-world flight; Earhart Light, a day beacon near the middle of the west coast, was named in her memory. The island was established as a NWR in 1974.; Jarvis Island: First discovered by the British in 1821, the uninhabited island was annexed by the US in 1858 but abandoned in 1879 after tons of guano had been removed. The UK annexed the island in 1889 but never carried out plans for further exploitation. The US occupied and reclaimed the island in 1935. It was abandoned in 1942 during World War II. The island was established as a NWR in 1974.; Johnston Atoll: Both the US and the Kingdom of Hawaii annexed Johnston Atoll in 1858, but it was the US that mined the guano deposits until the late 1880s. Johnston and Sand Islands were designated wildlife refuges in 1926. The US Navy took over the atoll in 1934. Subsequently, the US Air Force assumed control in 1948. The site was used for high-altitude nuclear tests in the 1950s and 1960s. Until late in 2000 the atoll was maintained as a storage and disposal site for chemical weapons. Munitions destruction, cleanup, and closure of the facility were completed by May 2005. The Fish and Wildlife Service and the US Air Force are currently discussing future management options; in the interim, Johnston Atoll and the three-mile Naval Defensive Sea around it remain under the jurisdiction and administrative control of the US Air Force.; Kingman Reef: The US annexed the reef in 1922. Its sheltered lagoon served as a way station for flying boats on Hawaii-to-American Samoa flights during the late 1930s. There are no terrestrial plants on the reef, which is frequently awash, but it does support abundant and diverse marine fauna and flora. In 2001, the waters surrounding the reef out to 12 nm were designated a NWR.; Midway Islands: The US took formal possession of the islands in 1867. The laying of the transpacific cable, which passed through the islands, brought the first residents in 1903. Between 1935 and 1947, Midway was used as a refueling stop for transpacific flights. The US naval victory over a Japanese fleet off Midway in 1942 was one of the turning points of World War II. The islands continued to serve as a naval station until closed in 1993. Today the islands are a NWR and are the site of the world's largest Laysan albatross colony.; Palmyra Atoll: The Kingdom of Hawaii claimed the atoll in 1862, and the US included it among the Hawaiian Islands when it annexed the archipelago in 1898. The Hawaii Statehood Act of 1959 did not include Palmyra Atoll, which is now partly privately owned by the Nature Conservancy with the rest owned by the Federal government and managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service. These organizations are managing the atoll as a wildlife refuge. The lagoons and surrounding waters within the 12-nm US territorial seas were transferred to the US Fish and Wildlife Service and designated a NWR in January 2001.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: OceaniaBaker Island: atoll in the North Pacific Ocean 3,390 km southwest of Honolulu, about halfway between Hawaii and Australia; Howland Island: island in the North Pacific Ocean 3,360 km southwest of Honolulu, about halfway between Hawaii and Australia; Jarvis Island: island in the South Pacific Ocean 2,415 km south of Honolulu, about halfway between Hawaii and Cook Islands; Johnston Atoll: atoll in the North Pacific Ocean 1,330 km southwest of Honolulu, about one-third of the way from Hawaii to the Marshall Islands; Kingman Reef: reef in the North Pacific Ocean 1,720 km south of Honolulu, about halfway between Hawaii and American Samoa; Midway Islands: atoll in the North Pacific Ocean 2,335 km northwest of Honolulu near the end of the Hawaiian Archipelago, about one-third of the way from Honolulu to Tokyo; Palmyra Atoll: atoll in the North Pacific Ocean 1,780 km south of Honolulu, about halfway between Hawaii and American SamoaOceaniaBaker Island: atoll in the North Pacific Ocean 3,390 km southwest of Honolulu, about halfway between Hawaii and Australia; Howland Island: island in the North Pacific Ocean 3,360 km southwest of Honolulu, about halfway between Hawaii and Australia; Jarvis Island: island in the South Pacific Ocean 2,415 km south of Honolulu, about halfway between Hawaii and Cook Islands; Johnston Atoll: atoll in the North Pacific Ocean 1,330 km southwest of Honolulu, about one-third of the way from Hawaii to the Marshall Islands; Kingman Reef: reef in the North Pacific Ocean 1,720 km south of Honolulu, about halfway between Hawaii and American Samoa; Midway Islands: atoll in the North Pacific Ocean 2,335 km northwest of Honolulu near the end of the Hawaiian Archipelago, about one-third of the way from Honolulu to Tokyo; Palmyra Atoll: atoll in the North Pacific Ocean 1,780 km south of Honolulu, about halfway between Hawaii and American Samoa
Geographic coordinates: Baker Island: 0 13 N, 176 28 W; Howland Island: 0 48 N, 176 38 W; Jarvis Island: 0 23 S, 160 01 W; Johnston Atoll: 16 45 N, 169 31 W; Kingman Reef: 6 23 N, 162 25 W; Midway Islands: 28 12 N, 177 22 W; Palmyra Atoll: 5 53 N, 162 05 WBaker Island: 0 13 N, 176 28 W; Howland Island: 0 48 N, 176 38 W; Jarvis Island: 0 23 S, 160 01 W; Johnston Atoll: 16 45 N, 169 31 W; Kingman Reef: 6 23 N, 162 25 W; Midway Islands: 28 12 N, 177 22 W; Palmyra Atoll: 5 53 N, 162 05 W
Map references: Oceania
Area: land: 6,959.41 sq km (emergent land - 22.41 sq km; submerged - 6,937 sq km)
Baker Island: total - 129.1 sq km; emergent land - 2.1 sq km; submerged - 127 sq km
Howland Island: total - 138.6 sq km; emergent land - 2.6 sq km; submerged - 136 sq km
Jarvis Island: total - 152 sq km; emergent land - 5 sq km; submerged - 147 sq km
Johnston Atoll: total - 276.6 sq km; emergent land - 2.6 sq km; submerged - 274 sq km
Kingman Reef: total - 1,958.01 sq km; emergent land - 0.01 sq km; submerged - 1,958 sq km
Midway Islands: total - 2,355.2 sq km; emergent land - 6.2 sq km; submerged - 2,349 sq km
Palmyra Atoll: total - 1,949.9 sq km; emergent land - 3.9 sq km; submerged - 1,946 sq km
Area - comparative: Baker Island: about 2.5 times the size of the National Mall in Washington, DC; Howland Island: about three times the size of the National Mall in Washington, DC; Jarvis Island: about eight times the size of the National Mall in Washington, DC; Johnston Atoll: about 4.5 times the size of the National Mall in Washington, DC; Kingman Reef: a little more than 1.5 times the size of the National Mall in Washington, DC; Midway Islands: about nine times the size of the National Mall in Washington, DC; Palmyra Atoll: about 20 times the size of the National Mall in Washington, DCBaker Island: about 2.5 times the size of the National Mall in Washington, DC; Howland Island: about three times the size of the National Mall in Washington, DC; Jarvis Island: about eight times the size of the National Mall in Washington, DC; Johnston Atoll: about 4.5 times the size of the National Mall in Washington, DC; Kingman Reef: a little more than 1.5 times the size of the National Mall in Washington, DC; Midway Islands: about nine times the size of the National Mall in Washington, DC; Palmyra Atoll: about 20 times the size of the National Mall in Washington, DC
Land boundaries: total: 0 km
Coastline: Baker Island: 4.8 km
Howland Island: 6.4 km
Jarvis Island: 8 km
Johnston Atoll: 34 km
Kingman Reef: 3 km
Midway Islands: 15 km
Palmyra Atoll: 14.5 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
Climate: Baker, Howland, and Jarvis Islands: equatorial; scant rainfall, constant wind, burning sun; Johnston Atoll and Kingman Reef: tropical, but generally dry; consistent northeast trade winds with little seasonal temperature variation; Midway Islands: subtropical with cool, moist winters (December to February) and warm, dry summers (May to October); moderated by prevailing easterly winds; most of the 107 cm of annual rainfall occurs during the winter; Palmyra Atoll: equatorial, hot; located within the low pressure area of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) where the northeast and southeast trade winds meet, it is extremely wet with between 400-500 cm of rainfall each yearBaker, Howland, and Jarvis Islands: equatorial; scant rainfall, constant wind, burning sun; Johnston Atoll and Kingman Reef: tropical, but generally dry; consistent northeast trade winds with little seasonal temperature variation; Midway Islands: subtropical with cool, moist winters (December to February) and warm, dry summers (May to October); moderated by prevailing easterly winds; most of the 107 cm of annual rainfall occurs during the winter; Palmyra Atoll: equatorial, hot; located within the low pressure area of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) where the northeast and southeast trade winds meet, it is extremely wet with between 400-500 cm of rainfall each year
Terrain: low and nearly flat sandy coral islands with narrow fringing reefs that have developed at the top of submerged volcanic mountains, which in most cases rise steeply from the ocean floor
Elevation: highest point: Baker Island, unnamed location 8 m; Howland Island, unnamed location 3 m; Jarvis Island, unnamed location 7 m; Johnston Atoll, Sand Island 10 m; Kingman Reef, unnamed location 2 m; Midway Islands, unnamed location less than 13 m; Palmyra Atoll, unnamed location 3 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
Natural resources: terrestrial and aquatic wildlife
Land use: other: 100% (2018 est.)
Natural hazards: Baker, Howland, and Jarvis Islands: the narrow fringing reef surrounding the island poses a maritime hazard; Kingman Reef: wet or awash most of the time, maximum elevation of less than 2 m makes Kingman Reef a maritime hazard; Midway Islands, Johnston, and Palmyra Atolls: NABaker, Howland, and Jarvis Islands: the narrow fringing reef surrounding the island poses a maritime hazard; Kingman Reef: wet or awash most of the time, maximum elevation of less than 2 m makes Kingman Reef a maritime hazard; Midway Islands, Johnston, and Palmyra Atolls: NA
Geography - note: Baker, Howland, and Jarvis Islands: scattered vegetation consisting of grasses, prostrate vines, and low growing shrubs; primarily a nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat for seabirds, shorebirds, and marine wildlife; closed to the public; Johnston Atoll: Johnston Island and Sand Island are natural islands, which have been expanded by coral dredging; North Island (Akau) and East Island (Hikina) are manmade islands formed from coral dredging; the egg-shaped reef is 34 km in circumference; closed to the public; Kingman Reef: barren coral atoll with deep interior lagoon; closed to the public; Midway Islands: a coral atoll managed as a National Wildlife Refuge and open to the public for wildlife-related recreation in the form of wildlife observation and photography; Palmyra Atoll: the high rainfall and resulting lush vegetation make the environment of this atoll unique among the US Pacific Island territories; supports a large undisturbed stand of Pisonia beach forestBaker, Howland, and Jarvis Islands: scattered vegetation consisting of grasses, prostrate vines, and low growing shrubs; primarily a nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat for seabirds, shorebirds, and marine wildlife; closed to the public; Johnston Atoll: Johnston Island and Sand Island are natural islands, which have been expanded by coral dredging; North Island (Akau) and East Island (Hikina) are manmade islands formed from coral dredging; the egg-shaped reef is 34 km in circumference; closed to the public; Kingman Reef: barren coral atoll with deep interior lagoon; closed to the public; Midway Islands: a coral atoll managed as a National Wildlife Refuge and open to the public for wildlife-related recreation in the form of wildlife observation and photography; Palmyra Atoll: the high rainfall and resulting lush vegetation make the environment of this atoll unique among the US Pacific Island territories; supports a large undisturbed stand of Pisonia beach forest
Map description: United States Pacific Wildlife Refuges map showing the central Pacific Ocean with seven insets highlighting the many islands that make up the United States Pacific Wildlife Refuges.United States Pacific Wildlife Refuges map showing the central Pacific Ocean with seven insets highlighting the many islands that make up the United States Pacific Wildlife Refuges.
Topic: People and Society
Population: no indigenous inhabitants
note: public entry is only by special-use permit from US Fish and Wildlife Service and generally restricted to scientists and educators; visited annually by US Fish and Wildlife Service
Jarvis Island: Millersville settlement on western side of island occasionally used as a weather station from 1935 until World War II, when it was abandoned; reoccupied in 1957 during the International Geophysical Year by scientists who left in 1958; currently unoccupied
Johnston Atoll: in previous years, an average of 1,100 US military and civilian contractor personnel were present; as of May 2005, all US Government personnel had left the island
Midway Islands: approximately 40 people make up the staff of US Fish and Wildlife Service and their services contractor living at the atoll
Palmyra Atoll: four to 20 Nature Conservancy, US Fish and Wildlife staff, and researchers
Age structure: 0-14 years: NA
15-24 years: NA
25-54 years: NA
55-64 years: NA
65 years and over: NA
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: NA
youth dependency ratio: NA
elderly dependency ratio: NA
potential support ratio: NA
Birth rate: NA
Contraceptive prevalence rate: NA
Drinking water source: improved: urban: NA
rural: NA
total: NA
unimproved: urban: NA
rural: NA
total: NA
Current Health Expenditure: NA
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: NA
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: NA
HIV/AIDS - deaths: NA
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: NA
Education expenditures: NA
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: Baker Island: no natural freshwater resources; feral cats, introduced in 1937 during a short-lived colonization effort, ravaged the avian population and were eradicated in 1965
Howland Island: no natural freshwater resources; the island habitat has suffered from invasive exotic species; black rats, introduced in 1854, were eradicated by feral cats within a year of their introduction in 1937; the cats preyed on the bird population and were eliminated by 1985
Jarvis Island: no natural freshwater resources; feral cats, introduced in the 1930s during a short-lived colonization venture, were not completely removed until 1990
Johnston Atoll: no natural freshwater resources; the seven decades under US military administration (1934-2004) left the atoll environmentally degraded and required large-scale remediation efforts; a swarm of Anoplolepis (crazy) ants invaded the island in 2010 damaging native wildlife; eradication has been largely, but not completely, successful
Midway Islands: many exotic species introduced, 75% of the roughly 200 plant species on the island are non-native; plastic pollution harms wildlife, via entanglement, ingestion, and toxic contamination Kingman Reef: none
Palmyra Atoll: black rats, believed to have been introduced to the atoll during the US military occupation of the 1940s, severely degraded the ecosystem outcompeting native species (seabirds, crabs); following a successful rat removal project in 2011, native flora and fauna have begun to recoverBaker Island: no natural freshwater resources; feral cats, introduced in 1937 during a short-lived colonization effort, ravaged the avian population and were eradicated in 1965
Howland Island: no natural freshwater resources; the island habitat has suffered from invasive exotic species; black rats, introduced in 1854, were eradicated by feral cats within a year of their introduction in 1937; the cats preyed on the bird population and were eliminated by 1985
Jarvis Island: no natural freshwater resources; feral cats, introduced in the 1930s during a short-lived colonization venture, were not completely removed until 1990
Johnston Atoll: no natural freshwater resources; the seven decades under US military administration (1934-2004) left the atoll environmentally degraded and required large-scale remediation efforts; a swarm of Anoplolepis (crazy) ants invaded the island in 2010 damaging native wildlife; eradication has been largely, but not completely, successful
Midway Islands: many exotic species introduced, 75% of the roughly 200 plant species on the island are non-native; plastic pollution harms wildlife, via entanglement, ingestion, and toxic contaminationKingman Reef: none
Palmyra Atoll: black rats, believed to have been introduced to the atoll during the US military occupation of the 1940s, severely degraded the ecosystem outcompeting native species (seabirds, crabs); following a successful rat removal project in 2011, native flora and fauna have begun to recover
Climate: Baker, Howland, and Jarvis Islands: equatorial; scant rainfall, constant wind, burning sun; Johnston Atoll and Kingman Reef: tropical, but generally dry; consistent northeast trade winds with little seasonal temperature variation; Midway Islands: subtropical with cool, moist winters (December to February) and warm, dry summers (May to October); moderated by prevailing easterly winds; most of the 107 cm of annual rainfall occurs during the winter; Palmyra Atoll: equatorial, hot; located within the low pressure area of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) where the northeast and southeast trade winds meet, it is extremely wet with between 400-500 cm of rainfall each yearBaker, Howland, and Jarvis Islands: equatorial; scant rainfall, constant wind, burning sun; Johnston Atoll and Kingman Reef: tropical, but generally dry; consistent northeast trade winds with little seasonal temperature variation; Midway Islands: subtropical with cool, moist winters (December to February) and warm, dry summers (May to October); moderated by prevailing easterly winds; most of the 107 cm of annual rainfall occurs during the winter; Palmyra Atoll: equatorial, hot; located within the low pressure area of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) where the northeast and southeast trade winds meet, it is extremely wet with between 400-500 cm of rainfall each year
Land use: other: 100% (2018 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: none
conventional short form: Baker Island, Howland Island, Jarvis Island, Johnston Atoll, Kingman Reef, Midway Islands, Palmyra Atoll
etymology: self-descriptive name specifying the territories' affiliation and location
Dependency status: with the exception of Palmyra Atoll, the constituent islands are unincorporated, unorganized territories of the US; administered from Washington, DC, by the Fish and Wildlife Service of the US Department of the Interior as part of the National Wildlife Refuge System
note: Palmyra Atoll is partly privately owned and partly federally owned; the federally owned portion is administered from Washington, DC, by the Fish and Wildlife Service of the US Department of the Interior as an incorporated, unorganized territory of the US; the Office of Insular Affairs of the US Department of the Interior continues to administer nine excluded areas comprising certain tidal and submerged lands within the 12 nm territorial sea or within the lagoon
Legal system: the laws of the US apply where applicable
Diplomatic representation from the US: none (territories of the US)
Flag description: the flag of the US is used
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: no economic activity
Topic: Energy
Crude oil - production: 0 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Topic: Transportation
Airports: Baker Island: (2013) one abandoned World War II runway of 1,665 m covered with vegetation and unusable
Howland Island: (2013) airstrip constructed in 1937 for scheduled refueling stop on the round-the-world flight of Amelia EARHART and Fred NOONAN; the aviators left Lae, New Guinea, for Howland Island but were never seen again; the airstrip is no longer serviceable
Johnston Atoll: (2013) one closed and not maintained
Kingman Reef: (2013) lagoon was used as a halfway station between Hawaii and American Samoa by Pan American Airways for flying boats in 1937 and 1938
Midway Islands: (2013) 3 - one operational (2,377 m paved); no fuel for sale except emergencies
Palmyra Atoll: (2013) 1 - 1,846 m unpaved runway; privately owned
Airports - with paved runways: 2,438 to 3,047 m: 1 (2016) - Johnston Atoll;
note - abandoned but usable
Airports - with unpaved runways: 1,524 to 2,437 m: 1 (2016) - Palmyra Atoll
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Baker, Howland, and Jarvis Islands, and Kingman Reef
Baker, Howland, and Jarvis Islands, and Kingman Reef: none; offshore anchorage only
Johnston Atoll: Johnston Island
Midway Islands: Sand Island
Palmyra Atoll: West Lagoon
Topic: Military and Security
Military - note: defense is the responsibility of the US
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: nonenone |
20220601 | field-political-structure | This entry, which appears only in the European Union, Government category, provides a definition for the entity that is the European Union.
Topic: European Uniona hybrid and unique intergovernmental and supranational organization |
20220601 | countries-palmyra-atoll | |
20220601 | countries-solomon-islands |
Topic: Photos of Solomon Islands
Topic: Introduction
Background: Settlers from Papua arrived on Solomon Islands around 30,000 years ago. About 6,000 years ago, Austronesian settlers came to Solomon Islands and the two groups mixed extensively. Despite significant inter-island trade, no attempts were made to unite the islands into a single political entity. In 1568, Spanish explorer Alvaro de MENDANA became the first European to spot the islands. After a failed Spanish attempt at creating a permanent European settlement on the islands in the late 1500s, Solomon Islands remained free of European contact until 1767 when British explorer Philip CARTERET sailed by the islands. The islands were regularly visited by European explorers and American and British whaling ships into the 1800s, followed by missionaries in the 1850s.
Germany declared a protectorate over the northern Solomon Islands in 1885 and the UK established a protectorate over the southern islands in 1893. In 1899, Germany transferred its Solomon Islands to the UK in exchange for the UK relinquishing all claims in Samoa. The UK tried to encourage plantation farming but few Europeans were willing to go to Solomon Islands and the UK left most services - such as education and medical services - to missionaries. In 1942, Japan invaded Solomon Islands and significant battles against Allied forces during the Guadalcanal Campaign proved a turning point in the Pacific war. World War II destroyed large parts of Solomon Islands and a nationalism movement emerged near the end of the war. By 1960, the British relented to allow for some local autonomy. The islands were granted self-government in 1976 and independence two years later under Prime Minister Sir Peter KENILOREA.
In 1999, longstanding ethnic tensions between ethnic Guale in Honiara and ethnic Malaitans in Honiara’s suburbs erupted in civil war, leading thousands of Malaitans to take refuge in Honiara and Guale to flee the city. In 2000, newly-elected Prime Minister Manasseh SOGAVARE focused on peace agreements and distributing resources equally among groups, but his actions bankrupted the government in 2001 and led to SOGAVARE’s ouster. In 2003, Solomon Islands requested international assistance to reestablish law and order. The Australian-led Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI), which ended in 2017, was generally effective in improving the security situation. In 2006, riots broke out in Honiara and the city’s Chinatown burned over allegations that the prime minister took money from China. SOGAVARE was reelected prime minister for a fourth time following elections in 2019 and that same year announced Solomon Islands would switch diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China. In late November 2021, protestors, mostly from the island of Malaita calling for SOGAVARE’s removal and more development in Malaita, sparked rioting in Honiara. Settlers from Papua arrived on Solomon Islands around 30,000 years ago. About 6,000 years ago, Austronesian settlers came to Solomon Islands and the two groups mixed extensively. Despite significant inter-island trade, no attempts were made to unite the islands into a single political entity. In 1568, Spanish explorer Alvaro de MENDANA became the first European to spot the islands. After a failed Spanish attempt at creating a permanent European settlement on the islands in the late 1500s, Solomon Islands remained free of European contact until 1767 when British explorer Philip CARTERET sailed by the islands. The islands were regularly visited by European explorers and American and British whaling ships into the 1800s, followed by missionaries in the 1850s.
Germany declared a protectorate over the northern Solomon Islands in 1885 and the UK established a protectorate over the southern islands in 1893. In 1899, Germany transferred its Solomon Islands to the UK in exchange for the UK relinquishing all claims in Samoa. The UK tried to encourage plantation farming but few Europeans were willing to go to Solomon Islands and the UK left most services - such as education and medical services - to missionaries. In 1942, Japan invaded Solomon Islands and significant battles against Allied forces during the Guadalcanal Campaign proved a turning point in the Pacific war. World War II destroyed large parts of Solomon Islands and a nationalism movement emerged near the end of the war. By 1960, the British relented to allow for some local autonomy. The islands were granted self-government in 1976 and independence two years later under Prime Minister Sir Peter KENILOREA.
In 1999, longstanding ethnic tensions between ethnic Guale in Honiara and ethnic Malaitans in Honiara’s suburbs erupted in civil war, leading thousands of Malaitans to take refuge in Honiara and Guale to flee the city. In 2000, newly-elected Prime Minister Manasseh SOGAVARE focused on peace agreements and distributing resources equally among groups, but his actions bankrupted the government in 2001 and led to SOGAVARE’s ouster. In 2003, Solomon Islands requested international assistance to reestablish law and order. The Australian-led Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI), which ended in 2017, was generally effective in improving the security situation. In 2006, riots broke out in Honiara and the city’s Chinatown burned over allegations that the prime minister took money from China. SOGAVARE was reelected prime minister for a fourth time following elections in 2019 and that same year announced Solomon Islands would switch diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China. In late November 2021, protestors, mostly from the island of Malaita calling for SOGAVARE’s removal and more development in Malaita, sparked rioting in Honiara. Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Oceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Papua New Guinea
Geographic coordinates: 8 00 S, 159 00 E
Map references: Oceania
Area: total: 28,896 sq km
land: 27,986 sq km
water: 910 sq km
Area - comparative: slightly smaller than Maryland
Land boundaries: total: 0 km
Coastline: 5,313 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm
measured from claimed archipelagic baselines
Climate: tropical monsoon; few temperature and weather extremes
Terrain: mostly rugged mountains with some low coral atolls
Elevation: highest point: Mount Popomanaseu 2,335 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
Natural resources: fish, forests, gold, bauxite, phosphates, lead, zinc, nickel
Land use: agricultural land: 3.9% (2018 est.)
arable land: 0.7% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 2.9% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 0.3% (2018 est.)
forest: 78.9% (2018 est.)
other: 17.2% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 0 sq km (2012) NA
Population distribution: most of the population lives along the coastal regions; about one in five live in urban areas, and of these some two-thirds reside in Honiara, the largest town and chief port
Natural hazards: tropical cyclones, but rarely destructive; geologically active region with frequent earthquakes, tremors, and volcanic activity; tsunamisvolcanism: Tinakula (851 m) has frequent eruption activity, while an eruption of Savo (485 m) could affect the capital Honiara on nearby Guadalcanaltropical cyclones, but rarely destructive; geologically active region with frequent earthquakes, tremors, and volcanic activity; tsunamisvolcanism: Tinakula (851 m) has frequent eruption activity, while an eruption of Savo (485 m) could affect the capital Honiara on nearby Guadalcanal
Geography - note: strategic location on sea routes between the South Pacific Ocean, the Solomon Sea, and the Coral Sea; Rennell Island, the southernmost in the Solomon Islands chain, is one of the world’s largest raised coral atolls; the island’s Lake Tegano, formerly a lagoon on the atoll, is the largest lake in the insular Pacific (15,500 hectares)
Map description: Solomon Islands map showing the major islands of this archipelagic country in the South Pacific Ocean.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 702,694 (2022 est.)
Nationality: noun: Solomon Islander(s)
adjective: Solomon Islander
Ethnic groups: Melanesian 95.3%, Polynesian 3.1%, Micronesian 1.2%, other 0.3% (2009 est.)
Languages: Melanesian pidgin (in much of the country is lingua franca), English (official but spoken by only 1%-2% of the population), 120 indigenous languages
Religions: Protestant 73.4% (Church of Melanesia 31.9%, South Sea Evangelical 17.1%, Seventh Day Adventist 11.7%, United Church 10.1%, Christian Fellowship Church 2.5%), Roman Catholic 19.6%, other Christian 2.9%, other 4%, unspecified 0.1% (2009 est.)
Age structure: 0-14 years: 32.99% (male 116,397/female 109,604)
15-24 years: 19.82% (male 69,914/female 65,874)
25-54 years: 37.64% (male 131,201/female 126,681)
55-64 years: 5.04% (male 17,844/female 16,704)
65 years and over: 4.51% (2020 est.) (male 14,461/female 16,417)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 77.6
youth dependency ratio: 71.1
elderly dependency ratio: 6.5
potential support ratio: 15.3 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 23.5 years
male: 23.2 years
female: 23.7 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 1.72% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 22.71 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 3.96 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: -1.55 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: most of the population lives along the coastal regions; about one in five live in urban areas, and of these some two-thirds reside in Honiara, the largest town and chief port
Urbanization: urban population: 25.6% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 3.57% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 82,000 HONIARA (capital) (2018)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.06 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.06 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 1.04 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 1.08 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.74 male(s)/female
total population: 1.04 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth: 22.6 years (2015 est.)
note: median age at first birth among women 25-29
Maternal mortality ratio: 104 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 20.02 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 23.89 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 15.96 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 76.7 years
male: 74.05 years
female: 79.49 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 2.87 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: 29.3% (2015)
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 95% of population
rural: 65.9% of population
total: 73.1% of population
unimproved: urban: 5% of population
rural: 34.1% of population
total: 26.9% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 4.8% (2019)
Physicians density: 0.19 physicians/1,000 population (2016)
Hospital bed density: 1.4 beds/1,000 population (2012)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 95.6% of population
rural: 22.6% of population
total: 40.6% of population
unimproved: urban: 4.4% of population
rural: 77.4% of population
total: 59.4% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: NA
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: NA
HIV/AIDS - deaths: NA
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial diarrhea
vectorborne diseases: malaria
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 22.5% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: 16.2% (2015)
Education expenditures: 10.1% of GDP (2015)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 1.3%
male: 1%
female: 1.6% (2013)
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: deforestation; soil erosion; many of the surrounding coral reefs are dead or dying; effects of climate change and rising sea levels
Environment - international agreements: party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping-London Convention, Marine Life Conservation, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Whaling
signed, but not ratified: Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 10.67 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 0.17 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 0.43 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: tropical monsoon; few temperature and weather extremes
Land use: agricultural land: 3.9% (2018 est.)
arable land: 0.7% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 2.9% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 0.3% (2018 est.)
forest: 78.9% (2018 est.)
other: 17.2% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 25.6% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 3.57% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 20.27% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0% of GDP (2018 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial diarrhea
vectorborne diseases: malaria
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 179,972 tons (2013 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 44.7 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: none
conventional short form: Solomon Islands
local long form: none
local short form: Solomon Islands
former: British Solomon Islands
etymology: Spanish explorer Alvaro de MENDANA named the isles in 1568 after the wealthy biblical King SOLOMON in the mistaken belief that the islands contained great riches
Government type: parliamentary democracy under a constitutional monarchy; a Commonwealth realm
Capital: name: Honiara
geographic coordinates: 9 26 S, 159 57 E
time difference: UTC+11 (16 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name derives from "nagho ni ara," which in one of the Guadalcanal languages roughly translates as "facing the eastern wind"
Administrative divisions: 9 provinces and 1 city*; Central, Choiseul, Guadalcanal, Honiara*, Isabel, Makira and Ulawa, Malaita, Rennell and Bellona, Temotu, Western
Independence: 7 July 1978 (from the UK)
National holiday: Independence Day, 7 July (1978)
Constitution: history: adopted 31 May 1978, effective 7 July 1978; note - in late 2017, provincial leaders agreed to adopt a new federal constitution, with passage expected in 2018, but it has been postponed indefinitely
amendments: proposed by the National Parliament; passage of constitutional sections, including those on fundamental rights and freedoms, the legal system, Parliament, alteration of the constitution and the ombudsman, requires three-fourths majority vote by Parliament and assent of the governor general; passage of other amendments requires two-thirds majority vote and assent of the governor general; amended several times, last in 2018; note - a new constitution was drafted in mid-2009 and the latest version drafted in 2013
Legal system: mixed legal system of English common law and customary law
International law organization participation: has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; non-party state to the ICCt
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: no
citizenship by descent only: at least one parent must be a citizen of the Solomon Islands
dual citizenship recognized: no
residency requirement for naturalization: 7 years
Suffrage: 21 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952); represented by Governor General David VUNAGI (since 8 July 2019)
head of government: Prime Minister Manasseh SOGAVARE (since 24 April 2019)
cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister
elections/appointments: the monarchy is hereditary; governor general appointed by the monarch on the advice of the National Parliament for up to 5 years (eligible for a second term); following legislative elections, the leader of the majority party or majority coalition usually elected prime minister by the National Parliament; deputy prime minister appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister from among members of the National Parliament
election results: Manasseh SOGAVARE elected prime minister on 24 April 2019, 34 votes out of 50 seat National Parliament
Legislative branch: description: unicameral National Parliament (50 seats; members directly elected in single-seat constituencies by simple majority vote to serve 4-year terms)
elections: last held on 3 April 2019 (next to be held in 2023)
election results: percent of vote by party - UDP 10.7%, DAP 7.8%, PAP 4.4%, other 20.8%, independent 56.3%; seats by party - DAP 7, UDP 5, PAP 3, KPSI 1, SIPFP 1, SIPRA 1, independent 32; composition - men 49, women 1, percent of women 2%
Judicial branch: highest courts: Court of Appeal (consists of the court president and ex officio members including the High Court chief justice and its puisne judges); High Court (consists of the chief justice and puisne judges, as prescribed by the National Parliament)
judge selection and term of office: Court of Appeal and High Court president, chief justices, and puisne judges appointed by the governor general upon recommendation of the Judicial and Legal Service Commission, chaired by the chief justice and includes 5 members, mostly judicial officials and legal professionals; all judges serve until retirement at age 60
subordinate courts: Magistrates' Courts; Customary Land Appeal Court; local courts
Political parties and leaders: Democratic Alliance Party or DAP [Steve ABANA]
Kadere Party of Solomon Islands or KPSI [Peter BOYERS]
People's Alliance Party or PAP [Nathaniel WAENA]
Solomon Islands People First Party or SIPFP [Dr. Jimmie RODGERS]
Solomon Islands Party for Rural Advancement or SIPRA [Manasseh MAELANGA]
United Democratic Party or UDP [Sir Thomas Ko CHAN]
note: in general, Solomon Islands politics is characterized by fluid coalitions
International organization participation: ACP, ADB, AOSIS, C, EITI (candidate country), ESCAP, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, IOC, ITU, MIGA, OPCW, PIF, Sparteca, SPC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Janice Mose KEMAKEZA
chancery: 685 Third Avenue, 11th Floor, Suite 1102, New York, NY 10017
telephone: [1] (212) 599-6192; [1] (212) 599-6193
FAX: [1] (212) 661-8925
email address and website:
simun@solomons.com
Diplomatic representation from the US: embassy: the US does not have an embassy in the Solomon Islands; the US Ambassador to Papua New Guinea is accredited to the Solomon Islands
Flag description: divided diagonally by a thin yellow stripe from the lower hoist-side corner; the upper triangle (hoist side) is blue with five white five-pointed stars arranged in an X pattern; the lower triangle is green; blue represents the ocean, green the land, and yellow sunshine; the five stars stand for the five main island groups of the Solomon Islands
National symbol(s): national colors: blue, yellow, green, white
National anthem: name: God Save Our Solomon Islands
lyrics/music: Panapasa BALEKANA and Matila BALEKANA/Panapasa BALEKANA
note: adopted 1978
National heritage: total World Heritage Sites: 1 (natural)
selected World Heritage Site locales: East Rennell
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: The bulk of the population depends on agriculture, fishing, and forestry for at least part of its livelihood. Most manufactured goods and petroleum products must be imported. The islands are rich in undeveloped mineral resources such as lead, zinc, nickel, and gold. Prior to the arrival of The Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI), severe ethnic violence, the closure of key businesses, and an empty government treasury culminated in economic collapse. RAMSI's efforts, which concluded in Jun 2017, to restore law and order and economic stability have led to modest growth as the economy rebuilds.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $1.71 billion (2020 est.)
$1.78 billion (2019 est.)
$1.76 billion (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 3.5% (2017 est.)
3.5% (2016 est.)
2.5% (2015 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $2,500 (2020 est.)
$2,700 (2019 est.)
$2,700 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $1.298 billion (2017 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 0.5% (2017 est.)
0.5% (2016 est.)
Credit ratings: Moody's rating: B3 (2015)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 34.3% (2017 est.)
industry: 7.6% (2017 est.)
services: 58.1% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: NA
government consumption: NA
investment in fixed capital: NA
investment in inventories: NA
exports of goods and services: 25.8% (2011 est.)
imports of goods and services: -49.6% (2011 est.)
Agricultural products: oil palm fruit, sweet potatoes, coconuts, taro, yams, fruit, pulses nes, vegetables, cocoa, cassava
Industries: fish (tuna), mining, timber
Industrial production growth rate: 3.6% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 202,500 (2007 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 75%
industry: 5%
services: 20% (2000 est.)
Unemployment rate: NANA
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 1.3%
male: 1%
female: 1.6% (2013)
Population below poverty line: 12.7% (2012 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 37.1 (2013 est.)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Budget: revenues: 532.5 million (2017 est.)
expenditures: 570.5 million (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): -2.9% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 9.4% of GDP (2017 est.)
7.9% of GDP (2016 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 41% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: calendar year
Current account balance: -$54 million (2017 est.)
-$49 million (2016 est.)
Exports: $430 million (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$590 million (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$680 million (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Exports - partners: China 65%, Italy 9%, India 6% (2019)
Exports - commodities: lumber, fish, aluminum, palm oil, cocoa beans (2019)
Imports: $560 million (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$750 million (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$750 million (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Imports - partners: China 24%, Australia 13%, South Korea 12%, Singapore 12%, Malaysia 10% (2019)
Imports - commodities: refined petroleum, fish, insulated wiring, broadcasting equipment, excavation machinery (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $0 (31 December 2017 est.)
$421 million (31 December 2016 est.)
Debt - external: $757 million (31 December 2017 est.)
$643 million (31 December 2016 est.)
Exchange rates: Solomon Islands dollars (SBD) per US dollar -
8.06126 (2020 est.)
8.10373 (2019 est.)
8.01282 (2018 est.)
7.9147 (2014 est.)
7.3754 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 66.7% (2018)
electrification - urban areas: 76.7% (2018)
electrification - rural areas: 63.5% (2018)
Electricity - production: 103 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 95.79 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - imports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 38,000 kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 92% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 8% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 0 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 0 bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 1,600 bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 1,577 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 0 cu m (1 January 2014 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 7,000 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 1 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 478,116 (2019)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 71.38 (2019)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: Internet penetration has reached 20%; 3G and 4G LTE mobile network expansions, investment in mobile services in the region; otherwise 3G and satellite services for communication and Internet access; increase in broadband subscriptions; the launch of the Kacific-1 satellite in 2019 and the Coral Sea Cable System have vastly improved the telecom sector (2020)
domestic: fixed-line is just over 1 per 100 persons and mobile-cellular telephone density is about 71 per 100 persons; domestic cable system to extend to key major islands (2019)
international: country code - 677; landing points for the CSCS and ICNS2 submarine cables providing connectivity from Solomon Islands, to PNG, Vanuatu and Australia; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean) (2019)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) does not broadcast television; multi-channel pay-TV is available; SIBC operates 2 national radio stations and 2 provincial stations; there are 2 local commercial radio stations; Radio Australia is available via satellite feed (since 2009) (2019)
Internet country code: .sb
Internet users: total: 80,379 (2019 est.)
percent of population: 12% (2019 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 1,000 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 0.15 (2020 est.) less than 1
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 1 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 6
annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 427,806 (2018)
annual freight traffic on registered air carriers: 3.84 million (2018) mt-km
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: H4
Airports: total: 36 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 1
1,524 to 2,437 m: 1 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 35
1,524 to 2,437 m: 1
914 to 1,523 m: 10
under 914 m: 24 (2021)
Heliports: 3 (2021)
Roadways: total: 1,390 km (2011)
paved: 34 km (2011)
unpaved: 1,356 km (2011)
note: includes 920 km of private plantation roads
Merchant marine: total: 24
by type: general cargo 8, oil tanker 1, other 15 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Honiara, Malloco Bay, Viru Harbor, Tulagi
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: no regular military forces; the Royal Solomon Islands Police is responsible for internal and external security and reports to the Ministry of Police, National Security, and Correctional Services
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the maritime branch of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force operates patrol boats provided by Australia (2021)
Military - note: Australia and New Zealand provide material and training assistance to the policeAustralia and New Zealand provide material and training assistance to the police
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: since 2003, the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands, consisting of police, military, and civilian advisors drawn from 15 countries, has assisted in reestablishing and maintaining civil and political order while reinforcing regional stability and securitysince 2003, the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands, consisting of police, military, and civilian advisors drawn from 15 countries, has assisted in reestablishing and maintaining civil and political order while reinforcing regional stability and security |
20220601 | field-broadband-fixed-subscriptions-country-comparison | |
20220601 | countries-albania |
Topic: Photos of Albania
Topic: Introduction
Background: Albania declared its independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1912, but was conquered by Italy in 1939 and occupied by Germany in 1943. Communist partisans took over the country in 1944. Albania allied itself first with the USSR (until 1960), and then with China (to 1978). In the early 1990s, Albania ended 46 years of isolated communist rule and established a multiparty democracy. The transition has proven challenging as successive governments have tried to deal with high unemployment, widespread corruption, dilapidated infrastructure, powerful organized crime networks, and combative political opponents. Albania has made progress in its democratic development since it first held multiparty elections in 1991, but deficiencies remain. Most of Albania's post-communist elections were marred by claims of electoral fraud; however, international observers judged elections to be largely free and fair since the restoration of political stability following the collapse of pyramid schemes in 1997. Albania joined NATO in April 2009 and in June 2014 became an EU candidate. Albania in April 2017 received a European Commission recommendation to open EU accession negotiations following the passage of historic EU-mandated justice reforms in 2016. Although Albania's economy continues to grow, it has slowed, and the country is still one of the poorest in Europe. A large informal economy and a weak energy and transportation infrastructure remain obstacles.Albania declared its independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1912, but was conquered by Italy in 1939 and occupied by Germany in 1943. Communist partisans took over the country in 1944. Albania allied itself first with the USSR (until 1960), and then with China (to 1978). In the early 1990s, Albania ended 46 years of isolated communist rule and established a multiparty democracy. The transition has proven challenging as successive governments have tried to deal with high unemployment, widespread corruption, dilapidated infrastructure, powerful organized crime networks, and combative political opponents.Albania has made progress in its democratic development since it first held multiparty elections in 1991, but deficiencies remain. Most of Albania's post-communist elections were marred by claims of electoral fraud; however, international observers judged elections to be largely free and fair since the restoration of political stability following the collapse of pyramid schemes in 1997. Albania joined NATO in April 2009 and in June 2014 became an EU candidate. Albania in April 2017 received a European Commission recommendation to open EU accession negotiations following the passage of historic EU-mandated justice reforms in 2016. Although Albania's economy continues to grow, it has slowed, and the country is still one of the poorest in Europe. A large informal economy and a weak energy and transportation infrastructure remain obstacles.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Southeastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea and Ionian Sea, between Greece to the south and Montenegro and Kosovo to the north
Geographic coordinates: 41 00 N, 20 00 E
Map references: Europe
Area: total: 28,748 sq km
land: 27,398 sq km
water: 1,350 sq km
Area - comparative: slightly smaller than Maryland
Land boundaries: total: 691 km
border countries (4): Greece 212 km; Kosovo 112 km; Macedonia 181 km; Montenegro 186 km
Coastline: 362 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
Climate: mild temperate; cool, cloudy, wet winters; hot, clear, dry summers; interior is cooler and wetter
Terrain: mostly mountains and hills; small plains along coast
Elevation: highest point: Maja e Korabit (Golem Korab) 2,764 m
lowest point: Adriatic Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 708 m
Natural resources: petroleum, natural gas, coal, bauxite, chromite, copper, iron ore, nickel, salt, timber, hydropower, arable land
Land use: agricultural land: 42.8% (2018 est.)
arable land: 22.3% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 3% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 17.4% (2018 est.)
forest: 28.8% (2018 est.)
other: 28.2% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 3,537 sq km (2014)
Major lakes (area sq km): Fresh water lake(s): Lake Scutari (shared with Montenegro) - 400 sq km
note - largest lake in the Balkans
Major watersheds (area sq km): Atlantic Ocean drainage: (Black Sea) Danube (795,656 sq km)
Population distribution: a fairly even distribution, with somewhat higher concentrations of people in the western and central parts of the country
Natural hazards: destructive earthquakes; tsunamis occur along southwestern coast; floods; drought
Geography - note: strategic location along Strait of Otranto (links Adriatic Sea to Ionian Sea and Mediterranean Sea)
Map description: Albania map showing major cities as well as parts of surrounding countries and the Adriatic Sea.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 3,095,344 (2022 est.)
Nationality: noun: Albanian(s)
adjective: Albanian
Ethnic groups: Albanian 82.6%, Greek 0.9%, other 1% (including Vlach, Romani, Macedonian, Montenegrin, and Egyptian), unspecified 15.5% (2011 est.)
note: data represent population by ethnic and cultural affiliation
Languages: Albanian 98.8% (official - derived from Tosk dialect), Greek 0.5%, other 0.6% (including Macedonian, Romani, Vlach, Turkish, Italian, and Serbo-Croatian), unspecified 0.1% (2011 est.)
major-language sample(s):
Libri i fakteve boterore, burim i pa zevendesueshem per informacione elementare. (Albanian)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Religions: Muslim 56.7%, Roman Catholic 10%, Orthodox 6.8%, atheist 2.5%, Bektashi (a Sufi order) 2.1%, other 5.7%, unspecified 16.2% (2011 est.)
note: all mosques and churches were closed in 1967 and religious observances prohibited; in November 1990, Albania began allowing private religious practice
Age structure: 0-14 years: 17.6% (male 284,636/female 256,474)
15-24 years: 15.39% (male 246,931/female 226,318)
25-54 years: 42.04% (male 622,100/female 670,307)
55-64 years: 11.94% (male 178,419/female 188,783)
65 years and over: 13.03% (2020 est.) (male 186,335/female 214,276)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 46.9
youth dependency ratio: 25.3
elderly dependency ratio: 21.6
potential support ratio: 4.6 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 34.3 years
male: 32.9 years
female: 35.7 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 0.22% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 12.69 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 7.31 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: -3.23 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: a fairly even distribution, with somewhat higher concentrations of people in the western and central parts of the country
Urbanization: urban population: 63.8% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 1.29% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 512,000 TIRANA (capital) (2022)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.07 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.1 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.11 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 0.92 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 0.92 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.66 male(s)/female
total population: 0.97 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth: 24.8 years (2019 est.)
Maternal mortality ratio: 15 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 10.82 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 11.85 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 9.71 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 79.47 years
male: 76.8 years
female: 82.33 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 1.54 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: 46% (2017/18)
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 97.3% of population
rural: 96.4% of population
total: 97% of population
unimproved: urban: 2.7% of population
rural: 3.6% of population
total: 3% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 5.2% (2018)
Physicians density: 1.22 physicians/1,000 population (2016)
Hospital bed density: 2.9 beds/1,000 population (2013)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 99.8% of population
rural: 100% of population
total: 99.9% of population
unimproved: urban: 0.2% of population
rural: 0.5% of population
total: 0.1% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: (2020 est.) <.1
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: 1,400 (2020 est.)
note: estimate does not include children
HIV/AIDS - deaths: (2020 est.) <100
note: estimate does not include children
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 21.7% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: 1.5% (2017/18)
Child marriage: women married by age 15: 1.4% (2018)
women married by age 18: 11.8% (2018)
men married by age 18: 1.2% (2018 est.)
Education expenditures: 3.9% of GDP (2019)
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 98.1%
male: 98.5%
female: 97.8% (2018)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 15 years
male: 14 years
female: 15 years (2020)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 27%
male: 27.8%
female: 25.9% (2019 est.)
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: deforestation; soil erosion; water pollution from industrial and domestic effluents; air pollution from industrial and power plants; loss of biodiversity due to lack of resources for sound environmental management
Environment - international agreements: party to: Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 2006, Wetlands
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 17.87 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 4.54 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 2.55 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: mild temperate; cool, cloudy, wet winters; hot, clear, dry summers; interior is cooler and wetter
Land use: agricultural land: 42.8% (2018 est.)
arable land: 22.3% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 3% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 17.4% (2018 est.)
forest: 28.8% (2018 est.)
other: 28.2% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 63.8% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 1.29% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 0.18% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0.03% of GDP (2018 est.)
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 1,142,964 tons (2015 est.)
Major lakes (area sq km): Fresh water lake(s): Lake Scutari (shared with Montenegro) - 400 sq km
note - largest lake in the Balkans
Major watersheds (area sq km): Atlantic Ocean drainage: (Black Sea) Danube (795,656 sq km)
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 283 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 231.8 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 905 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 30.2 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Republic of Albania
conventional short form: Albania
local long form: Republika e Shqiperise
local short form: Shqiperia
former: People's Socialist Republic of Albania
etymology: the English-language country name seems to be derived from the ancient Illyrian tribe of the Albani; the native name "Shqiperia" is derived from the Albanian word "Shqiponje" ("Eagle") and is popularly interpreted to mean "Land of the Eagles"
Government type: parliamentary republic
Capital: name: Tirana (Tirane)
geographic coordinates: 41 19 N, 19 49 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: the name Tirana first appears in a 1418 Venetian document; the origin of the name is unclear, but may derive from Tirkan Fortress, whose ruins survive on the slopes of Dajti mountain and which overlooks the city
Administrative divisions: 12 counties (qarqe, singular - qark); Berat, Diber, Durres, Elbasan, Fier, Gjirokaster, Korce, Kukes, Lezhe, Shkoder, Tirane, Vlore
Independence: 28 November 1912 (from the Ottoman Empire)
National holiday: Independence Day, 28 November (1912), also known as Flag Day
Constitution: history: several previous; latest approved by the Assembly 21 October 1998, adopted by referendum 22 November 1998, promulgated 28 November 1998
amendments: proposed by at least one-fifth of the Assembly membership; passage requires at least a two-thirds majority vote by the Assembly; referendum required only if approved by two-thirds of the Assembly; amendments approved by referendum effective upon declaration by the president of the republic; amended several times, last in 2020
Legal system: civil law system except in the northern rural areas where customary law known as the "Code of Leke" is still present
International law organization participation: has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: no
citizenship by descent only: at least one parent must be a citizen of Albania
dual citizenship recognized: yes
residency requirement for naturalization: 5 years
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: President of the Republic Ilir META (since 24 July 2017)
head of government: Prime Minister Edi RAMA (since 10 September 2013); Deputy Prime Minister Arben AHMETAJ (since 18 September 2021)
cabinet: Council of Ministers proposed by the prime minister, nominated by the president, and approved by the Assembly
elections/appointments: president indirectly elected by the Assembly for a 5-year term (eligible for a second term); a candidate needs three-fifths majority vote of the Assembly in 1 of 3 rounds or a simple majority in 2 additional rounds to become president; election last held in 4 rounds on 19, 20, 27, and 28 April 2017 (next election to be held in 2022); prime minister appointed by the president on the proposal of the majority party or coalition of parties in the Assembly
election results: Ilir META elected president; Assembly vote - 87 - 2 in fourth round
Legislative branch: description: unicameral Assembly or Kuvendi (140 seats; members directly elected in multi-seat constituencies by proportional representation vote to serve 4-year terms)
elections: last held on 25 April 2021 (next to be held in 2025)
election results: percent of vote by party/coalition - PS 48.7%, PD-Alliance for Change 39.4%, LSI 6.8%, PSD 2.3%, other 2.8%; seats by party/coalition - PS 74, PD-Alliance for Change 59, LSI 4, PSD 3; composition - men 93, women 47, percent of women 33.6%
Judicial branch: highest courts: Supreme Court (consists of 19 judges, including the chief justice); Constitutional Court (consists of 9 judges, including the chairman)
judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court judges appointed by the High Judicial Council with the consent of the president to serve single 9-year terms; Supreme Court chairman is elected for a single 3-year term by the court members; appointments of Constitutional Court judges are rotated among the president, Parliament, and Supreme Court from a list of pre-qualified candidates (each institution selects 3 judges), to serve single 9-year terms; candidates are pre-qualified by a randomly selected body of experienced judges and prosecutors; Constitutional Court chairman is elected by the court members for a single, renewable 3-year term
subordinate courts: Courts of Appeal; Courts of First Instance; specialized courts: Court for Corruption and Organized Crime, Appeals Court for Corruption and Organized Crime (responsible for corruption, organized crime, and crimes of high officials)
Political parties and leaders: Alliance for Change (electoral coalition led by PD)
Democratic Party or PD [Enkelejd ALIBEAJ, interim leader]
Party for Justice, Integration and Unity or PDIU [Shpetim IDRIZI] (part of the Alliance for Change; formerly part of APMI)
Social Democratic Party or PSD [Tom DOSHI]
Socialist Movement for Integration or LSI [Monika KRYEMADHI]
Socialist Party or PS [Edi RAMA]
International organization participation: BSEC, CD, CE, CEI, EAPC, EBRD, EITI (compliant country), FAO, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO (correspondent), ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, NATO, OAS (observer), OIC, OIF, OPCW, OSCE, PCA, SELEC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Floreta LULI-FABER (since 18 May 2015)
chancery: 2100 S Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 223-4942
FAX: [1] (202) 628-7342
email address and website:
embassy.washington@mfa.gov.al
http://www.ambasadat.gov.al/usa/en
consulate(s) general: New York
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Yuri KIM (since 27 January 2020)
embassy: Rruga Stavro Vinjau, No. 14, Tirana
mailing address: 9510 Tirana Place, Washington DC 20521-9510
telephone: [355] 4 2247-285
FAX: [355] 4 2232-222
email address and website:
ACSTirana@state.gov
https://al.usembassy.gov/
Flag description: red with a black two-headed eagle in the center; the design is claimed to be that of 15th-century hero Georgi Kastrioti SKANDERBEG, who led a successful uprising against the Ottoman Turks that resulted in a short-lived independence for some Albanian regions (1443-78); an unsubstantiated explanation for the eagle symbol is the tradition that Albanians see themselves as descendants of the eagle; they refer to themselves as "Shqiptare," which translates as "sons of the eagle"
National symbol(s): black double-headed eagle; national colors: red, black
National anthem: name: "Hymni i Flamurit" (Hymn to the Flag)
lyrics/music: Aleksander Stavre DRENOVA/Ciprian PORUMBESCU
note: adopted 1912
National heritage: total World Heritage Sites: 4 (2 cultural, 1 natural, 1 mixed)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Butrint, Historic Berat and Gjirokastër, Primeval Beech Forests, Lake Ohrid Region
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Albania, a formerly closed, centrally planned state, is a developing country with a modern open-market economy. Albania managed to weather the first waves of the global financial crisis but, the negative effects of the crisis caused a significant economic slowdown. Since 2014, Albania’s economy has steadily improved and economic growth reached 3.8% in 2017. However, close trade, remittance, and banking sector ties with Greece and Italy make Albania vulnerable to spillover effects of possible debt crises and weak growth in the euro zone. Remittances, a significant catalyst for economic growth, declined from 12-15% of GDP before the 2008 financial crisis to 5.8% of GDP in 2015, mostly from Albanians residing in Greece and Italy. The agricultural sector, which accounts for more than 40% of employment but less than one quarter of GDP, is limited primarily to small family operations and subsistence farming, because of a lack of modern equipment, unclear property rights, and the prevalence of small, inefficient plots of land. Complex tax codes and licensing requirements, a weak judicial system, endemic corruption, poor enforcement of contracts and property issues, and antiquated infrastructure contribute to Albania's poor business environment making attracting foreign investment difficult. Since 2015, Albania has launched an ambitious program to increase tax compliance and bring more businesses into the formal economy. In July 2016, Albania passed constitutional amendments reforming the judicial system in order to strengthen the rule of law and to reduce deeply entrenched corruption. Albania’s electricity supply is uneven despite upgraded transmission capacities with neighboring countries. However, the government has recently taken steps to stem non-technical losses and has begun to upgrade the distribution grid. Better enforcement of electricity contracts has improved the financial viability of the sector, decreasing its reliance on budget support. Also, with help from international donors, the government is taking steps to improve the poor road and rail networks, a long standing barrier to sustained economic growth. Inward foreign direct investment has increased significantly in recent years as the government has embarked on an ambitious program to improve the business climate through fiscal and legislative reforms. The government is focused on the simplification of licensing requirements and tax codes, and it entered into a new arrangement with the IMF for additional financial and technical support. Albania’s three-year IMF program, an extended fund facility arrangement, was successfully concluded in February 2017. The Albanian Government has strengthened tax collection amid moderate public wage and pension increases in an effort to reduce its budget deficit. The country continues to face high public debt, exceeding its former statutory limit of 60% of GDP in 2013 and reaching 72% in 2016.Albania, a formerly closed, centrally planned state, is a developing country with a modern open-market economy. Albania managed to weather the first waves of the global financial crisis but, the negative effects of the crisis caused a significant economic slowdown. Since 2014, Albania’s economy has steadily improved and economic growth reached 3.8% in 2017. However, close trade, remittance, and banking sector ties with Greece and Italy make Albania vulnerable to spillover effects of possible debt crises and weak growth in the euro zone.Remittances, a significant catalyst for economic growth, declined from 12-15% of GDP before the 2008 financial crisis to 5.8% of GDP in 2015, mostly from Albanians residing in Greece and Italy. The agricultural sector, which accounts for more than 40% of employment but less than one quarter of GDP, is limited primarily to small family operations and subsistence farming, because of a lack of modern equipment, unclear property rights, and the prevalence of small, inefficient plots of land. Complex tax codes and licensing requirements, a weak judicial system, endemic corruption, poor enforcement of contracts and property issues, and antiquated infrastructure contribute to Albania's poor business environment making attracting foreign investment difficult. Since 2015, Albania has launched an ambitious program to increase tax compliance and bring more businesses into the formal economy. In July 2016, Albania passed constitutional amendments reforming the judicial system in order to strengthen the rule of law and to reduce deeply entrenched corruption.Albania’s electricity supply is uneven despite upgraded transmission capacities with neighboring countries. However, the government has recently taken steps to stem non-technical losses and has begun to upgrade the distribution grid. Better enforcement of electricity contracts has improved the financial viability of the sector, decreasing its reliance on budget support. Also, with help from international donors, the government is taking steps to improve the poor road and rail networks, a long standing barrier to sustained economic growth.Inward foreign direct investment has increased significantly in recent years as the government has embarked on an ambitious program to improve the business climate through fiscal and legislative reforms. The government is focused on the simplification of licensing requirements and tax codes, and it entered into a new arrangement with the IMF for additional financial and technical support. Albania’s three-year IMF program, an extended fund facility arrangement, was successfully concluded in February 2017. The Albanian Government has strengthened tax collection amid moderate public wage and pension increases in an effort to reduce its budget deficit. The country continues to face high public debt, exceeding its former statutory limit of 60% of GDP in 2013 and reaching 72% in 2016.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $37.73 billion (2020 est.)
$39.02 billion (2019 est.)
$38.19 billion (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 2.24% (2019 est.)
4.07% (2018 est.)
3.8% (2017 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $13,300 (2020 est.)
$13,700 (2019 est.)
$13,300 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $15.273 billion (2019 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 1.4% (2019 est.)
2% (2018 est.)
1.9% (2017 est.)
Credit ratings: Moody's rating: B1 (2007)
Standard & Poors rating: B+ (2016)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 21.7% (2017 est.)
industry: 24.2% (2017 est.)
services: 54.1% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 78.1% (2017 est.)
government consumption: 11.5% (2017 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 25.2% (2017 est.)
investment in inventories: 0.2% (2017 est.)
exports of goods and services: 31.5% (2017 est.)
imports of goods and services: -46.6% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: milk, maize, tomatoes, potatoes, watermelons, wheat, grapes, cucumbers, onions, apples
Industries: food; footwear, apparel and clothing; lumber, oil, cement, chemicals, mining, basic metals, hydropower
Industrial production growth rate: 6.8% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 1.104 million (2020 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 41.4%
industry: 18.3%
services: 40.3% (2017 est.)
Unemployment rate: 5.83% (2019 est.)
6.32% (2018 est.)
note: these official rates may not include those working at near-subsistence farming
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 27%
male: 27.8%
female: 25.9% (2019 est.)
Population below poverty line: 14.3% (2012 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 33.2 (2017 est.)
30 (2008 est.)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: 4.1%
highest 10%: 19.6% (2015 est.)
Budget: revenues: 3.614 billion (2017 est.)
expenditures: 3.874 billion (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): -2% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 71.8% of GDP (2017 est.)
73.2% of GDP (2016 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 27.6% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: calendar year
Current account balance: -$908 million (2017 est.)
-$899 million (2016 est.)
Exports: $3.47 billion (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$4.82 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$4.78 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Exports - partners: Italy 45%, Spain 8%, Germany 6%, Greece 5%, France 4%, China 4% (2019)
Exports - commodities: leather footwear and parts, crude petroleum, iron alloys, clothing, electricity, perfumes (2019)
Imports: $5.67 billion (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$6.93 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$6.85 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Imports - partners: Italy 28%, Greece 12%, China 11%, Turkey 9%, Germany 5% (2019)
Imports - commodities: refined petroleum, cars, tanned hides, packaged medical supplies, footwear parts (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $3.59 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
$3.109 billion (31 December 2016 est.)
Debt - external: $9.311 billion (2019 est.)
$9.547 billion (2018 est.)
Exchange rates: leke (ALL) per US dollar -
102.43 (2020 est.)
111.36 (2019 est.)
108.57 (2018 est.)
125.96 (2014 est.)
105.48 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Electricity - production: 7.138 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 5.11 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 1.869 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - imports: 1.827 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 2.109 million kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 5% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 95% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 14,000 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 17,290 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 168.3 million bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 5,638 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 29,000 bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 3,250 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 26,660 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 50.97 million cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 50.97 million cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 821.2 million cu m (1 January 2018 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 223,469 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 8 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 2,618,880 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 91 (2020 est.)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: Albania’s small telecom market has improved through signatory status of EU accession plan; EU financial aid will build infrastructure and enhance cooperation; operator committed €100 million to upgrade fixed-line infrastructure, supporting broadband services nationally; consistent with the region, fixed-line telephony use and penetration is declining as subscribers prefer mobile solutions; mobile sector is supported through LTE networks; operators have invested in 5G, including the intention to create a corridor with Kosovo; importer of broadcasting equipment from EU neighbors (2021)
domestic: fixed-line approximately 8 per 100, teledensity continues to decline due to heavy use of mobile-cellular telephone services; mobile-cellular telephone use is widespread and generally effective, 91 per 100 for mobile-cellular (2020)
international: country code - 355; submarine cables for the Adria 1 and Italy-Albania provide connectivity to Italy, Croatia, and Greece; a combination submarine cable and land fiber-optic system, provides additional connectivity to Bulgaria, Macedonia, and Turkey; international traffic carried by fiber-optic cable and, when necessary, by microwave radio relay from the Tirana exchange to Italy and Greece (2019)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: Albania has more than 65 TV stations, including several that broadcast nationally; Albanian TV broadcasts are also available to Albanian-speaking populations in neighboring countries; many viewers have access to Italian and Greek TV broadcasts via terrestrial reception; Albania's TV stations have begun a government-mandated conversion from analog to digital broadcast; the government has pledged to provide analog-to-digital converters to low-income families affected by this decision; cable TV service is available; 2 public radio networks and roughly 78 private radio stations; several international broadcasters are available (2019)
Internet country code: .al
Internet users: total: 2,043,251 (2020 est.)
percent of population: 72% (2020 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 508,937 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 18 (2020 est.)
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 2 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 5
annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 303,137 (2018)
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: ZA
Airports: total: 3 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 3
2,438 to 3,047 m: 2
1,524 to 2,437 m: 1 (2021)
Pipelines: 498 km gas (a majority of the network is in disrepair and parts of it are missing), 249 km oil (2015)
Railways: total: 677 km (2015) (447 km of major railway lines and 230 km of secondary lines)
standard gauge: 677 km (2015) 1.435-m gauge
Roadways: total: 3,945 km (2018)
Waterways: 41 km (2011) (on the Bojana River)
Merchant marine: total: 70
by type: general cargo 47, oil tanker 1, other 22 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Durres, Sarande, Shengjin, Vlore
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: Republic of Albania Armed Forces (Forcat e Armatosura të Republikës së Shqipërisë (FARSH)): Land Forces, Navy Forces (includes Coast Guard), Air Forces
Ministry of Interior: Guard of the Republic, State Police (includes the Border and Migration Police) (2022)
note - the State Police are primarily responsible for internal security, while the Guard of the Republic protects senior state officials, foreign dignitaries, and certain state properties
Military expenditures: 1.4% of GDP (2021 est.)
1.3% of GDP (2020)
1.5% of GDP (2019) (approximately $360 million)
1.3% of GDP (2018) (approximately $330 million)
1.1% of GDP (2017) (approximately $290 million)
Military and security service personnel strengths: information varies; approximately 8,000 total active duty personnel (6,000 Army; 1,500 Navy; 500 Air Force) (2021)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the Albanian military was previously equipped with mostly Soviet-era weapons that were sold or destroyed; its inventory now includes a mix of mostly donated and second-hand European and US equipment; since 2010, it has received limited amounts of equipment from France, Germany, and the US (2021)
Military service age and obligation: 19 is the legal minimum age for voluntary military service; 18 is the legal minimum age in case of general/partial compulsory mobilization; conscription abolished 2010 (2021)
note - as of 2020, women comprised about 14% of the military's full-time personnel, including 20% of the officers
Military - note: Albania officially became a member of NATO in 2009; as of 2022, Greece and Italy were providing NATO's air policing mission for Albania
Topic: Terrorism
Terrorist group(s): Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps/Qods Force; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix T
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: nonenone
Refugees and internally displaced persons: stateless persons: 1,528 (mid-year 2021)
note: 11,827 estimated refugee and migrant arrivals (January 2015-January 2021)
Illicit drugs: active transshipment point for Albanian narco-trafficking organizations moving illicit drugs such as cocaine and heroin from Turkey and countries in South America and Asia throughout Europe; significant source country for cannabis productionactive transshipment point for Albanian narco-trafficking organizations moving illicit drugs such as cocaine and heroin from Turkey and countries in South America and Asia throughout Europe; significant source country for cannabis production |
20220601 | countries-aruba |
Topic: Photos of Aruba
Topic: Introduction
Background: Discovered and claimed for Spain in 1499, Aruba was acquired by the Dutch in 1636. The island's economy has been dominated by three main industries. A 19th century gold rush was followed by prosperity brought on by the opening in 1924 of an oil refinery. The last decades of the 20th century saw a boom in the tourism industry. Aruba seceded from the Netherlands Antilles in 1986 and became a separate, semi-autonomous member of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Movement toward full independence was halted at Aruba's request in 1990.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, north of Venezuela
Geographic coordinates: 12 30 N, 69 58 W
Map references: Central America and the Caribbean
Area: total: 180 sq km
land: 180 sq km
water: 0 sq km
Area - comparative: slightly larger than Washington, DC
Land boundaries: total: 0 km
Coastline: 68.5 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
Climate: tropical marine; little seasonal temperature variation
Terrain: flat with a few hills; scant vegetation
Elevation: highest point: Ceru Jamanota 188 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
Natural resources: NEGL; white sandy beaches foster tourism
Land use: agricultural land: 11.1% (2018 est.)
arable land: 11.1% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 0% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 0% (2018 est.)
forest: 2.3% (2018 est.)
other: 86.6% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: NA
Population distribution: most residents live in or around Oranjestad and San Nicolaas; most settlments tend to be located on the less mountainous western side of the island
Natural hazards: hurricanes; lies outside the Caribbean hurricane belt and is rarely threatened
Geography - note: a flat, riverless island renowned for its white sand beaches; its tropical climate is moderated by constant trade winds from the Atlantic Ocean; the temperature is almost constant at about 27 degrees Celsius (81 degrees Fahrenheit)
Map description: Aruba map showing the island situated in the Caribbean Sea.Aruba map showing the island situated in the Caribbean Sea.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 122,320 (2022 est.)
Nationality: noun: Aruban(s)
adjective: Aruban; Dutch
Ethnic groups: Aruban 66%, Colombian 9.1%, Dutch 4.3%, Dominican 4.1%, Venezuelan 3.2%, Curacaoan 2.2%, Haitian 1.5%, Surinamese 1.2%, Peruvian 1.1%, Chinese 1.1%, other 6.2% (2010 est.)
note: data represent population by country of birth
Languages: Papiamento (official) (a creole language that is a mixture of Portuguese, Spanish, Dutch, English, and, to a lesser extent, French, as well as elements of African languages and the language of the Arawak) 69.4%, Spanish 13.7%, English (widely spoken) 7.1%, Dutch (official) 6.1%, Chinese 1.5%, other 1.7%, unspecified 0.4% (2010 est.)
Religions: Roman Catholic 75.3%, Protestant 4.9% (includes Methodist 0.9%, Adventist 0.9%, Anglican 0.4%, other Protestant 2.7%), Jehovah's Witness 1.7%, other 12%, none 5.5%, unspecified 0.5% (2010 est.)
Age structure: 0-14 years: 17.55% (male 10,524/female 10,437)
15-24 years: 12.06% (male 7,231/female 7,175)
25-54 years: 40.54% (male 23,387/female 25,029)
55-64 years: 14.79% (male 8,285/female 9,383)
65 years and over: 15.05% (2020 est.) (male 7,064/female 10,913)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 47
youth dependency ratio: 25.6
elderly dependency ratio: 21.5
potential support ratio: 4.7 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 39.9 years
male: 38.2 years
female: 41.5 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 1.14% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 11.82 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 8.62 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: 8.18 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: most residents live in or around Oranjestad and San Nicolaas; most settlments tend to be located on the less mountainous western side of the island
Urbanization: urban population: 44.1% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 0.77% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 30,000 ORANJESTAD (capital) (2018)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.02 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.01 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 0.94 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 0.87 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.52 male(s)/female
total population: 0.9 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 12.09 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 16.46 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 7.63 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 78.01 years
male: 74.93 years
female: 81.15 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 1.83 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: NA
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 98.1% of population
rural: 98.1% of population
total: 98.1% of population
unimproved: urban: 1.9% of population
rural: 1.9% of population
total: 1.9% of population (2015 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: NA
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 97.7% of population
rural: 97.7% of population
total: 97.7% of population
unimproved: urban: 2.3% of population
rural: 2.3% of population
total: 2.3% of population (2015 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: NA
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: NA
HIV/AIDS - deaths: NA
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: NA
Education expenditures: 5.5% of GDP (2016)
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 97.8%
male: 97.8%
female: 97.8% (2018)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 14 years
male: 13 years
female: 14 years (2012)
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: difficulty in properly disposing of waste produced by large numbers of tourists; waste burning that occurs in the landfill causes air pollution and poses an environmental and health risk; ocean environmental damage due to plastic pollution
Air pollutants: carbon dioxide emissions: 0.88 megatons (2016 est.)
Climate: tropical marine; little seasonal temperature variation
Land use: agricultural land: 11.1% (2018 est.)
arable land: 11.1% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 0% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 0% (2018 est.)
forest: 2.3% (2018 est.)
other: 86.6% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 44.1% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 0.77% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 0% of GDP (2017 est.)
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 88,132 tons (2013 est.)
municipal solid waste recycled annually: 9,695 tons (2013 est.)
percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 11% (2013 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Country of Aruba
conventional short form: Aruba
local long form: Land Aruba (Dutch); Pais Aruba (Papiamento)
local short form: Aruba
etymology: the origin of the island's name is unclear; according to tradition, the name comes from the Spanish phrase "oro huba" (there was gold), but in fact no gold was ever found on the island; another possibility is the native word "oruba," which means "well-situated"
Government type: parliamentary democracy; part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands
Dependency status: constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands; full autonomy in internal affairs obtained in 1986 upon separation from the Netherlands Antilles; Dutch Government responsible for defense and foreign affairs
Capital: name: Oranjestad
geographic coordinates: 12 31 N, 70 02 W
time difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: translates as "orange town" in Dutch; the city is named after William I (1533-1584), Prince of Orange, the first ruler of the Netherlands
Administrative divisions: none (part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands)
note: Aruba is one of four constituent countries of the Kingdom of the Netherlands; the other three are the Netherlands, Curacao, and Sint Maarten
Independence: none (part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands)
National holiday: National Anthem and Flag Day, 18 March (1976)
Constitution: history: previous 1947, 1955; latest drafted and approved August 1985, enacted 1 January 1986 (regulates governance of Aruba but is subordinate to the Charter for the Kingdom of the Netherlands); in 1986, Aruba became a semi-autonomous entity within the Kingdom of the Netherlands
Legal system: civil law system based on the Dutch civil code
Citizenship: see the Netherlands
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: King WILLEM-ALEXANDER of the Netherlands (since 30 April 2013); represented by Governor General Alfonso BOEKHOUDT (since 1 January 2017)
head of government: Prime Minister Evelyn WEVER-CROES (since 17 November 2017)
cabinet: Council of Ministers elected by the Legislature (Staten)
elections/appointments: the monarchy is hereditary; governor general appointed by the monarch for a 6-year term; prime minister and deputy prime minister indirectly elected by the Staten for 4-year term; election last held on 25 June 2021 (next to be held by June 2026)
election results: as leader of the majority party of the ruling coalition, Evelyn WEVER-CROES (MEP) elected prime minister; percent of legislative vote - NA
Legislative branch: description: unicameral Legislature or Staten (21 seats; members directly elected in a single nationwide constituency by proportional representation vote; members serve 4-year terms)
elections: last held on 25 June 2021 (next to be held in June 2025)
election results: percent of vote by party MEP 35.3%, AVP 31.3%, ROOTS 9.4%, MAS 8%, Accion21 5.8%; seats by party - MEP 9, AVP 7, ROOTS 2, MAS 2, Accion21 1; composition - men 13, women 8, percent of women 38.1%
Judicial branch: highest courts: Joint Court of Justice of Aruba, Curacao, Sint Maarten, and of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba or "Joint Court of Justice" (sits as a 3-judge panel); final appeals heard by the Supreme Court in The Hague, Netherlands
judge selection and term of office: Joint Court judges appointed for life by the monarch
subordinate courts: Court in First Instance
Political parties and leaders: Accion21 [Miguel MANSUR]
Aruban People's Party or AVP [Michiel "Mike" EMAN]
Democratic Electoral Network or RED [L.R. CROES]
Movimiento Aruba Soberano or MAS [Marisol LOPEZ-TROMP]
People's Electoral Movement Party or MEP [Evelyn WEVER-CROES]
Pueblo Orguyoso y Respeta or POR [Alan HOWELL]
RAIZ (ROOTS) [Ursell ARENDS]
International organization participation: Caricom (observer), FATF, ILO, IMF, Interpol, IOC, ITUC (NGOs), UNESCO (associate), UNWTO (associate), UPU
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: none (represented by the Kingdom of the Netherlands); note - Guillfred BESARIL (since 20 November 2017) is Minister Plenipotentiary of Aruba, seated with his cabinet in the Aruba House (Arubahuis) in The Hague
none (represented by the Kingdom of the Netherlands) note - there is a Minister Plenipotentiary for Aruba, Rendolf "Andy" LEE, at the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands
Diplomatic representation from the US: embassy: the US does not have an embassy in Aruba; the Consul General to Curacao is accredited to Aruba
Flag description: blue, with two narrow, horizontal, yellow stripes across the lower portion and a red, four-pointed star outlined in white in the upper hoist-side corner; the star represents Aruba and its red soil and white beaches, its four points the four major languages (Papiamento, Dutch, Spanish, English) as well as the four points of a compass, to indicate that its inhabitants come from all over the world; the blue symbolizes Caribbean waters and skies; the stripes represent the island's two main "industries": the flow of tourists to the sun-drenched beaches and the flow of minerals from the earth
National symbol(s): Hooiberg (Haystack) Hill; national colors: blue, yellow, red, white
National anthem: name: "Aruba Deshi Tera" (Aruba Precious Country)
lyrics/music: Juan Chabaya 'Padu' LAMPE/Rufo Inocencio WEVER
note: local anthem adopted 1986; as part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, "Het Wilhelmus" is official (see Netherlands)
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Tourism, petroleum bunkering, hospitality, and financial and business services are the mainstays of the small open Aruban economy. Tourism accounts for a majority of economic activity; as of 2017, over 2 million tourists visited Aruba annually, with the large majority (80-85%) of those from the US. The rapid growth of the tourism sector has resulted in a substantial expansion of other activities. Construction continues to boom, especially in the hospitality sector. Aruba is heavily dependent on imports and is making efforts to expand exports to improve its trade balance. Almost all consumer and capital goods are imported, with the US, the Netherlands, and Panama being the major suppliers. In 2016, Citgo Petroleum Corporation, an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Petroleos de Venezuela SA, and the Government of Aruba signed an agreement to restart Valero Energy Corp.'s former 235,000-b/d refinery. Tourism and related industries have continued to grow, and the Aruban Government is working to attract more diverse industries. Aruba's banking sector continues to be a strong sector; unemployment has significantly decreased.Tourism, petroleum bunkering, hospitality, and financial and business services are the mainstays of the small open Aruban economy. Tourism accounts for a majority of economic activity; as of 2017, over 2 million tourists visited Aruba annually, with the large majority (80-85%) of those from the US. The rapid growth of the tourism sector has resulted in a substantial expansion of other activities. Construction continues to boom, especially in the hospitality sector. Aruba is heavily dependent on imports and is making efforts to expand exports to improve its trade balance. Almost all consumer and capital goods are imported, with the US, the Netherlands, and Panama being the major suppliers. In 2016, Citgo Petroleum Corporation, an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Petroleos de Venezuela SA, and the Government of Aruba signed an agreement to restart Valero Energy Corp.'s former 235,000-b/d refinery. Tourism and related industries have continued to grow, and the Aruban Government is working to attract more diverse industries. Aruba's banking sector continues to be a strong sector; unemployment has significantly decreased.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $4.158 billion (2017 est.)
$4.05 billion (2017 est.)
$4.107 billion (2016 est.)
Real GDP growth rate: 1.2% (2017 est.)
-0.1% (2016 est.)
-0.4% (2015 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $37,500 (2017 est.)
$38,442 (2017 est.)
$37,300 (2016 est.)
GDP (official exchange rate): $2.7 billion (2017 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): -0.5% (2017 est.)
-0.9% (2016 est.)
Credit ratings: Fitch rating: BB (2020)
Standard & Poors rating: BBB+ (2013)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 0.4% (2002 est.)
industry: 33.3% (2002 est.)
services: 66.3% (2002 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 60.3% (2014 est.)
government consumption: 25.3% (2015 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 22.3% (2014 est.)
investment in inventories: 0% (2015 est.)
exports of goods and services: 70.5% (2015 est.)
imports of goods and services: -76.6% (2015 est.)
Agricultural products: aloes; livestock; fish
Industries: tourism, petroleum transshipment facilities, banking
Industrial production growth rate: NA
Labor force: 51,610 (2007 est.)
note: of the 51,610 workers aged 15 and over in the labor force, 32,252 were born in Aruba and 19,353 came from abroad; foreign workers are 38% of the employed population
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: NA
industry: NA
services: NA
note: most employment is in wholesale and retail trade, followed by hotels and restaurants
Unemployment rate: 7.7% (2016 est.)
Population below poverty line: NA
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Budget: revenues: 681.6 million (2017 est.)
expenditures: 755.5 million (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): -2.7% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 86% of GDP (2017 est.)
84.7% of GDP (2016 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 25.2% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: calendar year
Current account balance: $22 million (2017 est.)
$133 million (2016 est.)
Exports: $1.45 billion (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$2.56 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$2.56 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Exports - partners: Malaysia 57%, United States 11%, Netherlands 6%, Jordan 6%, Venezuela 5% (2019)
Exports - commodities: refined petroleum, liquors, scrap iron, soap, tobacco (2019)
Imports: $1.67 billion (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$2.24 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$2.27 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Imports - partners: United States 48%, Netherlands 16% (2019)
Imports - commodities: refined petroleum, jewelry, cars, vehicle parts, tobacco products (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $921.8 million (31 December 2017 est.)
$828 million (31 December 2015 est.)
Debt - external: $693.2 million (31 December 2014 est.)
$666.4 million (31 December 2013 est.)
Exchange rates: Aruban guilders/florins per US dollar -
1.79 (2017 est.)
1.79 (2016 est.)
1.79 (2015 est.)
1.79 (2014 est.)
1.79 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Electricity - production: 939 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 873.3 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - imports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 296,000 kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 87% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 13% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 0 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 0 bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 8,000 bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 7,891 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 1 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 1 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 1 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 1 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 0 cu m (1 January 2014 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 35,000 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 33 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 141,000 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 132 (2020 est.)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: modern fully automatic telecommunications system; increased competition through privatization has increased mobile-cellular teledensity; three mobile-cellular service providers are now licensed; MNO (mobile network operator) launched island-wide LTE services; MNP (mobile number portability) introduced (2018)
domestic: ongoing changes in regulations and competition improving teledensity; approximately 34 per 100 fixed-line and 135 per 100 mobile-cellular (2018)
international: country code - 297; landing points for the PAN-AM, PCCS, Deep Blue Cable, and Alonso de Ojeda submarine telecommunications cable system that extends from Trinidad and Tobago, Florida, Puerto Ricco, Jamaica, Guyana, Sint Eustatius & Saba, Suriname, Dominican Republic, BVI, USVI, Haiti, Cayman Islands, the Netherlands Antilles, through Aruba to Panama, Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Chile; extensive interisland microwave radio relay links (2019)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: 2 commercial TV stations; cable TV subscription service provides access to foreign channels; about 19 commercial radio stations broadcast (2017)
Internet country code: .aw
Internet users: total: 103,121 (2019 est.)
percent of population: 97% (2019 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 19,000 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 18 (2020 est.)
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 3 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 19
annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 274,280 (2018)
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: P4
Airports: total: 1 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 1
2,438 to 3,047 m: 1 (2021)
Roadways: total: 1,000 km (2010)
Merchant marine: total: 1
by type: other 1 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Barcadera, Oranjestad
oil terminal(s): Sint Nicolaas
cruise port(s): Oranjestad
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: no regular military forces; Aruban Militia (ARUMIL) (2022)
Military - note: defense is the responsibility of the Kingdom of the Netherlands; the Aruba security services focus on organized crime and terrorism; the Dutch Government controls foreign and defense policy; the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard (DCCG) provides maritime security
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: none identifiednone identified
Refugees and internally displaced persons: refugees (country of origin): 17,000 (Venezuela) (2021)
Trafficking in persons: current situation: human traffickers exploit domestic and foreign victims; foreign men and women are subject to forced labor in Aruba’s services and construction sectors; Venezuelans overstaying visas are at risk of forced labor in domestic service, construction, and commercial sex; Chinese men and women and Indian men are subject to forced labor in retail businesses and domestic service; managers of some Chinese-owned grocery stores and restaurants exploit children through sex trafficking and forced labor
tier rating: Tier 2 Watch List — Aruba does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking but is making significant efforts to do so; the government provided officials with anti-trafficking training, continued an awareness campaign, and continued to implement the 2018-2022 national action plan; however, officials investigated fewer trafficking cases and did not report prosecuting or convicting any traffickers; efforts were hindered by the conflation of trafficking with migrant smuggling; authorities also did not report identifying any victims, including Venezuelan migrants and refugees, who are vulnerable to trafficking (2020)human traffickers exploit domestic and foreign victims; foreign men and women are subject to forced labor in Aruba’s services and construction sectors; Venezuelans overstaying visas are at risk of forced labor in domestic service, construction, and commercial sex; Chinese men and women and Indian men are subject to forced labor in retail businesses and domestic service; managers of some Chinese-owned grocery stores and restaurants exploit children through sex trafficking and forced labor
Illicit drugs: northbound transshipment point for cocaine from Colombia and Venezuela; Cocaine shipped to the United States, other Caribbean islands, Africa, and Europenorthbound transshipment point for cocaine from Colombia and Venezuela; Cocaine shipped to the United States, other Caribbean islands, Africa, and Europe |
20220601 | countries-bahrain |
Topic: Photos of Bahrain
Topic: Introduction
Background: In 1783, the Sunni Al-Khalifa family took power in Bahrain. In order to secure these holdings, it entered into a series of treaties with the UK during the 19th century that made Bahrain a British protectorate. The archipelago attained its independence in 1971. A steady decline in oil production and reserves since 1970 prompted Bahrain to take steps to diversify its economy, in the process developing petroleum processing and refining, aluminum production, and hospitality and retail sectors. It has also endeavored to become a leading regional banking center, especially with respect to Islamic finance. Bahrain's small size, central location among Gulf countries, economic dependence on Saudi Arabia, and proximity to Iran require it to play a delicate balancing act in foreign affairs among its larger neighbors. Its foreign policy activities usually fall in line with Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The Sunni royal family has long struggled to manage relations with its large Shia-majority population. In early 2011, amid Arab uprisings elsewhere in the region, the Bahraini Government confronted similar pro-democracy and reform protests at home with police and military action, including deploying Gulf Cooperation Council security forces to Bahrain. Failed political talks prompted opposition political societies to boycott 2014 legislative and municipal council elections. In 2018, a law preventing members of political societies dissolved by the courts from participating in elections effectively sidelined the majority of opposition figures from taking part in national elections. As a result, most members of parliament are independents. Ongoing dissatisfaction with the political status quo continues to factor into sporadic clashes between demonstrators and security forces. On 15 September 2020, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates signed peace agreements (the Abraham Accords) with Israel – brokered by the US – in Washington DC. Bahrain and the UAE thus became the third and fourth Middle Eastern countries, along with Egypt and Jordan, to recognize Israel.In 1783, the Sunni Al-Khalifa family took power in Bahrain. In order to secure these holdings, it entered into a series of treaties with the UK during the 19th century that made Bahrain a British protectorate. The archipelago attained its independence in 1971. A steady decline in oil production and reserves since 1970 prompted Bahrain to take steps to diversify its economy, in the process developing petroleum processing and refining, aluminum production, and hospitality and retail sectors. It has also endeavored to become a leading regional banking center, especially with respect to Islamic finance. Bahrain's small size, central location among Gulf countries, economic dependence on Saudi Arabia, and proximity to Iran require it to play a delicate balancing act in foreign affairs among its larger neighbors. Its foreign policy activities usually fall in line with Saudi Arabia and the UAE.The Sunni royal family has long struggled to manage relations with its large Shia-majority population. In early 2011, amid Arab uprisings elsewhere in the region, the Bahraini Government confronted similar pro-democracy and reform protests at home with police and military action, including deploying Gulf Cooperation Council security forces to Bahrain. Failed political talks prompted opposition political societies to boycott 2014 legislative and municipal council elections. In 2018, a law preventing members of political societies dissolved by the courts from participating in elections effectively sidelined the majority of opposition figures from taking part in national elections. As a result, most members of parliament are independents. Ongoing dissatisfaction with the political status quo continues to factor into sporadic clashes between demonstrators and security forces. On 15 September 2020, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates signed peace agreements (the Abraham Accords) with Israel – brokered by the US – in Washington DC. Bahrain and the UAE thus became the third and fourth Middle Eastern countries, along with Egypt and Jordan, to recognize Israel.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Middle East, archipelago in the Persian Gulf, east of Saudi Arabia
Geographic coordinates: 26 00 N, 50 33 E
Map references: Middle East
Area: total: 760 sq km
land: 760 sq km
water: 0 sq km
Area - comparative: 3.5 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries: total: 0 km
Coastline: 161 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
contiguous zone: 24 nm
continental shelf: extending to boundaries to be determined
Climate: arid; mild, pleasant winters; very hot, humid summers
Terrain: mostly low desert plain rising gently to low central escarpment
Elevation: highest point: Jabal ad Dukhan 135 m
lowest point: Persian Gulf 0 m
Natural resources: oil, associated and nonassociated natural gas, fish, pearls
Land use: agricultural land: 11.3% (2018 est.)
arable land: 2.1% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 3.9% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 5.3% (2018 est.)
forest: 0.7% (2018 est.)
other: 88% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 40 sq km (2012)
Major aquifers: Arabian Aquifer System
Population distribution: smallest population of the Gulf States, but urbanization rate exceeds 90%; largest settlement concentration is found on the far northern end of the island in and around Manamah and Al Muharraq
Natural hazards: periodic droughts; dust storms
Geography - note: close to primary Middle Eastern petroleum sources; strategic location in Persian Gulf, through which much of the Western world's petroleum must transit to reach open ocean
Map description: Bahrain map showing the islands that make up the country in the Gulf of Bahrain.Bahrain map showing the islands that make up the country in the Gulf of Bahrain.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 1,540,558 (2022 est.)
note: immigrants make up approximately 45% of the total population, according to UN data (2019)
Nationality: noun: Bahraini(s)
adjective: Bahraini
Ethnic groups: Bahraini 46%, Asian 45.5%, other Arab 4.7%, African 1.6%, European 1%, other 1.2% (includes Gulf Co-operative country nationals, North and South Americans, and Oceanians) (2010 est.)
Languages: Arabic (official), English, Farsi, Urdu
major-language sample(s):
كتاب حقائق العالم، المصدر الذي لا يمكن الاستغناء عنه للمعلومات الأساسية (Arabic)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Religions: Muslim 73.7%, Christian 9.3%, Jewish 0.1%, other 16.9% (2017 est.)
Age structure: 0-14 years: 18.45% (male 141,039/female 136,687)
15-24 years: 15.16% (male 129,310/female 98,817)
25-54 years: 56.14% (male 550,135/female 294,778)
55-64 years: 6.89% (male 64,761/female 38,870)
65 years and over: 3.36% (2020 est.) (male 25,799/female 24,807)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 26.5
youth dependency ratio: 23.1
elderly dependency ratio: 3.4
potential support ratio: 29.8 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 32.9 years
male: 34.4 years
female: 30.3 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 0.88% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 12.4 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 2.82 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: -0.82 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: smallest population of the Gulf States, but urbanization rate exceeds 90%; largest settlement concentration is found on the far northern end of the island in and around Manamah and Al Muharraq
Urbanization: urban population: 89.7% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 1.99% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 689,000 MANAMA (capital) (2022)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.03 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.29 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 1.86 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 1.61 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.83 male(s)/female
total population: 1.52 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Maternal mortality ratio: 14 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 10.19 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 11.97 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 8.37 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 79.9 years
male: 77.63 years
female: 82.24 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 1.67 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: NA
Drinking water source: improved: urban: NA
rural: NA
total: 100% of population
unimproved: urban: NA
rural: NA
total: 0% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 4% (2019)
Physicians density: 0.93 physicians/1,000 population (2015)
Hospital bed density: 1.7 beds/1,000 population (2017)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: NA
rural: NA
total: 100% of population
unimproved: urban: NA
rural: NA
total: 0% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: (2017 est.) <.1%
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: (2017 est.) <500
HIV/AIDS - deaths: (2017 est.) <100
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 29.8% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: NA
Education expenditures: 2.3% of GDP (2017)
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 97.5%
male: 99.9%
female: 94.9% (2018)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 16 years
male: 16 years
female: 17 years (2019)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 5.3%
male: 2.6%
female: 12.2% (2012 est.)
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: desertification resulting from the degradation of limited arable land, periods of drought, and dust storms; coastal degradation (damage to coastlines, coral reefs, and sea vegetation) resulting from oil spills and other discharges from large tankers, oil refineries, and distribution stations; lack of freshwater resources (groundwater and seawater are the only sources for all water needs); lowered water table leaves aquifers vulnerable to saline contamination; desalinization provides some 90% of the country's freshwater
Environment - international agreements: party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 69.04 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 31.69 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 15.47 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: arid; mild, pleasant winters; very hot, humid summers
Land use: agricultural land: 11.3% (2018 est.)
arable land: 2.1% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 3.9% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 5.3% (2018 est.)
forest: 0.7% (2018 est.)
other: 88% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 89.7% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 1.99% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 0% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0% of GDP (2018 est.)
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 951,943 tons (2016 est.)
municipal solid waste recycled annually: 76,155 tons (2012 est.)
percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 8% (2012 est.)
Major aquifers: Arabian Aquifer System
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 275.6 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 14.1 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 144.7 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 116 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Kingdom of Bahrain
conventional short form: Bahrain
local long form: Mamlakat al Bahrayn
local short form: Al Bahrayn
former: Dilmun, Tylos, Awal, Mishmahig, Bahrayn, State of Bahrain
etymology: the name means "the two seas" in Arabic and refers to the water bodies surrounding the archipelago
Government type: constitutional monarchy
Capital: name: Manama
geographic coordinates: 26 14 N, 50 34 E
time difference: UTC+3 (8 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: name derives from the Arabic "al-manama" meaning "place of rest" or "place of dreams"
Administrative divisions: 4 governorates (muhafazat, singular - muhafazah); Asimah (Capital), Janubiyah (Southern), Muharraq, Shamaliyah (Northern)
note: each governorate administered by an appointed governor
Independence: 15 August 1971 (from the UK)
National holiday: National Day, 16 December (1971); note - 15 August 1971 was the date of independence from the UK, 16 December 1971 was the date of independence from British protection
Constitution: history: adopted 14 February 2002
amendments: proposed by the king or by at least 15 members of either chamber of the National Assembly followed by submission to an Assembly committee for review and, if approved, submitted to the government for restatement as drafts; passage requires a two-thirds majority vote by the membership of both chambers and validation by the king; constitutional articles on the state religion (Islam), state language (Arabic), and the monarchy and "inherited rule" cannot be amended; amended 2012, 2017
Legal system: mixed legal system of Islamic (sharia) law, English common law, Egyptian civil, criminal, and commercial codes; customary law
International law organization participation: has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; non-party state to the ICCt
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: no
citizenship by descent only: the father must be a citizen of Bahrain
dual citizenship recognized: no
residency requirement for naturalization: 25 years; 15 years for Arab nationals
Suffrage: 20 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: King HAMAD bin Isa Al-Khalifa (since 6 March 1999)
head of government: Prime minister SALMAN bin Hamad Al-Khalifa (since 11 November 2020); first deputy prime minister (vacant); Deputy Prime Ministers MUHAMMAD bin Mubarak Al-Khalifa (since September 2005), Jawad bin Salim al-ARAIDH, ALI bin Khalifa bin Salman Al-Khalifa (since 11 December 2006), KHALID bin Abdallah Al-Khalifa (since November 2010); note - KHALIFA ibn Salman Al Khalifa, who served as prime minister since Bahrain's independence in 1971, died on 11 November 2020
cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the monarch
elections/appointments: the monarchy is hereditary; prime minister appointed by the monarch
Legislative branch: description: bicameral National Assembly consists of:
Consultative Council or Majlis al-Shura (40 seats; members appointed by the king)
Council of Representatives or Majlis al-Nuwab (40 seats; members directly elected in single-seat constituencies by absolute majority vote in 2 rounds if needed; members serve 4-year renewable terms)
elections:
Consultative Council - last appointments on 12 December 2018 (next NA)
Council of Representatives - first round for 9 members held on 24 November 2018; second round for remaining 31 members held on 1 December 2018 (next to be held in 2022)
election results:
Consultative Council - composition - men 31, women 9, percent of women 22.5%
Council of Representatives (for 2018 election) - percent of vote by society - NA; seats by society - Islamic Al-Asalah (Sunni Salafi) 3, Minbar al-Taqadumi (Communist) 2, National Unity Gathering (Sunni progovernment) 1, National Islamic Minbar (Sunni Muslim Brotherhood) 1, independent 33; composition - men 34, women 6, percent of women 15%; note - total National Assembly percent of women 19%
Judicial branch: highest courts: Court of Cassation (consists of the chairman and 3 judges); Supreme Court of Appeal (consists of the chairman and 3 judges); Constitutional Court (consists of the president and 6 members); High Sharia Court of Appeal (court sittings include the president and at least one judge)
judge selection and term of office: Court of Cassation judges appointed by royal decree and serve for a specified tenure; Constitutional Court president and members appointed by the Higher Judicial Council, a body chaired by the monarch and includes judges from the Court of Cassation, sharia law courts, and Civil High Courts of Appeal; members serve 9-year terms; High Sharia Court of Appeal member appointments by royal decree for a specified tenure
subordinate courts: Civil High Courts of Appeal; middle and lower civil courts; High Sharia Court of Appeal; Senior Sharia Court; Administrative Courts of Appeal; military courts
note: the judiciary of Bahrain is divided into civil law courts and sharia law courts; sharia courts (involving personal status and family law) are further divided into Sunni Muslim and Shia Muslim; the Courts are supervised by the Supreme Judicial Council.
Political parties and leaders: note: political parties are prohibited, but political societies were legalized under a July 2005 lawnote: political parties are prohibited, but political societies were legalized under a July 2005 law
International organization participation: ABEDA, AFESD, AMF, CAEU, CICA, FAO, G-77, GCC, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFC, IFRCS, IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, IMSO, Interpol, IOC, IOM (observer), IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), LAS, MIGA, NAM, OAPEC, OIC, OPCW, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Abdulla bin Rashid AL KHALIFA (since 21 July 2017)
chancery: 3502 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 342-1111
FAX: [1] (202) 362-2192
email address and website:
ambsecretary@bahrainembassy.org
mofa.gov.bh
consulate(s) general: New York
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Steven C. BONDY (since 9 February 2022)
embassy: Building 979, Road 3119 (next to Al-Ahli Sports Club), Block 331, Zinj District, P.O. Box 26431, Manama
mailing address: 6210 Manama Place, Washington DC 20521-6210
telephone: [973] 17-242700
FAX: [973] 17-272594
email address and website:
ManamaConsular@state.gov
https://bh.usembassy.gov/
Flag description: red, the traditional color for flags of Persian Gulf states, with a white serrated band (five white points) on the hoist side; the five points represent the five pillars of Islam
note: until 2002, the flag had eight white points, but this was reduced to five to avoid confusion with the Qatari flag
National symbol(s): a red field surmounted by a white serrated band with five white points; national colors: red, white
National anthem: name: "Bahrainona" (Our Bahrain)
lyrics/music: unknown
note: adopted 1971; although Mohamed Sudqi AYYASH wrote the original lyrics, they were changed in 2002 following the transformation of Bahrain from an emirate to a kingdom
National heritage: total World Heritage Sites: 3 (all cultural)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Dilmun Burial Mounds, Qal'at al-Bahrain – Ancient Harbor and Capital of Dilmun, Bahrain Pearling Path
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Oil and natural gas play a dominant role in Bahrain’s economy. Despite the Government’s past efforts to diversify the economy, oil still comprises 85% of Bahraini budget revenues. In the last few years lower world energy prices have generated sizable budget deficits - about 10% of GDP in 2017 alone. Bahrain has few options for covering these deficits, with low foreign assets and fewer oil resources compared to its GCC neighbors. The three major US credit agencies downgraded Bahrain’s sovereign debt rating to "junk" status in 2016, citing persistently low oil prices and the government’s high debt levels. Nevertheless, Bahrain was able to raise about $4 billion by issuing foreign currency denominated debt in 2017. Other major economic activities are production of aluminum - Bahrain's second biggest export after oil and gas –finance, and construction. Bahrain continues to seek new natural gas supplies as feedstock to support its expanding petrochemical and aluminum industries. In April 2018 Bahrain announced it had found a significant oil field off the country’s west coast, but is still assessing how much of the oil can be extracted profitably. In addition to addressing its current fiscal woes, Bahraini authorities face the long-term challenge of boosting Bahrain’s regional competitiveness — especially regarding industry, finance, and tourism — and reconciling revenue constraints with popular pressure to maintain generous state subsidies and a large public sector. Since 2015, the government lifted subsidies on meat, diesel, kerosene, and gasoline and has begun to phase in higher prices for electricity and water. As part of its diversification plans, Bahrain implemented a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the US in August 2006, the first FTA between the US and a Gulf state. It plans to introduce a Value Added Tax (VAT) by the end of 2018.Oil and natural gas play a dominant role in Bahrain’s economy. Despite the Government’s past efforts to diversify the economy, oil still comprises 85% of Bahraini budget revenues. In the last few years lower world energy prices have generated sizable budget deficits - about 10% of GDP in 2017 alone. Bahrain has few options for covering these deficits, with low foreign assets and fewer oil resources compared to its GCC neighbors. The three major US credit agencies downgraded Bahrain’s sovereign debt rating to "junk" status in 2016, citing persistently low oil prices and the government’s high debt levels. Nevertheless, Bahrain was able to raise about $4 billion by issuing foreign currency denominated debt in 2017. Other major economic activities are production of aluminum - Bahrain's second biggest export after oil and gas –finance, and construction. Bahrain continues to seek new natural gas supplies as feedstock to support its expanding petrochemical and aluminum industries. In April 2018 Bahrain announced it had found a significant oil field off the country’s west coast, but is still assessing how much of the oil can be extracted profitably. In addition to addressing its current fiscal woes, Bahraini authorities face the long-term challenge of boosting Bahrain’s regional competitiveness — especially regarding industry, finance, and tourism — and reconciling revenue constraints with popular pressure to maintain generous state subsidies and a large public sector. Since 2015, the government lifted subsidies on meat, diesel, kerosene, and gasoline and has begun to phase in higher prices for electricity and water. As part of its diversification plans, Bahrain implemented a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the US in August 2006, the first FTA between the US and a Gulf state. It plans to introduce a Value Added Tax (VAT) by the end of 2018.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $69.65 billion (2020 est.)
$73.95 billion (2019 est.)
$72.51 billion (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 2.49% (2019 est.)
13.89% (2018 est.)
3.85% (2017 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $40,900 (2020 est.)
$45,100 (2019 est.)
$46,200 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $38.472 billion (2019 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 1.4% (2017 est.)
2.8% (2016 est.)
Credit ratings: Fitch rating: B+ (2020)
Moody's rating: B2 (2018)
Standard & Poors rating: B+ (2017)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 0.3% (2017 est.)
industry: 39.3% (2017 est.)
services: 60.4% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 45.8% (2017 est.)
government consumption: 15.5% (2017 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 26.1% (2017 est.)
investment in inventories: 0.4% (2017 est.)
exports of goods and services: 80.2% (2017 est.)
imports of goods and services: -67.9% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: mutton, dates, milk, poultry, tomatoes, fruit, sheep offals, sheep skins, eggs, pumpkins
Industries: petroleum processing and refining, aluminum smelting, iron pelletization, fertilizers, Islamic and offshore banking, insurance, ship repairing, tourism
Industrial production growth rate: 0.6% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 831,600 (2017 est.)
note: excludes unemployed; 44% of the population in the 15-64 age group is non-national
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 1%
industry: 32%
services: 67% (2004 est.)
Unemployment rate: 3.6% (2017 est.)
3.7% (2016 est.)
note: official estimate; actual rate is higher
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 5.3%
male: 2.6%
female: 12.2% (2012 est.)
Population below poverty line: NA
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Budget: revenues: 5.854 billion (2017 est.)
expenditures: 9.407 billion (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): -10.1% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 88.5% of GDP (2017 est.)
81.4% of GDP (2016 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 16.6% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: calendar year
Current account balance: -$1.6 billion (2017 est.)
-$1.493 billion (2016 est.)
Exports: $30.1 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$26.762 billion (2017 est.)
Exports - partners: United Arab Emirates 31%, Saudi Arabia 12%, Japan 8%, United States 8% (2019)
Exports - commodities: refined petroleum, aluminum and plating, crude petroleum, iron ore, gold (2019)
Imports: $27.19 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$22.132 billion (2017 est.)
Imports - partners: United Arab Emirates 27%, China 11%, Saudi Arabia 7%, United States 5%, Brazil 5%, Japan 5%, India 5% (2019)
Imports - commodities: cars, iron ore, jewelry, gold, gas turbines (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $2.349 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
$3.094 billion (31 December 2016 est.)
Debt - external: $52.15 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
$42.55 billion (31 December 2016 est.)
Exchange rates: Bahraini dinars (BHD) per US dollar -
0.37705 (2020 est.)
0.37705 (2019 est.)
0.377 (2018 est.)
0.376 (2014 est.)
0.376 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Electricity - production: 26.81 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 26.11 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 213 million kWh (2015 est.)
Electricity - imports: 276 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 3.928 million kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 100% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 40,000 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 226,200 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 124.6 million bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 274,500 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 61,000 bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 245,300 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 14,530 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 15.89 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 15.89 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 92.03 billion cu m (1 January 2018 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 274,106 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 16 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 1,748,672 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 103 (2020 est.)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: Bahrain is one of the most technically advanced and connected countries in the world; NGN for increased mobile and Wi-Fi traffic; mobile infrastructure and fiber-optic Internet allows greater Internet penetration and competitive prices; government provides free Internet in schools and public areas, and national broadband with sole control over network; regulator controlled by monarchy; Internet freedom restricted through blocks; well served by satellite and submarine cable access; importer of broadcasting equipment from UAE (2020)
domestic: approximately 16 per 100 fixed-line and 103 per 100 mobile-cellular; modern fiber-optic integrated services; digital network with rapidly expanding mobile-cellular telephones (2020)
international: country code - 973; landing points for the FALCON, Tata TGN-Gulf, GBICS/MENA, and FOG submarine cable network that provides links to Asia, the Middle East, and Africa; tropospheric scatter to Qatar and UAE; microwave radio relay to Saudi Arabia; satellite earth station - 1 (2019)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: state-run Bahrain Radio and Television Corporation (BRTC) operates 5 terrestrial TV networks and several radio stations; satellite TV systems provide access to international broadcasts; 1 private FM station directs broadcasts to Indian listeners; radio and TV broadcasts from countries in the region are available (2019)
Internet country code: .bh
Internet users: total: 170,158 (2020 est.)
percent of population: 100% (2020 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 148,928 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 9 (2020 est.)
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 6 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 42
annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 5,877,003 (2018)
annual freight traffic on registered air carriers: 420.98 million (2018) mt-km
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: A9C
Airports: total: 4 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 4
over 3,047 m: 3
914 to 1,523 m: 1 (2021)
Heliports: 1 (2021)
Pipelines: 20 km gas, 54 km oil (2013)
Roadways: total: 4,122 km (2010)
paved: 3,392 km (2010)
unpaved: 730 km (2010)
Merchant marine: total: 205
by type: general cargo 12, oil tanker 4, other 189 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Mina' Salman, Sitrah
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: Bahrain Defense Force (BDF): Royal Bahraini Army (includes the Royal Guard), Royal Bahraini Navy, Royal Bahraini Air Force; Ministry of Interior: National Guard, Special Security Forces Command (SSFC), Coast Guard
(2022)
note(s) - the Royal Guard is officially under the command of the Army, but exercises considerable autonomy; the National Guard's primary mission is to guard critical infrastructure such as the airport and oil fields; while the Guard is under the Ministry of Interior, it reports directly to the king
Military expenditures: 3.6% of GDP (2021 est.)
4.2% of GDP (2020 est.)
4% of GDP (2019 est.) (approximately $2.09 billion)
4% of GDP (2018 est.) (approximately $2.08 billion)
4.2% of GDP (2017 est.) (approximately $2.18 billion)
Military and security service personnel strengths: information varies; approximately 10,000 active personnel (7,500 Army; 1,000 Navy; 1,500 Air Force); est. 3,000 National Guard (2021)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the inventory of the Bahrain Defense force consists of a mix of equipment acquired from a wide variety of suppliers; since 2010, the US is the leading supplier of arms to Bahrain (2021)
Military service age and obligation: 18 years of age for voluntary military service; 15 years of age for NCOs, technicians, and cadets; no conscription (2021)
Military - note: as of 2022, Bahrain hosted the US Naval Forces Central Command (USNAVCENT; established 1983), which included the US 5th Fleet, several subordinate naval task forces, and the Combined Maritime Forces (established 2002), a coalition of more than 30 nations providing maritime security for regional shipping lanes; in 2018, the UK opened a naval support base in Bahrain
in addition to the US and UK, Bahrain maintains close security ties to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates; both Saudi Arabia and the UAE sent forces to Bahrain to assist with internal security following the 2011 uprising; in 2015, Bahrain joined the Saudi Arabia-led military action to try to restore the Government of Yemen that was ousted by Iranian-backed Houthi rebels, supplying a few hundred troops and combat aircraft
Bahrain has Major Non-NATO Ally (MNNA) status with the US; MNNA is a designation under US law that provides foreign partners with certain benefits in the areas of defense trade and security cooperation; while MNNA status provides military and economic privileges, it does not entail any security commitmentsas of 2022, Bahrain hosted the US Naval Forces Central Command (USNAVCENT; established 1983), which included the US 5th Fleet, several subordinate naval task forces, and the Combined Maritime Forces (established 2002), a coalition of more than 30 nations providing maritime security for regional shipping lanes; in 2018, the UK opened a naval support base in Bahrain
in addition to the US and UK, Bahrain maintains close security ties to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates; both Saudi Arabia and the UAE sent forces to Bahrain to assist with internal security following the 2011 uprising; in 2015, Bahrain joined the Saudi Arabia-led military action to try to restore the Government of Yemen that was ousted by Iranian-backed Houthi rebels, supplying a few hundred troops and combat aircraft
Bahrain has Major Non-NATO Ally (MNNA) status with the US; MNNA is a designation under US law that provides foreign partners with certain benefits in the areas of defense trade and security cooperation; while MNNA status provides military and economic privileges, it does not entail any security commitments
Topic: Terrorism
Terrorist group(s): al-Ashtar Brigades; Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps/Qods Force
note(s) - details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
in addition to the al-Ashtar Brigades and the IGRC/Qods Force, Saraya al-Mukhtar (aka The Mukhtar Brigade) is an Iran-backed terrorist organization based in Bahrain, reportedly receiving financial and logistic support from the IGRC; Saraya al-Mukhtar’s self-described goal is to depose the Bahraini Government with the intention of paving the way for Iran to exert greater influence in Bahrain; the group was designated by the US as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist in Dec 2020
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: none identifiednone identified |
20220601 | field-diplomatic-representation-from-the-us | This entry includes the chief of mission, embassy address, mailing address, telephone number, FAX number, email and website addresses, branch office locations, consulate general locations, and consulate locations.
Topic: Afghanistanchief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d’Affaires: Ian MCCARY (since August 2021); note – since 15 August 2021, the United States has not yet made a decision whether to recognize the Taliban or any other entity as the Government of Afghanistan
embassy: Embassy Kabul, operations have been suspended; Department of State’s Afghanistan Affairs Unit operates from Doha, Qatar.
Topic: Akrotiriembassy: none (overseas territory of the UK)
Topic: Albaniachief of mission: Ambassador Yuri KIM (since 27 January 2020)
embassy: Rruga Stavro Vinjau, No. 14, Tirana
mailing address: 9510 Tirana Place, Washington DC 20521-9510
telephone: [355] 4 2247-285
FAX: [355] 4 2232-222
email address and website:
ACSTirana@state.gov
https://al.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Algeriachief of mission: ambassador (vacant); Chargé d’Affaires Gautam RANA (since 20 January 2021)
embassy: 05 Chemin Cheikh Bachir, Ibrahimi, El-Biar 16030, Alger
mailing address: 6030 Algiers Place, Washington DC 20521-6030
telephone: [213] (0) 770-08-2000
FAX: [213] (0) 770-08-2299
email address and website:
ACSAlgiers@state.gov
https://dz.usembassy.gov/
Topic: American Samoaembassy: none (territory of the US)
Topic: Andorraembassy: the US does not have an embassy in Andorra; the US ambassador to Spain is accredited to Andorra; US interests in Andorra are represented by the US Consulate General's office in Barcelona (Spain); mailing address: Paseo Reina Elisenda de Montcada, 23, 08034 Barcelona, Espana; telephone: [34] (93) 280-22-27; FAX: [34] (93) 280-61-75; email address: Barcelonaacs@state.gov
Topic: Angolachief of mission: Ambassador Nina Maria FITE (since 14 February 2018)
embassy: Rua Houari Boumedienne, #32, Luanda
mailing address: 2550 Luanda Place, Washington, DC 20521-2550
telephone: [244] (222) 64-1000
FAX: [244] (222) 64-1000
email address and website:
Consularluanda@state.gov
https://ao.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Anguillaembassy: none (overseas territory of the UK); alternate contact is the US Embassy in Barbados [1] (246) 227-4000
Topic: Antigua and Barbudaembassy: the US does not have an embassy in Antigua and Barbuda; the US Ambassador to Barbados is accredited to Antigua and Barbuda; [1] (246) 227-4000
Topic: Argentinachief of mission: Ambassador Marc Robert STANLEY (since 24 January 2022)
embassy:
Avenida Colombia 4300, (C1425GMN) Buenos Aires
mailing address: 3130 Buenos Aires Place, Washington DC 20521-3130
telephone: [54] (11) 5777-4533
FAX: [54] (11) 5777-4240
email address and website:
buenosaires-acs@state.gov
https://ar.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Armeniachief of mission: Ambassador Lynne M. TRACEY (since 5 March 2019)
embassy: 1 American Ave., Yerevan 0082
mailing address: 7020 Yerevan Place, Washington, DC 20521-7020
telephone: [374] (10) 464-700
FAX: [374] (10) 464-742
email address and website:
acsyerevan@state.gov
https://am.usembassy.gov/1 American Ave., Yerevan 0082
Topic: Arubaembassy: the US does not have an embassy in Aruba; the Consul General to Curacao is accredited to Aruba
Topic: Ashmore and Cartier Islandsembassy: none (territory of Australia)
Topic: Australiachief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Michael GOLDMAN (since 19 January 2021)
embassy: Moonah Place, Yarralumla, Australian Capital Territory 2600
mailing address: 7800 Canberra Place, Washington DC 20512-7800
telephone: [61] (02) 6214-5600
FAX: [61] (02) 9373-9184
email address and website:
AskEmbassyCanberra@state.gov
https://au.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Melbourne, Perth, Sydney
Topic: Austriachief of mission: Ambassador (vacant), Mario MESQUITA (since 12 July 2021)
embassy: Boltzmanngasse 16, 1090, Vienna
mailing address: 9900 Vienna Place, Washington DC 20521-9900
telephone: [43] (1) 31339-0
FAX: [43] (1) 310-06-82
email address and website:
ConsulateVienna@state.gov
https://at.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Azerbaijanchief of mission: Ambassador Lee LITZENBERGER (since 12 March 2019)
embassy: 111 Azadlig Avenue, AZ1007 Baku
mailing address: 7050 Baku Place, Washington, DC 20521-7050
telephone: [994] (12) 488-3300
FAX: [994] (12) 488-3330
email address and website:
BakuACS@state.gov
https://az.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Bahamas, Thechief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d' Affaires Usha E. PITTS (since 1 January 2021)
embassy: 42 Queen Street, Nassau
mailing address: 3370 Nassau Place, Washington, DC 20521-3370
telephone: [1] (242) 322-1181
FAX: [1] (242) 356-7174
email address and website:
acsnassau@state.gov
https://bs.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Bahrainchief of mission: Ambassador Steven C. BONDY (since 9 February 2022)
embassy: Building 979, Road 3119 (next to Al-Ahli Sports Club), Block 331, Zinj District, P.O. Box 26431, Manama
mailing address: 6210 Manama Place, Washington DC 20521-6210
telephone: [973] 17-242700
FAX: [973] 17-272594
email address and website:
ManamaConsular@state.gov
https://bh.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Bangladeshchief of mission: Ambassador Earl Robert MILLER (since 29 November 2018)
embassy: Madani Avenue, Baridhara, Dhaka - 1212
mailing address: 6120 Dhaka Place, Washington DC 20521-6120
telephone: [880] (2) 5566-2000
FAX: [880] (2) 5566-2907
email address and website:
DhakaACS@state.gov
https://bd.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Barbadoschief of mission: Ambassador Linda S. TAGLIALATELA (since 1 February 2016) note - also accredited to Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
embassy: Wildey Business Park, St. Michael BB 14006, Barbados, W.I.
mailing address: 3120 Bridgetown Place, Washington DC 20521-3120
telephone: (246) 227-4000
FAX: (246) 431-0179
email address and website:
BridgetownACS@state.gov
https://bb.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Belaruschief of mission: Ambassador Julie Fisher (since 23 December 2020); Charge d'Affaires Ruben HARUTUNIAN (since May 2021)
embassy: 46 Starovilenskaya Street, Minsk 220002
mailing address: 7010 Minsk Place, Washington DC 20521-7010
telephone: [375] (17) 210-12-83/217-73-47/217-73-48
FAX: [375] (17) 334-78-53
email address and website:
ConsularMinsk@state.gov
https://by.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Belgiumchief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Nicholas BERLINER (since 20 January 2021)
embassy: 27 Boulevard du Regent [Regentlaan], B-1000 Brussels
mailing address: 7600 Brussels Place, Washington DC 20521-7600
telephone: [32] (2) 811-4000
FAX: [32] (2) 811-4500
email address and website:
uscitizenBrussels@state.gov
https://be.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Belizechief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d’Affaires Leyla MOSES-ONES(since August 2021)
embassy: Floral Park Road, Belmopan, Cayo
mailing address: 3050 Belmopan Place, Washington DC 20521-3050
telephone: (501) 822-4011
FAX: (501) 822-4012
email address and website:
ACSBelize@state.gov
https://bz.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Beninchief of mission: Ambassador Patricia MAHONEY (since 4 July 2019)
embassy: 01 BP 2012, Cotonou
mailing address: 2120 Cotonou Place, Washington DC 20521-2120
telephone: [229] 21-30-06-50
FAX: [229] 21-30-03-84
email address and website:
ACSCotonou@state.gov
https://bj.usembassy.gov/2120 Cotonou Place, Washington DC 20521-2120
Topic: Bermudachief of mission: Consul General Karen GRISSETTE (since 6 July 2021)
embassy: US Consulate Bermuda, 16 Middle Road, Devonshire, DV 03, Bermuda
mailing address: 5300 Hamilton Place, Washington, DC 20520-5300
telephone: (441) 295-1342
FAX: (441) 295-1592
email address and website:
HamiltonConsulate@state.gov
https://bm.usconsulate.gov/
consulate(s) general: 16 Middle Road, Devonshire DV O3
Topic: Bhutanembassy: none; frequent informal contact is maintained via the US embassy in New Delhi (India) and Bhutan's Permanent Mission to the UN
Topic: Boliviachief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Charisse PHILLIPS (since August 2020)
embassy: Avenida Arce 2780, La Paz
mailing address: 3220 La Paz Place, Washington DC 20512-3220
telephone: [591] (2) 216-8000
FAX: [591] (2) 216-8111
email address and website:
ConsularLaPazACS@state.gov
https://bo.usembassy.gov/
note: in September 2008, the Bolivian Government expelled the US Ambassador to Bolivia, Philip GOLDBERG, and both countries have yet to reinstate their ambassadors
Topic: Bosnia and Herzegovinachief of mission: Ambassador Eric NELSON (since 19 February 2019)
embassy: 1 Robert C. Frasure Street, 71000 Sarajevo
mailing address: 7130 Sarajevo Place, Washington DC 20521-7130
telephone: [387] (33) 704-000
FAX: [387] (33) 659-722
email address and website:
sarajevoACS@state.gov
https://ba.usembassy.gov/
branch office(s): Banja Luka, Mostar
Topic: Botswanachief of mission: Ambassador Craig Lewis CLOUD (since 2 April 2019)
embassy: Embassy Drive, Government Enclave (off Khama Crescent), Gaborone
mailing address: 2170 Gabarone Place, Washington DC 20521-2170
telephone: [267] 395-3982
FAX: [267] 318-0232
email address and website:
ConsularGabarone@state.gov
https://bw.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Brazilchief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Douglas A. KONEFF (since July 2021)
embassy: SES - Avenida das Nacoes, Quadra 801, Lote 3, 70403-900 - Brasilia, DF
mailing address: 7500 Brasilia Place, Washington DC 20521-7500
telephone: [55] (61) 3312-7000
FAX: [55] (61) 3225-9136
email address and website:
BrasilliaACS@state.gov
https://br.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Recife, Porto Alegre, Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo
branch office(s): Belo Horizonte
Topic: British Indian Ocean Territoryembassy: none (overseas territory of the UK)
Topic: British Virgin Islandsembassy: none (overseas territory of the UK)
Topic: Bruneichief of mission: Ambassador Caryn R. McCLELLAND (since December 2021)
embassy: Simpang 336-52-16-9, Jalan Duta, Bandar Seri Begawan, BC4115
mailing address: 4020 Bandar Seri Begawan Place, Washington DC 20521-4020
telephone: (673) 238-7400
FAX: (673) 238-7533
email address and website:
ConsularBrunei@state.gov
https://bn.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Bulgariachief of mission: Ambassador Herro MUSTAFA (since 18 October 2019)
embassy: 16, Kozyak Street, Sofia 1408
mailing address: 5740 Sofia Place, Washington, DC 20521-5740
telephone: [359] (2) 937-5100
FAX: [359] (2) 937-5320
email address and website:
acs_sofia@state.gov
https://bg.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Burkina Fasochief of mission: Ambassador Sandra E. CLARK (since 25 September 2020)
embassy: Secteur 15, Ouaga 2000, Avenue Sembene Ousmane, Rue 15.873, Ouagadougou
mailing address: 2440 Ouagadougou Place, Washington, DC 20521-2440
telephone: (226) 25-49-53-00
FAX: (226) 25-49-56-23
email address and website:
ouagaACS@state.gov
https://bf.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Burmachief of mission: Ambassador Thomas J. VAJDA (since 19 January 2021)
embassy: 110 University Avenue, Kamayut Township, Rangoon
mailing address: 4250 Rangoon Place, Washington DC 20521-4250
telephone: [95] (1) 753-6509
FAX: [95] (1) 751-1069
email address and website:
ACSRangoon@state.gov
https://mm.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Burundichief of mission: Ambassador Melanie Harris HIGGINS (since 2 March 2021)
embassy: B.P. 1720, Avenue Des Etats-Unis, Bujumbura
mailing address: 2100 Bujumbura Place, Washington DC 20521-2100
telephone: [257] 22-207-000
FAX: [257] 22-222-926
email address and website:
BujumburaC@state.gov
https://bi.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Cabo Verdechief of mission: Ambassador John "Jeff" DAIGLE (since 10 September 2019)
embassy: Rua Abilio Macedo 6, Praia
mailing address: 2460 Praia Place, Washington DC 20521-2460
telephone: [238] 260-8900
FAX: [238] 261-1355
email address and website:
PraiaConsular@state.gov
https://cv.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Cambodiachief of mission: Ambassador W. Patrick MURPHY (since 23 October 2019)
embassy: #1, Street 96, Sangkat Wat Phnom, Khan Daun Penh, Phnom Penh
mailing address: 4540 Phnom Penh Place, Washington DC 20521-4540
telephone: [855] (23) 728-000
FAX: [855] (23) 728-700
email address and website:
ACSPhnomPenh@state.gov
https://kh.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Cameroonchief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Deputy Chief of Mission (currently serving as Charge d'Affaires) Mary E. DASCHBACH
embassy: Avenue Rosa Parks, Yaoundé
mailing address: 2520 Yaounde Place, Washington, DC 20521-2520
telephone: [237] 22251-4000/[237] 22220-1500
FAX: [237] 22220-1500, Ext. 4531
email address and website:
YaoundeACS@state.gov
https://cm.usembassy.gov/
branch office(s): Douala
Topic: Canadachief of mission: Ambassador David COHEN (since December 2021)
embassy: 490 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, Ontario K1N 1G8
mailing address: 5480 Ottawa Place, Washington DC 20521-5480
telephone: [1] (613) 238-5335
FAX: [1] (613) 241-7845
email address and website:
OttawaNIV@state.gov
https://ca.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Calgary, Halifax, Montreal, Quebec City, Toronto, Vancouver
consulate(s): Winnipeg
Topic: Cayman Islandsembassy: none (overseas territory of the UK); consular services provided through the US Embassy in Jamaica
Topic: Central African Republicchief of mission: Ambassador Lucy TAMLYN (since 11 January 2019)
embassy: Avenue David Dacko, Bangui
mailing address: 2060 Bangui Place, Washington DC 20521-2060
telephone: [236] 2161-0200
FAX: [236] 2161-4494
email address and website: https://cf.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Chadchief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires David GILMOUR (since December 2020)
embassy: Rond-Point Chagoua, B.P. 413, N’Djamena
mailing address: 2410 N'Djamena Place, Washington DC 20521-2410
telephone: [235] 2251-5017
FAX: [235] 2253-9102
email address and website:
NdjamenaACS@state.gov
https://td.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Chilechief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Richard H. GLENN (since August 2020)
embassy: Avenida Andres Bello 2800, Las Condes, Santiago
mailing address: 3460 Santiago Place, Washington DC 20521-3460
telephone: [56] (2) 2330-3000
FAX: [56] (2) 2330-3710
email address and website:
SantiagoUSA@state.gov
https://cl.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Chinachief of mission: Ambassador Nicholas BURNS (since 2 April 2022)
embassy: 55 An Jia Lou Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100600
mailing address: 7300 Beijing Place, Washington DC 20521-7300
telephone: [86] (10) 8531-3000
FAX: [86] (10) 8531-4200
email address and website:
BeijingACS@state.gov
https://china.usembassy-china.org.cn/
consulate(s) general: Guangzhou, Shanghai, Shenyang, Wuhan; note - the Chinese Government ordered closure of the US consulate in Chengdu in late July 2020
Topic: Christmas Islandembassy: none (territory of Australia)
Topic: Cocos (Keeling) Islandsembassy: none (territory of Australia)
Topic: Colombiachief of mission: Ambassador Philip S. GOLDBERG (since 19 September 2019)
embassy: Carrera 45, No. 24B-27, Bogota
mailing address: 3030 Bogota Place, Washington DC 20521-3030
telephone: [57] (1) 275-2000
FAX: [57] (1) 275-4600
email address and website:
ACSBogota@state.gov
https://co.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Comorosembassy: the US does not have an embassy in Comoros; the US Ambassador to Madagascar is accredited to Comoros
Topic: Congo, Democratic Republic of thechief of mission: Ambassador Michael A. HAMMER (since 22 December 2018)
embassy: 310 Avenue des Aviateurs, Kinshasa, Gombe
mailing address: 2220 Kinshasa Place, Washington DC 20521-2220
telephone: [243] 081 556-0151
FAX: [243] 81 556-0175
email address and website:
ACSKinshasa@state.gov
https://cd.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Congo, Republic of thechief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Ellen B. THORBURN (since January 2021)
embassy: 70-83 Section D, Boulevard Denis Sassou N'Guesso, Brazzaville
mailing address: 2090 Brazzaville Place, Washington DC 20521-2090
telephone: [242] 06 612-2000, [242] 05 387-9700
email address and website:
BrazzavilleACS@state.gov
https://cg.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Cook Islandsembassy: none (self-governing in free association with New Zealand)
Topic: Coral Sea Islandsembassy: none (territory of Australia)
Topic: Costa Ricachief of mission: Ambassador Cynthia A. TELLES (since 11 March 2022)
embassy: Calle 98 Via 104, Pavas, San Jose
mailing address: 3180 St. George's Place, Washington DC 20521-3180
telephone: [506] 2519-2000
FAX: [506] 2519-2305
email address and website:
acssanjose@state.gov
https://cr.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Cote d'Ivoirechief of mission: Ambassador Richard K. BELL (since 10 October 2019)
embassy: B.P. 730 Abidjan Cidex 03
mailing address: 2010 Abidjan Place, Washington DC 20521-2010
telephone: [225] 27-22-49-40-00
FAX: [225] 27-22-49-43-23
email address and website:
AbjAmCit@state.gov
https://ci.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Croatiachief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Mark FLEMING (since May 2021)
embassy: Ulica Thomasa Jeffersona 2, 10010 Zagreb
mailing address: 5080 Zagreb Place, Washington DC 20521-5080
telephone: [385] (1) 661-2200
FAX: [385] (1) 661-8933
email address and website:
ZagrebACS@state.gov
https://hr.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Cubachief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Timothy ZUNIGA-BROWN (since 31 July 2020)
embassy: Calzada between L & M Streets, Vedado, Havana
mailing address: 3200 Havana Place, Washington DC 20521-3200
telephone: [53] (7) 839-4100
FAX: [53] (7) 839-4247
email address and website:
acshavana@state.gov
https://cu.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Curacaochief of mission: Consul General Margy BOND (since January 2022); note - also accredited to Aruba and Sint Maarten
embassy: P.O. Box 158, J.B. Gorsiraweg 1
mailing address: 3160 Curacao Place, Washington DC 20521-3160
telephone: [599] (9) 461-3066
FAX: [599] (9) 461-6489
email address and website:
ACSCuracao@state.gov
https://cw.usconsulate.gov/
Topic: Cypruschief of mission: Ambassador Judith Gail GARBER (since 18 March 2019)
embassy: Metochiou and Ploutarchou Street, 2407, Engomi, Nicosia
mailing address: 5450 Nicosia Place, Washington DC 20521-5450
telephone: [357] (22) 393939
FAX: [357] (22) 780944
email address and website:
ACSNicosia@state.gov
https://cy.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Czechiachief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Jennifer BACHUS (since January 2020)
embassy: Trziste 15, 118 01 Praha 1 - Mala Strana
mailing address: 5630 Prague Place, Washington DC 20521-5630
telephone: [420] 257-022-000
FAX: [420] 257-022-809
email address and website:
ACSPrg@state.gov
https://cz.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Denmarkchief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Stuart A. DWYER (since 20 January 2021)
embassy: Dag Hammarskjolds Alle 24, 2100 Kobenhavn 0
mailing address: 5280 Copenhagen Place, Washington DC 20521-5280
telephone: [45] 33-41-71-00
FAX: [45] 35-43-02-23
email address and website:
CopenhagenACS@state.gov
https://dk.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Dhekelianone (overseas territory of the UK)
Topic: Djiboutichief of mission: Ambassador Jonathan Goodale PRATT (since 22 February 2021)
embassy: Lot 350-B Haramouss, B.P. 185
mailing address: 2150 Djibouti Place, Washington DC 20521-2150
telephone: [253] 21-45-30-00
FAX: [253] 21-45-31-29
email address and website:
DjiboutiACS@state.gov
https://dj.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Dominicaembassy: the US does not have an embassy in Dominica; the US Ambassador to Barbados is accredited to Dominica
Topic: Dominican Republicchief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Robert W. THOMAS (since 20 January 2021)
embassy: Av. Republica de Colombia #57, Santo Domingo
mailing address: 3470 Santo Domingo Place, Washington DC 20521-3470
telephone: (809) 567-7775
email address and website:
SDOAmericans@state.gov
https://do.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Ecuadorchief of mission: Ambassador Michael J. FITZPATRICK (since 3 July 2019)
embassy: E12-170 Avenida Avigiras y Avenida Eloy Alfaro, Quito
mailing address: 3420 Quito Place, Washington DC 20521-3420
telephone: [593] (2) 398-5000
email address and website:
ACSQuito@state.gov
https://ec.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Guayaquil
Topic: Egyptchief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Nicole SHAMPAINE (since 1 April 2022)
embassy: 5 Tawfik Diab St., Garden City, Cairo
mailing address: 7700 Cairo Place, Washington DC 20512-7700
telephone: [20-2] 2797-3300
FAX: [20-2] 2797-3200
email address and website:
ConsularCairoACS@state.gov
https://eg.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Alexandria
Topic: El Salvadorchief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Brendan O’BRIEN (since 24 November 2021)
embassy: Final Boulevard Santa Elena, Antiguo Cuscatlan, La Libertad, San Salvador
mailing address: 3450 San Salvador Place, Washington, DC 20521-3450
telephone: [503] 2501-2999
FAX: [503] 2501-2150
email address and website:
ACSSanSal@state.gov
https://sv.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Equatorial Guineachief of mission: Ambassador Susan N. STEVENSON (since 11 April 2019)
embassy: Malabo II Highway (between the Headquarters of Sonagas and the offices of the United Nations), Malabo
mailing address: 2320 Malabo Place, Washington, DC 20521-2520
telephone: [240] 333 09-57-41
email address and website:
Malaboconsular@state.gov
https://gq.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Eritreachief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Steven C. WALKER (since December 2019)
embassy: 179 Alaa Street, Asmara
mailing address: 7170 Asmara Place, Washington DC 20521-7170
telephone: [291] (1) 12-00-04
FAX: [291] (1) 12-75-84
email address and website:
consularasmara@state.gov
https://er.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Estoniachief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Brian RORAFF (since July 2019)
embassy: Kentmanni 20, 15099 Tallinn
mailing address: 4530 Tallinn Place, Washington DC 20521-4530
telephone: [372] 668-8100
FAX: [372] 668-8265
email address and website:
acstallinn@state.gov
https://ee.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Eswatinichief of mission: Ambassador Jeanne M. MALONEY (since 4 March 2021)
embassy: Corner of MR 103 and Cultural Center Drive, Ezulwini, P.O. Box D202, The Gables, H106
mailing address: 2350 Mbabane Place, Washington DC 20521-2350
telephone: (268) 2417-9000
FAX: [268] 2416-3344
email address and website:
ConsularMbabane@state.gov
https://sz.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Ethiopiachief of mission: Ambassador Geeta PASI (since 1 March 2021)
embassy: Entoto Street, P.O. Box 1014, Addis Ababa
mailing address: 2030 Addis Ababa Place, Washington DC 20521-2030
telephone: [251] 111-30-60-00
FAX: [251] 111-24-24-01
email address and website:
AddisACS@state.gov
https://et.usembassy.gov/
Topic: European Unionchief of mission: Ambassador (Vacant); Charge D' Affaires Kelly Adams-Smith (since 1 July 2021)
embassy: Zinnerstraat - 13 - Rue Zinner, B-1000 Brussels
mailing address: use embassy street address
telephone: [32] (2) 811-4100
email address and website:
https://useu.usmission.gov/
Topic: Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)embassy: none (overseas territory of the UK; also claimed by Argentina)
Topic: Faroe Islandsembassy: none (self-governing overseas administrative division of Denmark)
Topic: Fijichief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Tony GREUBEL (since 20 January 2021); note - also accredited to Kiribati, Nauru, Tonga, and Tuvalu
embassy: 158 Princes Road, Tamavua, Suva
mailing address: 4290 Suva Place, Washington DC 20521-4290
telephone: [679] 331-4466
FAX: [679] 330-2267
email address and website:
SuvaACS@state.gov
https://fj.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Finlandchief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Ian CAMPBELL (since 14 January 2021)
embassy: Itainen Puistotie 14 B, 00140 Helsinki
mailing address: 5310 Helsinki Place, Washington DC 20521-5310
telephone: [358] (9) 616-250
FAX: [358] (9) 174-681
email address and website:
HelsinkiACS@state.gov
https://fi.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Francechief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Brian AGGELER (since 20 January 2021); note - also accredited to Monaco
embassy: 2 avenue Gabriel, 75008 Paris
mailing address: 9200 Paris Place, Washington DC 20521-9200
telephone: [33] (1) 43-12-22-22, [33] (1) 42-66-97-83
FAX: [33] (1) 42-66-97-83
email address and website:
Citizeninfo@state.gov
https://fr.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Marseille, Strasbourg
consulate(s): Bordeaux, Lyon, Rennes
Topic: French Polynesiaembassy: none (overseas lands of France)
Topic: French Southern and Antarctic Landsembassy: none (overseas territory of France)
Topic: Gabonchief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Samuel R. WATSON; note - also accredited to Sao Tome and Principe
embassy: Sabliere, B.P. 4000, Libreville
mailing address: 2270 Libreville Place, Washington, DC 20521-2270
telephone: [241] 011-45-71-00
FAX: [241] 011-45-71-05
email address and website:
ACSLibreville@state.gov
https://ga.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Gambia, Thechief of mission: Ambassador Richard Carlton "Carl" PASCHALL (since 9 April 2019)
embassy: Kairaba Avenue, Fajara, P.M.B. 19, Banjul
mailing address: 2070 Banjul Place, Washington DC 20521-2070
telephone: [220] 439-2856
FAX: [220] 439-2475
email address and website:
ConsularBanjul@state.gov
https://gm.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Georgiachief of mission: Ambassador Kelly C. DEGNAN (since 31 January 2020)
embassy: 11 Georgian-American Friendship Avenue, Didi Dighomi, Tbilisi, 0131
mailing address: 7060 Tbilisi Place, Washington, DC 20521-7060
telephone: [995] (32) 227-70-00
FAX: [995] (32) 253-23-10
email address and website:
askconsultbilisi@state.gov
https://ge.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Germanychief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Chargé d’Affaires Woodward "Clark" PRICE (since 1 July 2021)
embassy: Pariser Platz 2, 10117 Berlin
Clayallee 170, 14191 Berlin (administrative services)
mailing address: 5090 Berlin Place, Washington DC 20521-5090
telephone: [49] (30) 8305-0
FAX: [49] (30) 8305-1215
email address and website:
BerlinPCO@state.gov
https://de.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Dusseldorf, Frankfurt am Main, Hamburg, Leipzig, Munich
Topic: Ghanachief of mission: Ambassador Stephanie S. SULLIVAN (since 23 January 2019)
embassy: No.24, Fourth Circular Road, Cantonments, Accra, P.O. Box 2288, Accra
mailing address: 2020 Accra Place, Washington DC 20521-2020
telephone: [233] (0) 30-274-1000
email address and website:
ACSAccra@state.gov
https://gh.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Gibraltarembassy: none (overseas territory of the UK)
Topic: Greecechief of mission: Ambassador Geoffrey R. PYATT (since 24 October 2016)
embassy: 91 Vasillisis Sophias Avenue, 10160 Athens
mailing address: 7100 Athens Place, Washington DC 20521-7100
telephone: [30] (210) 721-2951
FAX: [30] (210) 724-5313
email address and website:
athensamericancitizenservices@state.gov
https://gr.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Thessaloniki
Topic: Greenlandchief of mission: Joanie SIMON, Consul (since June 2021)
embassy: Aalisartut Aqqutaa 47
Nuuk 3900
Greenland
telephone: (+299) 384100
email address and website:
https://dk.usembassy.gov/embassy-consulate/nuuk/
Topic: Grenadachief of mission: the US does not have an official embassy in Grenada; the US Ambassador to Barbados is accredited to Grenada
embassy: Lance-aux-Epines, Saint George's
mailing address: 3180 Grenada Place, Washington DC 20521-3180
telephone: [1] (473) 444-1173
FAX: [1] (473) 444-4820
email address and website:
StgeorgesACS@state.gov
https://bb.usembassy.gov/embassy/grenada/
Topic: Guamembassy: none (territory of the US)
Topic: Guatemalachief of mission: Ambassador William W. POPP (since 13 August 2020)
embassy: Avenida Reforma 7-01, Zone 10, Guatemala City
mailing address: 3190 Guatemala Place, Washington DC 20521-3190
telephone: [502] 2326-4000
FAX: [502] 2326-4654
email address and website:
AmCitsGuatemala@state.gov
https://gt.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Guernseyembassy: none (British crown dependency)
Topic: Guineachief of mission: Ambassador Troy FITRELL (since January 2022)
embassy: Transversale No. 2, Centre Administratif de Koloma, Commune de Ratoma, Conakry
mailing address: 2110 Conakry Place, Washington DC 20521-2110
telephone: [224] 65-10-40-00
FAX: [224] 65-10-42-97
email address and website:
ConakryACS@state.gov
https://gn.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Guinea-Bissauembassy: the US Embassy suspended operations on 14 June 1998; the US Ambassador to Senegal is accredited to Guinea-Bissau. U.S. diplomatic representation in Guinea-Bissau is conducted through the U.S. Embassy in Dakar and the Guinea-Bissau Liaison Office located in Bissau.
mailing address: 2080 Bissau Place, Washington DC 20521-2080
email address and website:
dakarACS@state.gov
https://gw.usmission.gov/
Topic: Guyanachief of mission: Ambassador Sarah-Ann LYNCH (since 13 March 2019)
embassy: 100 Young and Duke Streets, Kingston, Georgetown
mailing address: 3170 Georgetown Place, Washington DC 20521-3170
telephone: [592] 225-4900 through 4909
FAX: [592] 225-8497
email address and website:
acsgeorge@state.gov
https://gy.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Haitichief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Kenneth H. MERTEN (since 28 October 2021)
embassy: Tabarre 41, Route de Tabarre, Port-au-Prince
mailing address: 3400 Port-au-Prince Place, Washington, DC 20521-3400
telephone: [011] (509) 2229-8000
FAX: [011] (529) 2229-8027
email address and website:
acspap@state.gov
https://ht.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Heard Island and McDonald Islandsembassy: none (territory of Australia)
Topic: Holy See (Vatican City)chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Patrick CONNELL (since January 2021)
embassy: Via Sallustiana, 49, 00187 Rome
mailing address: 5660 Holy See Place, Washington DC 20521-5660
telephone: [39] (06) 4674-1
FAX: [39] (06) 4674-3411
email address and website:
https://va.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Honduraschief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Colleen A. HOEY (since August 2019)
embassy: Avenida La Paz, Tegucigalpa M.D.C.
mailing address: 3480 Tegucigalpa Place, Washington DC 20521-3480
telephone: [504] 2236-9320,
FAX: [504] 2236-9037
email address and website:
usahonduras@state.gov
https://hn.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Hong Kongchief of mission: Consul General Hanscom SMITH (since July 2019); note - also accredited to Macau
embassy: 26 Garden Road, Central, Hong Kong
mailing address: 8000 Hong Kong Place, Washington DC 20521-8000
telephone: [852] 2523-9011
FAX: [852] 2845-1598
email address and website:
acshk@state.gov
https://hk.usconsulate.gov/
Topic: Hungarychief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Marc DILLARD (since 30 October 2020)
embassy: Szabadsag ter 12, H-1054 Budapest
mailing address: 5270 Budapest Place, US Department of State, Washington, DC 20521-5270
telephone: [36] (1) 475-4400
FAX: [36] (1) 475-4248
email address and website:
acs.budapest@state.gov
https://hu.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Icelandchief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Michelle YERKIN (since June 2021)
embassy: Engjateigur 7, 105 Reykjavik
mailing address: 5640 Reykjavik Place, Washington, D.C. 20521-5640
telephone: [354] 595-2200
FAX: [354] 562-9118
email address and website:
ReykjavikConsular@state.gov
https://is.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Indiachief of mission: ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Patricia A. LACINA (since 9 September 2021)
embassy: Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi - 110021
mailing address: 9000 New Delhi Place, Washington DC 20521-9000
telephone: [91] (11) 2419-8000
FAX: [91] (11) 2419-0017
email address and website:
acsnd@state.gov
https://in.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Chennai (Madras), Hyderabad, Kolkata (Calcutta), Mumbai (Bombay)
Topic: Indonesiachief of mission: Ambassador Sung Y. KIM (since 21 October 2020)
embassy: Jl. Medan Merdeka Selatan No. 3-5, Jakarta 10110
mailing address: 8200 Jakarta Place, Washington DC 8200
telephone: [62] (21) 5083-1000 (2020)
FAX: [62] (21) 385-7189 (2018)
email address and website:
jakartaacs@state.gov
https://id.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Surabaya
consulate(s): MedanAmbassador Sung Y. KIM (since 21 October 2020)
Topic: Iranembassy: none; the US Interests Section is located in the Embassy of Switzerland; US Foreign Interests Section, Embassy of Switzerland, Pasdaran, Shahid Mousavi Street (Golestan 5th), Corner of Paydarfard Street, No. 55, Tehran
Topic: Iraqchief of mission: Ambassador Matthew TUELLER (since 9 June 2019)
embassy: Al-Kindi Street, International Zone, Baghdad; note - consulate in Al Basrah closed as of 28 September 2018
mailing address: 6060 Baghdad Place, Washington DC 20521-6060
telephone: 0760-030-3000
email address and website:
BaghdadACS@state.gov
https://iq.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Irelandchief of mission: Ambassador Claire D. CRONIN (since 10 February 2022)
embassy: 42 Elgin Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4
mailing address: 5290 Dublin Place, Washington DC 20521-5290
telephone: [353] (1) 668-8777
FAX: [353] (1) 688-8056
email address and website:
ACSDublin@state.gov
https://ie.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Isle of Manembassy: none (British crown dependency)
Topic: Israelchief of mission: ambassador Thomas NIDES (since 29 November 2021)
embassy: 14 David Flusser Street, Jerusalem, 9378322
mailing address: 6350 Jerusalem Place, Washington DC 20521-6350
telephone: [972] (2) 630-4000
FAX: [972] (2) 630-4070
email address and website:
JerusalemACS@state.gov
https://il.usembassy.gov/
branch office(s): Tel Aviv
note: on 14 May 2018, the US Embassy relocated to Jerusalem from Tel Aviv; on 4 March 2019, Consulate General Jerusalem merged into US Embassy Jerusalem to form a single diplomatic mission
Topic: Italychief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Thomas D. SMITHAM (since 4 January 2021); note - also accredited to San Marino
embassy: via Vittorio Veneto 121, 00187 Roma
mailing address: 9500 Rome Place, Washington DC 20521-9500
telephone: [39] 06-46741
FAX: [39] 06-4674-2244
email address and website:
uscitizenrome@state.gov
https://it.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Florence, Milan, Naples
Topic: Jamaicachief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires John McINTYRE (since 20 January 2021)
embassy: 142 Old Hope Road, Kingston 6
mailing address: 3210 Kingston Place, Washington DC 20521-3210
telephone: (876) 702-6000 (2018)
FAX: (876) 702-6348 (2018)
email address and website:
KingstonACS@state.gov
https://jm.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Japanchief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Raymond GREENE (since 17 July 2021)
embassy: 1-10-5 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-8420
mailing address: 9800 Tokyo Place, Washington DC 20521-9800
telephone: (03) 3224-5000
FAX: [81] (03) 3224-5856
email address and website:
TokyoACS@state.gov
https://jp.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Naha (Okinawa), Osaka-Kobe, Sapporo
consulate(s): Fukuoka, Nagoya
Topic: Jerseyembassy: none (British Crown dependency)
Topic: Jordanchief of mission: Ambassador Henry T. WOOSTER (since 8 October 2020)
embassy: Abdoun, Al-Umawyeen St., Amman
mailing address: 6050 Amman Place, Washington DC 20521-6050
telephone: [962] (6) 590-6000
FAX: [962] (6) 592-0163
email address and website:
Amman-ACS@state.gov
https://jo.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Kazakhstanchief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Judy KUO (since October 2021)
embassy: Rakhymzhan Koshkarbayev Avenue, No. 3, Nur-Sultan 010010
mailing address: 2230 Nur-Sultan Place, Washington DC 20521-2230
telephone: [7] (7172) 70-21-00
FAX: [7] (7172) 54-09-14
email address and website:
USAKZ@state.gov
https://kz.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Almaty
Topic: Kenyachief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Eric W. Kneedler (since 20 January 2021)
embassy: P.O. Box 606 Village Market, 00621 Nairobi
mailing address: 8900 Nairobi Place, Washington, DC 20521-8900
telephone: [254] (20) 363-6000
FAX: [254] (20) 363-6157
email address and website:
kenya_acs@state.gov
https://ke.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Kiribatiembassy: the US does not have an embassy in Kiribati; the US Ambassador to Fiji is accredited to Kiribati
Topic: Korea, Northembassy: none; the Swedish Embassy in Pyongyang represents the US as consular protecting power
Topic: Korea, Southchief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Chargé d’Affaires Christopher DEL CORSO (since 16 July 2021)
embassy: 188 Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul
mailing address: 9600 Seoul Place, Washington, DC 20521-9600
telephone: [82] (2) 397-4114
FAX: [82] (2) 397-4101
email address and website:
seoulinfoACS@state.gov
https://kr.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s): Busan
Topic: Kosovochief of mission: Ambassador Philip KOSNETT (since 3 December 2018)
embassy: Arberia/Dragodan, Rr. 4 KORRIKU Nr. 25, Pristina
mailing address: 9520 Pristina Place, Washington DC 20521-9520
telephone: [383] 38-59-59-3000
FAX: [383] 38-604-890
email address and website:
PristinaACS@state.gov
https://xk.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Kuwaitchief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Chargé d’Affaires James HOLTSNIDER
embassy: P.O. Box 77, Safat 13001
mailing address: 6200 Kuwait Place, Washington DC 20521-6200
telephone: [00] (965) 2259-1001
FAX: [00] (965) 2538-0282
email address and website:
KuwaitACS@state.gov
https://kw.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Kyrgyzstanchief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Sonata COULTER (September 2021)
embassy: 171 Prospect Mira, Bishkek 720016
mailing address: 7040 Bishkek Place, Washington DC 20521-7040
telephone: [996] (312) 597-000
FAX: [996] (312) 597-744
email address and website:
ConsularBishkek@state.gov
https://kg.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Laoschief of mission: Ambassador Peter HAYMOND (since 7 February 2020)
embassy: Ban Somvang Tai, Thadeua Road, Km 9, Hatsayfong District, Vientiane
mailing address: 4350 Vientiane Place, Washington DC 20521-4350
telephone: [856] 21-48-7000
FAX: [856] 21-48-7040
email address and website:
CONSLAO@state.gov
https://la.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Latviachief of mission: Ambassador John Leslie CARWILE (since 5 November 2019)
embassy: 1 Samnera Velsa Street (former Remtes), Riga LV-1510
mailing address: 4520 Riga Place, Washington DC 20521-4520
telephone: [371] 6710-7000
FAX: [371] 6710-7050
email address and website:
askconsular-riga@state.gov
https://lv.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Lebanonchief of mission: Ambassador Dorothy SHEA (since 11 March 2020)
embassy: Awkar-Facing the Municipality, Main Street, Beirut
mailing address: 6070 Beirut Place, Washington DC 20521-6070
telephone: [961] (04) 543-600
FAX: [961] (4) 544-019
email address and website:
BeirutACS@state.gov
https://lb.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Lesothochief of mission: Ambassador Rebecca E. GONZALES (since 8 February 2018)
embassy: 254 Kingsway Avenue, Maseru
mailing address: 2340 Maseru Place, Washington DC 20521-2340
telephone: [266] 22312666
FAX: [266] 22310116
email address and website:
USConsularMaseru@state.gov
https://ls.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Liberiachief of mission: Ambassador Michael A. MCCARTHY (since 22 January 2021)
embassy: 502 Benson Street, Monrovia
mailing address: 8800 Monrovia Place, Washington DC 20521-8800
telephone: [231] 77-677-7000
FAX: [231] 77-677-7370
email address and website:
ACSMonrovia@state.gov
https://lr.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Libyachief of mission: Ambassador Richard B. NORLAND (since 22 August 2019)
embassy: operations suspended
mailing address: 8850 Tripoli Place, Washington, DC 20521-8850
telephone: [216] 71-107-000
email address and website:
LibyaACS@state.gov
https://ly.usembassy.gov/
note: the US Embassy in Tripoli closed in July 2014 due to fighting near the embassy related to Libyan civil unrest; embassy staff and operations temporarily first relocated to Valetta, Malta and currently are temporarily relocated to Tunis, Tunisia
Topic: Liechtensteinembassy: the US does not have an embassy in Liechtenstein; the US Ambassador to Switzerland is accredited to Liechtenstein
Topic: Lithuaniachief of mission: Ambassador Robert S. GILCHRIST (since 4 February 2020)
embassy: Akmenu gatve 6, Vilnius, LT-03106
mailing address: 4510 Vilnius Place, Washington DC 20521-4510
telephone: [370] (5) 266-5500
FAX: [370] (5) 266-5510
email address and website:
consec@state.gov
https://lt.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Luxembourgchief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Casey MACE (since 20 January 2021)
embassy: 22 Boulevard Emmanuel Servais, L-2535 Luxembourg City
mailing address: 5380 Luxembourg Place, Washington DC 20521-5380
telephone: [352] 46-01-23-00
FAX: [352] 46-14-01
email address and website:
Luxembourgconsular@state.gov
https://lu.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Macauembassy: the US has no offices in Macau; US Consulate General in Hong Kong is accredited to Macau
Topic: Madagascarchief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Amy J. HYATT (since June 2021)
embassy: Lot 207A, Andranoro, Antehiroka, 105 Antananarivo
mailing address: 2040 Antananarivo Place, Washington DC 20521-2040
telephone: [261] 20-23-480-00
FAX: [261] 20-23-480-35
email address and website:
antanACS@state.gov
https://mg.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Malawichief of mission: Charge d' Affaires Jeremy NEITZKE (26 October 2021
embassy: 16 Jomo Kenyatta Road, Lilongwe 3
mailing address: 2280 Lilongwe Place, Washington DC 20521-2280
telephone: [265] (0) 177-3166
FAX: [265] (0) 177-0471
email address and website:
LilongweConsular@state.gov
https://mw.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Malaysiachief of mission: Ambassador Brian D. McFEETERS (since 26 February 2021)
embassy: 376 Jalan Tun Razak, 50400 Kuala Lumpur
mailing address: 4210 Kuala Lumpur, Washington DC 20521-4210
telephone: [60] (3) 2168-5000
FAX: [60] (3) 2142-2207
email address and website:
KLACS@state.gov
https://my.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Maldivesembassy: the US does not have an embassy in Maldives; the US is in the process of opening an embassy in Maldives; as of March 2022, there is no US Ambassador to Maldives; until late 2021, the US Ambassador to Sri Lanka was also accredited to the Maldives
Topic: Malichief of mission: Ambassador Dennis B. HANKINS (since 15 March 2019)
embassy: ACI 2000, Rue 243, (located off the Roi Bin Fahad Aziz Bridge west of the Bamako central district), Porte 297, Bamako
mailing address: 2050 Bamako Place, Washington DC 20521-2050
telephone: [223] 20-70-23-00
FAX: [223] 20-70-24-79
email address and website:
ACSBamako@state.gov
https://ml.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Maltachief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Gwendolyn "Wendy" GREEN (since August 2020)
embassy: Ta' Qali National Park, Attard, ATD 4000
mailing address: 5800 Valletta Place, Washington DC 20521-5800
telephone: [356] 2561-4000
email address and website:
ACSMalta@state.gov
https://mt.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Marshall Islandschief of mission: Ambassador Roxanne CABRAL (since 6 February 2020)
embassy: Mejen Weto, Ocean Side, Majuro
mailing address: 4380 Majuro Place, Washington DC 20521-4380
telephone: [692] 247-4011
FAX: [692] 247-4012
email address and website:
MAJConsular@state.gov
https://mh.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Mauritaniachief of mission: Ambassador Cynthia KIERSCHT (since 27 January 2021)
embassy: Nouadhibou Road, Avenue Al Quds, NOT PRTZ, Nouakchott
mailing address: 2430 Nouakchott Place, Washington DC 20521-2430
telephone: [222] 4525-2660
FAX: [222] 4525-1592
email address and website:
consularnkc@state.gov
https://mr.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Mauritiuschief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Judes E. DEBAERE (since June 2019); note - also accredited to Seychelles
embassy: 4th Floor, Rogers House, John Kennedy Avenue, Port Louis
mailing address: 2450 Port Louis Place, Washington, DC 20521-2450
telephone: [230] 202-4400
FAX: [230] 208-9534
email address and website:
PTLConsular@state.gov
https://mu.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Mexicochief of mission: Ambassador Ken SALAZAR (since 14 September 2021)
embassy: Paseo de la Reforma 305, Colonia Cuauhtemoc, 06500 Mexico, CDMX
mailing address: 8700 Mexico City Place, Washington DC 20521-8700
telephone: (011) [52]-55-5080-2000
FAX: (011) 52-55-5080-2005
email address and website:
ACSMexicoCity@state.gov
https://mx.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Ciudad Juarez, Guadalajara, Hermosillo, Matamoros, Merida, Monterrey, Nogales, Nuevo Laredo, Tijuana
Topic: Micronesia, Federated States ofchief of mission: Ambassador Carmen G. CANTOR (since 31 January 2020)
embassy: 1286 US Embassy Place, Kolonia, Pohnpei, FM 96941
mailing address: 4120 Kolonia Place, Washington, D.C. 20521-4120
telephone: [691] 320-2187
FAX: [691] 320-2186
email address and website:
koloniaacs@state.gov
https://fm.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Moldovachief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Laura HRUBY (since 21 July 2021)
embassy: 103 Mateevici Street, Chisinau MD-2009
mailing address: 7080 Chisinau Place, Washington DC 20521-7080
telephone: [373] (22) 408-300
FAX: [373] (22) 233-044
email address and website:
ChisinauACS@state.gov
https://md.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Monacoembassy: US does not have an embassy in Monaco; the US Ambassador to France is accredited to Monaco; the US Consul General in Marseille (France), under the authority of the US Ambassador to France, handles diplomatic and consular matters concerning Monaco; +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22, enter zero "0" after the automated greeting; US Embassy Paris, 2 Avenue Gabriel, 75008 Paris, France
Topic: Mongoliachief of mission: Ambassador Michael S. KLECHESKI (since 22 February 2019)
embassy: Denver Street #3, 11th Micro-District, Ulaanbaatar 14190
mailing address: 4410 Ulaanbaatar Place, Washington DC 20521-4410
telephone: [976] 7007-6001
FAX: [976] 7007-6174
email address and website:
UlaanbaatarACS@state.gov
https://mn.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Montenegrochief of mission: Ambassador Judy Rising REINKE (since 20 December 2018)
embassy: Dzona Dzeksona 2, 81000 Podgorica
mailing address: 5570 Podgorica Place, Washington DC 20521-5570
telephone: +382 (0)20-410-500
FAX: [382] (0)20-241-358
email address and website:
PodgoricaACS@state.gov
https://me.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Montserratembassy: none (overseas territory of the UK); alternate contact is the US Embassy in Barbados [1] (246) 227-4000; US Embassy Bridgetown, Wildey Business Park, St. Michael BB 14006, Barbados, WI
Topic: Moroccochief of mission: ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires David GREENE (since 21 January 2021)
embassy: Km 5.7 Avenue Mohammed VI, Souissi, Rabat 10170
mailing address: 9400 Rabat Place, Washington DC 20521-9400
telephone: [212] 0537-637-200
FAX: [212] 0537-637-201
email address and website:
ACSCasablanca@state.gov (US Consulate General Casablanca)
https://ma.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Casablanca
Topic: Mozambiquechief of mission: Ambassador Dennis Walter HEARNE (since 3 April 2019)
embassy: Avenida Kenneth Kaunda, 193, Caixa Postal, 783, Maputo
mailing address: 2330 Maputo Place, Washington DC 20521-2330
telephone: [258] (21) 49-27-97
FAX: [258] (21) 49-01-14
email address and website:
consularmaputos@state.gov
https://mz.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Namibiachief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Jessica LONG (since 2 July 2021)
embassy: 14 Lossen Street, Windhoek
mailing address: 2540 Windhoek Place, Washington DC 20521-2540
telephone: [264] (061) 295-8500
FAX: [264] (061) 295-8603
email address and website:
ConsularWindhoek@state.gov
https://na.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Nauruembassy: the US does not have an embassy in Nauru; the US Ambassador to Fiji is accredited to Nauru
Topic: Navassa Islandembassy: none (territory of the US)
Topic: Nepalchief of mission: Ambassador Randy BERRY (since 25 October 2018)
embassy: Maharajgunj, Kathmandu
mailing address: 6190 Kathmandu Place, Washington DC 20521-6190
telephone: [977] (1) 423-4000
FAX: [977] (1) 400-7272
email address and website:
usembktm@state.gov
https://np.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Netherlandschief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Marja VERLOOP (since 17 January 2021)
embassy: John Adams Park 1, 2244 BZ Wassenaar
mailing address: 5780 Amsterdam Place, Washington DC 20521-5780
telephone: [31] (70) 310-2209
FAX: [31] (70) 310-2207
email address and website:
AmsterdamUSC@state.gov
https://nl.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Amsterdam
Topic: New Caledoniaembassy: none (overseas territory of France)
Topic: New Zealandchief of mission: Ambassador Tom S. UDALL (since 1 December 2021) note - also accredited to Samoa
embassy: 29 Fitzherbert Terrace, Thorndon, Wellington 6011
mailing address: 4370 Auckland Place, Washington DC 20521-4370
telephone: [64] (4) 462-6000
FAX: [64] (4) 499-0490
email address and website:
AucklandACS@state.gov
https://nz.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Auckland
Topic: Nicaraguachief of mission: Ambassador Kevin K. SULLIVAN (since 14 November 2018)
embassy: Kilometer 5.5 Carretera Sur, Managua
mailing address: 3240 Managua Place, Washington DC 20521-3240
telephone: [505] 2252-7100,
FAX: [505] 2252-7250
email address and website:
ACS.Managua@state.gov
https://ni.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Nigerchief of mission: Ambassador (vacant), Chargé d’Affaires, Susan N’GARNIM (since 23 August 2021)
embassy: BP 11201, Niamey
mailing address: 2420 Niamey Place, Washington DC 20521-2420
telephone: [227] 20-72-26-61
FAX: [227] 20-73-55-60
email address and website:
consulateniamey@state.gov
https://ne.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Nigeriachief of mission: Ambassador Mary Beth LEONARD (since 24 December 2019)
embassy: Plot 1075 Diplomatic Drive, Central District Area, Abuja
mailing address: 8320 Abuja Place, Washington DC 20521-8320
telephone: [234] (9) 461-4000
FAX: [234] (9) 461-4036
email address and website:
AbujaACS@state.gov
https://ng.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Lagos
Topic: Niueembassy: none (self-governing territory in free association with New Zealand)
Topic: Norfolk Islandembassy: none (territory of Australia)
Topic: North Macedoniachief of mission: Ambassador Kate Marie BYRNES (since 12 July 2019)
embassy: Str. Samoilova, Nr. 21, 1000 Skopje
mailing address: 7120 Skopje Place, Washington, DC 20521-7120
telephone: [389] (2) 310-2000
FAX: [389] (2) 310-2499
email address and website:
SkopjeACS@state.gov
https://mk.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Northern Mariana Islandsembassy: none (commonwealth in political union with the US)
Topic: Norwaychief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Sharon HUDSON-DEAN (since 29 July 2021)
embassy: Morgedalsvegen 36, 0378 Oslo
mailing address: 5460 Oslo Place, Washington DC 20521-5460
telephone: [47] 21-30-85-40
FAX: [47] 22-56-27-51
email address and website:
OsloACS@state.gov
https://no.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Omanchief of mission: Ambassador Leslie M. TSOU (since 19 January 2020)
embassy: P.C. 115, Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos, Muscat
mailing address: 6220 Muscat Place, Washington DC 20521
telephone: [968] 2464-3400
FAX: [968] 2464-3740
email address and website:
ConsularMuscat@state.gov
https://om.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Pakistanchief of mission: ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Angela AGGELER
embassy: Diplomatic Enclave, Ramna 5, Islamabad
mailing address: 8100 Islamabad Place, Washington, DC 20521-8100
telephone: [92] 051-201-4000
FAX: [92] 51-2338071
email address and website:
ACSIslamabad@state.gov
https://pk.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar
Topic: Palauchief of mission: Ambassador John HENNESSEY-NILAND (since 6 March 2020)
embassy: Omsangel/Beklelachieb, Airai 96940
mailing address: 4260 Koror Place, Washington, DC 20521-4260
telephone: [680] 587-2920
FAX: [680] 587-2911
email address and website:
ConsularKoror@state.gov
https://pw.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Panamachief of mission: Ambassador (vacant), Charge d'Affaires Stewart TUTTLE (since August 2020)
embassy: Building 783, Demetrio Basilio Lakas Avenue, Clayton
mailing address: 9100 Panama City PL, Washington, DC 20521-9100
telephone: [507] 317-5000
FAX: [507] 317-5568 (2018)
email address and website:
Panama-ACS@state.gov
https://pa.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Papua New Guineachief of mission: Ambassador Erin Elizabeth MCKEE (since 27 November 2019); note - also accredited to the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu
embassy: P.O. Box 1492, Port Moresby
mailing address: 4240 Port Moresby Place, Washington DC 20521-4240
telephone: [675] 308-2100
email address and website:
ConsularPortMoresby@state.gov
https://pg.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Paraguaychief of mission: Ambassador Marc OSTFIELD (since 9 March 2022)
embassy: 1776 Mariscal Lopez Avenue, Asuncion
mailing address: 3020 Asuncion Place, Washington DC 20521-3020
telephone: [595] (21) 248-3000
FAX: [595] (21) 213-728
email address and website:
ParaguayACS@state.gov
https://py.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Peruchief of mission: Ambassador Lisa Suzanne KENNA (since 18 March 2021)
embassy: Avenida La Encalada, Cuadra 17 s/n, Surco, Lima 33
mailing address: 3230 Lima Place, Washington DC 20521-3230
telephone: [51] (1) 618-2000
FAX: [51] (1) 618-2724
email address and website:
LimaACS@state.gov
https://pe.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Philippineschief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Heather VARIAVA (since 17 September 2021)
embassy: 1201 Roxas Boulevard, Manila 1000
mailing address: 8600 Manila Place, Washington DC 20521-8600
telephone: [63] (2) 5301-2000
FAX: [63] (2) 5301-2017
email address and website:
acsinfomanila@state.gov
https://ph.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Pitcairn Islandsembassy: none (overseas territory of the UK)
Topic: Polandchief of mission: Ambassador Mark BRZEZINSKI (since 19 January 2022)
embassy: Aleje Ujazdowskie 29/31, 00-540 Warsaw
mailing address: 5010 Warsaw Place, Washington, DC 20521-5010
telephone: [48] (22) 504-2000
FAX: [48] (22) 504-2088
email address and website:
acswarsaw@state.gov
https://pl.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Krakow
Topic: Portugalchief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Kristin M. KANE (since January 2021)
embassy: Avenida das Forcas Armadas, 1600-081 Lisboa
mailing address: 5320 Lisbon Place, Washington DC 20521-5320
telephone: [351] (21) 727-3300
FAX: [351] (21) 726-9109
email address and website:
conslisbon@state.gov
https://pt.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s): Ponta Delgada (Azores)
Topic: Puerto Ricoembassy: none (territory of the US with commonwealth status)
Topic: Qatarchief of mission: chief of mission: ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Natalie A. BAKER (since October 2021)
embassy: 22 February Street, Al Luqta District, P.O. Box 2399, Doha
mailing address: 6130 Doha Place, Washington DC 20521-6130
telephone: [974] 4496-6000
FAX: [974] 4488-4298
email address and website:
PasDoha@state.gov
https://qa.usembassy.gov/chief of mission: ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Natalie A. BAKER (since October 2021)
Topic: Romaniachief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires David MUNIZ (since 20 January 2021)
embassy: 4-6, Dr. Liviu Librescu Blvd., District 1, Bucharest, 015118
mailing address: 5260 Bucharest Place, Washington, DC 20521-5260
telephone: [40] (21) 200-3300
FAX: [40] (21) 200-3442
email address and website:
ACSBucharest@state.gov
https://ro.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Russiachief of mission: Ambassador John J. SULLIVAN (since 5 February 2021)
embassy: Bolshoy Deviatinsky Pereulok No. 8, Moscow 121099
mailing address: 5430 Moscow Place, Washington DC 20521-5430
telephone: [7] (495) 728-5000
FAX: [7] (495) 728-5090
email address and website:
MoscowACS@state.gov
https://ru.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Vladivostok (suspended status), Yekaterinburg (suspended status)
Topic: Rwandachief of mission: Ambassador Peter H. VROOMAN (since 5 April 2018)
embassy: 2657 Avenue de la Gendarmerie (Kaciyiru), P. O. Box 28 Kigali
mailing address: 2210 Kigali Place, Washington DC 20521-2210
telephone: [250] 252 596-400
FAX: [250] 252 580-325
email address and website:
consularkigali@state.gov
https://rw.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Saint Barthelemyembassy: none (overseas collectivity of France)none (overseas collectivity of France)
Topic: Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunhaembassy: none (overseas territory of the UK)
Topic: Saint Kitts and Nevisembassy: the US does not have an embassy in Saint Kitts and Nevis; the US Ambassador to Barbados is accredited to Saint Kitts and Nevis
Topic: Saint Luciaembassy: the US does not have an embassy in Saint Lucia; the US Ambassador to Barbados is accredited to Saint Lucia
Topic: Saint Martinembassy: none (overseas collectivity of France)
Topic: Saint Pierre and Miquelonembassy: none (territorial overseas collectivity of France)
Topic: Saint Vincent and the Grenadinesembassy: the US does not have an embassy in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines; the US Ambassador to Barbados is accredited to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Topic: Samoachief of mission: the US Ambassador to New Zealand is accredited to Samoa
embassy: 5th Floor, Accident Corporation Building, Matafele Apia
mailing address: 4400 Apia Place, Washington DC 20521-4400
telephone: [685] 21-436 (2018)
FAX: [685] 22-030 (2018)
email address and website:
ApiaConsular@state.gov
https://ws.usembassy.gov/
Topic: San Marinoembassy: the United States does not have an Embassy in San Marino; the US Ambassador to Italy is accredited to San Marino, and the US Consulate general in Florence maintains day-to-day ties
Topic: Sao Tome and Principeembassy: the US does not have an embassy in Sao Tome and Principe; the US Ambassador to Gabon is accredited to Sao Tome and Principe
mailing address: 2290 Sao Tome Place, Washington DC 20521-2290
Topic: Saudi Arabiachief of mission: ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Martina STRONG (since February 2021)
embassy: Riyadh 11564
mailing address: 6300 Riyadh Place, Washington DC 20521-6300
telephone: [966] (11) 835-4000
FAX: [966] (11) 488-7360
email address and website:
RiyadhACS@state.gov
https://sa.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Dhahran, Jeddah
Topic: Senegalchief of mission: Ambassador Michael RAYNOR (since February 2022); note - also accredited to Guinea-Bissau
embassy: Route des Almadies, Dakar
mailing address: 2130 Dakar Place, Washington DC 20521-2130
telephone: [221] 33-879-4000
email address and website:
DakarACS@state.gov
https://sn.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Serbiachief of mission: Ambassador Anthony GODFREY (since 24 October 2019)
embassy: 92 Bulevar kneza Aleksandra Karadjordjevica, 11040 Belgrade
mailing address: 5070 Belgrade Place, Washington, DC 20521-5070
telephone: [381] (11) 706-4000
FAX: [381] (11) 706-4481
email address and website:
belgradeacs@state.gov
https://rs.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Seychellesembassy: the US does not have an embassy in Seychelles; the US Ambassador to Mauritius is accredited to Seychelles
Topic: Sierra Leonechief of mission: Ambassador David REIMER (since 24 March 2021)
embassy: Southridge-Hill Station, Freetown
mailing address: 2160 Freetown Place, Washington DC 20521-2160
telephone: [232] 99 105 000
email address and website:
consularfreetown@state.gov
https://sl.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Singaporechief of mission: Ambassador Jonathan KAPLAN (since December 2021)
embassy: 27 Napier Road, Singapore 258508
mailing address: 4280 Singapore Place, Washington DC 20521-4280
telephone: [65] 6476-9100
FAX: [65] 6476-9340
email address and website:
singaporeusembassy@state.gov
https://sg.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Sint Maartenembassy: the US does not have an embassy in Sint Maarten; the Consul General to Curacao is accredited to Sint Maarten
Topic: Slovakiachief of mission: Ambassador Bridget A. BRINK (since 20 August 2019)
embassy: P.O. Box 309, 814 99 Bratislava
mailing address: 5840 Bratislava Place, Washington DC 20521-5840
telephone: [421] (2) 5443-3338
FAX: [421] (2) 5441-8861
email address and website:
consulbratislava@state.gov
https://sk.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Sloveniachief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Susan K. Falatko (since 20 January 2021)
embassy: Presernova 31, 1000 Ljubljana
mailing address: 7140 Ljubljana Place, Washington, DC 20521-7140
telephone: [386] (1) 200-5500
FAX: [386] (1) 200-5555
email address and website:
LjubljanaACS@state.gov
https://si.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Solomon Islandsembassy: the US does not have an embassy in the Solomon Islands; the US Ambassador to Papua New Guinea is accredited to the Solomon Islands
Topic: Somaliachief of mission: Ambassador Larry E. ANDRE, Jr. (since 9 February 2022)
embassy: Mogadishu, (reopened October 2019 on the grounds of the Mogadishu Airport)
mailing address: P.O. Box 606 Village Market
00621 Nairobi, Kenya
telephone: [254] 20 363-6451
email address and website:
Kenya_ACS@state.gov
https://so.usembassy.gov/
Topic: South Africachief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Todd P. HASKELL (since March 2021)
embassy: 877 Pretorius Street, Arcadia, Pretoria
mailing address: 9300 Pretoria Place, Washington DC 20521-9300
telephone: [27] (12) 431-4000
FAX: [27] (12) 342-2299
email address and website:
ACSJohannesburg@state.gov
https://za.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg
Topic: South Georgia and South Sandwich Islandsnone (overseas territory of the UK, also claimed by Argentina)
Topic: South Sudanchief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Deputy Chief of Mission Jon F. DANILOWICZ (since September 2020)
embassy: Kololo Road adjacent to the EU's compound, Juba
mailing address: 4420 Juba Place, Washington DC 20521-4420
telephone: [211] 912-105-188
email address and website:
ACSJuba@state.gov
https://ss.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Spainchief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Conrad TRIBBLE (since 20 January 2021) note - also accredited to Andorra
embassy: Calle de Serrano, 75, 28006 Madrid
mailing address: 8500 Madrid Place, Washington DC 20521-8500
telephone: [34] (91) 587-2200
FAX: [34] (91) 587-2303
email address and website:
askACS@state.gov
https://es.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Barcelona
Topic: Sri Lankachief of mission: Ambassador Julie CHUNG (since 17 February 2022)
embassy: 210 Galle Road, Colombo 03
mailing address: 6100 Colombo Place, Washington DC 20521-6100
telephone: [94] (11) 249-8500
FAX: [94] (11) 243-7345
email address and website:
colomboacs@state.gov
https://lk.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Sudanchief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Lucy TAMLYN (since February 2022)
embassy: P.O. Box 699, Kilo 10, Soba, Khartoum
mailing address: 2200 Khartoum Place, Washington DC 20521-2200
telephone: [249] 187-0-22000
email address and website:
ACSKhartoum@state.gov
https://sd.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Surinamechief of mission: Ambassador Karen Lynn WILLIAMS (since 20 November 2018)
embassy: 165 Kristalstraat, Paramaribo
mailing address: 3390 Paramaribo Place, Washington DC 20521-3390
telephone: [597] 556-700
FAX: [597] 551-524
email address and website:
caparamar@state.gov
https://sr.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Swedenchief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Chargé d’Affaires Pamela M. TREMONT (since 20 January 2021)
embassy: Dag Hammarskjolds Vag 31, SE-115 89 Stockholm
mailing address: 5750 Stockholm Place, Washington, DC 20521-5750
telephone: [46] (08) 783-53-00
FAX: [46] (08) 661-19-64
email address and website:
STKACSinfo@state.gov
https://se.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Switzerlandchief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Eva Weigold SCHULTZ (since 17 January 2021) note - also accredited to Liechtenstein
embassy: Sulgeneckstrasse 19, CH-3007 Bern
mailing address: 5110 Bern Place, Washington DC 20521-5110
telephone: [41] (031) 357-70-11
FAX: [41] (031) 357-73-20
email address and website:
https://ch.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Syriachief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); note - on 6 February 2012, the US closed its embassy in Damascus; Czechia serves as a protecting power for US interests in Syria
mailing address: 6110 Damascus Place, Washington DC 20521-6110
email address and website:
USIS_damascus@embassy.mzv.cz
https://sy.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Taiwanchief of mission: the US does not have an embassy in Taiwan; commercial and cultural relations with the people of Taiwan are maintained through an unofficial instrumentality, the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT), a private nonprofit corporation that performs citizen and consular services similar to those at diplomatic posts; it is managed by Director Sandra OUDKIRK (since July 2021)
mailing address: 4170 AIT Taipei Place, Washington DC 20521-4170
telephone: [886] 2-2162-2000
FAX: [886] 2-2162-2251
email address and website:
TaipeiACS@state.gov
https://www.ait.org.tw/
branch office(s): American Institute in Taiwan
No. 100, Jinhu Road,
Neihu District 11461, Taipei City
other offices: Kaohsiung (Branch Office)
Topic: Tajikistanchief of mission: Ambassador John Mark POMMERSHEIM (since 15 March 2019)
embassy: 109-A Ismoili Somoni Avenue (Zarafshon district), Dushanbe 734019
mailing address: 7090 Dushanbe Place, Washington DC 20521-7090
telephone: [992] (37) 229-20-00
FAX: [992] (37) 229-20-50
email address and website:
DushanbeConsular@state.gov
https://tj.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Tanzaniachief of mission: Ambassador Donald J. WRIGHT (since 2 April 2020)
embassy: 686 Old Bagamoyo Road, Msasani, P.O. Box 9123, Dar es Salaam
mailing address: 2140 Dar es Salaam Place, Washington, DC 20521-2140
telephone: [255] (22) 229-4000
FAX: [255] (22) 229-4721
email address and website:
DRSACS@state.gov
https://tz.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Thailandchief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Michael HEATH (since August 2019)
embassy: 95 Wireless Road, Bangkok 10330
mailing address: 7200 Bangkok Place, Washington DC 20521-7200
telephone: [66] 2-205-4000
FAX: [66] 2-205-4103
email address and website:
acsbkk@state.gov
https://th.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Chiang Mai
Topic: Timor-Lestechief of mission: Ambassador (vacant), Charge d'Affaires Thomas DALEY (since August 2021)
embassy: Avenida de Portugal, Praia dos Coqueiros, Dili
mailing address: 8250 Dili Place, Washington, DC 20521-8250
telephone: (670) 332-4684, (670) 330-2400
FAX: (670) 331-3206
email address and website:
ConsDili@state.gov
https://tl.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Togochief of mission: Ambassador Eric W. STROHMAYER (since 11 April 2019)
embassy: Boulevard Eyadema, B.P. 852, Lome
mailing address: 2300 Lome Place, Washington, DC 20521-2300
telephone: [228] 2261-5470
FAX: [228] 2261-5501
email address and website:
consularLome@state.gov
https://tg.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Tokelaunone (territory of New Zealand)
Topic: Tongaembassy: the US does not have an embassy in Tonga; the US Ambassador to Fiji is accredited to Tonga
Topic: Trinidad and Tobagochief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Shante MOORE (since 20 January 2021)
embassy: 15 Queen's Park West, Port of Spain
mailing address: 3410 Port of Spain Place, Washington DC 20521-3410
telephone: (868) 622-6371
FAX: (868) 822-5905
email address and website:
acspos@state.gov
https://tt.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Tunisiachief of mission: Ambassador Donald A. BLOME (since 7 February 2019)
embassy: Les Berges du Lac, 1053 Tunis
mailing address: 6360 Tunis Place, Washington DC 20521-6360
telephone: [216] 71-107-000
FAX: [216] 71-107-090
email address and website:
tunisacs@state.gov
https://tn.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Turkeychief of mission: Ambassador David M. SATTERFIELD (since 28 August 2019)
embassy: 110 Ataturk Boulevard, Kavaklidere, 06100 Ankara
mailing address: 7000 Ankara Place, Washington DC 20512-7000
telephone: [90] (312) 455-5555
FAX: [90] (312) 467-0019
email address and website:
Ankara-ACS@state.gov
https://tr.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Istanbul
consulate(s): Adana
Topic: Turkmenistanchief of mission: Ambassador Matthew S. KLIMOW (since 26 June 2019)
embassy: 9 1984 Street (formerly Pushkin Street), Ashgabat 744000
mailing address: 7070 Ashgabat Place, Washington, DC 20521-7070
telephone: [993] (12) 94-00-45
FAX: [993] (12) 94-26-14
email address and website:
ConsularAshgab@state.gov
https://tm.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Turks and Caicos Islandsembassy: none (overseas territory of the UK)
Topic: Tuvaluembassy: the US does not have an embassy in Tuvalu; the US Ambassador to Fiji is accredited to Tuvalu
Topic: Ugandachief of mission: Ambassador Natalie E. BROWN (since 17 November 2020)
embassy: 1577 Ggaba Road, Kampala
mailing address: 2190 Kampala Place, Washington DC 20521-2190
telephone: [256] (0) 312-306-001
FAX: [256] (0) 414-259-794
email address and website:
KampalaUScitizen@state.gov
https://ug.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Ukrainechief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Kristina KVIEN (since January 2020)
embassy: 4 A. I. Igor Sikorsky Street, 04112 Kyiv
mailing address: 5850 Kyiv Place, Washington, DC 20521-5850
telephone: [380] (44) 521-5000
FAX: [380] (44) 521-5544
email address and website:
kyivacs@state.gov
https://ua.usembassy.gov/
Topic: United Arab Emirateschief of mission: ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Sean MURPHY (since January 2021)
embassy: Embassies District, Plot 38, Sector W59-02, Street No. 4, Abu Dhabi
mailing address: 6010 Abu Dhabi Place, Washington DC 20521-6010
telephone: [971] (2) 414-2200
FAX: [971] (2) 414-2241
email address and website:
abudhabiacs@state.gov
https://ae.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Dubai
Topic: United Kingdomchief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Philip T. REEKER (since 1 August 2021)
embassy: 33 Nine Elms Lane, London, SW11 7US
mailing address: 8400 London Place, Washington DC 20521-8400
telephone: [44] (0) 20-7499-9000
FAX: [44] (0) 20-7891-3845
email address and website:
SCSLondon@state.gov
https://uk.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Belfast, Edinburgh
Topic: United States Pacific Island Wildlife Refugesnone (territories of the US)
Topic: Uruguaychief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Jennifer SAVAGE (since 20 January 2021)
embassy: Lauro Muller 1776, Montevideo 11200
mailing address: 3360 Montevideo Place, Washington DC 20521-3360
telephone: (+598) 1770-2000
FAX: [+598] 1770-2128
email address and website:
MontevideoACS@state.gov
https://uy.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Uzbekistanchief of mission: Ambassador Daniel ROSENBLUM (since 24 May 2019)
embassy: 3 Moyqorghon, 5th Block, Yunusobod District, 100093 Tashkent
mailing address: 7110 Tashkent Place, Washington DC 20521-7110
telephone: [998] 78-120-5450
FAX: [998] 78-120-6335
email address and website:
ACSTashkent@state.gov
https://uz.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Vanuatuembassy: the US does not have an embassy in Vanuatu; the US Ambassador to Papua New Guinea is accredited to Vanuatu
Topic: Venezuelachief of mission: James “Jimmy” STORY, Ambassador for the Venezuela Affairs Unit (since November 2020); note - on 11 March 2019, the Department of State announced the temporary suspension of operations of the US Embassy in Caracas and the withdrawal of diplomatic personnel; the Venezuela Affairs Unit is located at the United States Embassy in Bogota, Colombia
embassy: Venezuela Affairs Unit, Carrera 45 N. 24B-27, Bogota
previously - F St. and Suapure St.; Urb. Colinas de Valle Arriba; Caracas 1080
mailing address: 3140 Caracas Place, Washington DC 20521-3140
telephone: 1-888-407-4747
email address and website:
ACSBogota@state.gov
https://ve.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Vietnamchief of mission: Ambassador Marc KNAPPER (since 11 February 2022)
embassy: 7 Lang Ha Street, Hanoi
mailing address: 4550 Hanoi Place, Washington, DC 20521-4550
telephone: [84] (24) 3850-5000
FAX: [84] (24) 3850-5010
email address and website:
ACShanoi@state.gov
https://vn.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Ho Chi Minh City
Topic: Virgin Islandsnone (territory of the US)
Topic: Wallis and Futunanone (overseas collectivity of France)
Topic: Yemenchief of mission: ambassador (vacant); Chargé d’Affaires Cathy WESTLEY (since 23 May 2021); note - the embassy closed in March 2015; Yemen Affairs Unit currently operates out of US Embassy Riyadh
embassy: previously - Sa'awan Street, Sanaa
mailing address: 6330 Sanaa Place, Washington DC 20521-6330
telephone: US Embassy Riyadh [966] 11-488-3800
previously - [967] 1 755-2000
FAX: US Embassy Riyadh [966] 11-488-7360
email address and website:
YemenEmergencyUSC@state.gov
https://ye.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Zambiachief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires David J. YOUNG (since 2 March 2020)
embassy: Eastern end of Kabulonga Road, Ibex Hill, Lusaka
mailing address: 2310 Lusaka Place, Washington DC 20521-2310
telephone: [260] (0) 211-357-000
FAX: [260] (0) 211-357-224
email address and website:
ACSLusaka@state.gov
https://zm.usembassy.gov/
Topic: Zimbabwechief of mission: Ambassador Thomas R. HASTINGS (since August 2021)
embassy: 2 Lorraine Drive, Bluffhill, Harare
mailing address: 2180 Harare Place, Washington DC 20521-2180
telephone: [263] 867-701-1000
FAX: [263] 24-233-4320
email address and website:
consularharare@state.gov
https://zw.usembassy.gov/ |
20220601 | countries-tuvalu |
Topic: Photos of Tuvalu
Topic: Introduction
Background: The islands were first populated by voyagers from either Samoa or Tonga in the first millennium A.D., and Tuvalu provided a steppingstone for various Polynesian communities that subsequently settled in Melanesia and Micronesia. Tuvalu eventually came under Samoan and Tongan spheres of influence although proximity to Micronesia allowed some Micronesian communities to flourish in Tuvalu, in particular on Nui Atoll. In the late 1700s and early 1800s, Tuvalu was visited by a series of American, British, Dutch, and Russian ships. The islands were named the Ellice Islands in 1819. The first Christian missionaries arrived in 1861, eventually converting most of the population, and around the same time, several hundred Tuvaluans were kidnapped by people purporting to be missionaries and sent to work on plantations in Peru and Hawaii.
The UK declared a protectorate over the Ellice Islands in 1892 and merged it with the Micronesian Gilbert Islands. The Gilbert and Ellice Islands Protectorate became a colony in 1916. During World War II, the US set up military bases on a few islands, and in 1943, after Japan captured many of the northern Gilbert Islands, the UK transferred administration of the colony southward to Funafuti. After the war, Tarawa in the Gilbert Islands was once again made the colony’s capital and the center of power was firmly in the Gilbert Islands, including the colony’s only secondary school. Amid growing tensions with the Gilbertese, Tuvaluans voted to secede from the colony in 1974, were granted self-rule in 1975, and gained independence in 1978 as Tuvalu. In 1979, the US relinquished its claims to Tuvaluan islands in a treaty of friendship.
The Tuvalu Trust Fund was established in 1987 to provide a longterm economic future for the country. In 2000, Tuvalu negotiated a contract leasing its Internet domain name ".tv" for $50 million in royalties over a 12-year period. The contract was renewed in 2011 for a ten-year period. Tuvalu’s isolation means it sees few tourists; in 2020, Funafuti International Airport had four weekly flights - three to Suva, Fiji, and one to Tarawa. Tuvalu is highly vulnerable to the effects of climate change; in 2018, sea levels in Funafuti were rising twice as fast as global averages.
The Tuvalu Trust Fund was established in 1987 to provide a longterm economic future for the country. In 2000, Tuvalu negotiated a contract leasing its Internet domain name ".tv" for $50 million in royalties over a 12-year period. The contract was renewed in 2011 for a ten-year period. Tuvalu’s isolation means it sees few tourists; in 2020, Funafuti International Airport had four weekly flights - three to Suva, Fiji, and one to Tarawa. Tuvalu is highly vulnerable to the effects of climate change; in 2018, sea levels in Funafuti were rising twice as fast as global averages.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Oceania, island group consisting of nine coral atolls in the South Pacific Ocean, about half way from Hawaii to Australia
Geographic coordinates: 8 00 S, 178 00 E
Map references: Oceania
Area: total: 26 sq km
land: 26 sq km
water: 0 sq km
Area - comparative: 0.1 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries: total: 0 km
Coastline: 24 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
Climate: tropical; moderated by easterly trade winds (March to November); westerly gales and heavy rain (November to March)
Terrain: low-lying and narrow coral atolls
Elevation: highest point: unnamed location 5 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 2 m
Natural resources: fish, coconut (copra)
Land use: agricultural land: 60% (2018 est.)
arable land: 0% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 60% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 0% (2018 est.)
forest: 33.3% (2018 est.)
other: 6.7% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 0 sq km (2012)
Population distribution: over half of the population resides on the atoll of Funafuti
Natural hazards: severe tropical storms are usually rare, but in 1997 there were three cyclones; low levels of islands make them sensitive to changes in sea level
Geography - note: one of the smallest and most remote countries on Earth; six of the nine coral atolls - Nanumea, Nui, Vaitupu, Nukufetau, Funafuti, and Nukulaelae - have lagoons open to the ocean; Nanumaya and Niutao have landlocked lagoons; Niulakita does not have a lagoon
Map description: Tuvalu map showing the major islands that make up this island group in the South Pacific Ocean.Tuvalu map showing the major islands that make up this island group in the South Pacific Ocean.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 11,544 (2022 est.)
Nationality: noun: Tuvaluan(s)
adjective: Tuvaluan
Ethnic groups: Tuvaluan 86.8%, Tuvaluan/I-Kiribati 5.6%, Tuvaluan/other 6.7%, other 0.9% (2012 est.)
Languages: Tuvaluan (official), English (official), Samoan, Kiribati (on the island of Nui)
Religions: Protestant 92.4% (Congregational Christian Church of Tuvalu 85.7%, Brethren 3%, Seventh Day Adventist 2.8%, Assemblies of God .9%), Baha'i 2%, Jehovah's Witness 1.3%, Church of Jesus Christ 1%, other 3.1%, none 0.2% (2012 est.)
Age structure: 0-14 years: 29.42% (male 1,711/female 1,626)
15-24 years: 16.55% (male 986/female 925)
25-54 years: 37.17% (male 2,157/female 2,059)
55-64 years: 9.25% (male 451/female 617)
65 years and over: 7.21% (2022 est.) (male 307/female 525)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: NA
youth dependency ratio: NA
elderly dependency ratio: NA
potential support ratio: NA
Median age: total: 26.6 years
male: 25.6 years
female: 27.6 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 0.83% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 22.7 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 7.97 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: -6.41 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: over half of the population resides on the atoll of Funafuti
Urbanization: urban population: 65.5% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 2.08% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 7,000 FUNAFUTI (capital) (2018)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.05 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.07 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 1.02 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 0.73 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.53 male(s)/female
total population: 0.98 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 28.92 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 32.55 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 25.09 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 68.38 years
male: 65.96 years
female: 70.92 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 2.83 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: NA
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 100% of population
rural: 100% of population
total: 100% of population
unimproved: urban: 0% of population
rural: 0% of population
total: 0% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 24% (2019)
Physicians density: 0.91 physicians/1,000 population (2014)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 91.8% of population
rural: 91% of population
total: 91.5% of population
unimproved: urban: 9.2% of population
rural: 9% of population
total: 8.5% of population (2017 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: NA
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: NA
HIV/AIDS - deaths: NA
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 51.6% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: NA
Education expenditures: NA
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 20.6%
male: 9.8%
female: 45.9% (2016)
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: water needs met by catchment systems; the use of sand as a building material has led to beachhead erosion; deforestation; damage to coral reefs from increasing ocean temperatures and acidification; rising sea levels threaten water table; in 2000, the government appealed to Australia and New Zealand to take in Tuvaluans if rising sea levels should make evacuation necessary
Environment - international agreements: party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Desertification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Whaling
signed, but not ratified: Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 11.42 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 0.01 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 0.01 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: tropical; moderated by easterly trade winds (March to November); westerly gales and heavy rain (November to March)
Land use: agricultural land: 60% (2018 est.)
arable land: 0% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 60% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 0% (2018 est.)
forest: 33.3% (2018 est.)
other: 6.7% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 65.5% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 2.08% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 0% of GDP (2018 est.)
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 3,989 tons (2011 est.)
municipal solid waste recycled annually: 598 tons (2013 est.)
percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 15% (2013 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 0 cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: none
conventional short form: Tuvalu
local long form: none
local short form: Tuvalu
former: Ellice Islands
etymology: "tuvalu" means "group of eight" or "eight standing together" referring to the country's eight traditionally inhabited islands
Government type: parliamentary democracy under a constitutional monarchy; a Commonwealth realm
Capital: name: Funafuti; note - the capital is an atoll of some 29 islets; administrative offices are in Vaiaku Village on Fongafale Islet
geographic coordinates: 8 31 S, 179 13 E
time difference: UTC+12 (17 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the atoll is named after a founding ancestor chief, Funa, from the island of Samoa
Administrative divisions: 7 island councils and 1 town council*; Funafuti*, Nanumaga, Nanumea, Niutao, Nui, Nukufetau, Nukulaelae, Vaitupu
Independence: 1 October 1978 (from the UK)
National holiday: Independence Day, 1 October (1978)
Constitution: history: previous 1978 (at independence); latest effective 1 October 1986
amendments: proposed by the House of Assembly; passage requires at least two-thirds majority vote by the Assembly membership in the final reading; amended 2007, 2010, 2013; note - in 2016, the United Nations Development Program and the Tuvaluan Government initiated a review of the country's constitution, which was ongoing as of early 2021
Legal system: mixed legal system of English common law and local customary law
International law organization participation: has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; non-party state to the ICCt
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: yes
citizenship by descent only: yes; for a child born abroad, at least one parent must be a citizen of Tuvalu
dual citizenship recognized: yes
residency requirement for naturalization: na
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952); represented by Governor General Tofiga Vaevalu FALANI (since 29 August 2021)
head of government: Prime Minister Kausea NATANO (since 19 September 2019)
cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the governor general on recommendation of the prime minister
elections/appointments: the monarchy is hereditary; governor general appointed by the monarch on recommendation of the prime minister; prime minister and deputy prime minister elected by and from members of House of Assembly following parliamentary elections
election results: Kausea NATANO elected prime minister by House of Assembly; House of Assembly vote count on 19 September 2019 - 10 to 6
Legislative branch: description: unicameral House of Assembly or Fale I Fono (16 seats; members directly elected in single- and multi-seat constituencies by simple majority vote to serve 4-year terms)
elections: last held on 9 September 2019 (next to be held on September 2023)
election results: percent of vote - NA; seats - independent 16 (9 members reelected)
Judicial branch: highest courts: Court of Appeal (consists of the chief justice and not less than 3 appeals judges); High Court (consists of the chief justice); appeals beyond the Court of Appeal are heard by the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council (in London)
judge selection and term of office: Court of Appeal judges appointed by the governor general on the advice of the Cabinet; judge tenure based on terms of appointment; High Court chief justice appointed by the governor general on the advice of the Cabinet; chief justice serves for life; other judges appointed by the governor general on the advice of the Cabinet after consultation with chief justice; judge tenure set by terms of appointment
subordinate courts: magistrates' courts; island courts; land courts
Political parties and leaders: there are no political parties but members of parliament usually align themselves in informal groupings
International organization participation: ACP, ADB, AOSIS, C, FAO, IBRD, IDA, IFAD, IFRCS (observer), ILO, IMF, IMO, IOC, ITU, OPCW, PIF, Sparteca, SPC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: none; the Tuvalu Permanent Mission to the UN serves as the Embassy; it is headed by Samuelu LALONIU (since 21 July 2017); address: 685 Third Avenue, Suite 1104, New York, NY 10017; telephone: [1] (212) 490-0534; FAX: [1] (212) 808-4975; email: tuvalumission.un@gmail.com
Diplomatic representation from the US: embassy: the US does not have an embassy in Tuvalu; the US Ambassador to Fiji is accredited to Tuvalu
Flag description: light blue with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant; the outer half of the flag represents a map of the country with nine yellow, five-pointed stars on a blue field symbolizing the nine atolls in the ocean
National symbol(s): maneapa (native meeting house); national colors: light blue, yellow
National anthem: name: "Tuvalu mo te Atua" (Tuvalu for the Almighty)
lyrics/music: Afaese MANOA
note: adopted 1978; the anthem's name is also the nation's motto
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Tuvalu consists of a densely populated, scattered group of nine coral atolls with poor soil. Only eight of the atolls are inhabited. It is one of the smallest countries in the world, with its highest point at 4.6 meters above sea level. The country is isolated, almost entirely dependent on imports, particularly of food and fuel, and vulnerable to climate change and rising sea levels, which pose significant challenges to development. The public sector dominates economic activity. Tuvalu has few natural resources, except for its fisheries. Earnings from fish exports and fishing licenses for Tuvalu’s territorial waters are a significant source of government revenue. In 2013, revenue from fishing licenses doubled and totaled more than 45% of GDP. Official aid from foreign development partners has also increased. Tuvalu has substantial assets abroad. The Tuvalu Trust Fund, an international trust fund established in 1987 by development partners, has grown to $104 million (A$141 million) in 2014 and is an important cushion for meeting shortfalls in the government's budget. While remittances are another substantial source of income, the value of remittances has declined since the 2008-09 global financial crisis, but has stabilized at nearly $4 million per year. The financial impact of climate change and the cost of climate related adaptation projects is one of many concerns for the nation.Tuvalu consists of a densely populated, scattered group of nine coral atolls with poor soil. Only eight of the atolls are inhabited. It is one of the smallest countries in the world, with its highest point at 4.6 meters above sea level. The country is isolated, almost entirely dependent on imports, particularly of food and fuel, and vulnerable to climate change and rising sea levels, which pose significant challenges to development. The public sector dominates economic activity. Tuvalu has few natural resources, except for its fisheries. Earnings from fish exports and fishing licenses for Tuvalu’s territorial waters are a significant source of government revenue. In 2013, revenue from fishing licenses doubled and totaled more than 45% of GDP. Official aid from foreign development partners has also increased. Tuvalu has substantial assets abroad. The Tuvalu Trust Fund, an international trust fund established in 1987 by development partners, has grown to $104 million (A$141 million) in 2014 and is an important cushion for meeting shortfalls in the government's budget. While remittances are another substantial source of income, the value of remittances has declined since the 2008-09 global financial crisis, but has stabilized at nearly $4 million per year. The financial impact of climate change and the cost of climate related adaptation projects is one of many concerns for the nation.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $50 million (2020 est.)
$50 million (2019 est.)
$50 million (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 3.2% (2017 est.)
3% (2016 est.)
9.1% (2015 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $4,400 (2020 est.)
$4,300 (2019 est.)
$3,900 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $40 million (2017 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 4.1% (2017 est.)
3.5% (2016 est.)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 24.5% (2012 est.)
industry: 5.6% (2012 est.)
services: 70% (2012 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: government consumption: 87% (2016 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 24.3% (2016 est.)
exports of goods and services: 43.7% (2016 est.)
imports of goods and services: -66.1% (2016 est.)
Agricultural products: coconuts, vegetables, tropical fruit, bananas, roots/tubers nes, pork, poultry, eggs, pig fat, pig offals
Industries: fishing
Industrial production growth rate: -26.1% (2012 est.)
Labor force: 3,615 (2004 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: note: most people make a living through exploitation of the sea, reefs, and atolls - and through overseas remittances (mostly from workers in the phosphate industry and sailors)note: most people make a living through exploitation of the sea, reefs, and atolls - and through overseas remittances (mostly from workers in the phosphate industry and sailors)
Unemployment rate: NANA
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 20.6%
male: 9.8%
female: 45.9% (2016)
Population below poverty line: 26.3% (2010 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 39.1 (2010 est.)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Budget: revenues: 42.68 million (2013 est.)
expenditures: 32.46 million (2012 est.)
note: revenue data include Official Development Assistance from Australia
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): 25.6% (of GDP) (2013 est.)
Public debt: 37% of GDP (2017 est.)
47.2% of GDP (2016 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 106.7% (of GDP) (2013 est.)
note: revenue data include Official Development Assistance from Australia
Fiscal year: calendar year
Current account balance: $2 million (2017 est.)
$8 million (2016 est.)
Exports: $10 million (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$10 million (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Exports - partners: Thailand 50%, Indonesia 40% (2019)
Exports - commodities: fish, ships, coins, metal-clad products, electrical power accessories (2019)
Imports: $70 million (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$60 million (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Imports - partners: China 32%, Japan 29%, Fiji 23%, New Zealand 6% (2019)
Imports - commodities: refined petroleum, fishing ships, tug boats, other ships, iron structures (2019)
Debt - external: NANA
Exchange rates: Tuvaluan dollars or Australian dollars (AUD) per US dollar -
1.311 (2017 est.)
1.3442 (2016 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Electricity - production: 11.8 million kWh (2011 est.)
Electricity - exports: 0 kWh (2014 est.)
Electricity - imports: 0 kWh (2014 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 5,100 kW (2011 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 96% of total installed capacity (2015 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2014)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 0% of total installed capacity (2014)
Crude oil - production: 0 bbl/day (2014 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 0 bbl/day (2014 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 0 bbl/day (2014 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 0 bbl (2014 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 0 bbl/day (2014 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 0 bbl/day
Natural gas - production: 0 cu m (2014 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 0 cu m (2014)
Natural gas - exports: 0 cu m (2014 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 0 cu m (2014 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 2,000 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 17 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 8,000 (2018)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 70.36 (2019)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: internal communications needs met; small global scale of over 11,000 people on 9 inhabited islands; mobile subscriber penetration about 40% and broadband about 10% penetration; govt. owned and sole provider of telecommunications services; 2G widespread; the launch in 2019 of the Kacific-1 satellite will improve the telecommunication sector for the Asia Pacific region (2020)
domestic: radiotelephone communications between islands; fixed-line teledensity over 17 per 100 and mobile-cellular over 70 per 100 (2019)
international: country code - 688; international calls can be made by satellite
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: no TV stations; many households use satellite dishes to watch foreign TV stations; 1 government-owned radio station, Radio Tuvalu, includes relays of programming from international broadcasters (2019)
Internet country code: .tv
Internet users: total: 5,711 (2019 est.)
percent of population: 49% (2019 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 450 (2017 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 4 (2017 est.)
Topic: Transportation
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: T2
Airports: total: 1 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 1
1,524 to 2,437 m: 1 (2021)
Roadways: total: 8 km (2011)
paved: 8 km (2011)
Merchant marine: total: 245
by type: bulk carrier 22, container ship 3, general cargo 32, oil tanker 21, other 167 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Funafuti
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: no regular military forces; Tuvalu Police Force (Ministry of Justice, Communications, and Foreign Affairs)
Military - note: Australia provides support to the Tuvalu Police Force, including donations of patrol boatsAustralia provides support to the Tuvalu Police Force, including donations of patrol boats
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: nonenone |
20220601 | countries-germany |
Topic: Photos of Germany
Topic: Introduction
Background: As Europe's largest economy and second most populous nation (after Russia), Germany is a key member of the continent's economic, political, and defense organizations. European power struggles immersed Germany in two devastating world wars in the first half of the 20th century and left the country occupied by the victorious Allied powers of the US, UK, France, and the Soviet Union in 1945. With the advent of the Cold War, two German states were formed in 1949: the western Federal Republic of Germany (FRG) and the eastern German Democratic Republic (GDR). The democratic FRG embedded itself in key western economic and security organizations, the EC (now the EU) and NATO, while the communist GDR was on the front line of the Soviet-led Warsaw Pact. The decline of the USSR and the end of the Cold War allowed for German reunification in 1990. Since then, Germany has expended considerable funds to bring eastern productivity and wages up to western standards. In January 1999, Germany and 10 other EU countries introduced a common European exchange currency, the euro.As Europe's largest economy and second most populous nation (after Russia), Germany is a key member of the continent's economic, political, and defense organizations. European power struggles immersed Germany in two devastating world wars in the first half of the 20th century and left the country occupied by the victorious Allied powers of the US, UK, France, and the Soviet Union in 1945. With the advent of the Cold War, two German states were formed in 1949: the western Federal Republic of Germany (FRG) and the eastern German Democratic Republic (GDR). The democratic FRG embedded itself in key western economic and security organizations, the EC (now the EU) and NATO, while the communist GDR was on the front line of the Soviet-led Warsaw Pact. The decline of the USSR and the end of the Cold War allowed for German reunification in 1990. Since then, Germany has expended considerable funds to bring eastern productivity and wages up to western standards. In January 1999, Germany and 10 other EU countries introduced a common European exchange currency, the euro.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Central Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea and the North Sea, between the Netherlands and Poland, south of Denmark
Geographic coordinates: 51 00 N, 9 00 E
Map references: Europe
Area: total: 357,022 sq km
land: 348,672 sq km
water: 8,350 sq km
Area - comparative: three times the size of Pennsylvania; slightly smaller than Montana
Land boundaries: total: 3,694 km
border countries (9): Austria 801 km; Belgium 133 km; Czechia 704 km; Denmark 140 km; France 418 km; Luxembourg 128 km; Netherlands 575 km; Poland 447 km; Switzerland 348 km
Coastline: 2,389 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
Climate: temperate and marine; cool, cloudy, wet winters and summers; occasional warm mountain (foehn) wind
Terrain: lowlands in north, uplands in center, Bavarian Alps in south
Elevation: highest point: Zugspitze 2,963 m
lowest point: Neuendorf bei Wilster -3.5 m
mean elevation: 263 m
Natural resources: coal, lignite, natural gas, iron ore, copper, nickel, uranium, potash, salt, construction materials, timber, arable land
Land use: agricultural land: 48% (2018 est.)
arable land: 34.1% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 0.6% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 13.3% (2018 est.)
forest: 31.8% (2018 est.)
other: 20.2% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 6,500 sq km (2012)
Major lakes (area sq km): Fresh water lake(s): Lake Constance (shared with Switzerland and Austria) - 540 sq km
Salt water lake(s): Stettiner Haff/Zalew Szczecinski (shared with Poland) - 900 sq km
Major rivers (by length in km): Danube river source (shared with Austria, Slovakia, Czechia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, Ukraine, Moldova, and Romania [m]) - 2,888 km; Elbe river mouth (shared with Czechia [s]) - 1,252 km; Rhine (shared with Switzerland [s], France, and Netherlands [m]) - 1,233 km
note – [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
Major watersheds (area sq km): Atlantic Ocean drainage: Rhine-Maas (198,735 sq km), (Black Sea) Danube (795,656 sq km)
Population distribution: most populous country in Europe; a fairly even distribution throughout most of the country, with urban areas attracting larger and denser populations, particularly in the far western part of the industrial state of North Rhine-Westphalia
Natural hazards: flooding
Geography - note: strategic location on North European Plain and along the entrance to the Baltic Sea; most major rivers in Germany - the Rhine, Weser, Oder, Elbe - flow northward; the Danube, which originates in the Black Forest, flows eastward
Map description: Germany showing major cities as well as parts of surrounding countries and the North and Baltic Seas.Germany showing major cities as well as parts of surrounding countries and the North and Baltic Seas.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 84,316,622 (2022 est.)
Nationality: noun: German(s)
adjective: German
Ethnic groups: German 86.3%, Turkish 1.8%, Polish 1%, Syrian 1%, Romanian 1%, other/stateless/unspecified 8.9% (2020 est.)
note: data represent population by nationality
Languages: German (official); note - Danish, Frisian, Sorbian, and Romani are official minority languages; Low German, Danish, North Frisian, Sater Frisian, Lower Sorbian, Upper Sorbian, and Romani are recognized as regional languages under the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages
major-language sample(s):
Das World Factbook, die unverzichtbare Quelle für grundlegende Informationen. (German)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Religions: Roman Catholic 26.7%, Protestant 24.3%, Muslim 3.5%, other 4.8%, none 40.7% (2020 est.)
Age structure: 0-14 years: 12.89% (male 5,302,850/female 5,025,863)
15-24 years: 9.81% (male 4,012,412/female 3,854,471)
25-54 years: 38.58% (male 15,553,328/female 15,370,417)
55-64 years: 15.74% (male 6,297,886/female 6,316,024)
65 years and over: 22.99% (2020 est.) (male 8,148,873/female 10,277,538)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 55.4
youth dependency ratio: 21.7
elderly dependency ratio: 33.7
potential support ratio: 3 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 47.8 years
male: 46.5 years
female: 49.1 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: -0.11% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 9.08 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 11.98 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: 1.78 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: most populous country in Europe; a fairly even distribution throughout most of the country, with urban areas attracting larger and denser populations, particularly in the far western part of the industrial state of North Rhine-Westphalia
Urbanization: urban population: 77.6% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 0.13% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 3.571 million BERLIN (capital), 1.788 million Hamburg, 1.566 million Munich, 1.137 million Cologne, 791,000 Frankfurt (2022)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.04 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.03 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 1.05 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 1 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.7 male(s)/female
total population: 0.98 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth: 29.8 years (2019 est.)
Maternal mortality ratio: 7 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 3.19 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 3.56 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 2.8 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 81.51 years
male: 79.15 years
female: 84 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 1.57 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: 67% (2018)
note: percent of women aged 18-49
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 100% of population
rural: 100% of population
total: 100% of population
unimproved: urban: 0% of population
rural: 0% of population
total: 0% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 11.7% (2019)
Physicians density: 4.25 physicians/1,000 population (2017)
Hospital bed density: 8 beds/1,000 population (2017)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 100% of population
rural: 100% of population
total: 100% of population
unimproved: urban: 0% of population
rural: 0% of population
total: 0% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: 0.1% (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: 93,000 (2020 est.)
note: estimate does not include children
HIV/AIDS - deaths: (2020 est.) <500
note: estimate does not include children
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 22.3% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: 0.5% (2014/17)
Education expenditures: 5% of GDP (2018)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 17 years
male: 17 years
female: 17 years (2019)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 7.2%
male: 7.9%
female: 6.4% (2020 est.)
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: emissions from coal-burning utilities and industries contribute to air pollution; acid rain, resulting from sulfur dioxide emissions, is damaging forests; pollution in the Baltic Sea from raw sewage and industrial effluents from rivers in eastern Germany; hazardous waste disposal; government established a mechanism for ending the use of nuclear power by 2022; government working to meet EU commitment to identify nature preservation areas in line with the EU's Flora, Fauna, and Habitat directive
Environment - international agreements: party to: Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Heavy Metals, Air Pollution-Multi-effect Protocol, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Persistent Organic Pollutants, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protection, Antarctic-Marine Living Resources, Antarctic Seals, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping-London Convention, Marine Dumping-London Protocol, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 2006, Wetlands, Whaling
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 11.71 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 727.97 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 49.92 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: temperate and marine; cool, cloudy, wet winters and summers; occasional warm mountain (foehn) wind
Land use: agricultural land: 48% (2018 est.)
arable land: 34.1% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 0.6% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 13.3% (2018 est.)
forest: 31.8% (2018 est.)
other: 20.2% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 77.6% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 0.13% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 0.03% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0.02% of GDP (2018 est.)
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 51.046 million tons (2015 est.)
municipal solid waste recycled annually: 24,415,302 tons (2015 est.)
percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 47.8% (2015 est.)
Major lakes (area sq km): Fresh water lake(s): Lake Constance (shared with Switzerland and Austria) - 540 sq km
Salt water lake(s): Stettiner Haff/Zalew Szczecinski (shared with Poland) - 900 sq km
Major rivers (by length in km): Danube river source (shared with Austria, Slovakia, Czechia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, Ukraine, Moldova, and Romania [m]) - 2,888 km; Elbe river mouth (shared with Czechia [s]) - 1,252 km; Rhine (shared with Switzerland [s], France, and Netherlands [m]) - 1,233 km
note – [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
Major watersheds (area sq km): Atlantic Ocean drainage: Rhine-Maas (198,735 sq km), (Black Sea) Danube (795,656 sq km)
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 4.388 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 19.75 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 299.7 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 154 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Federal Republic of Germany
conventional short form: Germany
local long form: Bundesrepublik Deutschland
local short form: Deutschland
former: German Reich
etymology: the Gauls (Celts) of Western Europe may have referred to the newly arriving Germanic tribes who settled in neighboring areas east of the Rhine during the first centuries B.C. as "Germani," a term the Romans adopted as "Germania"; the native designation "Deutsch" comes from the Old High German "diutisc" meaning "of the people"
Government type: federal parliamentary republic
Capital: name: Berlin
geographic coordinates: 52 31 N, 13 24 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: the origin of the name is unclear but may be related to the old West Slavic (Polabian) word "berl" or "birl," meaning "swamp"
Administrative divisions: 16 states (Laender, singular - Land); Baden-Wuerttemberg, Bayern (Bavaria), Berlin, Brandenburg, Bremen, Hamburg, Hessen (Hesse), Mecklenburg-Vorpommern (Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania), Niedersachsen (Lower Saxony), Nordrhein-Westfalen (North Rhine-Westphalia), Rheinland-Pfalz (Rhineland-Palatinate), Saarland, Sachsen (Saxony), Sachsen-Anhalt (Saxony-Anhalt), Schleswig-Holstein, Thueringen (Thuringia); note - Bayern, Sachsen, and Thueringen refer to themselves as free states (Freistaaten, singular - Freistaat), while Bremen calls itself a Free Hanseatic City (Freie Hansestadt) and Hamburg considers itself a Free and Hanseatic City (Freie und Hansestadt)
Independence: 18 January 1871 (establishment of the German Empire); divided into four zones of occupation (UK, US, USSR, and France) in 1945 following World War II; Federal Republic of Germany (FRG or West Germany) proclaimed on 23 May 1949 and included the former UK, US, and French zones; German Democratic Republic (GDR or East Germany) proclaimed on 7 October 1949 and included the former USSR zone; West Germany and East Germany unified on 3 October 1990; all four powers formally relinquished rights on 15 March 1991; notable earlier dates: 10 August 843 (Eastern Francia established from the division of the Carolingian Empire); 2 February 962 (crowning of OTTO I, recognized as the first Holy Roman Emperor)
National holiday: German Unity Day, 3 October (1990)
Constitution: history: previous 1919 (Weimar Constitution); latest drafted 10-23 August 1948, approved 12 May 1949, promulgated 23 May 1949, entered into force 24 May 1949
amendments: proposed by Parliament; passage and enactment into law require two-thirds majority vote by both the Bundesrat (upper house) and the Bundestag (lower house) of Parliament; articles including those on basic human rights and freedoms cannot be amended; amended many times, last in 2020; note - in early 2021, the German federal government introduced a bill to incorporate children’s rights into the constitution
Legal system: civil law system
International law organization participation: accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction with reservations; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: no
citizenship by descent only: at least one parent must be a German citizen or a resident alien who has lived in Germany at least 8 years
dual citizenship recognized: yes, but requires prior permission from government
residency requirement for naturalization: 8 years
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal; age 16 for some state and municipal elections
Executive branch: chief of state: President Frank-Walter STEINMEIER (since 19 March 2017)
head of government: Chancellor Olaf SCHOLZ (since 8 December 2021)
cabinet: Cabinet or Bundesminister (Federal Ministers) recommended by the chancellor, appointed by the president
elections/appointments: president indirectly elected by a Federal Convention consisting of all members of the Federal Parliament (Bundestag) and an equivalent number of delegates indirectly elected by the state parliaments; president serves a 5-year term (eligible for a second term); election last held on 13 February 2022 (next to be held in February 2027); following the most recent Federal Parliament election, the party or coalition with the most representatives usually elects the chancellor who is appointed by the president to serve a renewable 4-year term; Federal Parliament vote for chancellor last held on 8 December 2021 (next to be held after the Bundestag election in 2025)
election results: Frank-Walter STEINMEIER reelected president; Federal Convention vote count - Frank-Walter STEINMEIER (SPD) 1,045, Max OTTE 140, Gerhard TRABERT (The Left) 96, Stefanie GEBAUER (Free Voters) 58, abstentions 86; Olaf SCHOLZ (SPD) elected chancellor; Federal Parliament vote - 395 to 303
Legislative branch: description: bicameral Parliament or Parlament consists of:
Federal Council or Bundesrat (69 seats statutory, 71 current; members appointed by each of the 16 state governments)
Federal Diet or Bundestag (736 seats statutory, 736 for the 2021-25 term - total seats can vary each electoral term; currently includes 4 seats for independent members; approximately one-half of members directly elected in multi-seat constituencies by proportional representation vote and approximately one-half directly elected in single-seat constituencies by simple majority vote; members' terms depend upon the states they represent)
elections:
Bundesrat - none; determined by the composition of the state-level governments; the composition of the Bundesrat has the potential to change any time one of the 16 states holds an election
Bundestag - last held on 26 September 2021 (next to be held in September 2025 at the latest); almost all postwar German governments have been coalitions
election results:
Bundesrat - composition - men 46, women 23, percent of women 33.3%
Bundestag - percent of vote by party - SPD 25.7%, CDU/CSU 24.1%, Alliance '90/Greens 14.8%, FDP 11.5%, AfD 10.3%, The Left 4.9%, other 8.7%; seats by party - SPD 206, CDU/CSU 196, Alliance '90/Greens 118, FDP 92, AfD 83, The Left 39, other 1; composition - men 479, women 257, percent of women 34.9%; note - total Parliament percent of women 34.8%
note - due to Germany's recognition of the concepts of "overhang" (when a party's share of the nationwide votes would entitle it to fewer seats than the number of individual constituency seats won in an election under Germany's mixed member proportional system) and "leveling" (whereby additional seats are elected to supplement the members directly elected by each constituency in order to ensure that each party's share of the total seats is roughly proportional to the party's overall shares of votes at the national level), the 20th Bundestag is the largest to date
Judicial branch: highest courts: Federal Court of Justice (court consists of 127 judges, including the court president, vice presidents, presiding judges, other judges and organized into 25 Senates subdivided into 12 civil panels, 5 criminal panels, and 8 special panels); Federal Constitutional Court or Bundesverfassungsgericht (consists of 2 Senates each subdivided into 3 chambers, each with a chairman and 8 members)
judge selection and term of office: Federal Court of Justice judges selected by the Judges Election Committee, which consists of the Secretaries of Justice from each of the 16 federated states and 16 members appointed by the Federal Parliament; judges appointed by the president; judges serve until mandatory retirement at age 65; Federal Constitutional Court judges - one-half elected by the House of Representatives and one-half by the Senate; judges appointed for 12-year terms with mandatory retirement at age 68
subordinate courts: Federal Administrative Court; Federal Finance Court; Federal Labor Court; Federal Social Court; each of the 16 federated states or Land has its own constitutional court and a hierarchy of ordinary (civil, criminal, family) and specialized (administrative, finance, labor, social) courts; two English-speaking commercial courts opened in late 2020 in the state of Baden-Wuerttemberg - English-speaking Stuttgart Commercial Court and English-speaking Mannheim Commercial Court
Political parties and leaders: Alliance '90/Greens [Annalena BAERBOCK and Robert HABECK]
Alternative for Germany or AfD [Alexander GAULAND - Honorary Chairman, Joerg MEUTHEN and Tino CHRUPALLA]
Christian Democratic Union or CDU [Armin LASCHET]
Christian Social Union or CSU [Markus SOEDER]
Free Democratic Party or FDP [Christian LINDNER]
Free Voters [Hubert AIWANGER]
The Left or Die Linke [Janine WISSLER and Susanne HENNING-WELLSOW]
Social Democratic Party or SPD [Saskia ESKEN and Norbert WALTER-BORJANS]
International organization participation: ADB (nonregional member), AfDB (nonregional member), Arctic Council (observer), Australia Group, BIS, BSEC (observer), CBSS, CD, CDB, CE, CERN, EAPC, EBRD, ECB, EIB, EITI (implementing country), EMU, ESA, EU, FAO, FATF, G-5, G-7, G-8, G-10, G-20, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IGAD (partners), IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, IMSO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, MINURSO, MINUSMA, NATO, NEA, NSG, OAS (observer), OECD, OPCW, OSCE, Pacific Alliance (observer), Paris Club, PCA, Schengen Convention, SELEC (observer), SICA (observer), UN, UNAMID, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNMISS, UNRWA, UNSOM, UNWTO, UPU, Wassenaar Arrangement, WCO, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Emily Margarethe HABER (since 22 June 2018)
chancery: 4645 Reservoir Road NW, Washington, DC 20007
telephone: [1] (202) 298-4000
FAX: [1] (202) 298-4261
email address and website:
info@washington.diplo.de
https://www.germany.info/us-en
consulate(s) general: Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, San Francisco
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Chargé d’Affaires Woodward "Clark" PRICE (since 1 July 2021)
embassy: Pariser Platz 2, 10117 Berlin
Clayallee 170, 14191 Berlin (administrative services)
mailing address: 5090 Berlin Place, Washington DC 20521-5090
telephone: [49] (30) 8305-0
FAX: [49] (30) 8305-1215
email address and website:
BerlinPCO@state.gov
https://de.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Dusseldorf, Frankfurt am Main, Hamburg, Leipzig, Munich
Flag description: three equal horizontal bands of black (top), red, and gold; these colors have played an important role in German history and can be traced back to the medieval banner of the Holy Roman Emperor - a black eagle with red claws and beak on a gold field
National symbol(s): eagle; national colors: black, red, yellow
National anthem: name: "Das Lied der Deutschen" (Song of the Germans)
lyrics/music: August Heinrich HOFFMANN VON FALLERSLEBEN/Franz Joseph HAYDN
note: adopted 1922; the anthem, also known as "Deutschlandlied" (Song of Germany), was originally adopted for its connection to the March 1848 liberal revolution; following appropriation by the Nazis of the first verse, specifically the phrase, "Deutschland, Deutschland ueber alles" (Germany, Germany above all) to promote nationalism, it was banned after 1945; in 1952, its third verse was adopted by West Germany as its national anthem; in 1990, it became the national anthem for the reunited Germany
National heritage: total World Heritage Sites: 51 (48 cultural, 3 natural)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Museumsinsel (Museum Island), Berlin (c); Palaces and Parks of Potsdam and Berlin (c); Speyer Cathedral (c); Upper Middle Rhine Valley (c); Aachen Cathedral (c); Bauhaus and its Sites in Weimar, Dessau, and Bernau (c); Caves and Ice Age Art in the Swabian Jura (c); Mines of Rammelsberg, Historic Town of Goslar, and Upper Harz Water Management System (c); Roman Monuments, Cathedral of St. Peter, and Church of Our Lady in Trier (c); Hanseatic City of Lübeck (c); Old Town of Regensburg (c)
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: The German economy - the fifth largest economy in the world in PPP terms and Europe's largest - is a leading exporter of machinery, vehicles, chemicals, and household equipment. Germany benefits from a highly skilled labor force, but, like its Western European neighbors, faces significant demographic challenges to sustained long-term growth. Low fertility rates and a large increase in net immigration are increasing pressure on the country's social welfare system and necessitate structural reforms.Reforms launched by the government of Chancellor Gerhard SCHROEDER (1998-2005), deemed necessary to address chronically high unemployment and low average growth, contributed to strong economic growth and falling unemployment. These advances, as well as a government subsidized, reduced working hour scheme, help explain the relatively modest increase in unemployment during the 2008-09 recession - the deepest since World War II. The German Government introduced a minimum wage in 2015 that increased to $9.79 (8.84 euros) in January 2017.Stimulus and stabilization efforts initiated in 2008 and 2009 and tax cuts introduced in Chancellor Angela MERKEL's second term increased Germany's total budget deficit - including federal, state, and municipal - to 4.1% in 2010, but slower spending and higher tax revenues reduced the deficit to 0.8% in 2011 and in 2017 Germany reached a budget surplus of 0.7%. A constitutional amendment approved in 2009 limits the federal government to structural deficits of no more than 0.35% of GDP per annum as of 2016, though the target was already reached in 2012.Following the March 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster, Chancellor Angela MERKEL announced in May 2011 that eight of the country's 17 nuclear reactors would be shut down immediately and the remaining plants would close by 2022. Germany plans to replace nuclear power largely with renewable energy, which accounted for 29.5% of gross electricity consumption in 2016, up from 9% in 2000. Before the shutdown of the eight reactors, Germany relied on nuclear power for 23% of its electricity generating capacity and 46% of its base-load electricity production.The German economy suffers from low levels of investment, and a government plan to invest 15 billion euros during 2016-18, largely in infrastructure, is intended to spur needed private investment. Domestic consumption, investment, and exports are likely to drive German GDP growth in 2018, and the country’s budget and trade surpluses are likely to remain high.The German economy - the fifth largest economy in the world in PPP terms and Europe's largest - is a leading exporter of machinery, vehicles, chemicals, and household equipment. Germany benefits from a highly skilled labor force, but, like its Western European neighbors, faces significant demographic challenges to sustained long-term growth. Low fertility rates and a large increase in net immigration are increasing pressure on the country's social welfare system and necessitate structural reforms.Reforms launched by the government of Chancellor Gerhard SCHROEDER (1998-2005), deemed necessary to address chronically high unemployment and low average growth, contributed to strong economic growth and falling unemployment. These advances, as well as a government subsidized, reduced working hour scheme, help explain the relatively modest increase in unemployment during the 2008-09 recession - the deepest since World War II. The German Government introduced a minimum wage in 2015 that increased to $9.79 (8.84 euros) in January 2017.Stimulus and stabilization efforts initiated in 2008 and 2009 and tax cuts introduced in Chancellor Angela MERKEL's second term increased Germany's total budget deficit - including federal, state, and municipal - to 4.1% in 2010, but slower spending and higher tax revenues reduced the deficit to 0.8% in 2011 and in 2017 Germany reached a budget surplus of 0.7%. A constitutional amendment approved in 2009 limits the federal government to structural deficits of no more than 0.35% of GDP per annum as of 2016, though the target was already reached in 2012.Following the March 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster, Chancellor Angela MERKEL announced in May 2011 that eight of the country's 17 nuclear reactors would be shut down immediately and the remaining plants would close by 2022. Germany plans to replace nuclear power largely with renewable energy, which accounted for 29.5% of gross electricity consumption in 2016, up from 9% in 2000. Before the shutdown of the eight reactors, Germany relied on nuclear power for 23% of its electricity generating capacity and 46% of its base-load electricity production.The German economy suffers from low levels of investment, and a government plan to invest 15 billion euros during 2016-18, largely in infrastructure, is intended to spur needed private investment. Domestic consumption, investment, and exports are likely to drive German GDP growth in 2018, and the country’s budget and trade surpluses are likely to remain high.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $4,238,800,000,000 (2020 est.)
$4,457,050,000,000 (2019 est.)
$4,432,430,000,000 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 0.59% (2019 est.)
1.3% (2018 est.)
2.91% (2017 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $50,900 (2020 est.)
$53,600 (2019 est.)
$53,500 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $3,860,923,000,000 (2019 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 1.4% (2019 est.)
1.7% (2018 est.)
1.5% (2017 est.)
Credit ratings: Fitch rating: AAA (1994)
Moody's rating: Aaa (1986)
Standard & Poors rating: AAA (1983)
Credit ratings prior to 1989 refer to West Germany.
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 0.7% (2017 est.)
industry: 30.7% (2017 est.)
services: 68.6% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 53.1% (2017 est.)
government consumption: 19.5% (2017 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 20.4% (2017 est.)
investment in inventories: -0.5% (2017 est.)
exports of goods and services: 47.3% (2017 est.)
imports of goods and services: -39.7% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: milk, sugar beet, wheat, barley, potatoes, pork, maize, rye, rapeseed, triticale
Industries: among the world's largest and most technologically advanced producers of iron, steel, coal, cement, chemicals, machinery, vehicles, machine tools, electronics, automobiles, food and beverages, shipbuilding, textiles
Industrial production growth rate: 3.3% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 44.585 million (2020 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 1.4%
industry: 24.2%
services: 74.3% (2016)
Unemployment rate: 4.98% (2019 est.)
5.19% (2018 est.)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 7.2%
male: 7.9%
female: 6.4% (2020 est.)
Population below poverty line: 14.8% (2018 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 31.9 (2016 est.)
30 (1994)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: 3.6%
highest 10%: 24% (2000)
Budget: revenues: 1.665 trillion (2017 est.)
expenditures: 1.619 trillion (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): 1.3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 63.9% of GDP (2017 est.)
67.9% of GDP (2016 est.)
note: general government gross debt is defined in the Maastricht Treaty as consolidated general government gross debt at nominal value, outstanding at the end of the year in the following categories of government liabilities (as defined in ESA95): currency and deposits (AF.2), securities other than shares excluding financial derivatives (AF.3, excluding AF.34), and loans (AF.4); the general government sector comprises the sub-sectors of central government, state government, local government and social security funds; the series are presented as a percentage of GDP and in millions of euros; GDP used as a denominator is the gross domestic product at current market prices; data expressed in national currency are converted into euro using end-of-year exchange rates provided by the European Central Bank
Taxes and other revenues: 45% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: calendar year
Current account balance: $280.238 billion (2019 est.)
$297.434 billion (2018 est.)
Exports: $1,671,650,000,000 (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$1,813,190,000,000 (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$1,881,510,000,000 (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Exports - partners: United States 9%, France 8%, China 7%, Netherlands 6%, United Kingdom 6%, Italy 5%, Poland 5%, Austria 5% (2019)
Exports - commodities: cars and vehicle parts, packaged medicines, aircraft, medical cultures/vaccines, industrial machinery (2019)
Imports: $1,452,560,000,000 (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$1,593,720,000,000 (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$1,635,580,000,000 (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Imports - partners: Netherlands 9%, China 8%, France 7%, Belgium 6%, Poland 6%, Italy 6%, Czechia 5%, United States 5% (2019)
Imports - commodities: cars and vehicle parts, packaged medicines, crude petroleum, refined petroleum, medical cultures/vaccines (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $200.1 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
$173.7 billion (31 December 2015 est.)
Debt - external: $5,671,463,000,000 (2019 est.)
$5,751,408,000,000 (2018 est.)
Exchange rates: euros (EUR) per US dollar -
0.82771 (2020 est.)
0.90338 (2019 est.)
0.87789 (2018 est.)
0.885 (2014 est.)
0.7634 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Electricity - production: 612.8 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 536.5 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 78.86 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - imports: 28.34 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 208.5 million kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 41% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 5% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 2% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 52% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 41,000 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 6,569 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 1.836 million bbl/day (2017 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 129.6 million bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 2.158 million bbl/day (2017 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 2.46 million bbl/day (2017 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 494,000 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 883,800 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Natural gas - production: 7.9 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 93.36 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 34.61 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 119.5 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 39.5 billion cu m (1 January 2018 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 38.3 million (2020)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 45.71 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 107.5 million (2020)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 128.3 (2020 est.)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: one of the world's most technologically advanced telecom systems with additional security measures; LTE universally available and 5G service to over 80% of population; mobile market is driven by data, with increased broadband subscribership; regulatory measures aimed at facilitating wholesale network access to provide fiber-based broadband services; government aims to provide smart technology solutions; over 60 cities use smart technology in urban development, many through joint initiative with private sector, utility companies, and universities; importer of broadcast equipment and computers from China (2020)
domestic: extensive system of automatic telephone exchanges connected by modern networks of fiber-optic cable, coaxial cable, microwave radio relay, and a domestic satellite system; cellular telephone service is widely available, expanding rapidly, and includes roaming service to many foreign countries; approximately 46 per 100 for fixed-line and 128 per 100 for mobile-cellular (2020)
international: country code - 49; landing points for SeaMeWe-3, TAT-14, AC-1, CONTACT-3, Fehmarn Balt, C-Lion1, GC1, GlobalConnect-KPN, and Germany-Denmark 2 & 3 - submarine cables to Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Asia, Southeast Asia and Australia; as well as earth stations in the Inmarsat, Intelsat, Eutelsat, and Intersputnik satellite systems (2019)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: a mixture of publicly operated and privately owned TV and radio stations; 70 national and regional public broadcasters compete with nearly 400 privately owned national and regional TV stations; more than 90% of households have cable or satellite TV; hundreds of radio stations including multiple national radio networks, regional radio networks, and a large number of local radio stations
Internet country code: .de
Internet users: total: 74,844,784 (2020 est.)
percent of population: 90% (2020 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 36,215,303 (2021)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 43.22 (2021)
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 20 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 1,113
annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 109,796,202 (2018)
annual freight traffic on registered air carriers: 7,969,860,000 (2018) mt-km
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: D
Airports: total: 539 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 318
over 3,047 m: 14
2,438 to 3,047 m: 49
1,524 to 2,437 m: 60
914 to 1,523 m: 70
under 914 m: 125 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 221
1,524 to 2,437 m: 1
914 to 1,523 m: 35
under 914 m: 185 (2021)
Heliports: 23 (2021)
Pipelines: 37 km condensate, 26985 km gas, 2400 km oil, 4479 km refined products, 8 km water (2013)
Railways: total: 33,590 km (2017)
standard gauge: 33,331 km (2015) 1.435-m gauge (19,973 km electrified)
narrow gauge: 220 km 1.000-m gauge (79 km electrified)
15 km 0.900-m gauge, 24 km 0.750-m gauge (2015)
Roadways: total: 625,000 km (2017)
paved: 625,000 km (2017) (includes 12,996 km of expressways)
note: includes local roads
Waterways: 7,467 km (2012) (Rhine River carries most goods; Main-Danube Canal links North Sea and Black Sea)
Merchant marine: total: 599
by type: container ship 77, general cargo 85, oil tanker 36, other 401 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s):
Baltic Sea: Kiel, Rostock
North Sea: Bremerhaven, Brunsbuttel, Emden, Hamburg, Wilhelmshaven
oil terminal(s): Brunsbuttel Canal terminals
container port(s) (TEUs): Bremen/Bremerhaven (4,856,900), Hamburg (9,274,215) (2019)
LNG terminal(s) (import): Hamburg
river port(s): Bremen (Weser); Bremerhaven (Geeste); Duisburg, Karlsruhe, Neuss-Dusseldorf (Rhine); Lubeck (Wakenitz); Brunsbuttel, Hamburg (Elbe)
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: Federal Armed Forces (Bundeswehr): Army (Heer), Navy (Deutsche Marine, includes naval air arm), Air Force (Luftwaffe, includes air defense), Joint Support Service (Streitkraeftebasis, SKB), Central Medical Service (Zentraler Sanitaetsdienst, ZSanDstBw), Cyber and Information Space Command (Kommando Cyber- und Informationsraum, Kdo CIR) (2021)
Military expenditures: 1.5% of GDP (2021 est.)
1.5% of GDP (2020)
1.4% of GDP (2019) (approximately $60.1 billion)
1.3% of GDP (2018) (approximately $55.4 billion)
1.2% of GDP (2017) (approximately $53.5 billion)
Military and security service personnel strengths: approximately 184,000 active duty personnel (63,500 Army; 16,500 Navy; 27,500 Air Force; 27,000 Joint Support Service; 20,000 Medical Service, 14,500 Cyber and Information Space Command; 15,000 other) (2021)
note - Germany in 2020 announced it planned to increase the size of the military to about 200,000 troops by 2025
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the German Federal Armed Forces inventory is mostly comprised of weapons systems produced domestically or jointly with other European countries and Western imports, particularly from the US; since 2010, the US is the leading foreign supplier; Germany's defense industry is capable of manufacturing the full spectrum of air, land, and naval military weapons systems, and is one of the world's leading arms exporters (2021)
Military service age and obligation: 17-23 years of age for male and female voluntary military service (must have completed compulsory full-time education and have German citizenship); conscription ended July 2011; service obligation 7-23 months or 12 years; women have been eligible for voluntary service in all military branches and positions since 2001 (2021)
note - in 2021, women accounted for about 12% of the German military
Military deployments: approximately 500 Middle East (NATO/Counter-ISIS campaign); 550 Lithuania (NATO); approximately 1,200 Mali (MINUSMA/EUTM) (2021-2022)
note(s) - Germany is a contributing member of the EuroCorps; NATO troop deployment numbers in eastern Europe are as of February 2022; in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, some NATO countries have sent additional troops and equipment to the battlegroups deployed in NATO territory in eastern Europe
Military - note: the Federal Republic of Germany joined NATO in May 1955; with the reunification of Germany in October 1990, the states of the former German Democratic Republic joined the Federal Republic of Germany in its membership of NATO
the German Army has incorporated a joint Franco-German mechanized infantry brigade since 1989, a Dutch airmobile infantry brigade since 2014, and a Dutch mechanized infantry brigade since 2016; in addition, the German Navy’s Sea Battalion (includes marine infantry, naval divers, reconnaissance, and security forces) has worked closely with the Dutch Marine Corps since 2016, including as a binational amphibious landing group (2021)
Topic: Terrorism
Terrorist group(s): Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps/Qods Force; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: nonenone
Refugees and internally displaced persons: refugees (country of origin): 616,325 (Syria), 152,677 (Afghanistan), 147,400 (Iraq), 62,152 (Eritrea), 45,704 (Iran), 34,465 (Turkey), 29,137 (Somalia), 9,329 (Russia), 9,323 (Nigeria), 8,600 (Pakistan), 7,503 (Serbia and Kosovo), 6,057 (Ethiopia) (mid-year 2021)
stateless persons: 26,980 (mid-year 2021)
Illicit drugs: maritime transshipment point for cocaine heading to Europemaritime transshipment point for cocaine heading to Europe |
20220601 | field-death-rate-country-comparison | |
20220601 | countries-nigeria |
Topic: Photos of Nigeria
Topic: Introduction
Background: In ancient and pre-colonial times, the area of present-day Nigeria was occupied by a great diversity of ethnic groups with different languages and traditions. These included Islamic empires in northern Nigeria and smaller organized political groupings in southern Nigeria. British influence and control over what would become Nigeria and Africa's most populous country grew through the 19th century. In 1914, the British amalgamated their separately administered northern and southern territories into modern-day Nigeria. A series of constitutions after World War II granted Nigeria greater autonomy. After independence in 1960, politics were marked by coups and mostly military rule, until the death of a military head of state in 1998 allowed for a political transition. In 1999, a new constitution was adopted and a peaceful transition to civilian government was completed. The government continues to face the daunting task of institutionalizing democracy and reforming a petroleum-based economy, whose revenues have been squandered through decades of corruption and mismanagement. In addition, Nigeria continues to experience longstanding ethnic and religious tensions. Although both the 2003 and 2007 presidential elections were marred by significant irregularities and violence, Nigeria is currently experiencing its longest period of civilian rule since independence. The general elections of 2007 marked the first civilian-to-civilian transfer of power in the country's history. National and state elections in 2011 and 2015 were generally regarded as credible. The 2015 election was also heralded for the fact that the then-umbrella opposition party, the All Progressives Congress, defeated the long-ruling People's Democratic Party that had governed since 1999, and assumed the presidency, marking the first peaceful transfer of power from one party to another. Presidential and legislative elections were held in early 2019 and deemed broadly free and fair despite voting irregularities, intimidation, and violence.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Western Africa, bordering the Gulf of Guinea, between Benin and Cameroon
Geographic coordinates: 10 00 N, 8 00 E
Map references: Africa
Area: total: 923,768 sq km
land: 910,768 sq km
water: 13,000 sq km
Area - comparative: about six times the size of Georgia; slightly more than twice the size of California
Land boundaries: total: 4,477 km
border countries (4): Benin 809 km; Cameroon 1,975 km; Chad 85 km; Niger 1,608 km
Coastline: 853 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
Climate: varies; equatorial in south, tropical in center, arid in north
Terrain: southern lowlands merge into central hills and plateaus; mountains in southeast, plains in north
Elevation: highest point: Chappal Waddi 2,419 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 380 m
Natural resources: natural gas, petroleum, tin, iron ore, coal, limestone, niobium, lead, zinc, arable land
Land use: agricultural land: 78% (2018 est.)
arable land: 37.3% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 7.4% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 33.3% (2018 est.)
forest: 9.5% (2018 est.)
other: 12.5% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 2,930 sq km (2012)
Major lakes (area sq km): Fresh water lake(s): Lake Chad (endorheic lake shared with Niger, Chad, and Cameroon) - 10,360-25,900 sq km
note - area varies by season and year to year
Major rivers (by length in km): Niger river mouth (shared with Guinea [s], Mali, Benin, and Niger) - 4,200 km
note – [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
Major watersheds (area sq km): Atlantic Ocean drainage: Niger (2,261,741 sq km)
Internal (endorheic basin) drainage: Lake Chad (2,497,738 sq km)
Major aquifers: Lake Chad Basin, Lullemeden-Irhazer Aquifer System
Population distribution: largest population of any African nation; significant population clusters are scattered throughout the country, with the highest density areas being in the south and southwest as shown in this population distribution map
Natural hazards: periodic droughts; flooding
Geography - note: the Niger River enters the country in the northwest and flows southward through tropical rain forests and swamps to its delta in the Gulf of Guinea
Map description: Nigeria map showing major cities as well as parts of surrounding countries and the Gulf of Guinea.Nigeria map showing major cities as well as parts of surrounding countries and the Gulf of Guinea.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 225,082,083 (2022 est.)
note: estimates for this country explicitly taken into account the impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic
Nationality: noun: Nigerian(s)
adjective: Nigerian
Ethnic groups: Hausa 30%, Yoruba 15.5%, Igbo (Ibo) 15.2%, Fulani 6%, Tiv 2.4%, Kanuri/Beriberi 2.4%, Ibibio 1.8%, Ijaw/Izon 1.8%, other 24.7% (2018 est.)
note: Nigeria, Africa's most populous country, is composed of more than 250 ethnic groups
Languages: English (official), Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo (Ibo), Fulani, over 500 additional indigenous languages
Religions: Muslim 53.5%, Roman Catholic 10.6%, other Christian 35.3%, other .6% (2018 est.)
Demographic profile: Nigeria’s population is projected to grow from more than 186 million people in 2016 to 392 million in 2050, becoming the world’s fourth most populous country. Nigeria’s sustained high population growth rate will continue for the foreseeable future because of population momentum and its high birth rate. Abuja has not successfully implemented family planning programs to reduce and space births because of a lack of political will, government financing, and the availability and affordability of services and products, as well as a cultural preference for large families. Increased educational attainment, especially among women, and improvements in health care are needed to encourage and to better enable parents to opt for smaller families.Nigeria needs to harness the potential of its burgeoning youth population in order to boost economic development, reduce widespread poverty, and channel large numbers of unemployed youth into productive activities and away from ongoing religious and ethnic violence. While most movement of Nigerians is internal, significant emigration regionally and to the West provides an outlet for Nigerians looking for economic opportunities, seeking asylum, and increasingly pursuing higher education. Immigration largely of West Africans continues to be insufficient to offset emigration and the loss of highly skilled workers. Nigeria also is a major source, transit, and destination country for forced labor and sex trafficking.Nigeria’s population is projected to grow from more than 186 million people in 2016 to 392 million in 2050, becoming the world’s fourth most populous country. Nigeria’s sustained high population growth rate will continue for the foreseeable future because of population momentum and its high birth rate. Abuja has not successfully implemented family planning programs to reduce and space births because of a lack of political will, government financing, and the availability and affordability of services and products, as well as a cultural preference for large families. Increased educational attainment, especially among women, and improvements in health care are needed to encourage and to better enable parents to opt for smaller families.Nigeria needs to harness the potential of its burgeoning youth population in order to boost economic development, reduce widespread poverty, and channel large numbers of unemployed youth into productive activities and away from ongoing religious and ethnic violence. While most movement of Nigerians is internal, significant emigration regionally and to the West provides an outlet for Nigerians looking for economic opportunities, seeking asylum, and increasingly pursuing higher education. Immigration largely of West Africans continues to be insufficient to offset emigration and the loss of highly skilled workers. Nigeria also is a major source, transit, and destination country for forced labor and sex trafficking.
Age structure: 0-14 years: 41.7% (male 45,571,738/female 43,674,769)
15-24 years: 20.27% (male 22,022,660/female 21,358,753)
25-54 years: 30.6% (male 32,808,913/female 32,686,474)
55-64 years: 4.13% (male 4,327,847/female 4,514,264)
65 years and over: 3.3% (2020 est.) (male 3,329,083/female 3,733,801)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 86
youth dependency ratio: 80.9
elderly dependency ratio: 5.1
potential support ratio: 19.6 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 18.6 years
male: 18.4 years
female: 18.9 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 2.53% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 34.19 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 8.7 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: -0.21 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: largest population of any African nation; significant population clusters are scattered throughout the country, with the highest density areas being in the south and southwest as shown in this population distribution map
Urbanization: urban population: 53.5% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 3.92% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 15.388 million Lagos, 4.219 million Kano, 3.756 million Ibadan, 3.652 million ABUJA (capital), 3.325 million Port Harcourt, 1.841 million Benin City (2022)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.04 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.03 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 1 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 0.96 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.77 male(s)/female
total population: 1.02 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth: 20.4 years (2018 est.)
note: median age at first birth among women 25-49
Maternal mortality ratio: 917 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 56.68 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 62.03 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 51.01 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 61.33 years
male: 59.51 years
female: 63.27 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 4.62 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: 16.6% (2018)
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 95.3% of population
rural: 68.8% of population
total: 82.6% of population
unimproved: urban: 4.7% of population
rural: 31.2% of population
total: 17.4% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 3% (2019)
Physicians density: 0.38 physicians/1,000 population (2018)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 81.6% of population
rural: 41.4% of population
total: 62.3% of population
unimproved: urban: 18.4% of population
rural: 58.6% of population
total: 37.7% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: 1.3% (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: 1.7 million (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - deaths: 49,000 (2020 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: very high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial and protozoal diarrhea, hepatitis A and E, and typhoid fever
vectorborne diseases: malaria, dengue fever, and yellow fever
water contact diseases: leptospirosis and schistosomiasis
animal contact diseases: rabies
respiratory diseases: meningococcal meningitis
aerosolized dust or soil contact diseases: Lassa fever
note 1: on 30 September 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a Travel Health Notice for a Yellow Fever outbreak in Nigeria; a large, ongoing outbreak of yellow fever in Nigeria began in September 2017; the outbreak is now spread throughout the country with the Nigerian Ministry of Health reporting cases of the disease in in multiple states (Bauchi, Benue, Delta, Ebonyi, and Enugu); the CDC recommends travelers going to Nigeria should receive vaccination against yellow fever at least 10 days before travel and should take steps to prevent mosquito bites while there; those never vaccinated against yellow fever should avoid travel to Nigeria during the outbreak
note 2: widespread ongoing transmission of a respiratory illness caused by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is occurring throughout Nigeria; as of 30 March 2022, Nigeria has reported a total of 255,341 cases of COVID-19 or 123.86 cumulative cases of COVID-19 per 100,000 population with a total of 3,142 cumulative deaths or a rate of 1.52 cumulative death per 100,000 population; as of 29 March 2022, 9.95% of the population has received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine
note 3: on 21 March 2022, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Travel Alert for polio in Africa; Nigeria is currently considered a high risk to travelers for circulating vaccine-derived polioviruses (cVDPV); vaccine-derived poliovirus (VDPV) is a strain of the weakened poliovirus that was initially included in oral polio vaccine (OPV) and that has changed over time and behaves more like the wild or naturally occurring virus; this means it can be spread more easily to people who are unvaccinated against polio and who come in contact with the stool or respiratory secretions, such as from a sneeze, of an “infected” person who received oral polio vaccine; the CDC recommends that before any international travel, anyone unvaccinated, incompletely vaccinated, or with an unknown polio vaccination status should complete the routine polio vaccine series; before travel to any high-risk destination, CDC recommends that adults who previously completed the full, routine polio vaccine series receive a single, lifetime booster dose of polio vaccine
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 8.9% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: 18.4% (2019/20)
Child marriage: women married by age 15: 15.7% (2018)
women married by age 18: 43.4% (2018)
men married by age 18: 3.2% (2018 est.)
Education expenditures: NA
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 62%
male: 71.3%
female: 52.7% (2018)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 9 years
male: 9 years
female: 8 years (2011)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 18.3%
male: 18.4% NA
female: 18.2% (2019 est.) NA
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: serious overpopulation and rapid urbanization have led to numerous environmental problems; urban air and water pollution; rapid deforestation; soil degradation; loss of arable land; oil pollution - water, air, and soil have suffered serious damage from oil spills
Environment - international agreements: party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping-London Convention, Marine Dumping-London Protocol, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands
signed, but not ratified: Tropical Timber 2006
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 48.73 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 120.37 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 143.99 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: varies; equatorial in south, tropical in center, arid in north
Land use: agricultural land: 78% (2018 est.)
arable land: 37.3% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 7.4% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 33.3% (2018 est.)
forest: 9.5% (2018 est.)
other: 12.5% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 53.5% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 3.92% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 1.02% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0% of GDP (2018 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: very high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial and protozoal diarrhea, hepatitis A and E, and typhoid fever
vectorborne diseases: malaria, dengue fever, and yellow fever
water contact diseases: leptospirosis and schistosomiasis
animal contact diseases: rabies
respiratory diseases: meningococcal meningitis
aerosolized dust or soil contact diseases: Lassa fever
note 1: on 30 September 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a Travel Health Notice for a Yellow Fever outbreak in Nigeria; a large, ongoing outbreak of yellow fever in Nigeria began in September 2017; the outbreak is now spread throughout the country with the Nigerian Ministry of Health reporting cases of the disease in in multiple states (Bauchi, Benue, Delta, Ebonyi, and Enugu); the CDC recommends travelers going to Nigeria should receive vaccination against yellow fever at least 10 days before travel and should take steps to prevent mosquito bites while there; those never vaccinated against yellow fever should avoid travel to Nigeria during the outbreak
note 2: widespread ongoing transmission of a respiratory illness caused by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is occurring throughout Nigeria; as of 30 March 2022, Nigeria has reported a total of 255,341 cases of COVID-19 or 123.86 cumulative cases of COVID-19 per 100,000 population with a total of 3,142 cumulative deaths or a rate of 1.52 cumulative death per 100,000 population; as of 29 March 2022, 9.95% of the population has received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine
note 3: on 21 March 2022, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Travel Alert for polio in Africa; Nigeria is currently considered a high risk to travelers for circulating vaccine-derived polioviruses (cVDPV); vaccine-derived poliovirus (VDPV) is a strain of the weakened poliovirus that was initially included in oral polio vaccine (OPV) and that has changed over time and behaves more like the wild or naturally occurring virus; this means it can be spread more easily to people who are unvaccinated against polio and who come in contact with the stool or respiratory secretions, such as from a sneeze, of an “infected” person who received oral polio vaccine; the CDC recommends that before any international travel, anyone unvaccinated, incompletely vaccinated, or with an unknown polio vaccination status should complete the routine polio vaccine series; before travel to any high-risk destination, CDC recommends that adults who previously completed the full, routine polio vaccine series receive a single, lifetime booster dose of polio vaccine
Food insecurity: widespread lack of access: due to persistent civil conflict in the northern areas - according to the latest analysis, between June and August 2022, the number of food insecure is projected to increase to 18 million people period as a result of worsening conflict that is driving new population displacements; the areas inaccessible to humanitarian interventions are facing the worst food insecurity conditions (2022)
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 27,614,830 tons (2009 est.)
Major lakes (area sq km): Fresh water lake(s): Lake Chad (endorheic lake shared with Niger, Chad, and Cameroon) - 10,360-25,900 sq km
note - area varies by season and year to year
Major rivers (by length in km): Niger river mouth (shared with Guinea [s], Mali, Benin, and Niger) - 4,200 km
note – [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
Major watersheds (area sq km): Atlantic Ocean drainage: Niger (2,261,741 sq km)
Internal (endorheic basin) drainage: Lake Chad (2,497,738 sq km)
Major aquifers: Lake Chad Basin, Lullemeden-Irhazer Aquifer System
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 5 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 1.965 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 5.51 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 286.2 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Federal Republic of Nigeria
conventional short form: Nigeria
etymology: named for the Niger River that flows through the west of the country to the Atlantic Ocean; from a native term "Ni Gir" meaning "River Gir"
Government type: federal presidential republic
Capital: name: Abuja
geographic coordinates: 9 05 N, 7 32 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: Abuja is a planned capital city, it replaced Lagos in 1991; situated in the center of the country, Abuja takes its name from a nearby town, now renamed Suleja
Administrative divisions: 36 states and 1 territory*; Abia, Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, Ekiti, Enugu, Federal Capital Territory*, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, Nasarawa, Niger, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Plateau, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe, Zamfara
Independence: 1 October 1960 (from the UK)
National holiday: Independence Day (National Day), 1 October (1960)
Constitution: history: several previous; latest adopted 5 May 1999, effective 29 May 1999
amendments: proposed by the National Assembly; passage requires at least two-thirds majority vote of both houses and approval by the Houses of Assembly of at least two thirds of the states; amendments to constitutional articles on the creation of a new state, fundamental constitutional rights, or constitution-amending procedures requires at least four-fifths majority vote by both houses of the National Assembly and approval by the Houses of Assembly in at least two thirds of the states; passage of amendments limited to the creation of a new state require at least two-thirds majority vote by the proposing National Assembly house and approval by the Houses of Assembly in two thirds of the states; amended several times, last in 2018
Legal system: mixed legal system of English common law, Islamic law (in 12 northern states), and traditional law
International law organization participation: accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction with reservations; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: no
citizenship by descent only: at least one parent must be a citizen of Nigeria
dual citizenship recognized: yes
residency requirement for naturalization: 15 years
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: President Maj. Gen. (ret.) Muhammadu BUHARI (since 29 May 2015); Vice President Oluyemi "Yemi" OSINBAJO (since 29 May 2015); note - the president is both chief of state, head of government, and commander-in-chief of the armed forces
head of government: President Maj.Gen. (ret.) Muhammadu BUHARI (since 29 May 2015); Vice President Oluyemi "Yemi" OSINBAJO (since 29 May 2015)
cabinet: Federal Executive Council appointed by the president but constrained constitutionally to include at least one member from each of the 36 states
elections/appointments: president directly elected by qualified majority popular vote and at least 25% of the votes cast in 24 of Nigeria's 36 states; president elected for a 4-year term (eligible for a second term); election last held on 23 February 2019 (next to be held on 25 February 2023); note: the election was scheduled for 16 February 2019, but postponed on 16 February 2019
election results: Muhammadu BUHARI elected president; percent of vote - Muhammadu BUHARI (APC) 53%, Atiku ABUBAKAR (PDP) 39%, other 8%
Legislative branch: description: bicameral National Assembly consists of:
Senate (109 seats - 3 each for the 36 states and 1 for Abuja-Federal Capital Territory; members directly elected in single-seat constituencies by simple majority vote to serve 4-year terms)
House of Representatives (360 seats; members directly elected in single-seat constituencies by simple majority vote to serve 4-year terms)
elections: Senate - last held on 23 February 2019 (next to be held on 25 February 2023); note: election was scheduled for 16 February 2019 but was postponed on 15 February 2019
House of Representatives - last held on 23 February 2019 (next to be held on 25 February 2023); note: election was scheduled for 16 February 2019 but was postponed on 15 February 2019
election results: Senate - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - APC 65, PDP 39, YPP 1, TBD 3; composition - men 103, women 6, percent of women 5.5%
House of Representatives - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - APC 217, PDP 115, other 20, TBD 8; composition - men 346, women 14, percent of women 3.9%; note - total National Assembly percent of women 4.3%
Judicial branch: highest courts: Supreme Court (consists of the chief justice and 15 justices)
judge selection and term of office: judges appointed by the president upon the recommendation of the National Judicial Council, a 23-member independent body of federal and state judicial officials; judge appointments confirmed by the Senate; judges serve until age 70
subordinate courts: Court of Appeal; Federal High Court; High Court of the Federal Capital Territory; Sharia Court of Appeal of the Federal Capital Territory; Customary Court of Appeal of the Federal Capital Territory; state court system similar in structure to federal system
Political parties and leaders: Accord Party or ACC [Mohammad Lawal MALADO]
Africa Democratic Congress (ADC) [Ralph Okey NWOSU]
All Progressives Congress or APC [Abdullahi ADAMU]
All Progressives Grand Alliance or APGA [Victor Ike OYE]
Labor Party or LP [Alhai Abdulkadir ABDULSALAM]
Peoples Democratic Party or PDP [Iyourchia AYU]
Young Progressive Party or YPP [Olufemi FOLAYAN]
International organization participation: ACP, AfDB, AU, C, CD, D-8, ECOWAS, EITI (compliant country), FAO, G-15, G-24, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, IMSO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), LCBC, MIGA, MINURSO, MINUSMA, MNJTF, MONUSCO, NAM, OAS (observer), OIC, OPCW, OPEC, PCA, UN, UNAMID, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNISFA, UNITAR, UNMIL, UNMISS, UNOCI, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Uzoma Elizabeth EMENIKE (since 7 July 2021)
chancery: 3519 International Court NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 800-7201 (ext. 100)
FAX: [1] (202) 362-6541
email address and website:
info@nigeriaembassyusa.org
https://www.nigeriaembassyusa.org/
consulate(s) general: Atlanta, New York
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Mary Beth LEONARD (since 24 December 2019)
embassy: Plot 1075 Diplomatic Drive, Central District Area, Abuja
mailing address: 8320 Abuja Place, Washington DC 20521-8320
telephone: [234] (9) 461-4000
FAX: [234] (9) 461-4036
email address and website:
AbujaACS@state.gov
https://ng.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Lagos
Flag description: three equal vertical bands of green (hoist side), white, and green; the color green represents the forests and abundant natural wealth of the country, white stands for peace and unity
National symbol(s): eagle; national colors: green, white
National anthem: name: Arise Oh Compatriots, Nigeria's Call Obey
lyrics/music: John A. ILECHUKWU, Eme Etim AKPAN, B.A. OGUNNAIKE, Sotu OMOIGUI and P.O. ADERIBIGBE/Benedict Elide ODIASE
note: adopted 1978; lyrics are a mixture of the five top entries in a national contest
National heritage: total World Heritage Sites: 2 (both cultural)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Sukur Cultural Landscape, Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Nigeria is Sub Saharan Africa’s largest economy and relies heavily on oil as its main source of foreign exchange earnings and government revenues. Following the 2008-09 global financial crises, the banking sector was effectively recapitalized and regulation enhanced. Since then, Nigeria’s economic growth has been driven by growth in agriculture, telecommunications, and services. Economic diversification and strong growth have not translated into a significant decline in poverty levels; over 62% of Nigeria's over 180 million people still live in extreme poverty. Despite its strong fundamentals, oil-rich Nigeria has been hobbled by inadequate power supply, lack of infrastructure, delays in the passage of legislative reforms, an inefficient property registration system, restrictive trade policies, an inconsistent regulatory environment, a slow and ineffective judicial system, unreliable dispute resolution mechanisms, insecurity, and pervasive corruption. Regulatory constraints and security risks have limited new investment in oil and natural gas, and Nigeria's oil production had been contracting every year since 2012 until a slight rebound in 2017. President BUHARI, elected in March 2015, has established a cabinet of economic ministers that includes several technocrats, and he has announced plans to increase transparency, diversify the economy away from oil, and improve fiscal management, but has taken a primarily protectionist approach that favors domestic producers at the expense of consumers. President BUHARI ran on an anti-corruption platform, and has made some headway in alleviating corruption, such as implementation of a Treasury Single Account that allows the government to better manage its resources and a more transparent government payroll and personnel system that eliminated duplicate and "ghost workers." The government also is working to develop stronger public-private partnerships for roads, agriculture, and power. Nigeria entered recession in 2016 as a result of lower oil prices and production, exacerbated by militant attacks on oil and gas infrastructure in the Niger Delta region, coupled with detrimental economic policies, including foreign exchange restrictions. GDP growth turned positive in 2017 as oil prices recovered and output stabilized.Nigeria is Sub Saharan Africa’s largest economy and relies heavily on oil as its main source of foreign exchange earnings and government revenues. Following the 2008-09 global financial crises, the banking sector was effectively recapitalized and regulation enhanced. Since then, Nigeria’s economic growth has been driven by growth in agriculture, telecommunications, and services. Economic diversification and strong growth have not translated into a significant decline in poverty levels; over 62% of Nigeria's over 180 million people still live in extreme poverty. Despite its strong fundamentals, oil-rich Nigeria has been hobbled by inadequate power supply, lack of infrastructure, delays in the passage of legislative reforms, an inefficient property registration system, restrictive trade policies, an inconsistent regulatory environment, a slow and ineffective judicial system, unreliable dispute resolution mechanisms, insecurity, and pervasive corruption. Regulatory constraints and security risks have limited new investment in oil and natural gas, and Nigeria's oil production had been contracting every year since 2012 until a slight rebound in 2017. President BUHARI, elected in March 2015, has established a cabinet of economic ministers that includes several technocrats, and he has announced plans to increase transparency, diversify the economy away from oil, and improve fiscal management, but has taken a primarily protectionist approach that favors domestic producers at the expense of consumers. President BUHARI ran on an anti-corruption platform, and has made some headway in alleviating corruption, such as implementation of a Treasury Single Account that allows the government to better manage its resources and a more transparent government payroll and personnel system that eliminated duplicate and "ghost workers." The government also is working to develop stronger public-private partnerships for roads, agriculture, and power. Nigeria entered recession in 2016 as a result of lower oil prices and production, exacerbated by militant attacks on oil and gas infrastructure in the Niger Delta region, coupled with detrimental economic policies, including foreign exchange restrictions. GDP growth turned positive in 2017 as oil prices recovered and output stabilized.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $1,013,530,000,000 (2020 est.)
$1,032,050,000,000 (2019 est.)
$1,009,750,000,000 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 0.8% (2017 est.)
-1.6% (2016 est.)
2.7% (2015 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $4,900 (2020 est.)
$5,100 (2019 est.)
$5,200 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $475.062 billion (2019 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 11.3% (2019 est.)
12.1% (2018 est.)
16.5% (2017 est.)
Credit ratings: Fitch rating: B (2020)
Moody's rating: B2 (2017)
Standard & Poors rating: B- (2020)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 21.1% (2016 est.)
industry: 22.5% (2016 est.)
services: 56.4% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 80% (2017 est.)
government consumption: 5.8% (2017 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 14.8% (2017 est.)
investment in inventories: 0.7% (2017 est.)
exports of goods and services: 11.9% (2017 est.)
imports of goods and services: -13.2% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: cassava, yams, maize, oil palm fruit, rice, vegetables, sorghum, groundnuts, fruit, sweet potatoes
Industries: crude oil, coal, tin, columbite; rubber products, wood; hides and skins, textiles, cement and other construction materials, food products, footwear, chemicals, fertilizer, printing, ceramics, steel
Industrial production growth rate: 2.2% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 60.08 million (2017 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 70%
industry: 10%
services: 20% (1999 est.)
Unemployment rate: 16.5% (2017 est.)
13.9% (2016 est.)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 18.3%
male: 18.4% NA
female: 18.2% (2019 est.) NA
Population below poverty line: 40.1% (2018 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 35.1 (2018 est.)
50.6 (1997)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: 1.8%
highest 10%: 38.2% (2010 est.)
Budget: revenues: 12.92 billion (2017 est.)
expenditures: 19.54 billion (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): -1.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 21.8% of GDP (2017 est.)
19.6% of GDP (2016 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 3.4% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: calendar year
Current account balance: $10.38 billion (2017 est.)
$2.714 billion (2016 est.)
Exports: $39.94 billion (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$69.93 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$66.04 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Exports - partners: India 16%, Spain 10%, United States 7%, France 7%, Netherlands 6% (2019)
Exports - commodities: crude petroleum, natural gas, scrap vessels, flexible metal tubing, cocoa beans (2019)
Imports: $72.18 billion (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$100.82 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$71.64 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Imports - partners: China 30%, Netherlands 11%, United States 6%, Belgium 5% (2019)
Imports - commodities: refined petroleum, cars, wheat, laboratory glassware, packaged medicines (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $38.77 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
$25.84 billion (31 December 2016 est.)
Debt - external: $26.847 billion (2019 est.)
$22.755 billion (2018 est.)
Exchange rates: nairas (NGN) per US dollar -
383.5 (2020 est.)
362.75 (2019 est.)
363 (2018 est.)
192.73 (2014 est.)
158.55 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 62% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 91% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 30% (2019)
Electricity - production: 29.35 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 24.72 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - imports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 10.52 million kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 80% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 19% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 1.989 million bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 2.096 million bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 37.45 billion bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 35,010 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 325,000 bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 2,332 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 223,400 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 44.48 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 17.24 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 27.21 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 5.475 trillion cu m (1 January 2018 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 107,031 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 0 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 184.592 million (2019)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 91.85 (2019 est.)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: one of the larger telecom markets in Africa subject to sporadic access to electricity and vandalism of infrastructure; most Internet connections are via mobile networks; foreign investment presence, particularly from China; market competition with affordable access; LTE technologies available but GSM is dominant; mobile penetration high due to use of multiple SIM cards and phones; government committed to expanding broadband penetration; operators to deploy fiber optic cable in six geopolitical zones and Lagos; operators invested in base stations to deplete network congestion; submarine cable break in 2020 slowed speeds and interrupted connectivity; importer of phones and broadcast equipment from China; Nigeria concluded its first 5G spectrum auction in 2021 and granted licenses to two firms: MTN Nigeria and Mafab Communications. Construction of 5G infrastructure has not yet been completed. (2021)
domestic: fixed-line subscribership remains less than 1 per 100 persons; mobile-cellular services growing rapidly, in part responding to the shortcomings of the fixed-line network; multiple cellular providers operate nationally with subscribership base over 99 per 100 persons (2020)
international: country code - 234; landing point for the SAT-3/WASC, NCSCS, MainOne, Glo-1 & 2, ACE, and Equiano fiber-optic submarine cable that provides connectivity to Europe and South and West Africa; satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (2 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) (2019)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: nearly 70 federal government-controlled national and regional TV stations; all 36 states operate TV stations; several private TV stations operational; cable and satellite TV subscription services are available; network of federal government-controlled national, regional, and state radio stations; roughly 40 state government-owned radio stations typically carry their own programs except for news broadcasts; about 20 private radio stations; transmissions of international broadcasters are available; digital broadcasting migration process completed in three states in 2018 (2019)
Internet country code: .ng
Internet users: total: 74,210,251 (2020 est.)
percent of population: 36% (2020 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 65,313 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 0.03 (2020 est.) less than 1
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 13 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 104
annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 8,169,192 (2018)
annual freight traffic on registered air carriers: 19.42 million (2018) mt-km
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: 5N
Airports: total: 54 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 40
over 3,047 m: 10
2,438 to 3,047 m: 12
1,524 to 2,437 m: 9
914 to 1,523 m: 6
under 914 m: 3 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 14
1,524 to 2,437 m: 2
914 to 1,523 m: 9
under 914 m: 3 (2021)
Heliports: 5 (2021)
Pipelines: 124 km condensate, 4045 km gas, 164 km liquid petroleum gas, 4441 km oil, 3940 km refined products (2013)
Railways: total: 3,798 km (2014)
standard gauge: 293 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge
narrow gauge: 3,505 km (2014) 1.067-m gauge
note: as of the end of 2018, there were only six operational locomotives in Nigeria primarily used for passenger service; the majority of the rail lines are in a severe state of disrepair and need to be replaced
Roadways: total: 195,000 km (2017)
paved: 60,000 km (2017)
unpaved: 135,000 km (2017)
Waterways: 8,600 km (2011) (Niger and Benue Rivers and smaller rivers and creeks)
Merchant marine: total: 791
by type: general cargo 14, oil tanker 110, other 667 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Bonny Inshore Terminal, Calabar, Lagos
oil terminal(s): Bonny Terminal, Brass Terminal, Escravos Terminal, Forcados Terminal, Pennington Terminal, Qua Iboe Terminal
LNG terminal(s) (export): Bonny Island
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: Nigerian Armed Forces: Army, Navy (includes Coast Guard), Air Force; Ministry of Interior: Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC, a paramilitary agency commissioned to assist the military in the management of threats to internal security, including attacks and natural disasters) (2021)
Military expenditures: 0.7% of GDP (2021 est.)
0.6% of GDP (2020 est.)
0.5% of GDP (2019) (approximately $3.53 billion)
0.5% of GDP (2018) (approximately $3.72 billion)
0.5% of GDP (2017) (approximately $3.42 billion)
Military and security service personnel strengths: information varies; approximately 135,000 active personnel (100,000 Army; 20,000 Navy/Coast Guard; 15,000 Air Force); est. 80,000 Security and Civil Defense Corps (2021)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the Nigerian Armed Forces' inventory consists of a wide variety of imported weapons systems of Chinese, European, Middle Eastern, Russian (including Soviet-era), and US origin; since 2010, Nigeria has undertaken a considerable military modernization program, and has received equipment from some 20 countries with China, Russia, and the US as the leading suppliers; Nigeria is also developing a defense-industry capacity, including small arms, armored personnel vehicles, and small-scale naval production (2021)
Military service age and obligation: 18-26 years of age for voluntary military service (men and women); no conscription (2021)
Military deployments: 200 Ghana (ECOMIG) (2022)
note - Nigeria has committed an Army combat brigade (approximately 3,000 troops) to the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), regional counter-terrorism force comprised of troops from Benin, Cameroon, Chad, and Niger; the national MNJTF troop contingents are deployed within their own country territories, although cross‐border operations are conducted periodically
Military - note: as of 2022, the Nigerian military was sub-Saharan Africa’s largest and regarded as one of its most capable forces; it was focused largely on internal security and faced a number of challenges that have stretched its resources, however; the Army was deployed in all 36 of the country's states; in the northeast, it was conducting counterinsurgency/counter-terrorist operations against the Boko Haram (BH) and Islamic State in West Africa (ISWA) terrorist groups, where it has deployed as many as 70,000 troops at times and jihadist-related violence has killed an estimated 35-40,000 people, mostly civilians, since 2009 (as of late 2021); in the northwest, it faced growing threats from criminal gangs, bandits, and violence associated with historical and ongoing farmer-herder conflicts, as well as BH and ISWA terrorists; bandits in the northwest were estimated to number in the low 10,000s and violence there has killed more than 10,000 since the mid-2010s; the military also continued to protect the oil industry in the Niger Delta region against militants and criminal activity, although the levels of violence there have decreased in recent years; in May 2021, a contingent of military troops and police were deployed to eastern Nigeria to quell renewed agitation for a state of Biafra (Biafra seceded from Nigeria in the late 1960s, sparking a civil war that caused more than 1 million deaths)
as of 2022, the Navy was focused on security in the Gulf of Guinea; since 2016, it has developed a maritime strategy, boosted naval training and its naval presence in the Gulf, increased participation in regional maritime security efforts, and acquired a significant number of new naval platforms, including offshore and coastal patrol craft, fast attack boats, and air assets the Nigerian military traces its origins to the Nigeria Regiment of the West African Frontier Force (WAFF), a multi-regiment force formed by the British colonial office in 1900 to garrison the West African colonies of Nigeria (Lagos and the protectorates of Northern and Southern Nigeria), Gold Coast, Sierra Leone, and Gambia; the WAFF served with distinction in both East and West Africa during World War I; in 1928, it received royal recognition and was re-named the Royal West African Frontier Force (RWAFF); the RWAFF went on to serve in World War II as part of the British 81st and 82nd (West African) divisions in the East Africa and Burma campaigns; in 1956, the Nigeria Regiment of the RWAFF was renamed the Nigerian Military Forces (NMF) and in 1958, the colonial government of Nigeria took over control of the NMF from the British War Office; the Nigerian Armed Forces were established following independence in 1960as of 2022, the Navy was focused on security in the Gulf of Guinea; since 2016, it has developed a maritime strategy, boosted naval training and its naval presence in the Gulf, increased participation in regional maritime security efforts, and acquired a significant number of new naval platforms, including offshore and coastal patrol craft, fast attack boats, and air assetsthe Nigerian military traces its origins to the Nigeria Regiment of the West African Frontier Force (WAFF), a multi-regiment force formed by the British colonial office in 1900 to garrison the West African colonies of Nigeria (Lagos and the protectorates of Northern and Southern Nigeria), Gold Coast, Sierra Leone, and Gambia; the WAFF served with distinction in both East and West Africa during World War I; in 1928, it received royal recognition and was re-named the Royal West African Frontier Force (RWAFF); the RWAFF went on to serve in World War II as part of the British 81st and 82nd (West African) divisions in the East Africa and Burma campaigns; in 1956, the Nigeria Regiment of the RWAFF was renamed the Nigerian Military Forces (NMF) and in 1958, the colonial government of Nigeria took over control of the NMF from the British War Office; the Nigerian Armed Forces were established following independence in 1960
Maritime threats: the International Maritime Bureau reports the territorial and offshore waters in the Niger Delta and Gulf of Guinea remain a very high risk for piracy and armed robbery of ships; in 2021, there were 34 reported incidents of piracy and armed robbery at sea in the Gulf of Guinea region; although a significant decrease from the total number of 81 incidents in 2020, it included the one hijacking and three of five ships fired upon worldwide; while boarding and attempted boarding to steal valuables from ships and crews are the most common types of incidents, almost a third of all incidents involve a hijacking and/or kidnapping; in 2021, 57 crew members were kidnapped in seven separate incidents in the Gulf of Guinea, representing 100% of kidnappings worldwide; Nigerian pirates in particular are well armed and very aggressive, operating as far as 200 nm offshore; the Maritime Administration of the US Department of Transportation has issued a Maritime Advisory (2022-001 - Gulf of Guinea-Piracy/Armed Robbery/Kidnapping for Ransom) effective 4 January 2022, which states in part, "Piracy, armed robbery, and kidnapping for ransom continue to serve as significant threats to US-flagged vessels transiting or operating in the Gulf of Guinea"the International Maritime Bureau reports the territorial and offshore waters in the Niger Delta and Gulf of Guinea remain a very high risk for piracy and armed robbery of ships; in 2021, there were 34 reported incidents of piracy and armed robbery at sea in the Gulf of Guinea region; although a significant decrease from the total number of 81 incidents in 2020, it included the one hijacking and three of five ships fired upon worldwide; while boarding and attempted boarding to steal valuables from ships and crews are the most common types of incidents, almost a third of all incidents involve a hijacking and/or kidnapping; in 2021, 57 crew members were kidnapped in seven separate incidents in the Gulf of Guinea, representing 100% of kidnappings worldwide; Nigerian pirates in particular are well armed and very aggressive, operating as far as 200 nm offshore; the Maritime Administration of the US Department of Transportation has issued a Maritime Advisory (2022-001 - Gulf of Guinea-Piracy/Armed Robbery/Kidnapping for Ransom) effective 4 January 2022, which states in part, "Piracy, armed robbery, and kidnapping for ransom continue to serve as significant threats to US-flagged vessels transiting or operating in the Gulf of Guinea"
Topic: Terrorism
Terrorist group(s): Boko Haram; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham – West Africa; Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimina Fi Biladis-Sudan (Ansaru)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: Joint Border Commission with Cameroon reviewed 2002 ICJ ruling on the entire boundary and bilaterally resolved differences, including June 2006 Greentree Agreement that immediately cedes sovereignty of the Bakassi Peninsula to Cameroon with a phaseout of Nigerian control within two years while resolving patriation issues; the ICJ ruled on an equidistance settlement of Cameroon-Equatorial Guinea-Nigeria maritime boundary in the Gulf of Guinea, but imprecisely defined coordinates in the ICJ decision and a sovereignty dispute between Equatorial Guinea and Cameroon over an island at the mouth of the Ntem River all contribute to the delay in implementation; only Nigeria and Cameroon have heeded the Lake Chad Commission's admonition to ratify the delimitation treaty which also includes the Chad-Niger and Niger-Nigeria boundaries; location of Benin-Niger-Nigeria tripoint is unresolvedJoint Border Commission with Cameroon reviewed 2002 ICJ ruling on the entire boundary and bilaterally resolved differences, including June 2006 Greentree Agreement that immediately cedes sovereignty of the Bakassi Peninsula to Cameroon with a phaseout of Nigerian control within two years while resolving patriation issues; the ICJ ruled on an equidistance settlement of Cameroon-Equatorial Guinea-Nigeria maritime boundary in the Gulf of Guinea, but imprecisely defined coordinates in the ICJ decision and a sovereignty dispute between Equatorial Guinea and Cameroon over an island at the mouth of the Ntem River all contribute to the delay in implementation; only Nigeria and Cameroon have heeded the Lake Chad Commission's admonition to ratify the delimitation treaty which also includes the Chad-Niger and Niger-Nigeria boundaries; location of Benin-Niger-Nigeria tripoint is unresolved
Refugees and internally displaced persons: refugees (country of origin): 77,878 (Cameroon) (2022)
IDPs: 3,030,544 (northeast Nigeria; Boko Haram attacks and counterinsurgency efforts in northern Nigeria; communal violence between Christians and Muslims in the middle belt region, political violence; flooding; forced evictions; cattle rustling; competition for resources) (2022)
Trafficking in persons: current situation: human traffickers exploit domestic and foreign victims in Nigeria along with victims from Nigeria abroad; internal trafficking involving recruiting victims from rural areas for commercial sex and forced labor in domestic work, street vending, mining, agriculture, begging and textile
manufacturing; traffickers operate “baby factories” where women held against their will are raped and children are sold into forced labor or sex trafficking or rented to beggars to increase their profits; women are often taken to other West and Central African countries, South Africa, Europe and the Middle East for commercial sex; Boko Haram and ISIS-WA forcibly recruit, abduct, and use child soldiers as young as 12 as cooks, spies, messengers, bodyguards, armed combatants, and suicide bombers; they abduct women and girls in the northern region of Nigeria for sexual slavery and forced labor
tier rating: Tier 2 Watch List — Nigeria does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking but is making significant efforts to do so; the government is continuing to train officials and raise public awareness; the government established anti-trafficking task forces in Borno and Ekiti states and used new technology to collect victim testimony; authorities prosecuted three government officials complicit in human trafficking; the government is drafting a memoranda of understanding that will improve coordination between government agencies; however, security forces used at least two children in support roles; some security officials were involved in sex trafficking; no criminal charges were made against military officials or members of the Civilian Joint Task Force for sex trafficking or the use of child soldiers; no protections were given to female and child trafficking victims allegedly associated with insurgencies; fewer traffickers were convicted; Nigeria was downgraded to Tier 2 Watch List (2020)
Illicit drugs: a significant source for cannabis cultivation and methamphetamine production; a major place for transnational drug trafficking networks that supply cocaine to Asia and Europe, heroin to Europe and North America, and methamphetamine to South Africa, Southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand; traffickers also involved in the transportation, facilitation, and distribution of illicitly diverted tramadol |
20220601 | countries-equatorial-guinea |
Topic: Photos of Equatorial Guinea
Topic: Introduction
Background: Equatorial Guinea gained independence in 1968 after 190 years of Spanish rule; it is one of the smallest countries in Africa consisting of a mainland territory and five inhabited islands. The capital of Malabo is located on the island of Bioko, approximately 25 km from the Cameroonian coastline in the Gulf of Guinea. Between 1968 and 1979, autocratic President Francisco MACIAS NGUEMA virtually destroyed all of the country's political, economic, and social institutions before being deposed by his nephew Teodoro OBIANG NGUEMA MBASOGO in a violent coup. President OBIANG has ruled since October 1979. He has been elected several times since 1989, and was most recently reelected in 2016. Although nominally a constitutional democracy since 1991, presidential and legislative elections since 1996 have been considered flawed. The president exerts almost total control over the political system and has placed legal and bureaucratic barriers that hinder political opposition. Equatorial Guinea experienced rapid economic growth in the early years of the 21st century due to the discovery of large offshore oil reserves in 1996. Production peaked in late 2004 and has slowly declined since, although aggressive searches for new oil fields continue. Despite the country's economic windfall from oil production, resulting in massive increases in government revenue in past years, generally lower global oil prices since 2014 and depreciating oil fields have placed significant strain on the state budget. While oil revenues have mainly been used for the development of infrastructure, corruption has hindered socio-economic development and there have been limited improvements in the population's living standards. Equatorial Guinea continues to seek to diversify its economy and to increase foreign investment. The country hosts major regional and international conferences and continues to seek a greater role in international affairs, and leadership in the sub-region. Equatorial Guinea gained independence in 1968 after 190 years of Spanish rule; it is one of the smallest countries in Africa consisting of a mainland territory and five inhabited islands. The capital of Malabo is located on the island of Bioko, approximately 25 km from the Cameroonian coastline in the Gulf of Guinea. Between 1968 and 1979, autocratic President Francisco MACIAS NGUEMA virtually destroyed all of the country's political, economic, and social institutions before being deposed by his nephew Teodoro OBIANG NGUEMA MBASOGO in a violent coup. President OBIANG has ruled since October 1979. He has been elected several times since 1989, and was most recently reelected in 2016. Although nominally a constitutional democracy since 1991, presidential and legislative elections since 1996 have been considered flawed. The president exerts almost total control over the political system and has placed legal and bureaucratic barriers that hinder political opposition. Equatorial Guinea experienced rapid economic growth in the early years of the 21st century due to the discovery of large offshore oil reserves in 1996. Production peaked in late 2004 and has slowly declined since, although aggressive searches for new oil fields continue. Despite the country's economic windfall from oil production, resulting in massive increases in government revenue in past years, generally lower global oil prices since 2014 and depreciating oil fields have placed significant strain on the state budget. While oil revenues have mainly been used for the development of infrastructure, corruption has hindered socio-economic development and there have been limited improvements in the population's living standards. Equatorial Guinea continues to seek to diversify its economy and to increase foreign investment. The country hosts major regional and international conferences and continues to seek a greater role in international affairs, and leadership in the sub-region. Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Central Africa, bordering the Bight of Biafra, between Cameroon and Gabon
Geographic coordinates: 2 00 N, 10 00 E
Map references: Africa
Area: total: 28,051 sq km
land: 28,051 sq km
water: 0 sq km
Area - comparative: slightly smaller than Maryland
Land boundaries: total: 528 km
border countries (2): Cameroon 183 km; Gabon 345 km
Coastline: 296 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
Climate: tropical; always hot, humid
Terrain: coastal plains rise to interior hills; islands are volcanic
Elevation: highest point: Pico Basile 3,008 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 577 m
Natural resources: petroleum, natural gas, timber, gold, bauxite, diamonds, tantalum, sand and gravel, clay
Land use: agricultural land: 10.1% (2018 est.)
arable land: 4.3% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 2.1% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 3.7% (2018 est.)
forest: 57.5% (2018 est.)
other: 32.4% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: NA
Population distribution: only two large cities over 30,000 people (Bata on the mainland, and the capital Malabo on the island of Bioko); small communities are scattered throughout the mainland and the five inhabited islands as shown in this population distribution map
Natural hazards: violent windstorms; flash floodsvolcanism: Santa Isabel (3,007 m), which last erupted in 1923, is the country's only historically active volcano; Santa Isabel, along with two dormant volcanoes, form Bioko Island in the Gulf of Guineaviolent windstorms; flash floodsvolcanism: Santa Isabel (3,007 m), which last erupted in 1923, is the country's only historically active volcano; Santa Isabel, along with two dormant volcanoes, form Bioko Island in the Gulf of Guinea
Geography - note: insular and continental regions widely separated; despite its name, no part of the Equator passes through Equatorial Guinea; the mainland part of the country is located just north of the Equator
Map description: Equatorial Guinea map showing major cities and towns as well as parts of surrounding countries and the Gulf of Guinea.Equatorial Guinea map showing major cities and towns as well as parts of surrounding countries and the Gulf of Guinea.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 1,679,172 (2022 est.)
Nationality: noun: Equatorial Guinean(s) or Equatoguinean(s)
adjective: Equatorial Guinean or Equatoguinean
Ethnic groups: Fang 85.7%, Bubi 6.5%, Mdowe 3.6%, Annobon 1.6%, Bujeba 1.1%, other 1.4% (1994 est.)
Languages: Spanish (official) 67.6%, other (includes Fang, Bubi, Portuguese (official), French (official), Portuguese-based Creoles spoken in Ano Bom) 32.4% (1994 est.)
major-language sample(s):
La Libreta Informativa del Mundo, la fuente indispensable de información básica. (Spanish)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Religions: Roman Catholic 88%, Protestant 5%, Muslim 2%, other 5% (animist, Baha'i, Jewish) (2015 est.)
Demographic profile: Equatorial Guinea is one of the smallest and least populated countries in continental Africa and is the only independent African country where Spanish is an official language. Despite a boom in oil production in the 1990s, authoritarianism, corruption, and resource mismanagement have concentrated the benefits among a small elite. These practices have perpetuated income inequality and unbalanced development, such as low public spending on education and health care. Unemployment remains problematic because the oil-dominated economy employs a small labor force dependent on skilled foreign workers. The agricultural sector, Equatorial Guinea’s main employer, continues to deteriorate because of a lack of investment and the migration of rural workers to urban areas. About three-quarters of the population lives below the poverty line.Equatorial Guinea’s large and growing youth population – about 60% are under the age of 25 – is particularly affected because job creation in the non-oil sectors is limited, and young people often do not have the skills needed in the labor market. Equatorial Guinean children frequently enter school late, have poor attendance, and have high dropout rates. Thousands of Equatorial Guineans fled across the border to Gabon in the 1970s to escape the dictatorship of MACIAS NGUEMA; smaller numbers have followed in the decades since. Continued inequitable economic growth and high youth unemployment increases the likelihood of ethnic and regional violence.Equatorial Guinea is one of the smallest and least populated countries in continental Africa and is the only independent African country where Spanish is an official language. Despite a boom in oil production in the 1990s, authoritarianism, corruption, and resource mismanagement have concentrated the benefits among a small elite. These practices have perpetuated income inequality and unbalanced development, such as low public spending on education and health care. Unemployment remains problematic because the oil-dominated economy employs a small labor force dependent on skilled foreign workers. The agricultural sector, Equatorial Guinea’s main employer, continues to deteriorate because of a lack of investment and the migration of rural workers to urban areas. About three-quarters of the population lives below the poverty line.Equatorial Guinea’s large and growing youth population – about 60% are under the age of 25 – is particularly affected because job creation in the non-oil sectors is limited, and young people often do not have the skills needed in the labor market. Equatorial Guinean children frequently enter school late, have poor attendance, and have high dropout rates. Thousands of Equatorial Guineans fled across the border to Gabon in the 1970s to escape the dictatorship of MACIAS NGUEMA; smaller numbers have followed in the decades since. Continued inequitable economic growth and high youth unemployment increases the likelihood of ethnic and regional violence.
Age structure: 0-14 years: 38.73% (male 164,417/female 159,400)
15-24 years: 19.94% (male 84,820/female 81,880)
25-54 years: 32.72% (male 137,632/female 135,973)
55-64 years: 4.69% (male 17,252/female 22,006)
65 years and over: 3.92% (2020 est.) (male 13,464/female 19,334)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 64.4
youth dependency ratio: 60.5
elderly dependency ratio: 3.9
potential support ratio: 25.5 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 20.3 years
male: 19.9 years
female: 20.7 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 3.5% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 29.95 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 8.95 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: 13.96 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: only two large cities over 30,000 people (Bata on the mainland, and the capital Malabo on the island of Bioko); small communities are scattered throughout the mainland and the five inhabited islands as shown in this population distribution map
Urbanization: urban population: 74% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 3.62% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 297,000 MALABO (capital) (2018)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.08 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.21 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 1.21 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 1.17 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.87 male(s)/female
total population: 1.15 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Maternal mortality ratio: 301 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 78.33 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 84.23 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 72.25 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 63.7 years
male: 61.44 years
female: 66.03 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 4.26 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: 12.6% (2011)
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 81.7% of population
rural: 32.1% of population
total: 67.6% of population
unimproved: urban: 18.3% of population
rural: 67.9% of population
total: 32.4% of population (2017 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 3.1% (2019)
Physicians density: 0.4 physicians/1,000 population (2017)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 81.2% of population
rural: 63.4% of population
total: 76.2% of population
unimproved: urban: 18.8% of population
rural: 36.6% of population
total: 23.8% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: 7.3% (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: 68,000 (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - deaths: 2,300 (2020 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: very high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial and protozoal diarrhea, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever
vectorborne diseases: malaria and dengue fever
animal contact diseases: rabies
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 8% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: 5.6% (2011)
Education expenditures: NA
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 95.3%
male: 97.4%
female: 93% (2015)
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: deforestation (forests are threatened by agricultural expansion, fires, and grazing); desertification; water pollution (tap water is non-potable); wildlife preservation
Environment - international agreements: party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping-London Convention, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands
signed, but not ratified: Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 45.9 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 5.65 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 11.21 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: tropical; always hot, humid
Land use: agricultural land: 10.1% (2018 est.)
arable land: 4.3% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 2.1% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 3.7% (2018 est.)
forest: 57.5% (2018 est.)
other: 32.4% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 74% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 3.62% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 1.52% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0% of GDP (2018 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: very high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial and protozoal diarrhea, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever
vectorborne diseases: malaria and dengue fever
animal contact diseases: rabies
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 198,443 tons (2016 est.)
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 15.8 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 3 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 1 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 26 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Republic of Equatorial Guinea
conventional short form: Equatorial Guinea
local long form: Republica de Guinea Ecuatorial/Republique de Guinee Equatoriale
local short form: Guinea Ecuatorial/Guinee Equatoriale
former: Spanish Guinea
etymology: the country is named for the Guinea region of West Africa that lies along the Gulf of Guinea and stretches north to the Sahel; the "equatorial" refers to the fact that the country lies just north of the Equator
Government type: presidential republic
Capital: name: Malabo; note - a new capital of Ciudad de la Paz (formerly referred to as Oyala) is being built on the mainland near Djibloho; Malabo is on the island of Bioko
geographic coordinates: 3 45 N, 8 47 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: named after Malabo Lopelo Melaka (1837–1937), the last king of the Bubi, the ethnic group indigenous to the island of Bioko; the name of the new capital, Ciudad de la Paz, translates to "City of Peace" in Spanish
Administrative divisions: 8 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia); Annobon, Bioko Norte, Bioko Sur, Centro Sur, Djibloho, Kie-Ntem, Litoral, Wele-Nzas
Independence: 12 October 1968 (from Spain)
National holiday: Independence Day, 12 October (1968)
Constitution: history: previous 1968, 1973, 1982; approved by referendum 17 November 1991
amendments: proposed by the president of the republic or supported by three fourths of the membership in either house of the National Assembly; passage requires three-fourths majority vote by both houses of the Assembly and approval in a referendum if requested by the president; amended several times, last in 2012
Legal system: mixed system of civil and customary law
International law organization participation: accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: no
citizenship by descent only: at least one parent must be a citizen of Equatorial Guinea
dual citizenship recognized: no
residency requirement for naturalization: 10 years
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: President Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Teodoro OBIANG Nguema Mbasogo (since 3 August 1979 when he seized power in a military coup); Vice President Teodoro Nguema OBIANG Mangue (since 2012)
head of government: Prime Minister Francisco Pascual Eyegue OBAMA Asue (since 23 June 2016); First Deputy Prime Minister Clemente Engonga NGUEMA Onguene (since 23 June 2016); Second Deputy Prime Minister Angel MESIE Mibuy (since 5 February 2018); Third Deputy Prime Minister Alfonso Nsue MOKUY (since 23 June 2016)
cabinet: Council of Ministers appointed by the president and overseen by the prime minister
elections/appointments: president directly elected by simple majority popular vote for a 7-year term (eligible for a second term); election last held on 24 April 2016 (next to be held in 2023); prime minister and deputy prime ministers appointed by the president
election results: Teodoro OBIANG Nguema Mbasogo reelected president; percent of vote - Teodoro OBIANG Nguema Mbasogo (PDGE) 93.5%, other 6.5%
Legislative branch: description: bicameral National Assembly or Asemblea Nacional consists of:
Senate or Senado (70 seats statutory, 72 seats for current term; 55 members directly elected in multi-seat constituencies by closed party-list proportional representation vote, 15 appointed by the president, and 2 ex-officio)
Chamber of Deputies or Camara de los Diputados (100 seats; members directly elected in multi-seat constituencies by closed paryt-list proportional representation vote to serve 5-year terms)
elections: Senate - last held on 12 November 2017 (next to be held in 2022/2023)
Chamber of Deputies - last held on 12 November 2017 (next to be held in 2022/2023)
election results: Senate - percent of vote by party - NA; elected seats by party - PDGE and aligned coalition 70; composition (including 2 ex-officio) - men 60, women 12, percent of women 16.7%
Chamber of Deputies - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - PDGE 99, CI 1; composition - men 78, women 22, percent of women 22%; note - total National Assembly percent of women 18.8%
Judicial branch: highest courts: Supreme Court of Justice (consists of the chief justice - who is also chief of state - and 9 judges organized into civil, criminal, commercial, labor, administrative, and customary sections); Constitutional Court (consists of the court president and 4 members)
judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court judges appointed by the president for 5-year terms; Constitutional Court members appointed by the president, 2 of whom are nominated by the Chamber of Deputies; note - judges subject to dismissal by the president at any time
subordinate courts: Court of Guarantees; military courts; Courts of Appeal; first instance tribunals; district and county tribunals
Political parties and leaders: Convergence Party for Social Democracy or CPDS [Andres ESONO ONDO]
Democratic Party for Equatorial Guinea or PDGE [Teodoro Obiang NGUEMA MBASOGO]
Electoral Coalition or EC
Juntos Podemos (coalition includes CPDS, FDR, UDC)
National Congress of Equatorial Guinea [Agustin MASOKO ABEGUE]
National Democratic Party [Benedicto OBIANG MANGUE]
National Union for Democracy [Thomas MBA MONABANG]
Popular Action of Equatorial Guinea or APGE [Carmelo MBA BACALE]
Popular Union or UP [Daniel MARTINEZ AYECABA]
Center Right Union or UCD [Avelino MOCACHE MEHENGA]
not officially registered parties:
Citizens for Innovation or CI [Gabriel Nse Obiang OBONO]
Democratic Republican Force or FDR [Guillermo NGUEMA ELA]
Party for Progress of Equatorial Guinea or PPGE [Severo MOTO]
International organization participation: ACP, AfDB, AU, BDEAC, CEMAC, CPLP, FAO, Francophonie, FZ, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IPU, ITSO, ITU, MIGA, NAM, OAS (observer), OIF, OPCW, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, , UNWTO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WTO (observer)
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Miguel Ntutumu EVUNA ANDEME (since 23 February 2015)
chancery: 2020 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
telephone: [1] (202) 518-5700
FAX: [1] (202) 518-5252
email address and website:
info@egembassydc.com
https://www.egembassydc.com/
consulate(s) general: Houston
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Susan N. STEVENSON (since 11 April 2019)
embassy: Malabo II Highway (between the Headquarters of Sonagas and the offices of the United Nations), Malabo
mailing address: 2320 Malabo Place, Washington, DC 20521-2520
telephone: [240] 333 09-57-41
email address and website:
Malaboconsular@state.gov
https://gq.usembassy.gov/
Flag description: three equal horizontal bands of green (top), white, and red, with a blue isosceles triangle based on the hoist side and the coat of arms centered in the white band; the coat of arms has six yellow six-pointed stars (representing the mainland and five offshore islands) above a gray shield bearing a silk-cotton tree and below which is a scroll with the motto UNIDAD, PAZ, JUSTICIA (Unity, Peace, Justice); green symbolizes the jungle and natural resources, blue represents the sea that connects the mainland to the islands, white stands for peace, and red recalls the fight for independence
National symbol(s): silk cotton tree; national colors: green, white, red, blue
National anthem: name: "Caminemos pisando la senda" (Let Us Tread the Path)
lyrics/music: Atanasio Ndongo MIYONO/Atanasio Ndongo MIYONO or Ramiro Sanchez LOPEZ (disputed)
note: adopted 1968
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Exploitation of oil and gas deposits, beginning in the 1990s, has driven economic growth in Equatorial Guinea; a recent rebasing of GDP resulted in an upward revision of the size of the economy by approximately 30%. Forestry and farming are minor components of GDP. Although preindependence Equatorial Guinea counted on cocoa production for hard currency earnings, the neglect of the rural economy since independence has diminished the potential for agriculture-led growth. Subsistence farming is the dominant form of livelihood. Declining revenue from hydrocarbon production, high levels of infrastructure expenditures, lack of economic diversification, and corruption have pushed the economy into decline in recent years and limited improvements in the general population’s living conditions. Equatorial Guinea’s real GDP growth has been weak in recent years, averaging -0.5% per year from 2010 to 2014, because of a declining hydrocarbon sector. Inflation remained very low in 2016, down from an average of 4% in 2014. As a middle income country, Equatorial Guinea is now ineligible for most low-income World Bank and the IMF funding. The government has been widely criticized for its lack of transparency and misuse of oil revenues and has attempted to address this issue by working toward compliance with the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative. US foreign assistance to Equatorial Guinea is limited in part because of US restrictions pursuant to the Trafficking Victims Protection Act. Equatorial Guinea hosted two economic diversification symposia in 2014 that focused on attracting investment in five sectors: agriculture and animal ranching, fishing, mining and petrochemicals, tourism, and financial services. Undeveloped mineral resources include gold, zinc, diamonds, columbite-tantalite, and other base metals. In 2017 Equatorial Guinea signed a preliminary agreement with Ghana to sell liquefied natural gas (LNG); as oil production wanes, the government believes LNG could provide a boost to revenues, but it will require large investments and long lead times to develop.Exploitation of oil and gas deposits, beginning in the 1990s, has driven economic growth in Equatorial Guinea; a recent rebasing of GDP resulted in an upward revision of the size of the economy by approximately 30%. Forestry and farming are minor components of GDP. Although preindependence Equatorial Guinea counted on cocoa production for hard currency earnings, the neglect of the rural economy since independence has diminished the potential for agriculture-led growth. Subsistence farming is the dominant form of livelihood. Declining revenue from hydrocarbon production, high levels of infrastructure expenditures, lack of economic diversification, and corruption have pushed the economy into decline in recent years and limited improvements in the general population’s living conditions. Equatorial Guinea’s real GDP growth has been weak in recent years, averaging -0.5% per year from 2010 to 2014, because of a declining hydrocarbon sector. Inflation remained very low in 2016, down from an average of 4% in 2014. As a middle income country, Equatorial Guinea is now ineligible for most low-income World Bank and the IMF funding. The government has been widely criticized for its lack of transparency and misuse of oil revenues and has attempted to address this issue by working toward compliance with the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative. US foreign assistance to Equatorial Guinea is limited in part because of US restrictions pursuant to the Trafficking Victims Protection Act. Equatorial Guinea hosted two economic diversification symposia in 2014 that focused on attracting investment in five sectors: agriculture and animal ranching, fishing, mining and petrochemicals, tourism, and financial services. Undeveloped mineral resources include gold, zinc, diamonds, columbite-tantalite, and other base metals. In 2017 Equatorial Guinea signed a preliminary agreement with Ghana to sell liquefied natural gas (LNG); as oil production wanes, the government believes LNG could provide a boost to revenues, but it will require large investments and long lead times to develop.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $23.86 billion (2020 est.)
$25.09 billion (2019 est.)
$26.68 billion (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: -3.2% (2017 est.)
-8.6% (2016 est.)
-9.1% (2015 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $17,000 (2020 est.)
$18,500 (2019 est.)
$20,400 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $10.634 billion (2019 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 1.2% (2019 est.)
1.3% (2018 est.)
0.7% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 2.5% (2017 est.)
industry: 54.6% (2017 est.)
services: 42.9% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 50% (2017 est.)
government consumption: 21.8% (2017 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 10.2% (2017 est.)
investment in inventories: 0.1% (2017 est.)
exports of goods and services: 56.9% (2017 est.)
imports of goods and services: -39% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: sweet potatoes, cassava, roots/tubers nes, plantains, oil palm fruit, bananas, coconuts, coffee, cocoa, eggs
Industries: petroleum, natural gas, sawmilling
Industrial production growth rate: -6.9% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 195,200 (2007 est.)
Unemployment rate: 8.6% (2014 est.)
22.3% (2009 est.)
Population below poverty line: 44% (2011 est.)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Budget: revenues: 2.114 billion (2017 est.)
expenditures: 2.523 billion (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): -3.3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 37.4% of GDP (2017 est.)
43.3% of GDP (2016 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 16.9% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: calendar year
Current account balance: -$738 million (2017 est.)
-$1.457 billion (2016 est.)
Exports: $8.776 billion (2019 est.)
$8.914 billion (2018 est.)
$9.94 billion (2017 est.)
Exports - partners: China 34%, India 19%, Spain 11%, United States 7% (2019)
Exports - commodities: crude petroleum, natural gas, industrial alcohols, lumber, veneer sheeting (2019)
Imports: $6.245 billion (2019 est.)
$6.129 billion (2018 est.)
$5.708 billion (2017 est.)
Imports - partners: United States 22%, Spain 19%, China 12%, United Kingdom 6%, United Arab Emirates 5% (2019)
Imports - commodities: gas turbines, beer, ships, industrial machinery, excavation machinery (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $45.5 million (31 December 2017 est.)
$62.31 million (31 December 2016 est.)
Debt - external: $1.211 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
$1.074 billion (31 December 2016 est.)
Exchange rates: Cooperation Financiere en Afrique Centrale francs (XAF) per US dollar -
605.3 (2017 est.)
593.01 (2016 est.)
593.01 (2015 est.)
591.45 (2014 est.)
494.42 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 67% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 75% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 45% (2019)
Electricity - production: 500 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 465 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - imports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 331,000 kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 61% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 38% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 2% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 172,000 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 308,700 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 1.1 billion bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 5,200 bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 5,094 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 6.069 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 1.189 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 4.878 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 36.81 billion cu m (1 January 2018 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 11,000 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 1 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 645,000 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 46 (2020 est.)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: Equatorial Guinea’s climate for operator competition boosted mobile subscribership; broadband services are limited and expensive; submarine cable supported broadband and reliability of infrastructure; government backbone network will connect administrative centers; regional roaming agreement in process (2018)
domestic: fixed-line density is less than 1 per 100 persons and mobile-cellular subscribership is roughly 45 per 100 (2019)
international: country code - 240; landing points for the ACE, Ceiba-1, and Ceiba-2 submarine cables providing communication from Bata and Malabo, Equatorial Guinea to numerous Western African and European countries; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) (2019)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: the state maintains control of broadcast media with domestic broadcast media limited to 1 state-owned TV station, 1 private TV station owned by the president's eldest son (who is the Vice President), 1 state-owned radio station, and 1 private radio station owned by the president's eldest son; satellite TV service is available; transmissions of multiple international broadcasters are generally accessible (2019)
Internet country code: .gq
Internet users: total: 352,555 (2019 est.)
percent of population: 26% (2019 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 1,000 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 0.07 (2020 est.) less than 1
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 6 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 15
annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 466,435 (2018)
annual freight traffic on registered air carriers: 350,000 (2018) mt-km
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: 3C
Airports: total: 7 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 6
over 3,047 m: 1
2,438 to 3,047 m: 2
1,524 to 2,437 m: 1
under 914 m: 2 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 1
2,438 to 3,047 m: 1 (2021)
Pipelines: 42 km condensate, 5 km condensate/gas, 79 km gas, 71 km oil (2013)
Roadways: total: 2,880 km (2017)
Merchant marine: total: 42
by type: bulk carrier 1, general cargo 8, oil tanker 6, other 27 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Bata, Luba, Malabo
LNG terminal(s) (export): Bioko Island
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: Equatorial Guinea Armed Forces (Fuerzas Armadas de Guinea Ecuatorial, FAGE): Equatorial Guinea National Guard (Guardia Nacional de Guinea Ecuatorial, GNGE (Army)), Navy, Air Force; Gendarmerie (2022)
note - the Gendarmerie reports to the Ministry of National Defense and is responsible for security outside cities and for special events; military personnel also fulfill some police functions in border areas, sensitive sites, and high-traffic areas
Military expenditures: 1.5% of GDP (2019 est.) (approximately $270 million)
1.1% of GDP (2018 est.) (approximately $230 million)
1.1% of GDP (2017 est.) (approximately $250 million)
1.2% of GDP (2016 est.) (approximately $260 million)
1% of GDP (2015 est.) (approximately $250 million)
Military and security service personnel strengths: approximately 2,000 active duty troops; approximately 400 Gendarmerie (2021)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the FAGE is armed with mostly older (typically Soviet-era) and second-hand weapons systems; in recent years, it has sought to modernize its naval inventory; Ukraine has been the leading provider of equipment since 2010 (2021)
Military service age and obligation: 18 years of age for selective compulsory military service, although conscription is rare in practice; 2-year service obligation; women hold only administrative positions in the Navy (2021)
Military - note: as of 2022, the FAGE’s National Guard (Army) had only three small infantry battalions with limited combat capabilities; the country has invested heavily in naval capabilities in the 2010s to protect its oil installations and combat piracy and crime in the Gulf of Guinea; while the Navy was small, it was well-equipped with an inventory that included a light frigate and a corvette, as well as several off-shore patrol boats; the Air Force possessed only a few operational combat aircraft and ground attack-capable helicoptersas of 2022, the FAGE’s National Guard (Army) had only three small infantry battalions with limited combat capabilities; the country has invested heavily in naval capabilities in the 2010s to protect its oil installations and combat piracy and crime in the Gulf of Guinea; while the Navy was small, it was well-equipped with an inventory that included a light frigate and a corvette, as well as several off-shore patrol boats; the Air Force possessed only a few operational combat aircraft and ground attack-capable helicopters
Maritime threats: the International Maritime Bureau reports the territorial and offshore waters in the Niger Delta and Gulf of Guinea remain a very high risk for piracy and armed robbery of ships; in 2021, there were 34 reported incidents of piracy and armed robbery at sea in the Gulf of Guinea region; although a significant decrease from the total number of 81 incidents in 2020, it included the one hijacking and three of five ships fired upon worldwide; while boarding and attempted boarding to steal valuables from ships and crews are the most common types of incidents, almost a third of all incidents involve a hijacking and/or kidnapping; in 2021, 57 crew members were kidnapped in seven separate incidents in the Gulf of Guinea, representing 100% of kidnappings worldwide; Nigerian pirates in particular are well armed and very aggressive, operating as far as 200 nm offshore; the Maritime Administration of the US Department of Transportation has issued a Maritime Advisory (2022-001 - Gulf of Guinea-Piracy/Armed Robbery/Kidnapping for Ransom) effective 4 January 2022, which states in part, "Piracy, armed robbery, and kidnapping for ransom continue to serve as significant threats to US-flagged vessels transiting or operating in the Gulf of Guinea"
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: in 2002, ICJ ruled on an equidistance settlement of Cameroon-Equatorial Guinea-Nigeria maritime boundary in the Gulf of Guinea, but a dispute between Equatorial Guinea and Cameroon over an island at the mouth of the Ntem River and imprecisely defined maritime coordinates in the ICJ decision delayed final delimitation; UN urged Equatorial Guinea and Gabon to resolve the sovereignty dispute over Gabon-occupied Mbane and lesser islands and to create a maritime boundary in the hydrocarbon-rich Corisco Bayin 2002, ICJ ruled on an equidistance settlement of Cameroon-Equatorial Guinea-Nigeria maritime boundary in the Gulf of Guinea, but a dispute between Equatorial Guinea and Cameroon over an island at the mouth of the Ntem River and imprecisely defined maritime coordinates in the ICJ decision delayed final delimitation; UN urged Equatorial Guinea and Gabon to resolve the sovereignty dispute over Gabon-occupied Mbane and lesser islands and to create a maritime boundary in the hydrocarbon-rich Corisco Bay
Trafficking in persons: current situation: human traffickers exploit domestic and foreign victims in Equatorial Guinea and Equatoguineans abroad; the majority of trafficking victims are subjected to forced domestic service and commercial sex in cities, particularly in the hospitality and restaurant sector; local and foreign women, including Latin Americans, are exploited in commercial sex domestically, while some Equatoguinean women are sex trafficked in Spain; some children from rural areas have been forced into domestic servitude; children from nearby countries are forced to labor as domestic workers, market workers, vendors, and launderers; individuals recruited from African countries and temporary workers from Brazil, the Dominican Republic, and Venezuela are sometimes exploited in forced labor and sex trafficking
tier rating: Tier 2 Watch List — Equatorial Guinea does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking but is making significant efforts to do so; authorities investigated, and for the first time since 2010, initiated the prosecution of alleged human traffickers; the government partnered with an international organization to provide training for more than 700 officials and civil society actors; authorities developed and implemented formal screening procedures to identify victims within vulnerable populations, an effort that had stalled for five years; however, the government still has not convicted a trafficker or any complicit government employees under its 2004 anti-trafficking law; a lack of training among judicial officials has resulted in potential trafficking crimes being tried under related statutes; victim services remained inadequate; authorities did not report referring any trafficking victims to government housing that was supposed to serve as temporary shelter (2020)Tier 2 Watch List — Equatorial Guinea does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking but is making significant efforts to do so; authorities investigated, and for the first time since 2010, initiated the prosecution of alleged human traffickers; the government partnered with an international organization to provide training for more than 700 officials and civil society actors; authorities developed and implemented formal screening procedures to identify victims within vulnerable populations, an effort that had stalled for five years; however, the government still has not convicted a trafficker or any complicit government employees under its 2004 anti-trafficking law; a lack of training among judicial officials has resulted in potential trafficking crimes being tried under related statutes; victim services remained inadequate; authorities did not report referring any trafficking victims to government housing that was supposed to serve as temporary shelter (2020) |
20220601 | countries-madagascar |
Topic: Photos of Madagascar
Topic: Introduction
Background: Madagascar was one of the last major habitable landmasses on earth settled by humans. While there is some evidence of human presence on the island in the millennia B.C., large-scale settlement began between A.D. 350 and 550 with settlers from present-day Indonesia. The island attracted Arab and Persian traders as early as the 7th century, and migrants from Africa arrived around A.D. 1000. Madagascar was a pirate stronghold during the late 17th and early 18th centuries, and served as a slave trading center into the 19th century. From the 16th to the late 19th century, a native Merina Kingdom dominated much of Madagascar. The island was conquered by the French in 1896 who made it a colony; independence was regained in 1960.
During 1992-93, free presidential and National Assembly elections were held ending 17 years of single-party rule. In 1997, in the second presidential race, Didier RATSIRAKA, the leader during the 1970s and 1980s, returned to the presidency. The 2001 presidential election was contested between the followers of Didier RATSIRAKA and Marc RAVALOMANANA, nearly causing secession of half of the country. In 2002, the High Constitutional Court announced RAVALOMANANA the winner. RAVALOMANANA won a second term in 2006 but, following protests in 2009, handed over power to the military, which then conferred the presidency on the mayor of Antananarivo, Andry RAJOELINA, in what amounted to a coup d'etat. Following a lengthy mediation process led by the Southern African Development Community, Madagascar held UN-supported presidential and parliamentary elections in 2013. Former de facto finance minister Hery RAJAONARIMAMPIANINA won a runoff election in December 2013 and was inaugurated in January 2014. In January 2019, RAJOELINA was declared the winner of a runoff election against RAVALOMANANA; both RATSIRAKA and RAJAONARIMAMPIANINA also ran in the first round of the election, which took place in November 2018.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Southern Africa, island in the Indian Ocean, east of Mozambique
Geographic coordinates: 20 00 S, 47 00 E
Map references: Africa
Area: total: 587,041 sq km
land: 581,540 sq km
water: 5,501 sq km
Area - comparative: almost four times the size of Georgia; slightly less than twice the size of Arizona
Land boundaries: total: 0 km
Coastline: 4,828 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm or 100 nm from the 2,500-m isobath
Climate: tropical along coast, temperate inland, arid in south
Terrain: narrow coastal plain, high plateau and mountains in center
Elevation: highest point: Maromokotro 2,876 m
lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 615 m
Natural resources: graphite, chromite, coal, bauxite, rare earth elements, salt, quartz, tar sands, semiprecious stones, mica, fish, hydropower
Land use: agricultural land: 71.1% (2018 est.)
arable land: 6% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 1% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 64.1% (2018 est.)
forest: 21.5% (2018 est.)
other: 7.4% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 10,860 sq km (2012)
Population distribution: most of population lives on the eastern half of the island; significant clustering is found in the central highlands and eastern coastline as shown in this population distribution map
Natural hazards: periodic cyclones; drought; and locust infestationvolcanism: Madagascar's volcanoes have not erupted in historical timesperiodic cyclones; drought; and locust infestationvolcanism: Madagascar's volcanoes have not erupted in historical times
Geography - note: world's fourth-largest island; strategic location along Mozambique Channel; despite Madagascar’s close proximity to the African continent, ocean currents isolate the island resulting in high rates of endemic plant and animal species; approximately 90% of the flora and fauna on the island are found nowhere else
Map description: Madagascar map showing major cities of this island country in the Indian Ocean.Madagascar map showing major cities of this island country in the Indian Ocean.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 28,172,462 (2022 est.)
Nationality: noun: Malagasy (singular and plural)
adjective: Malagasy
Ethnic groups: Malayo-Indonesian (Merina and related Betsileo), Cotiers (mixed African, Malayo-Indonesian, and Arab ancestry - Betsimisaraka, Tsimihety, Antaisaka, Sakalava), French, Indian, Creole, Comoran
Languages: Malagasy (official) 99.9%, French (official) 23.6%, English 8.2%, other 0.6% (2018 est.)
note: shares sum to more than 100% because some respondents gave more than one answer on the census
Religions: Christian, indigenous, Muslim
Demographic profile: Madagascar’s youthful population – just over 60% are under the age of 25 – and high total fertility rate of more than 4 children per women ensures that the Malagasy population will continue its rapid growth trajectory for the foreseeable future. The population is predominantly rural and poor; chronic malnutrition is prevalent, and large families are the norm. Many young Malagasy girls are withdrawn from school, marry early (often pressured to do so by their parents), and soon begin having children. Early childbearing, coupled with Madagascar’s widespread poverty and lack of access to skilled health care providers during delivery, increases the risk of death and serious health problems for young mothers and their babies.Child marriage perpetuates gender inequality and is prevalent among the poor, the uneducated, and rural households – as of 2013, of Malagasy women aged 20 to 24, more than 40% were married and more than a third had given birth by the age of 18. Although the legal age for marriage is 18, parental consent is often given for earlier marriages or the law is flouted, especially in rural areas that make up nearly 65% of the country. Forms of arranged marriage whereby young girls are married to older men in exchange for oxen or money are traditional. If a union does not work out, a girl can be placed in another marriage, but the dowry paid to her family diminishes with each unsuccessful marriage.Madagascar’s population consists of 18 main ethnic groups, all of whom speak the same Malagasy language. Most Malagasy are multi-ethnic, however, reflecting the island’s diversity of settlers and historical contacts (see Background). Madagascar’s legacy of hierarchical societies practicing domestic slavery (most notably the Merina Kingdom of the 16th to the 19th century) is evident today in persistent class tension, with some ethnic groups maintaining a caste system. Slave descendants are vulnerable to unequal access to education and jobs, despite Madagascar’s constitutional guarantee of free compulsory primary education and its being party to several international conventions on human rights. Historical distinctions also remain between central highlanders and coastal people.Madagascar’s youthful population – just over 60% are under the age of 25 – and high total fertility rate of more than 4 children per women ensures that the Malagasy population will continue its rapid growth trajectory for the foreseeable future. The population is predominantly rural and poor; chronic malnutrition is prevalent, and large families are the norm. Many young Malagasy girls are withdrawn from school, marry early (often pressured to do so by their parents), and soon begin having children. Early childbearing, coupled with Madagascar’s widespread poverty and lack of access to skilled health care providers during delivery, increases the risk of death and serious health problems for young mothers and their babies.Child marriage perpetuates gender inequality and is prevalent among the poor, the uneducated, and rural households – as of 2013, of Malagasy women aged 20 to 24, more than 40% were married and more than a third had given birth by the age of 18. Although the legal age for marriage is 18, parental consent is often given for earlier marriages or the law is flouted, especially in rural areas that make up nearly 65% of the country. Forms of arranged marriage whereby young girls are married to older men in exchange for oxen or money are traditional. If a union does not work out, a girl can be placed in another marriage, but the dowry paid to her family diminishes with each unsuccessful marriage.Madagascar’s population consists of 18 main ethnic groups, all of whom speak the same Malagasy language. Most Malagasy are multi-ethnic, however, reflecting the island’s diversity of settlers and historical contacts (see Background). Madagascar’s legacy of hierarchical societies practicing domestic slavery (most notably the Merina Kingdom of the 16th to the 19th century) is evident today in persistent class tension, with some ethnic groups maintaining a caste system. Slave descendants are vulnerable to unequal access to education and jobs, despite Madagascar’s constitutional guarantee of free compulsory primary education and its being party to several international conventions on human rights. Historical distinctions also remain between central highlanders and coastal people.
Age structure: 0-14 years: 38.86% (male 5,278,838/female 5,196,036)
15-24 years: 20.06% (male 2,717,399/female 2,689,874)
25-54 years: 33.02% (male 4,443,147/female 4,456,691)
55-64 years: 4.6% (male 611,364/female 627,315)
65 years and over: 3.47% (2020 est.) (male 425,122/female 509,951)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 75.9
youth dependency ratio: 70.5
elderly dependency ratio: 5.5
potential support ratio: 18.3 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 20.3 years
male: 20.1 years
female: 20.5 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 2.27% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 28.68 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 6 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: most of population lives on the eastern half of the island; significant clustering is found in the central highlands and eastern coastline as shown in this population distribution map
Urbanization: urban population: 39.9% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 4.26% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 3.700 million ANTANANARIVO (capital) (2022)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.02 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.02 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 1 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 0.98 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.78 male(s)/female
total population: 1 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth: 19.5 years (2008/09 est.)
note: median age at first birth among women 25-29
Maternal mortality ratio: 335 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 39.04 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 42.33 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 35.65 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 68.17 years
male: 66.8 years
female: 69.57 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 3.62 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: 44.4% (2018)
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 85% of population
rural: 38% of population
total: 56.1% of population
unimproved: urban: 15% of population
rural: 62% of population
total: 43.9% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 3.7% (2019)
Physicians density: 0.18 physicians/1,000 population (2014)
Hospital bed density: 0.2 beds/1,000 population
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 49.2% of population
rural: 22.1% of population
total: 32.6% of population
unimproved: urban: 50.8% of population
rural: 77.9% of population
total: 67.4% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: 0.3% (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: 42,000 (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - deaths: 1,800 (2020 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: very high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial diarrhea, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever
vectorborne diseases: malaria and dengue fever
water contact diseases: schistosomiasis
animal contact diseases: rabies
note: on 21 March 2022, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Travel Alert for polio in Africa; Madagascar is currently considered a high risk to travelers for circulating vaccine-derived polioviruses (cVDPV); vaccine-derived poliovirus (VDPV) is a strain of the weakened poliovirus that was initially included in oral polio vaccine (OPV) and that has changed over time and behaves more like the wild or naturally occurring virus; this means it can be spread more easily to people who are unvaccinated against polio and who come in contact with the stool or respiratory secretions, such as from a sneeze, of an “infected” person who received oral polio vaccine; the CDC recommends that before any international travel, anyone unvaccinated, incompletely vaccinated, or with an unknown polio vaccination status should complete the routine polio vaccine series; before travel to any high-risk destination, CDC recommends that adults who previously completed the full, routine polio vaccine series receive a single, lifetime booster dose of polio vaccine
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 5.3% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: 26.4% (2018)
Child marriage: women married by age 15: 12.7% (2018)
women married by age 18: 40.3% (2018)
men married by age 18: 11.8% (2018 est.)
Education expenditures: 2.9% of GDP (2019)
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 76.7%
male: 78.4%
female: 75.1% (2018)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 10 years
male: 10 years
female: 10 years (2018)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 3.4%
male: 3.9%
female: 3% (2015 est.)
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: erosion and soil degredation results from deforestation and overgrazing; desertification; agricultural fires; surface water contaminated with raw sewage and other organic wastes; wildlife preservation (endangered species of flora and fauna unique to the island)
Environment - international agreements: party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping-London Protocol, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 2006, Wetlands
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 21.44 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 3.91 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 10.14 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: tropical along coast, temperate inland, arid in south
Land use: agricultural land: 71.1% (2018 est.)
arable land: 6% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 1% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 64.1% (2018 est.)
forest: 21.5% (2018 est.)
other: 7.4% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 39.9% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 4.26% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 4.34% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0% of GDP (2018 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: very high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial diarrhea, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever
vectorborne diseases: malaria and dengue fever
water contact diseases: schistosomiasis
animal contact diseases: rabies
note: on 21 March 2022, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Travel Alert for polio in Africa; Madagascar is currently considered a high risk to travelers for circulating vaccine-derived polioviruses (cVDPV); vaccine-derived poliovirus (VDPV) is a strain of the weakened poliovirus that was initially included in oral polio vaccine (OPV) and that has changed over time and behaves more like the wild or naturally occurring virus; this means it can be spread more easily to people who are unvaccinated against polio and who come in contact with the stool or respiratory secretions, such as from a sneeze, of an “infected” person who received oral polio vaccine; the CDC recommends that before any international travel, anyone unvaccinated, incompletely vaccinated, or with an unknown polio vaccination status should complete the routine polio vaccine series; before travel to any high-risk destination, CDC recommends that adults who previously completed the full, routine polio vaccine series receive a single, lifetime booster dose of polio vaccine
Food insecurity: severe localized food insecurity: due to the effects of extreme weather events - cyclones and tropical storms in early 2022 have affected a large number of people, particularly in eastern regions, and the number of food insecure people is expected to increase later in 2022; moreover, drought conditions continue to affect households in the south, which is likely to result in an increase in the severity and prevalence of food insecurity in these areas (2022)
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 3,768,759 tons (2016 est.)
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 395 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 161.9 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 13 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 337 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Republic of Madagascar
conventional short form: Madagascar
local long form: Republique de Madagascar/Repoblikan'i Madagasikara
local short form: Madagascar/Madagasikara
former: Malagasy Republic
etymology: the name "Madageiscar" was first used by the 13th-century Venetian explorer Marco POLO, as a corrupted transliteration of Mogadishu, the Somali port with which POLO confused the island
Government type: semi-presidential republic
Capital: name: Antananarivo
geographic coordinates: 18 55 S, 47 31 E
time difference: UTC+3 (8 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name, which means "City of the Thousand," was bestowed by 17th century King Adrianjakaking to honor the soldiers assigned to guard the city
Administrative divisions: 6 provinces (faritany); Antananarivo, Antsiranana, Fianarantsoa, Mahajanga, Toamasina, Toliara
Independence: 26 June 1960 (from France)
National holiday: Independence Day, 26 June (1960)
Constitution: history: previous 1992; latest passed by referendum 17 November 2010, promulgated 11 December 2010
amendments: proposed by the president of the republic in consultation with the cabinet or supported by a least two thirds of both the Senate and National Assembly membership; passage requires at least three-fourths approval of both the Senate and National Assembly and approval in a referendum; constitutional articles, including the form and powers of government, the sovereignty of the state, and the autonomy of Madagascar’s collectivities, cannot be amended
Legal system: civil law system based on the old French civil code and customary law in matters of marriage, family, and obligation
International law organization participation: accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction with reservations; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: no
citizenship by descent only: the father must be a citizen of Madagascar; in the case of a child born out of wedlock, the mother must be a citizen
dual citizenship recognized: no
residency requirement for naturalization: unknown
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: President Andry RAJOELINA (since 21 January 2019)
head of government: Prime Minister Christian NTSAY (since 6 June 2018 and re-appointed 19 July 2019)
cabinet: Council of Ministers appointed by the prime minister
elections/appointments: president directly elected by absolute majority popular vote in 2 rounds if needed for a 5-year term (eligible for a second term); election last held on 7 November and 19 December 2018 (next to be held in 2023); prime minister nominated by the National Assembly, appointed by the president
election results: Andry RAJOELINA elected President in second round; percent of vote - Andry RAJOELINA (TGV) 55.7%, Marc RAVALOMANANA 44.3% (TIM)
Legislative branch: description: bicameral Parliament consists of:
Senate or Antenimieran-Doholona (reestablished on 22 January 2016, following the December 2015 senatorial election) (63 seats; 42 members indirectly elected by an electoral college of municipal, communal, regional, and provincial leaders and 21 appointed by the president of the republic; members serve 5-year terms); note - in December 2020 Pres RAJOELINA ordered that the senate now have only 18 seats, 6 of which are appointed by the president, the remaining 12 indirectly elected by an electoral college of municipal, communal, regional, and provincial leaders;
National Assembly or Antenimierampirenena (151 seats; 87 members directly elected in single-seat constituencies by simple majority vote and 64 directly elected in multi-seat constituencies by closed-list proportional representation vote; members serve 5-year terms)
elections: Senate - last held 29 December 2015 (scheduled for 2021; note - opposition parties boycotted this legislative election)
National Assembly - last held on 27 May 2019 (next to be held in 2024)
election results: Senate - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - HVM 34, TIM 3, MAPAR 2, LEADER-Fanilo 1, independent 2, appointed by the president 21; composition - men 51, women 12, percent of women 19%
National Assembly - percent of vote by party -Independent Pro-HVM 18%, MAPAR 17%, MAPAR pro-HVM 16%, VPM-MMM 10%, VERTS 3%, LEADER FANILO 3%, HIARAKA ISIKA 3%, GPS/ARD 7%, INDEPENDENT 9%, TAMBATRA 1%, TIM 13%; composition - men 120, women 31, percent of women 20.5%; note - total National Assembly percent of women 20.1%
Judicial branch: highest courts: Supreme Court or Cour Supreme (consists of 11 members; addresses judicial administration issues only); High Constitutional Court or Haute Cour Constitutionnelle (consists of 9 members); note - the judiciary includes a High Court of Justice responsible for adjudicating crimes and misdemeanors by government officials, including the president
judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court heads elected by the president and judiciary officials to serve 3-year, single renewable terms; High Constitutional Court members appointed - 3 each by the president, by both legislative bodies, and by the Council of Magistrates; members serve single, 7-year terms
subordinate courts: Courts of Appeal; Courts of First Instance
Political parties and leaders: Economic liberalism and democratic action for national recovery or LEADER FANILO [Jean Max RAKOTOMAMONJY]
FOMBA [Ny Rado RAFALIMANANA]
Gideons fighting against poverty in Madagascar (Gedeona Miady amin'ny Fahantrana eto Madagascar) or GFFM [Andre Christian Dieu Donne MAILHOL]
Green party or VERTS (Antoko Maintso) [Alexandre GEORGET]
I Love Madagascar (Tiako I Madagasikara) or TIM [Marc RAVALOMANANA]
Malagasy aware (Malagasy Tonga Saina) or MTS [Roland RATSIRAKA]
Malagasy raising together (Malagasy Miara-Miainga) or MMM [Hajo ANDRIANAINARIVELO]
New Force for Madagascar (Hery Vaovao ho an'ny Madagasikara) or HVM [Hery Martial RAJAONARIMAMPIANINA Rakotoarimanana]
Total Refoundation of Madagascar (Refondation Totale de Madagascar) or RTM [Joseph Martin RANDRIAMAMPIONONA]
Vanguard for the renovation of Madagascar (Avant-Garde pour la renovation de Madagascar) or AREMA [Didier RATSIRAKA]
Young Malagasies Determined (Malagasy: Tanora malaGasy Vonona) or TGV [Andry RAJOELINA]and MAPAR [Andry RAJOELINA], and IRD (We are all with Andy Rajoelina) [Andry RAJOELINA]Economic liberalism and democratic action for national recovery or LEADER FANILO [Jean Max RAKOTOMAMONJY]
FOMBA [Ny Rado RAFALIMANANA]
Gideons fighting against poverty in Madagascar (Gedeona Miady amin'ny Fahantrana eto Madagascar) or GFFM [Andre Christian Dieu Donne MAILHOL]
Green party or VERTS (Antoko Maintso) [Alexandre GEORGET]
I Love Madagascar (Tiako I Madagasikara) or TIM [Marc RAVALOMANANA]
Malagasy aware (Malagasy Tonga Saina) or MTS [Roland RATSIRAKA]
Malagasy raising together (Malagasy Miara-Miainga) or MMM [Hajo ANDRIANAINARIVELO]
New Force for Madagascar (Hery Vaovao ho an'ny Madagasikara) or HVM [Hery Martial RAJAONARIMAMPIANINA Rakotoarimanana]
Total Refoundation of Madagascar (Refondation Totale de Madagascar) or RTM [Joseph Martin RANDRIAMAMPIONONA]
Vanguard for the renovation of Madagascar (Avant-Garde pour la renovation de Madagascar) or AREMA [Didier RATSIRAKA]
Young Malagasies Determined (Malagasy: Tanora malaGasy Vonona) or TGV [Andry RAJOELINA]and MAPAR [Andry RAJOELINA], and IRD (We are all with Andy Rajoelina) [Andry RAJOELINA]
International organization participation: ACP, AfDB, AU, CD, COMESA, EITI (candidate country), FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (NGOs), ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, InOC, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO (correspondent), ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, NAM, OIF, OPCW, PCA, SADC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Amielle Pelenne NIRINIAVISOA MARCEDA (since 31 October 2019)
chancery: 2374 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 265-5525
FAX: [1] (202) 265-3034
email address and website:
contact@us-madagascar-embassy.org
https://us-madagascar-embassy.org/
consulate(s) general: New York
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Amy J. HYATT (since June 2021)
embassy: Lot 207A, Andranoro, Antehiroka, 105 Antananarivo
mailing address: 2040 Antananarivo Place, Washington DC 20521-2040
telephone: [261] 20-23-480-00
FAX: [261] 20-23-480-35
email address and website:
antanACS@state.gov
https://mg.usembassy.gov/
Flag description: two equal horizontal bands of red (top) and green with a vertical white band of the same width on hoist side; by tradition, red stands for sovereignty, green for hope, white for purity
National symbol(s): traveller's palm, zebu; national colors: red, green, white
National anthem: name: "Ry Tanindraza nay malala o" (Oh, Our Beloved Fatherland)
lyrics/music: Pasteur RAHAJASON/Norbert RAHARISOA
note: adopted 1959
National heritage: total World Heritage Sites: 3 (1 cultural, 2 natural)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve (n), Ambohimanga Royal Hill (c), Atsinanana Rainforests (n)
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Madagascar is a mostly unregulated economy with many untapped natural resources, but no capital markets, a weak judicial system, poorly enforced contracts, and rampant government corruption. The country faces challenges to improve education, healthcare, and the environment to boost long-term economic growth. Agriculture, including fishing and forestry, is a mainstay of the economy, accounting for more than one-fourth of GDP and employing roughly 80% of the population. Deforestation and erosion, aggravated by bushfires, slash-and-burn clearing techniques, and the use of firewood as the primary source of fuel, are serious concerns to the agriculture dependent economy. After discarding socialist economic policies in the mid-1990s, Madagascar followed a World Bank- and IMF-led policy of privatization and liberalization until a 2009 coup d’état led many nations, including the United States, to suspend non-humanitarian aid until a democratically-elected president was inaugurated in 2014. The pre-coup strategy had placed the country on a slow and steady growth path from an extremely low starting point. Exports of apparel boomed after gaining duty-free access to the US market in 2000 under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA); however, Madagascar's failure to comply with the requirements of the AGOA led to the termination of the country's duty-free access in January 2010, a sharp fall in textile production, a loss of more than 100,000 jobs, and a GDP drop of nearly 11%. Madagascar regained AGOA access in January 2015 and ensuing growth has been slow and fragile. Madagascar produces around 80% of the world’s vanilla and its reliance on this commodity for most of its foreign exchange is a significant source of vulnerability. Economic reforms have been modest and the country’s financial sector remains weak, limiting the use of monetary policy to control inflation. An ongoing IMF program aims to strengthen financial and investment management capacity.Madagascar is a mostly unregulated economy with many untapped natural resources, but no capital markets, a weak judicial system, poorly enforced contracts, and rampant government corruption. The country faces challenges to improve education, healthcare, and the environment to boost long-term economic growth. Agriculture, including fishing and forestry, is a mainstay of the economy, accounting for more than one-fourth of GDP and employing roughly 80% of the population. Deforestation and erosion, aggravated by bushfires, slash-and-burn clearing techniques, and the use of firewood as the primary source of fuel, are serious concerns to the agriculture dependent economy. After discarding socialist economic policies in the mid-1990s, Madagascar followed a World Bank- and IMF-led policy of privatization and liberalization until a 2009 coup d’état led many nations, including the United States, to suspend non-humanitarian aid until a democratically-elected president was inaugurated in 2014. The pre-coup strategy had placed the country on a slow and steady growth path from an extremely low starting point. Exports of apparel boomed after gaining duty-free access to the US market in 2000 under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA); however, Madagascar's failure to comply with the requirements of the AGOA led to the termination of the country's duty-free access in January 2010, a sharp fall in textile production, a loss of more than 100,000 jobs, and a GDP drop of nearly 11%. Madagascar regained AGOA access in January 2015 and ensuing growth has been slow and fragile. Madagascar produces around 80% of the world’s vanilla and its reliance on this commodity for most of its foreign exchange is a significant source of vulnerability. Economic reforms have been modest and the country’s financial sector remains weak, limiting the use of monetary policy to control inflation. An ongoing IMF program aims to strengthen financial and investment management capacity.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $41.82 billion (2020 est.)
$43.65 billion (2019 est.)
$41.81 billion (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 4.2% (2017 est.)
4.2% (2016 est.)
3.1% (2015 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $1,500 (2020 est.)
$1,600 (2019 est.)
$1,600 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $13.964 billion (2019 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 5.6% (2019 est.)
8.6% (2018 est.)
8.5% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 24% (2017 est.)
industry: 19.5% (2017 est.)
services: 56.4% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 67.1% (2017 est.)
government consumption: 11.2% (2017 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 15.1% (2017 est.)
investment in inventories: 8.8% (2017 est.)
exports of goods and services: 31.5% (2017 est.)
imports of goods and services: -33.7% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: rice, sugar cane, cassava, sweet potatoes, milk, vegetables, bananas, mangoes/guavas, tropical fruit, potatoes
Industries: meat processing, seafood, soap, beer, leather, sugar, textiles, glassware, cement, automobile assembly plant, paper, petroleum, tourism, mining
Industrial production growth rate: 5.2% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 13.4 million (2017 est.)
Unemployment rate: 1.8% (2017 est.)
1.8% (2016 est.)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 3.4%
male: 3.9%
female: 3% (2015 est.)
Population below poverty line: 70.7% (2012 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 42.6 (2012 est.)
42.7 (2010)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: 2.2%
highest 10%: 34.7% (2010 est.)
Budget: revenues: 1.828 billion (2017 est.)
expenditures: 2.136 billion (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): -2.7% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 36% of GDP (2017 est.)
38.4% of GDP (2016 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 15.9% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: calendar year
Current account balance: -$35 million (2017 est.)
$57 million (2016 est.)
Exports: $4.09 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$4.41 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$4.839 billion (2017 est.)
Exports - partners: United States 19%, France 18%, United Arab Emirates 7%, China 6%, Japan 6%, Germany 5%, India 5% (2019)
Exports - commodities: vanilla, nickel, gold, clothing and apparel, gemstones (2019)
Imports: $4.7 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$4.82 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$5.796 billion (2017 est.)
Imports - partners: China 24%, France 11%, United Arab Emirates 9%, India 7%, South Africa 5% (2019)
Imports - commodities: refined petroleum, rice, cars, packaged medicines, clothing and apparel (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $1.6 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
$1.076 billion (31 December 2016 est.)
Debt - external: $3.085 billion (2019 est.)
$4.107 billion (2018 est.)
Exchange rates: Malagasy ariary (MGA) per US dollar -
3,116.1 (2017 est.)
3,176.5 (2016 est.)
3,176.5 (2015 est.)
2,933.5 (2014 est.)
2,414.8 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 39% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 64% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 23% (2019)
Electricity - production: 1.706 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 1.587 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - imports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 675,400 kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 74% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 24% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 2% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 0 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 0 bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 18,000 bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 18,880 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 0 cu m (1 January 2012 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 69,000 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 0 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 10,654,710 (2018)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 40.57 (2018 est.)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: penetration rates below African average; competition among mobile service providers has spurred recent growth in the mobile market and reduced consumer costs; 3G and LTE services available; fiber backbone connects major cities with wireless networks upgraded to LTE; government committed to free WiFi hotspots to ensure universal access; telecom service tax raised to 10%; investment in submarine cable to South Africa and Mauritius; importer of broadcasting and video equipment from China (2020)
domestic: less than 1 per 100 for fixed-line and mobile-cellular teledensity about 34 per 100 persons (2019)
international: country code - 261; landing points for the EASSy, METISS, and LION fiber-optic submarine cable systems connecting to numerous Indian Ocean Islands, South Africa, and Eastern African countries; satellite earth stations - 2 (1 Intelsat - Indian Ocean, 1 Intersputnik - Atlantic Ocean region) (2019)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: state-owned Radio Nationale Malagasy (RNM) and Television Malagasy (TVM) have an extensive national network reach; privately owned radio and TV broadcasters in cities and major towns; state-run radio dominates in rural areas; relays of 2 international broadcasters are available in Antananarivo (2019)
Internet country code: .mg
Internet users: total: 2,696,931 (2019 est.)
percent of population: 10% (2019 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 32,000 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 0.12 (2020 est.) less than 1
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 4 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 18
annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 541,290 (2018)
annual freight traffic on registered air carriers: 16.25 million (2018) mt-km
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: 5R
Airports: total: 83 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 26
over 3,047 m: 1
2,438 to 3,047 m: 2
1,524 to 2,437 m: 6
914 to 1,523 m: 16
under 914 m: 1 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 57
1,524 to 2,437 m: 1
914 to 1,523 m: 38
under 914 m: 18 (2021)
Railways: total: 836 km (2018)
narrow gauge: 836 km (2018) 1.000-m gauge
Roadways: total: 31,640 km (2018)
Waterways: 600 km (2011) (432 km navigable)
Merchant marine: total: 27
by type: general cargo 14, oil tanker 2, other 11 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Antsiranana (Diego Suarez), Mahajanga, Toamasina, Toliara (Tulear)
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: People's Armed Forces: Army, Navy, Air Force; National Gendarmerie (operates under the Ministry of Defense); Ministry of Public Security: National Police (2021)
note - the National Gendarmerie is responsible for maintaining law and order in rural areas at the village level, protecting government facilities, and operating a maritime police contingent; the National Police is responsible for maintaining law and order in urban areas
Military expenditures: 0.7% of GDP (2021 est.)
0.7% of GDP (2020 est.)
0.5% of GDP (2019 est.) (approximately $130 million)
0.5% of GDP (2018 est.) (approximately $130 million)
0.5% of GDP (2017 est.) (approximately $120 million)
Military and security service personnel strengths: approximately 13,000 personnel (12,000 Army; 500 Navy; 500 Air Force); est. 10,000 Gendarmerie (2021)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the PAF's inventory consists mostly of aging Soviet-era equipment; since 2010, it has received limited amounts of second-hand equipment from France, South Africa, and UAE (2021)
Military service age and obligation: Madagascar has an all-volunteer military; 18-25 years of age for males; service obligation 18 months; women are permitted to serve in all branches (2021)
Military - note: one of the military’s duties is assisting the gendarmerie with maintaining law and order in rural areas, particularly in areas affected by banditry, cattle rustling (cattle thieves are known as dahalo), and criminal groups (2021)one of the military’s duties is assisting the gendarmerie with maintaining law and order in rural areas, particularly in areas affected by banditry, cattle rustling (cattle thieves are known as dahalo), and criminal groups (2021)
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: claims Bassas da India, Europa Island, Glorioso Islands, and Juan de Nova Island (all administered by France); the vegetated drying cays of Banc du Geyser, which were claimed by Madagascar in 1976, also fall within the EEZ claims of the Comoros and France (Glorioso Islands, part of the French Southern and Antarctic Lands)claims Bassas da India, Europa Island, Glorioso Islands, and Juan de Nova Island (all administered by France); the vegetated drying cays of Banc du Geyser, which were claimed by Madagascar in 1976, also fall within the EEZ claims of the Comoros and France (Glorioso Islands, part of the French Southern and Antarctic Lands)
Illicit drugs: illicit producer of cannabis (cultivated and wild varieties) used mostly for domestic consumption; transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin |
20220601 | countries-greece |
Topic: Photos of Greece
Topic: Introduction
Background: Greece achieved independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1830. During the second half of the 19th century and the first half of the 20th century, it gradually added neighboring islands and territories, most with Greek-speaking populations. In World War II, Greece was first invaded by Italy (1940) and subsequently occupied by Germany (1941-44); fighting endured in a protracted civil war between supporters of the king and other anti-communist and communist rebels. Following the latter's defeat in 1949, Greece joined NATO in 1952. In 1967, a group of military officers seized power, establishing a military dictatorship that suspended many political liberties and forced the king to flee the country. In 1974 following the collapse of the dictatorship, democratic elections and a referendum created a parliamentary republic and abolished the monarchy. In 1981, Greece joined the EC (now the EU); it became the 12th member of the European Economic and Monetary Union (EMU) in 2001. Greece has suffered a severe economic crisis since late 2009, due to nearly a decade of chronic overspending and structural rigidities. Beginning in 2010, Greece entered three bailout agreements - with the European Commission, the European Central Bank (ECB), the IMF, and the third in 2015 with the European Stability Mechanism (ESM) - worth in total about $300 billion. The Greek Government formally exited the third bailout in August 2018.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Southern Europe, bordering the Aegean Sea, Ionian Sea, and the Mediterranean Sea, between Albania and Turkey
Geographic coordinates: 39 00 N, 22 00 E
Map references: Europe
Area: total: 131,957 sq km
land: 130,647 sq km
water: 1,310 sq km
Area - comparative: slightly smaller than Alabama
Land boundaries: total: 1,110 km
border countries (4): Albania 212 km; Bulgaria 472 km; North Macedonia 234 km; Turkey 192 km
Coastline: 13,676 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 6 nm
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
Climate: temperate; mild, wet winters; hot, dry summers
Terrain: mountainous with ranges extending into the sea as peninsulas or chains of islands
Elevation: highest point: Mount Olympus 2,917
lowest point: Mediterranean Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 498 m
note: Mount Olympus actually has 52 peaks but its highest point, Mytikas (meaning "nose"), rises to 2,917 meters; in Greek mythology, Olympus' Mytikas peak was the home of the Greek gods
Natural resources: lignite, petroleum, iron ore, bauxite, lead, zinc, nickel, magnesite, marble, salt, hydropower potential
Land use: agricultural land: 63.4% (2018 est.)
arable land: 19.7% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 8.9% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 34.8% (2018 est.)
forest: 30.5% (2018 est.)
other: 6.1% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 15,550 sq km (2012)
Population distribution: one-third of the population lives in and around metropolitan Athens; the remainder of the country has moderate population density mixed with sizeable urban clusters
Natural hazards: severe earthquakesvolcanism: Santorini (367 m) has been deemed a Decade Volcano by the International Association of Volcanology and Chemistry of the Earth's Interior, worthy of study due to its explosive history and close proximity to human populations; although there have been very few eruptions in recent centuries, Methana and Nisyros in the Aegean are classified as historically activesevere earthquakesvolcanism: Santorini (367 m) has been deemed a Decade Volcano by the International Association of Volcanology and Chemistry of the Earth's Interior, worthy of study due to its explosive history and close proximity to human populations; although there have been very few eruptions in recent centuries, Methana and Nisyros in the Aegean are classified as historically active
Geography - note: strategic location dominating the Aegean Sea and southern approach to Turkish Straits; a peninsular country, possessing an archipelago of about 2,000 islands
Map description: Greece map showing major cities as well as parts of surrounding countries and water bodies.Greece map showing major cities as well as parts of surrounding countries and water bodies.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 10,533,871 (2022 est.)
Nationality: noun: Greek(s)
adjective: Greek
Ethnic groups: Greek 91.6%, Albanian 4.4%, other 4% (2011 est.)
note: data represent citizenship; Greece does not collect data on ethnicity
Languages: Greek (official) 99%, other (includes English and French) 1%
major-language sample(s):
Το Παγκόσμιο Βιβλίο Δεδομένων, η απαραίτητη πηγή βασικών πληροφοριών. (Greek)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Religions: Greek Orthodox 81-90%, Muslim 2%, other 3%, none 4-15%, unspecified 1% (2015 est.)
Age structure: 0-14 years: 14.53% (male 794,918/female 745,909)
15-24 years: 10.34% (male 577,134/female 519,819)
25-54 years: 39.6% (male 2,080,443/female 2,119,995)
55-64 years: 13.1% (male 656,404/female 732,936)
65 years and over: 22.43% (2020 est.) (male 1,057,317/female 1,322,176)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 56.1
youth dependency ratio: 21.3
elderly dependency ratio: 34.8
potential support ratio: 2.9 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 45.3 years
male: 43.7 years
female: 46.8 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: -0.34% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 7.61 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 12.04 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: 1 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: one-third of the population lives in and around metropolitan Athens; the remainder of the country has moderate population density mixed with sizeable urban clusters
Urbanization: urban population: 80.4% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 0.11% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 3.154 million ATHENS (capital), 814,000 Thessaloniki (2022)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.07 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.06 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.14 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 1 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 0.89 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.71 male(s)/female
total population: 0.95 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth: 29.9 years (2019 est.)
Maternal mortality ratio: 3 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 3.55 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 3.94 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 3.13 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 81.49 years
male: 78.96 years
female: 84.2 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 1.4 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: NA
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 100% of population
rural: 100% of population
total: 100% of population
unimproved: urban: 0% of population
rural: 0% of population
total: 0% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 7.8% (2019)
Physicians density: 5.48 physicians/1,000 population (2017)
Hospital bed density: 4.2 beds/1,000 population (2018)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 100% of population
rural: 100% of population
total: 100% of population
unimproved: urban: 0% of population
rural: 0% of population
total: 0% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: 0.2% (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: 17,000 (2020 est.)
note: estimate does not include children
HIV/AIDS - deaths: (2020 est.) <100
note: estimate does not include children
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 24.9% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: NA
Education expenditures: 3.6% of GDP (2018)
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 97.9%
male: 98.5%
female: 97.4% (2018)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 20 years
male: 20 years
female: 20 years (2019)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 35%
male: 31.4%
female: 39.3% (2020 est.)
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: air pollution; air emissions from transport and electricity power stations; water pollution; degradation of coastal zones; loss of biodiversity in terrestrial and marine ecosystems; increasing municipal and industrial waste
Environment - international agreements: party to: Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Antarctic-Environmental Protection, Antarctic-Marine Living Resources, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping-London Convention, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 2006, Wetlands
signed, but not ratified: Air Pollution-Heavy Metals, Air Pollution-Multi-effect Protocol, Air Pollution-Persistent Organic Pollutants, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 15.69 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 62.43 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 9.8 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: temperate; mild, wet winters; hot, dry summers
Land use: agricultural land: 63.4% (2018 est.)
arable land: 19.7% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 8.9% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 34.8% (2018 est.)
forest: 30.5% (2018 est.)
other: 6.1% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 80.4% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 0.11% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 0.01% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0.04% of GDP (2018 est.)
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 5,477,424 tons (2014 est.)
municipal solid waste recycled annually: 1,040,711 tons (2014 est.)
percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 19% (2014 est.)
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 1.991 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 208.3 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 9.041 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 68.4 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Hellenic Republic
conventional short form: Greece
local long form: Elliniki Dimokratia
local short form: Ellas or Ellada
former: Hellenic State, Kingdom of Greece
etymology: the English name derives from the Roman (Latin) designation "Graecia," meaning "Land of the Greeks"; the Greeks call their country "Hellas" or "Ellada"
Government type: parliamentary republic
Capital: name: Athens
geographic coordinates: 37 59 N, 23 44 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: Athens is the oldest European capital city; according to tradition, the city is named after Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom; in actuality, the appellation probably derives from a lost name in a pre-Hellenic language
Administrative divisions: 13 regions (perifereies, singular - perifereia) and 1 autonomous monastic state* (aftonomi monastiki politeia); Agion Oros* (Mount Athos), Anatoliki Makedonia kai Thraki (East Macedonia and Thrace), Attiki (Attica), Dytiki Ellada (West Greece), Dytiki Makedonia (West Macedonia), Ionia Nisia (Ionian Islands), Ipeiros (Epirus), Kentriki Makedonia (Central Macedonia), Kriti (Crete), Notio Aigaio (South Aegean), Peloponnisos (Peloponnese), Sterea Ellada (Central Greece), Thessalia (Thessaly), Voreio Aigaio (North Aegean)
Independence: 3 February 1830 (from the Ottoman Empire); note - 25 March 1821, outbreak of the national revolt against the Ottomans; 3 February 1830, signing of the London Protocol recognizing Greek independence by Great Britain, France, and Russia
National holiday: Independence Day, 25 March (1821)
Constitution: history: many previous; latest entered into force 11 June 1975
amendments: proposed by at least 50 members of Parliament and agreed by three-fifths majority vote in two separate ballots at least 30 days apart; passage requires absolute majority vote by the next elected Parliament; entry into force finalized through a "special parliamentary resolution"; articles on human rights and freedoms and the form of government cannot be amended; amended 1986, 2001, 2008, 2019
Legal system: civil legal system based on Roman law
International law organization participation: accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction with reservations; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: no
citizenship by descent only: at least one parent must be a citizen of Greece
dual citizenship recognized: yes
residency requirement for naturalization: 10 years
Suffrage: 17 years of age; universal and compulsory
Executive branch: chief of state: President Ekaterini SAKELLAROPOULOU (since 13 March 2020)
head of government: Prime Minister Kyriakos MITSOTAKIS (since 8 July 2019)
cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the president on the recommendation of the prime minister
elections/appointments: president elected by Hellenic Parliament for a 5-year term (eligible for a second term); election last held on 22 January 2020 (next to be held by February 2025); president appoints as prime minister the leader of the majority party or coalition in the Hellenic Parliament
election results: Katerina SAKELLAROPOULOU (independent) elected president by Parliament - 261 of 300 votes; note - SAKELLAROPOULOU is Greece's first woman president
Legislative branch: description: unicameral Hellenic Parliament or Vouli ton Ellinon (300 seats; 280 members in multi-seat constituencies and 12 members in a single nationwide constituency directly elected by open party-list proportional representation vote; 8 members in single-seat constituencies elected by simple majority vote; members serve up to 4 years); note - only parties surpassing a 3% threshold are entitled to parliamentary seats; parties need 10 seats to become formal parliamentary groups but can retain that status if the party participated in the last election and received the minimum 3% threshold
elections: last held on 7 July 2019 (next to be held by July 2023)
election results: percent of vote by party - ND 39.9%, SYRIZA 31.5%, KINAL 8.1%, KKE 5.3%, Greek Solution 3.7%, MeRA25 3.4%, other 8.1%; seats by party - ND 158, SYRIZA 86, KINAL 22, KKE 15, Greek Solution 10, MeRA25 9; composition - men 244, women 56, percent of women 18.7%
Judicial branch: highest courts: Supreme Civil and Criminal Court or Areios Pagos (consists of 56 judges, including the court presidents); Council of State (supreme administrative court) (consists of the president, 7 vice presidents, 42 privy councilors, 48 associate councilors and 50 reporting judges, organized into six 5- and 7-member chambers; Court of Audit (government audit and enforcement) consists of the president, 5 vice presidents, 20 councilors, and 90 associate and reporting judges
judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court judges appointed by presidential decree on the advice of the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC), which includes the president of the Supreme Court, other judges, and the prosecutor of the Supreme Court; judges appointed for life following a 2-year probationary period; Council of State president appointed by the Greek Cabinet to serve a 4-year term; other judge appointments and tenure NA; Court of Audit president appointed by decree of the president of the republic on the advice of the SJC; court president serves a 4-year term or until age 67; tenure of vice presidents, councilors, and judges NA
subordinate courts: Courts of Appeal and Courts of First Instance (district courts)
Political parties and leaders: Anticapitalist Left Cooperation for the Overthrow or ANTARSYA [collective leadership]
Coalition of the Radical Left or SYRIZA [Alexios (Alexis) TSIPRAS]
Communist Party of Greece or KKE [Dimitrios KOUTSOUMBAS]
Democratic Left or DIMAR [Athanasios (Thanasis) THEOCHAROPOULOS]
European Realistic Disobedience Front or MeRA25 [Ioannis (Yanis) VAROUFAKIS]
Greek Solution [Kyriakos VELOPOULOS]
Independent Greeks or ANEL [Panagiotis (Panos) KAMMENOS]
Movement for Change or KINAL [Nikos ANDROULAKIS]
New Democracy or ND [Kyriakos MITSOTAKIS]
Popular Unity or LAE [Nikolaos CHOUNTIS]
Union of Centrists or EK [Vasileios (Vasilis) LEVENTIS]
International organization participation: Australia Group, BIS, BSEC, CD, CE, CERN, EAPC, EBRD, ECB, EIB, EMU, ESA, EU, FAO, FATF, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IGAD (partners), IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, IMSO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, NATO, NEA, NSG, OAS (observer), OECD, OIF, OPCW, OSCE, PCA, Schengen Convention, SELEC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNWTO, UPU, Wassenaar Arrangement, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Alexandra PAPADOPOULOU (since 6 February 2021)
chancery: 2217 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 939-1300
FAX: [1] (202) 939-1324
email address and website:
gremb.was@mfa.gr
https://www.mfa.gr/usa/en/the-embassy/
consulate(s) general: Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, Tampa (FL), San Francisco
consulate(s): Atlanta, Houston
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: Ambassador George James TSUNIS (since 10 May 2022)
embassy: 91 Vasillisis Sophias Avenue, 10160 Athens
mailing address: 7100 Athens Place, Washington DC 20521-7100
telephone: [30] (210) 721-2951
FAX: [30] (210) 724-5313
email address and website:
athensamericancitizenservices@state.gov
https://gr.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Thessaloniki
Flag description: nine equal horizontal stripes of blue alternating with white; a blue square bearing a white cross appears in the upper hoist-side corner; the cross symbolizes Greek Orthodoxy, the established religion of the country; there is no agreed upon meaning for the nine stripes or for the colors
note: Greek legislation states that the flag colors are cyan and white, but cyan can mean "blue" in Greek, so the exact shade of blue has never been set and has varied from a light to a dark blue over time; in general, the hue of blue normally encountered is a form of azure
National symbol(s): Greek cross (white cross on blue field, arms equal length); national colors: blue, white
National anthem: name: "Ymnos eis tin Eleftherian" (Hymn to Liberty)
lyrics/music: Dionysios SOLOMOS/Nikolaos MANTZAROS
note: adopted 1864; the anthem is based on a 158-stanza poem by the same name, which was inspired by the Greek Revolution of 1821 against the Ottomans (only the first two stanzas are used); Cyprus also uses "Hymn to Liberty" as its anthem
National heritage: total World Heritage Sites: 18 (16 cultural, 2 mixed)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Acropolis, Athens (c), Archaeological site of Delphi (c), Meteora (m), Medieval City of Rhodes (c), Archaeological site of Olympia (c), Archaeological site of Mycenae and Tiryns (c), Old Town of Corfu (c), Mount Athos (m), Delos (c), Archaeological Site of Philippi (c)
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Greece has a capitalist economy with a public sector accounting for about 40% of GDP and with per capita GDP about two-thirds that of the leading euro-zone economies. Tourism provides 18% of GDP. Immigrants make up nearly one-fifth of the work force, mainly in agricultural and unskilled jobs. Greece is a major beneficiary of EU aid, equal to about 3.3% of annual GDP. The Greek economy averaged growth of about 4% per year between 2003 and 2007, but the economy went into recession in 2009 as a result of the world financial crisis, tightening credit conditions, and Athens' failure to address a growing budget deficit. By 2013, the economy had contracted 26%, compared with the pre-crisis level of 2007. Greece met the EU's Growth and Stability Pact budget deficit criterion of no more than 3% of GDP in 2007-08, but violated it in 2009, when the deficit reached 15% of GDP. Deteriorating public finances, inaccurate and misreported statistics, and consistent underperformance on reforms prompted major credit rating agencies to downgrade Greece's international debt rating in late 2009 and led the country into a financial crisis. Under intense pressure from the EU and international market participants, the government accepted a bailout program that called on Athens to cut government spending, decrease tax evasion, overhaul the civil-service, health-care, and pension systems, and reform the labor and product markets. Austerity measures reduced the deficit to 1.3% in 2017. Successive Greek governments, however, failed to push through many of the most unpopular reforms in the face of widespread political opposition, including from the country's powerful labor unions and the general public. In April 2010, a leading credit agency assigned Greek debt its lowest possible credit rating, and in May 2010, the IMF and euro-zone governments provided Greece emergency short- and medium-term loans worth $147 billion so that the country could make debt repayments to creditors. Greece, however, struggled to meet the targets set by the EU and the IMF, especially after Eurostat - the EU's statistical office - revised upward Greece's deficit and debt numbers for 2009 and 2010. European leaders and the IMF agreed in October 2011 to provide Athens a second bailout package of $169 billion. The second deal called for holders of Greek government bonds to write down a significant portion of their holdings to try to alleviate Greece’s government debt burden. However, Greek banks, saddled with a significant portion of sovereign debt, were adversely affected by the write down and $60 billion of the second bailout package was set aside to ensure the banking system was adequately capitalized. In 2014, the Greek economy began to turn the corner on the recession. Greece achieved three significant milestones: balancing the budget - not including debt repayments; issuing government debt in financial markets for the first time since 2010; and generating 0.7% GDP growth — the first economic expansion since 2007. Despite the nascent recovery, widespread discontent with austerity measures helped propel the far-left Coalition of the Radical Left (SYRIZA) party into government in national legislative elections in January 2015. Between January and July 2015, frustrations grew between the SYRIZA-led government and Greece’s EU and IMF creditors over the implementation of bailout measures and disbursement of funds. The Greek government began running up significant arrears to suppliers, while Greek banks relied on emergency lending, and Greece’s future in the euro zone was called into question. To stave off a collapse of the banking system, Greece imposed capital controls in June 2015, then became the first developed nation to miss a loan payment to the IMF, rattling international financial markets. Unable to reach an agreement with creditors, Prime Minister Alexios TSIPRAS held a nationwide referendum on 5 July on whether to accept the terms of Greece’s bailout, campaigning for the ultimately successful "no" vote. The TSIPRAS government subsequently agreed, however, to a new $96 billion bailout in order to avert Greece’s exit from the monetary bloc. On 20 August 2015, Greece signed its third bailout, allowing it to cover significant debt payments to its EU and IMF creditors and to ensure the banking sector retained access to emergency liquidity. The TSIPRAS government — which retook office on 20 September 2015 after calling new elections in late August — successfully secured disbursal of two delayed tranches of bailout funds. Despite the economic turmoil, Greek GDP did not contract as sharply as feared, boosted in part by a strong tourist season. In 2017, Greece saw improvements in GDP and unemployment. Unfinished economic reforms, a massive non-performing loan problem, and ongoing uncertainty regarding the political direction of the country hold the economy back. Some estimates put Greece’s black market at 20- to 25% of GDP, as more people have stopped reporting their income to avoid paying taxes that, in some cases, have risen to 70% of an individual’s gross income.Greece has a capitalist economy with a public sector accounting for about 40% of GDP and with per capita GDP about two-thirds that of the leading euro-zone economies. Tourism provides 18% of GDP. Immigrants make up nearly one-fifth of the work force, mainly in agricultural and unskilled jobs. Greece is a major beneficiary of EU aid, equal to about 3.3% of annual GDP. The Greek economy averaged growth of about 4% per year between 2003 and 2007, but the economy went into recession in 2009 as a result of the world financial crisis, tightening credit conditions, and Athens' failure to address a growing budget deficit. By 2013, the economy had contracted 26%, compared with the pre-crisis level of 2007. Greece met the EU's Growth and Stability Pact budget deficit criterion of no more than 3% of GDP in 2007-08, but violated it in 2009, when the deficit reached 15% of GDP. Deteriorating public finances, inaccurate and misreported statistics, and consistent underperformance on reforms prompted major credit rating agencies to downgrade Greece's international debt rating in late 2009 and led the country into a financial crisis. Under intense pressure from the EU and international market participants, the government accepted a bailout program that called on Athens to cut government spending, decrease tax evasion, overhaul the civil-service, health-care, and pension systems, and reform the labor and product markets. Austerity measures reduced the deficit to 1.3% in 2017. Successive Greek governments, however, failed to push through many of the most unpopular reforms in the face of widespread political opposition, including from the country's powerful labor unions and the general public. In April 2010, a leading credit agency assigned Greek debt its lowest possible credit rating, and in May 2010, the IMF and euro-zone governments provided Greece emergency short- and medium-term loans worth $147 billion so that the country could make debt repayments to creditors. Greece, however, struggled to meet the targets set by the EU and the IMF, especially after Eurostat - the EU's statistical office - revised upward Greece's deficit and debt numbers for 2009 and 2010. European leaders and the IMF agreed in October 2011 to provide Athens a second bailout package of $169 billion. The second deal called for holders of Greek government bonds to write down a significant portion of their holdings to try to alleviate Greece’s government debt burden. However, Greek banks, saddled with a significant portion of sovereign debt, were adversely affected by the write down and $60 billion of the second bailout package was set aside to ensure the banking system was adequately capitalized. In 2014, the Greek economy began to turn the corner on the recession. Greece achieved three significant milestones: balancing the budget - not including debt repayments; issuing government debt in financial markets for the first time since 2010; and generating 0.7% GDP growth — the first economic expansion since 2007. Despite the nascent recovery, widespread discontent with austerity measures helped propel the far-left Coalition of the Radical Left (SYRIZA) party into government in national legislative elections in January 2015. Between January and July 2015, frustrations grew between the SYRIZA-led government and Greece’s EU and IMF creditors over the implementation of bailout measures and disbursement of funds. The Greek government began running up significant arrears to suppliers, while Greek banks relied on emergency lending, and Greece’s future in the euro zone was called into question. To stave off a collapse of the banking system, Greece imposed capital controls in June 2015, then became the first developed nation to miss a loan payment to the IMF, rattling international financial markets. Unable to reach an agreement with creditors, Prime Minister Alexios TSIPRAS held a nationwide referendum on 5 July on whether to accept the terms of Greece’s bailout, campaigning for the ultimately successful "no" vote. The TSIPRAS government subsequently agreed, however, to a new $96 billion bailout in order to avert Greece’s exit from the monetary bloc. On 20 August 2015, Greece signed its third bailout, allowing it to cover significant debt payments to its EU and IMF creditors and to ensure the banking sector retained access to emergency liquidity. The TSIPRAS government — which retook office on 20 September 2015 after calling new elections in late August — successfully secured disbursal of two delayed tranches of bailout funds. Despite the economic turmoil, Greek GDP did not contract as sharply as feared, boosted in part by a strong tourist season. In 2017, Greece saw improvements in GDP and unemployment. Unfinished economic reforms, a massive non-performing loan problem, and ongoing uncertainty regarding the political direction of the country hold the economy back. Some estimates put Greece’s black market at 20- to 25% of GDP, as more people have stopped reporting their income to avoid paying taxes that, in some cases, have risen to 70% of an individual’s gross income.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $292.4 billion (2020 est.)
$318.68 billion (2019 est.)
$312.87 billion (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 1.87% (2019 est.)
1.91% (2018 est.)
1.44% (2017 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $27,300 (2020 est.)
$29,700 (2019 est.)
$29,200 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $209.79 billion (2019 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 0.2% (2019 est.)
0.6% (2018 est.)
1.1% (2017 est.)
Credit ratings: Fitch rating: BB (2020)
Moody's rating: Ba3 (2020)
Standard & Poors rating: BB- (2019)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 4.1% (2017 est.)
industry: 16.9% (2017 est.)
services: 79.1% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 69.6% (2017 est.)
government consumption: 20.1% (2017 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 12.5% (2017 est.)
investment in inventories: -1% (2017 est.)
exports of goods and services: 33.4% (2017 est.)
imports of goods and services: -34.7% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: maize, olives, wheat, milk, peaches/nectarines, oranges, tomatoes, grapes, milk, potatoes
Industries: tourism, food and tobacco processing, textiles, chemicals, metal products; mining, petroleum
Industrial production growth rate: 3.5% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 4 million (2020 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 12.6%
industry: 15%
services: 72.4% (30 October 2015 est.)
Unemployment rate: 17.3% (2019 est.)
19.34% (2018 est.)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 35%
male: 31.4%
female: 39.3% (2020 est.)
Population below poverty line: 17.9% (2018 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 34.4 (2017 est.)
35.7 (2011)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: 1.7%
highest 10%: 26.7% (2015 est.)
Budget: revenues: 97.99 billion (2017 est.)
expenditures: 96.35 billion (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): 0.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 181.8% of GDP (2017 est.)
183.5% of GDP (2016 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 48.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: calendar year
Current account balance: -$3.114 billion (2019 est.)
-$6.245 billion (2018 est.)
Exports: $59.02 billion (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$81.18 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$81.87 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Exports - partners: Italy 10%, Germany 7%, Turkey 5%, Cyprus 5%, Bulgaria 5% (2019)
Exports - commodities: refined petroleum, packaged medicines, aluminum plating, computers, cotton (2019)
Imports: $71.76 billion (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$83.19 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$85.8 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Imports - partners: Germany 11%, China 9%, Italy 8%, Iraq 7%, Russia 6%, Netherlands 5% (2019)
Imports - commodities: crude petroleum, refined petroleum, packaged medicines, cars, ships (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $7.807 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
$6.026 billion (31 December 2015 est.)
Debt - external: $484.888 billion (2019 est.)
$478.646 billion (2018 est.)
Exchange rates: euros (EUR) per US dollar -
0.82771 (2020 est.)
0.90338 (2019 est.)
0.87789 (2018 est.)
0.885 (2014 est.)
0.7634 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Electricity - production: 52.05 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 56.89 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 1.037 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - imports: 9.833 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 19.17 million kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 57% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 14% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 29% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 4,100 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 3,229 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 484,300 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 10 million bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 655,400 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 304,100 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 371,900 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 192,200 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Natural gas - production: 8 million cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 4.927 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 4.984 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 991.1 million cu m (1 January 2018 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 5,028,332 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 48 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 11,412,995 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 109 (2020 est.)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: telecom market is susceptible to country’s volatile economy, but renewed confidence has been renewed through foreign and European Commission investment; increasing urban population with well-developed mobile market; growing adoption of IoT technology; steady development of broadband; investment in LTE and launch of 5G; government project for ultra-fast broadband, largely funded by European Commission with focus on underserved areas (2020)
domestic: microwave radio relay trunk system; extensive open-wire connections; submarine cable to offshore islands; nearly 46 per 100 subscribers for fixed-line and 110 per 100 for mobile-cellular (2020)
international: country code - 30; landing points for the SEA-ME-WE-3, Adria-1, Italy-Greece 1, OTEGLOBE, MedNautilus Submarine System, Aphrodite 2, AAE-1 and Silphium optical telecommunications submarine cable that provides links to Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Southeast Asia, Asia and Australia; tropospheric scatter; satellite earth stations - 4 (2 Intelsat - 1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean, 1 Eutelsat, and 1 Inmarsat - Indian Ocean region) (2019)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: broadcast media dominated by the private sector; roughly 150 private TV channels, about 10 of which broadcast nationwide; 1 government-owned terrestrial TV channel with national coverage; 3 privately owned satellite channels; multi-channel satellite and cable TV services available; upwards of 1,500 radio stations, all of them privately owned; government-owned broadcaster has 2 national radio stations
Internet country code: .gr
Internet users: total: 8,346,434 (2020 est.)
percent of population: 78% (2020 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 4,257,026 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 41 (2020 est.)
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 11 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 97
annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 15,125,933 (2018)
annual freight traffic on registered air carriers: 21.91 million (2018) mt-km
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: SX
Airports: total: 77 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 68
over 3,047 m: 6
2,438 to 3,047 m: 15
1,524 to 2,437 m: 19
914 to 1,523 m: 18
under 914 m: 10 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 9
914 to 1,523 m: 2
under 914 m: 7 (2021)
Heliports: 9 (2021)
Pipelines: 1466 km gas, 94 km oil (2013)
Railways: total: 2,548 km (2014)
standard gauge: 1,565 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge (764 km electrified)
narrow gauge: 961 km (2014) 1.000-m gauge
22 0.750-m gauge
Roadways: total: 117,000 km (2018)
Waterways: 6 km (2012) (the 6-km-long Corinth Canal crosses the Isthmus of Corinth; it shortens a sea voyage by 325 km)
Merchant marine: total: 1,236
by type: bulk carrier 158, container ship 5, general cargo 89, oil tanker 337, other 647 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Aspropyrgos, Pachi, Piraeus, Thessaloniki
oil terminal(s): Agioi Theodoroi
container port(s) (TEUs): Piraeus (5,648,000) (2019)
LNG terminal(s) (import): Revithoussa
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: Hellenic Armed Forces: Hellenic Army (Ellinikos Stratos, ES; includes National Guard reserves), Hellenic Navy (Elliniko Polemiko Navtiko, EPN), Hellenic Air Force (Elliniki Polemiki Aeroporia, EPA; includes air defense); Ministry of Shipping Affairs and Island Policy: Coast Guard (2022)
note - the police (under the Ministry of Citizen Protection) and the armed forces (Ministry of National Defense) share law enforcement duties in certain border areas; border protection is coordinated by a deputy minister for national defense
Military expenditures: 3.6% of GDP (2021 est.)
2.9% of GDP (2020)
2.3% of GDP (2019) (approximately $7.95 billion)
2.5% of GDP (2018) (approximately $8.31 billion)
2.3% of GDP (2017) (approximately $7.56 billion)
Military and security service personnel strengths: approximately 120,000 active duty personnel (85,000 Army; 15,000 Navy; 20,000 Air Force); approximately 35,000 National Guard (2021)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the inventory of the Hellenic Armed Forces consists mostly of a mix of imported weapons from Europe and the US, as well as a limited number of domestically produced systems, particularly naval vessels; Germany is the leading supplier of weapons systems to Greece since 2010; Greece's defense industry is capable of producing a range of military hardware, including naval vessels and associated subsystems (2021)
note - in addition to finalizing an update to the Mutual Defense Cooperation Agreement with the US, Greece also entered into a security agreement with France in 2021 that included the sale of frigates and fighter aircraft to augment its aging weapons systems
Military service age and obligation: 19-45 years of age for compulsory military service; 12-month obligation for all services (note - as an exception, the duration of the full military service is 9 instead of 12 months if conscripts, after the initial training, serve the entire remaining time in certain areas of the eastern borders, in Cyprus, or in certain military units); 18 years of age for volunteers; women are eligible for voluntary military service (2021)
note(s) - approximately 40-50% of the Greek military is comprised of conscripts; as of 2019, women comprised approximately 19% of the full-time military personnel
Military deployments: approximately 1,000 Cyprus; 100 Kosovo (NATO); 150 Lebanon (UNIFIL) (2022)
Military - note: Greece joined NATO in 1952
Topic: Terrorism
Terrorist group(s): Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS); Revolutionary Struggle; Revolutionary People's Liberation Party/Front (DHKP/C)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: Greece and Turkey continue discussions to resolve their complex maritime, air, territorial, and boundary disputes in the Aegean Sea; the mass migration of unemployed Albanians still remains a problem for developed countries, chiefly Greece and ItalyGreece and Turkey continue discussions to resolve their complex maritime, air, territorial, and boundary disputes in the Aegean Sea; the mass migration of unemployed Albanians still remains a problem for developed countries, chiefly Greece and Italy
Refugees and internally displaced persons: refugees (country of origin): 38,496 (Syria), 25,188 (Afghanistan), 12,657 (Iraq), 5,002 (West Bank and Gaza) (mid-year 2021)
stateless persons: 5,552 (mid-year 2021)
note: 1,216,742 estimated refugee and migrant arrivals (January 2015-May 2022); as of the end of February 2022, Greece hosted an estimated 161,419 refugees and asylum seekers
Illicit drugs: a gateway to Europe for traffickers smuggling cannabis products and heroin from the Middle East and Southwest Asia to the West and precursor chemicals to the East; some South American cocaine transits or is consumed in Greece; money laundering related to drug trafficking and organized crime |
20220601 | countries-gaza-strip |
Topic: Photos of Gaza Strip
Topic: Introduction
Background: The Gaza Strip has been under the de facto governing authority of the Islamic Resistance Movement (HAMAS) since 2007, and has faced years of conflict, poverty, and humanitarian crises. Inhabited since at least the 15th century B.C., the Gaza Strip area has been dominated by many different peoples and empires throughout its history; it was incorporated into the Ottoman Empire in the early 16th century. The Gaza Strip fell to British forces during World War I, becoming a part of the British Mandate of Palestine. Following the 1948 Arab-Israeli War, Egypt administered the newly formed Gaza Strip; Israel captured it in the Six-Day War in 1967. Under a series of agreements known as the Oslo accords signed between 1993 and 1999, Israel transferred to the newly-created Palestinian Authority (PA) security and civilian responsibility for many Palestinian-populated areas of the Gaza Strip as well as the West Bank. In 2000, a violent intifada or uprising began, and in 2001 negotiations to determine the permanent status of the West bank and Gaza Strip stalled. Subsequent attempts to re-start negotiations have not resulted in progress toward determining final status of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Israel in late 2005 unilaterally withdrew all of its settlers and soldiers and dismantled its military facilities in the Gaza Strip, but it continues to control the Gaza Strip’s land and maritime borders and airspace. In early 2006, HAMAS won a majority in the Palestinian Legislative Council election. Fatah, the dominant Palestinian political faction in the West Bank, and HAMAS failed to maintain a unity government, leading to violent clashes between their respective supporters and HAMAS’s violent seizure of all PA military and governmental institutions in the Gaza Strip in June 2007. Since HAMAS’s takeover, Israel and Egypt have enforced tight restrictions on movement and access of goods and individuals into and out of the territory. Fatah and HAMAS have since reached a series of agreements aimed at restoring political unity between the Gaza Strip and the West Bank but have struggled to enact them. Palestinian militants in the Gaza Strip and the Israel Defense Forces periodically exchange projectiles and air strikes, respectively, threatening broader conflict. In May 2021, HAMAS launched rockets at Israel, sparking an 11-day conflict that also involved other Gaza-based militant groups. Egypt, Qatar, and the UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process have negotiated ceasefires to avert a broader conflict. Since 2018, HAMAS has also coordinated demonstrations along the Gaza-Israel security fence. Many of these protests have turned violent, resulting in several Israeli soldiers’ deaths and injuries as well as more than 200 Palestinian deaths and thousands of injuries, most of which occurred during weekly March of Return protests from 2018 to the end of 2019. The Gaza Strip has been under the de facto governing authority of the Islamic Resistance Movement (HAMAS) since 2007, and has faced years of conflict, poverty, and humanitarian crises. Inhabited since at least the 15th century B.C., the Gaza Strip area has been dominated by many different peoples and empires throughout its history; it was incorporated into the Ottoman Empire in the early 16th century. The Gaza Strip fell to British forces during World War I, becoming a part of the British Mandate of Palestine. Following the 1948 Arab-Israeli War, Egypt administered the newly formed Gaza Strip; Israel captured it in the Six-Day War in 1967. Under a series of agreements known as the Oslo accords signed between 1993 and 1999, Israel transferred to the newly-created Palestinian Authority (PA) security and civilian responsibility for many Palestinian-populated areas of the Gaza Strip as well as the West Bank.In 2000, a violent intifada or uprising began, and in 2001 negotiations to determine the permanent status of the West bank and Gaza Strip stalled. Subsequent attempts to re-start negotiations have not resulted in progress toward determining final status of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Israel in late 2005 unilaterally withdrew all of its settlers and soldiers and dismantled its military facilities in the Gaza Strip, but it continues to control the Gaza Strip’s land and maritime borders and airspace. In early 2006, HAMAS won a majority in the Palestinian Legislative Council election. Fatah, the dominant Palestinian political faction in the West Bank, and HAMAS failed to maintain a unity government, leading to violent clashes between their respective supporters and HAMAS’s violent seizure of all PA military and governmental institutions in the Gaza Strip in June 2007. Since HAMAS’s takeover, Israel and Egypt have enforced tight restrictions on movement and access of goods and individuals into and out of the territory. Fatah and HAMAS have since reached a series of agreements aimed at restoring political unity between the Gaza Strip and the West Bank but have struggled to enact them.Palestinian militants in the Gaza Strip and the Israel Defense Forces periodically exchange projectiles and air strikes, respectively, threatening broader conflict. In May 2021, HAMAS launched rockets at Israel, sparking an 11-day conflict that also involved other Gaza-based militant groups. Egypt, Qatar, and the UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process have negotiated ceasefires to avert a broader conflict. Since 2018, HAMAS has also coordinated demonstrations along the Gaza-Israel security fence. Many of these protests have turned violent, resulting in several Israeli soldiers’ deaths and injuries as well as more than 200 Palestinian deaths and thousands of injuries, most of which occurred during weekly March of Return protests from 2018 to the end of 2019. Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Middle East, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Egypt and Israel
Geographic coordinates: 31 25 N, 34 20 E
Map references: Middle East
Area: total: 360 sq km
land: 360 sq km
water: 0 sq km
Area - comparative: slightly more than twice the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries: total: 72 km
border countries (2): Egypt 13 km; Israel 59 km
Coastline: 40 km
Maritime claims: see entry for Israel note: effective 3 January 2009, the Gaza maritime area is closed to all maritime traffic and is under blockade imposed by Israeli Navy until further noticenote: effective 3 January 2009, the Gaza maritime area is closed to all maritime traffic and is under blockade imposed by Israeli Navy until further notice
Climate: temperate, mild winters, dry and warm to hot summers
Terrain: flat to rolling, sand- and dune-covered coastal plain
Elevation: highest point: Abu 'Awdah (Joz Abu 'Awdah) 105 m
lowest point: Mediterranean Sea 0 m
Natural resources: arable land, natural gas
Irrigated land: (2012) 240 sq km; note - includes the West Bank
Population distribution: population concentrated in major cities, particularly Gaza City in the north
Natural hazards: droughts
Geography - note: once a strategic strip of land along Mideast-North African trade routes that has experienced an incredibly turbulent history; the town of Gaza itself has been besieged countless times in its history; Israel evacuated its civilian settlements and soldiers from the Gaza Strip in 2005
Map description: Gaza Strip showing major populated areas as well as parts of surrounding countries and the Mediterranean Sea.Gaza Strip showing major populated areas as well as parts of surrounding countries and the Mediterranean Sea.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 1,997,328 (2022 est.)
Nationality: noun: NA
adjective: NA
Ethnic groups: Palestinian Arab
Languages: Arabic, Hebrew (spoken by many Palestinians), English (widely understood)
major-language sample(s):
كتاب حقائق العالم، المصدر الذي لا يمكن الاستغناء عنه للمعلومات الأساسية (Arabic)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Religions: Muslim 98.0 - 99.0% (predominantly Sunni), Christian <1.0%, other, unaffiliated, unspecified <1.0% (2012 est.)
note: Israel dismantled its settlements in September 2005; Gaza has had no Jewish population since then
Age structure: 0-14 years: 42.53% (male 418,751/female 397,013)
15-24 years: 21.67% (male 210,240/female 205,385)
25-54 years: 29.47% (male 275,976/female 289,277)
55-64 years: 3.66% (male 36,409/female 33,731)
65 years and over: 2.68% (2020 est.) (male 27,248/female 24,191)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 71.2
youth dependency ratio: 65.7
elderly dependency ratio: 5.5
potential support ratio: 18.2 (2020 est.)
note: data represent Gaza Strip and the West Bank
Median age: total: 18 years
male: 17.7 years
female: 18.4 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 2.02% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 27.67 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 2.91 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: -4.55 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: population concentrated in major cities, particularly Gaza City in the north
Urbanization: urban population: 77.3% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 2.85% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
note: data represent Gaza Strip and the West Bank
Major urban areas - population: 756,000 Gaza (2022)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.05 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.03 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 0.94 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 1.07 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.94 male(s)/female
total population: 1.02 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Maternal mortality ratio: 27 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
note: data represent Gaza Strip and the West Bank
Infant mortality rate: total: 15.23 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 16.4 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 13.99 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 75.4 years
male: 73.65 years
female: 77.25 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 3.44 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: 57.3% (2019/20)
note: includes Gaza Strip and West Bank
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 98.9% of population
rural: 99% of population
total: 98.9% of population
unimproved: urban: 1.1% of population
rural: 1% of population
total: 1.1% of population (2020 est.)
note: includes Gaza Strip and the West Bank
Current Health Expenditure: NA
Physicians density: 2.77 physicians/1,000 population (2018)
Hospital bed density: 1.3 beds/1,000 population (2019)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 99.9% of population
rural: 98.6% of population
total: 99.6% of population
unimproved: urban: 0.1% of population
rural: 1.4% of population
total: 0.4% of population (2020 est.)
note: note includes Gaza Strip and the West Bank
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: NA
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: NA
HIV/AIDS - deaths: NA
Major infectious diseases: note: on 21 March 2022, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Travel Alert for polio in Asia; the Gaza Strip is currently considered a high risk to travelers for polio; the CDC recommends that before any international travel, anyone unvaccinated, incompletely vaccinated, or with an unknown polio vaccination status should complete the routine polio vaccine series; before travel to any high-risk destination, CDC recommends that adults who previously completed the full, routine polio vaccine series receive a single, lifetime booster dose of polio vaccinenote: on 21 March 2022, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Travel Alert for polio in Asia; the Gaza Strip is currently considered a high risk to travelers for polio; the CDC recommends that before any international travel, anyone unvaccinated, incompletely vaccinated, or with an unknown polio vaccination status should complete the routine polio vaccine series; before travel to any high-risk destination, CDC recommends that adults who previously completed the full, routine polio vaccine series receive a single, lifetime booster dose of polio vaccine
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: 2.1% (2019/20)
note: estimate is for Gaza Strip and the West Bank
Child marriage: women married by age 15: 0.7% (2020) Includes both the Gaza Strip and the West Bank
women married by age 18: 13.4% (2020 est.) Includes both the Gaza Strip and the West Bank
Education expenditures: 5.3% of GDP (2018)
note: includes Gaza Strip and the West Bank
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 97.5%
male: 98.8%
female: 96.2% (2020)
note: estimates are for Gaza Strip and the West Bank
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 13 years
male: 12 years
female: 14 years (2020)
note: data represent Gaza Strip and the West Bank
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 42.1%
male: 36.6%
female: 70% (2020 est.)
note: includes the West Bank
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: soil degradation; desertification; water pollution from chemicals and pesticides; salination of fresh water; improper sewage treatment; water-borne disease; depletion and contamination of underground water resources
Air pollutants: carbon dioxide emissions: 3.23 megatons (2016 est.)
note: data represent combined total from the Gaza Strip and the West Bank.
Climate: temperate, mild winters, dry and warm to hot summers
Urbanization: urban population: 77.3% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 2.85% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
note: data represent Gaza Strip and the West Bank
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 0% of GDP (2018 est.)
Major infectious diseases: note: on 21 March 2022, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Travel Alert for polio in Asia; the Gaza Strip is currently considered a high risk to travelers for polio; the CDC recommends that before any international travel, anyone unvaccinated, incompletely vaccinated, or with an unknown polio vaccination status should complete the routine polio vaccine series; before travel to any high-risk destination, CDC recommends that adults who previously completed the full, routine polio vaccine series receive a single, lifetime booster dose of polio vaccinenote: on 21 March 2022, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Travel Alert for polio in Asia; the Gaza Strip is currently considered a high risk to travelers for polio; the CDC recommends that before any international travel, anyone unvaccinated, incompletely vaccinated, or with an unknown polio vaccination status should complete the routine polio vaccine series; before travel to any high-risk destination, CDC recommends that adults who previously completed the full, routine polio vaccine series receive a single, lifetime booster dose of polio vaccine
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 1.387 million tons (2016 est.)
municipal solid waste recycled annually: 6,935 tons (2013 est.)
percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 0.5% (2013 est.)
note: data represent combined total from the Gaza Strip and the West Bank.
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 181.2 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 32 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 162 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
note: data represent combined total from the Gaza Strip and the West Bank.
Total renewable water resources: 837 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
note: data represent combined total from the Gaza Strip and the West Bank.
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: none
conventional short form: Gaza Strip
local long form: none
local short form: Qita' Ghazzah
etymology: named for the largest city in the enclave, Gaza, whose settlement can be traced back to at least the 15th century B.C. (as "Ghazzat")
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Movement and access restrictions, violent attacks, and the slow pace of post-conflict reconstruction continue to degrade economic conditions in the Gaza Strip, the smaller of the two areas comprising the Palestinian territories. Israeli controls became more restrictive after HAMAS seized control of the territory in June 2007. Under Hamas control, Gaza has suffered from rising unemployment, elevated poverty rates, and a sharp contraction of the private sector, which had relied primarily on export markets.Since April 2017, the Palestinian Authority has reduced payments for electricity supplied to Gaza and cut salaries for its employees there, exacerbating poor economic conditions. Since 2014, Egypt’s crackdown on the Gaza Strip’s extensive tunnel-based smuggling network has exacerbated fuel, construction material, and consumer goods shortages in the territory. Donor support for reconstruction following the 51-day conflict in 2014 between Israel and HAMAS and other Gaza-based militant groups has fallen short of post-conflict needs.Movement and access restrictions, violent attacks, and the slow pace of post-conflict reconstruction continue to degrade economic conditions in the Gaza Strip, the smaller of the two areas comprising the Palestinian territories. Israeli controls became more restrictive after HAMAS seized control of the territory in June 2007. Under Hamas control, Gaza has suffered from rising unemployment, elevated poverty rates, and a sharp contraction of the private sector, which had relied primarily on export markets.Since April 2017, the Palestinian Authority has reduced payments for electricity supplied to Gaza and cut salaries for its employees there, exacerbating poor economic conditions. Since 2014, Egypt’s crackdown on the Gaza Strip’s extensive tunnel-based smuggling network has exacerbated fuel, construction material, and consumer goods shortages in the territory. Donor support for reconstruction following the 51-day conflict in 2014 between Israel and HAMAS and other Gaza-based militant groups has fallen short of post-conflict needs.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): see entry for the West Banksee entry for the West Bank
Real GDP growth rate: -15.2% (2014 est.)
5.6% (2013 est.)
7% (2012 est.)
note: excludes the West Bank
Real GDP per capita: $6,220 (2019 est.)
$6,318 (2018 est.)
$6,402 (2017 est.)
see entry for the the West Bank
GDP (official exchange rate): $2.938 billion (2014 est.)
note: excludes the West Bank
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 0.2% (2017 est.)
-0.2% (2016 est.)
note: excludes the West Bank
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 3% (2017 est.)
industry: 21.1% (2017 est.)
services: 75% (2017 est.)
note: data exclude the West Bank
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 88.6% (2017 est.)
government consumption: 26.3% (2017 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 22.4% (2017 est.)
investment in inventories: 0% (2017 est.)
exports of goods and services: 18.6% (2017 est.)
imports of goods and services: -55.6% (2017 est.)
note: data exclude the West Bank
Agricultural products: tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, poultry, milk, potatoes, sheep milk, eggplants, gourds
Industries: textiles, food processing, furniture
Industrial production growth rate: 2.2% (2017 est.)
note: see entry for the West Bank
Labor force: 1.24 million (2017 est.)
note: excludes the West Bank
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 5.2%
industry: 10%
services: 84.8% (2015 est.)
note: data exclude the West Bank
Unemployment rate: 27.9% (2017 est.)
27% (2016 est.)
note: data exclude the West Bank
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 42.1%
male: 36.6%
female: 70% (2020 est.)
note: includes the West Bank
Population below poverty line: 30% (2011 est.)
note: data exclude the West Bank
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 33.7 (2016 est.)
Budget: see entry for the West Bank
Fiscal year: calendar year
Current account balance: -$1.444 billion (2017 est.)
-$1.348 billion (2016 est.)
note: excludes the West Bank
Exports: $1.955 billion (2017 est.)
$1.827 billion (2016 est.)
Exports - commodities: strawberries, carnations, vegetables, fish (small and irregular shipments, as permitted to transit the Israeli-controlled Kerem Shalom crossing)
Imports: $8.59 billion (2018 est.)
$7.852 billion (2017 est.)
see entry for the West Bank
Imports - commodities: food, consumer goods, fuel
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $446.3 million (31 December 2017 est.)
$583 million (31 December 2015 est.)
Debt - external: see entry for the West Banksee entry for the West Bank
Exchange rates: see entry for the West Banksee entry for the West Bank
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 100% (2018)
note: data for Gaza Strip and West Bank combined
Electricity - production: 51,000 kWh (2011 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 202,000 kWh (2009 est.)
Electricity - exports: 0 kWh (2011 est.)
Electricity - imports: 193,000 kWh (2011 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 0 bbl (1 January 2010 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 466,283 (2020 est.) includes the West Bank
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 9 (2020 est.) includes the West Bank
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 4,274,119 (2020 est.) includes the West Bank
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 84 (2020 est.) includes the West Bank
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: Israel has final say in allocating frequencies in the Gaza Strip and does not permit anything beyond a 2G network (2018)
domestic: Israeli company BEZEK and the Palestinian company PALTEL are responsible for fixed-line services; the Palestinian JAWWAL company provides cellular services; a slow 2G network allows calls and limited data transmission; fixed-line 9 per 100 and mobile-cellular 76 per 100 (includes West Bank)
international: country code 970 or 972 (2018)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: 1 TV station and about 10 radio stations; satellite TV accessible
Internet country code: .psnote - same as the West Bank
Internet users: total: 3,602,452 (2020 est.) (includes the West Bank)
percent of population: 75% (2020 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 376,911 (2020 est.) includes the West Bank
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 7 (2020 est.) includes the West Bank
note: includes West Bank
Topic: Transportation
Airports: total: 1 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 1
under 914 m: 1 (2021)
note - non-operational
Heliports: 1 (2021)
Roadways: note: see entry for the West Banknote: see entry for the West Bank
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Gaza
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: HAMAS does not have a conventional military in the Gaza Strip but maintains security forces in addition to its military wing, the 'Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades; the military wing reports to the HAMAS Political Bureau; there are several other militant groups operating in the Gaza Strip, most notably the Al-Quds Brigades of Palestine Islamic Jihad, which are usually but not always beholden to HAMAS's authority (2021)
Military expenditures: not available
Military and security service personnel strengths: the military wing of HAMAS has an estimated 20-25,000 fighters (2021)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the military wing of HAMAS is armed with light weapons, including an inventory of improvised rocket, anti-tank missile, and mortar capabilities; HAMAS acquires its weapons through smuggling or local construction and receives some military support from Iran (2021)
Military - note: since seizing control of the Gaza Strip in 2007, HAMAS has claimed responsibility for numerous rocket attacks into Israel and organized protests at the border between Gaza and Israel, resulting in violent clashes, casualties, and reprisal military actions by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF); HAMAS and Israel fought an 11-day conflict in May of 2021, which ended in an informal truce; sporadic clashes continued through 2021, including incendiary balloon attacks from Gaza and retaliatory IDF strikes; Palestine Islamic Jihad (PIJ) has conducted numerous attacks on Israel since the 1980s, including a barrage of mortar and rocket strikes in 2020, also prompting IDF counter-strikes; see Appendix-T for more details on HAMAS and PIJsince seizing control of the Gaza Strip in 2007, HAMAS has claimed responsibility for numerous rocket attacks into Israel and organized protests at the border between Gaza and Israel, resulting in violent clashes, casualties, and reprisal military actions by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF); HAMAS and Israel fought an 11-day conflict in May of 2021, which ended in an informal truce; sporadic clashes continued through 2021, including incendiary balloon attacks from Gaza and retaliatory IDF strikes; Palestine Islamic Jihad (PIJ) has conducted numerous attacks on Israel since the 1980s, including a barrage of mortar and rocket strikes in 2020, also prompting IDF counter-strikes; see Appendix-T for more details on HAMAS and PIJ
Topic: Terrorism
Terrorist group(s): Army of Islam; Abdallah Azzam Brigades; al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigade; HAMAS; Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps/Qods Force; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS)-Sinai Province; Mujahidin Shura Council in the Environs of Jerusalem; Palestine Islamic Jihad; Palestine Liberation Front; PFLP-General Command; Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: according to the Oslo Accords, the status of the Gaza Strip is a final status issue to be resolved through negotiations; Israel removed settlers and military personnel from Gaza Strip in September 2005according to the Oslo Accords, the status of the Gaza Strip is a final status issue to be resolved through negotiations; Israel removed settlers and military personnel from Gaza Strip in September 2005
Refugees and internally displaced persons: refugees (country of origin): 1,476,706 (Palestinian refugees) (2020)
IDPs: 131,000 (includes persons displaced within the Gaza Strip due to the intensification of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict since June 2014 and other Palestinian IDPs in the Gaza Strip and West Bank who fled as long ago as 1967, although confirmed cumulative data do not go back beyond 2006) (2020)
data represent Gaza Strip and West Bank |
20220601 | countries-coral-sea-islands |
Topic: Photos of Coral Sea Islands
Topic: Introduction
Background: The widely scattered islands were first charted in 1803, but they were too small to host any permanent human habitation. The 1870s and 1880s, saw attempts at guano mining, but these were soon abandoned. The islands became an Australian territory in 1969 and its boundaries were extended in 1997. A small meteorological staff has operated on the Willis Islets since 1921, and several other islands host unmanned weather stations, beacons, and lighthouses. Much of the territory lies within marine national nature reserves. The widely scattered islands were first charted in 1803, but they were too small to host any permanent human habitation. The 1870s and 1880s, saw attempts at guano mining, but these were soon abandoned. The islands became an Australian territory in 1969 and its boundaries were extended in 1997. A small meteorological staff has operated on the Willis Islets since 1921, and several other islands host unmanned weather stations, beacons, and lighthouses. Much of the territory lies within marine national nature reserves. Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Oceania, islands in the Coral Sea, northeast of Australia
Geographic coordinates: 18 00 S, 152 00 E
Map references: Oceania
Area: total: 3 sq km less than
land: 3 sq km less than
water: 0 sq km
note: includes numerous small islands and reefs scattered over a sea area of about 780,000 sq km (300,000 sq mi) with the Willis Islets the most important
Area - comparative: about four times the size of the National Mall in Washington, DC
Land boundaries: total: 0 km
Coastline: 3,095 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 3 nm
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
Climate: tropical
Terrain: sand and coral reefs and islands (cays)
Elevation: highest point: unnamed location on Cato Island 9 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
Natural resources: fish
Land use: agricultural land: 0% (2018 est.)
other: 100% (2018 est.)
Natural hazards: occasional tropical cyclones
Geography - note: important nesting area for birds and turtles
Map description: Coral Sea Islands map showing the Australian territory in the Coral Sea.Coral Sea Islands map showing the Australian territory in the Coral Sea.
Topic: People and Society
Population: (July 2021 est.) no indigenous inhabitants
note: there is a staff of four at the meteorological station on Willis Island
Age structure: 0-14 years: NA
15-24 years: NA
25-54 years: NA
55-64 years: NA
65 years and over: NA
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: NA
youth dependency ratio: NA
elderly dependency ratio: NA
potential support ratio: NA
Birth rate: NA
Death rate: (2021 est.) NA
Contraceptive prevalence rate: NA
Drinking water source: improved: urban: NA
rural: NA
total: NA
unimproved: urban: NA
rural: NA
total: NA
Current Health Expenditure: NA
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: NA
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: NA
HIV/AIDS - deaths: NA
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: NA
Education expenditures: NA
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: no permanent freshwater resources; damaging activities include coral mining, destructive fishing practices (overfishing, blast fishing)
Climate: tropical
Land use: agricultural land: 0% (2018 est.)
other: 100% (2018 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Coral Sea Islands Territory
conventional short form: Coral Sea Islands
etymology: self-descriptive name to reflect the islands' position in the Coral Sea off the northeastern coast of Australia
Dependency status: territory of Australia; administered from Canberra by the Department of Regional Australia, Local Government, Arts and Sport
Legal system: the common law legal system of Australia applies where applicable
Citizenship: see Australia
Diplomatic representation in the US: none (territory of Australia)
Diplomatic representation from the US: embassy: none (territory of Australia)
Flag description: the flag of Australia is used
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: no economic activity
Topic: Communications
Communications - note: automatic weather stations on many of the isles and reefs relay data to the mainland
Topic: Transportation
Ports and terminals: none; offshore anchorage only
Topic: Military and Security
Military - note: defense is the responsibility of Australia
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: nonenone |
20220601 | countries-rwanda |
Topic: Photos of Rwanda
Topic: Introduction
Background: Rwanda - a small and centralized country dominated by rugged hills and fertile volcanic soil - has exerted disproportionate influence over the African Great Lakes region for centuries. A Rwandan kingdom increasingly dominated the region from the mid-18th century onward, with the Tutsi monarchs gradually extending the power of the royal court into peripheral areas and expanding their borders through military conquest. While the current ethnic labels Hutu and Tutsi predate colonial rule, their flexibility and importance have varied significantly over time. The majority Hutu and minority Tutsi have long shared a common language and culture, and intermarriage was not rare. The Rwandan royal court centered on the Tutsi king (mwami), who relied on an extensive hierarchy of political, cultural, and economic relationships that intertwined Rwanda’s ethnic and social groups. Social categories became more rigid during the reign of RWABUGIRI (1860-1895), who focused on aggressive expansion and solidifying Rwanda’s bureaucratic structures. German colonial rule began in 1898, but Belgian forces captured Rwanda in 1916 during World War I. Both European nations quickly realized the benefits of ruling through the already centralized Rwandan kingdom. Colonial rule reinforced existing trends toward autocratic and exclusionary rule, leading to the elimination of traditional positions of authority for Hutus and a calcification of ethnic identities. Belgian administrators significantly increased requirements for communal labor and instituted harsh taxes, increasing frustration and inequality. Changing political attitudes in Belgium contributed to colonial and Catholic officials shifting their support from Tutsi to Hutu leaders in the years leading up to independence. Newly mobilized political parties and simmering resentment of minority rule exploded in 1959, three years before independence from Belgium, when Hutus overthrew the Tutsi king. Thousands of Tutsis were killed over the next several years, and some 150,000 were driven into exile in neighboring countries. Army Chief of Staff Juvenal HABYARIMANA seized power in a coup in 1973 and ruled Rwanda as a single-party state for two decades. HABYARIMANA increasingly discriminated against Tutsi and extremist Hutu factions that gained prominence after multiple parties were introduced in the early 1990s. The children of Tutsi exiles later formed a rebel group, the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) and began a civil war in 1990. The civil war exacerbated ethnic tensions and culminated in the shooting down of HABYARIMANA’s private jet in April 1994. The event sparked a state-orchestrated genocide in which Rwandans killed approximately 800,000 of their fellow citizens, including approximately three-quarters of the Tutsi population. The genocide ended later that same year when the predominantly Tutsi RPF, operating out of Uganda and northern Rwanda, defeated the national army and Hutu militias and established an RPF-led government of national unity. Rwanda held its first local elections in 1999 and its first post-genocide presidential and legislative elections in 2003, formalizing President Paul KAGAME’s de facto role as head of government. KAGAME won reelection in 2010, and again in 2017 after changing the constitution to allow him to run for a third term.Rwanda - a small and centralized country dominated by rugged hills and fertile volcanic soil - has exerted disproportionate influence over the African Great Lakes region for centuries. A Rwandan kingdom increasingly dominated the region from the mid-18th century onward, with the Tutsi monarchs gradually extending the power of the royal court into peripheral areas and expanding their borders through military conquest. While the current ethnic labels Hutu and Tutsi predate colonial rule, their flexibility and importance have varied significantly over time. The majority Hutu and minority Tutsi have long shared a common language and culture, and intermarriage was not rare. The Rwandan royal court centered on the Tutsi king (mwami), who relied on an extensive hierarchy of political, cultural, and economic relationships that intertwined Rwanda’s ethnic and social groups. Social categories became more rigid during the reign of RWABUGIRI (1860-1895), who focused on aggressive expansion and solidifying Rwanda’s bureaucratic structures. German colonial rule began in 1898, but Belgian forces captured Rwanda in 1916 during World War I. Both European nations quickly realized the benefits of ruling through the already centralized Rwandan kingdom. Colonial rule reinforced existing trends toward autocratic and exclusionary rule, leading to the elimination of traditional positions of authority for Hutus and a calcification of ethnic identities. Belgian administrators significantly increased requirements for communal labor and instituted harsh taxes, increasing frustration and inequality. Changing political attitudes in Belgium contributed to colonial and Catholic officials shifting their support from Tutsi to Hutu leaders in the years leading up to independence.Newly mobilized political parties and simmering resentment of minority rule exploded in 1959, three years before independence from Belgium, when Hutus overthrew the Tutsi king. Thousands of Tutsis were killed over the next several years, and some 150,000 were driven into exile in neighboring countries. Army Chief of Staff Juvenal HABYARIMANA seized power in a coup in 1973 and ruled Rwanda as a single-party state for two decades. HABYARIMANA increasingly discriminated against Tutsi and extremist Hutu factions that gained prominence after multiple parties were introduced in the early 1990s. The children of Tutsi exiles later formed a rebel group, the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) and began a civil war in 1990. The civil war exacerbated ethnic tensions and culminated in the shooting down of HABYARIMANA’s private jet in April 1994. The event sparked a state-orchestrated genocide in which Rwandans killed approximately 800,000 of their fellow citizens, including approximately three-quarters of the Tutsi population. The genocide ended later that same year when the predominantly Tutsi RPF, operating out of Uganda and northern Rwanda, defeated the national army and Hutu militias and established an RPF-led government of national unity. Rwanda held its first local elections in 1999 and its first post-genocide presidential and legislative elections in 2003, formalizing President Paul KAGAME’s de facto role as head of government. KAGAME won reelection in 2010, and again in 2017 after changing the constitution to allow him to run for a third term.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Central Africa, east of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, north of Burundi
Geographic coordinates: 2 00 S, 30 00 E
Map references: Africa
Area: total: 26,338 sq km
land: 24,668 sq km
water: 1,670 sq km
Area - comparative: slightly smaller than Maryland
Land boundaries: total: 930 km
border countries (4): Burundi 315 km; Democratic Republic of the Congo 221 km; Tanzania 222 km; Uganda 172 km
Coastline: 0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims: none (landlocked)
Climate: temperate; two rainy seasons (February to April, November to January); mild in mountains with frost and snow possible
Terrain: mostly grassy uplands and hills; relief is mountainous with altitude declining from west to east
Elevation: highest point: Volcan Karisimbi 4,519 m
lowest point: Rusizi River 950 m
mean elevation: 1,598 m
Natural resources: gold, cassiterite (tin ore), wolframite (tungsten ore), methane, hydropower, arable land
Land use: agricultural land: 74.5% (2018 est.)
arable land: 47% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 10.1% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 17.4% (2018 est.)
forest: 18% (2018 est.)
other: 7.5% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 96 sq km (2012)
Major lakes (area sq km): Fresh water lake(s): Lake Kivu (shared with Democratic Republic of Congo) - 2,220 sq km
Major rivers (by length in km): Nile river source (shared with Tanzania, Uganda, South Sudan, Sudan, and Egypt [m]) - 6,650 km
note – [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
Major watersheds (area sq km): Atlantic Ocean drainage: Congo (3,730,881 sq km), (Mediterranean Sea) Nile (3,254,853 sq km)
Population distribution: one of Africa's most densely populated countries; large concentrations tend to be in the central regions and along the shore of Lake Kivu in the west as shown in this population distribution map
Natural hazards: periodic droughts; the volcanic Virunga Mountains are in the northwest along the border with Democratic Republic of the Congovolcanism: Visoke (3,711 m), located on the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is the country's only historically active volcanoperiodic droughts; the volcanic Virunga Mountains are in the northwest along the border with Democratic Republic of the Congovolcanism: Visoke (3,711 m), located on the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is the country's only historically active volcano
Geography - note: landlocked; most of the country is intensively cultivated and rugged with the population predominantly rural
Map description: Rwanda map showing major population centers as well as parts of surrounding countries.Rwanda map showing major population centers as well as parts of surrounding countries.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 13,173,730 (2022 est.)
note: estimates for this country explicitly taken into account the impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic
Nationality: noun: Rwandan(s)
adjective: Rwandan
Ethnic groups: Hutu, Tutsi, Twa (Pygmy)
Languages: Kinyarwanda (official, universal Bantu vernacular) 93.2%, French (official) <0.1, English (official) <0.1, Swahili/Kiswahili (official, used in commercial centers) <0.1, more than one language, other 6.3%, unspecified 0.3% (2002 est.)
major-language sample(s):
Inkoranya nzimbuzi y'isi, isoko fatizo y'amakuru y'ibanze. (Kinyarwanda)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Religions: Protestant 57.7% (includes Adventist 12.6%), Roman Catholic 38.2%, Muslim 2.1%, other 1% (includes traditional, Jehovah's Witness), none 1.1% (2019-20 est.)
Demographic profile: Rwanda’s fertility rate declined sharply during the last decade, as a result of the government’s commitment to family planning, the increased use of contraceptives, and a downward trend in ideal family size. Increases in educational attainment, particularly among girls, and exposure to social media also contributed to the reduction in the birth rate. The average number of births per woman decreased from a 5.6 in 2005 to 4.5 in 2016. Despite these significant strides in reducing fertility, Rwanda’s birth rate remains very high and will continue to for an extended period of time because of its large population entering reproductive age. Because Rwanda is one of the most densely populated countries in Africa, its persistent high population growth and increasingly small agricultural landholdings will put additional strain on families’ ability to raise foodstuffs and access potable water. These conditions will also hinder the government’s efforts to reduce poverty and prevent environmental degradation.The UNHCR recommended that effective 30 June 2013 countries invoke a cessation of refugee status for those Rwandans who fled their homeland between 1959 and 1998, including the 1994 genocide, on the grounds that the conditions that drove them to seek protection abroad no longer exist. The UNHCR’s decision is controversial because many Rwandan refugees still fear persecution if they return home, concerns that are supported by the number of Rwandans granted asylum since 1998 and by the number exempted from the cessation. Rwandan refugees can still seek an exemption or local integration, but host countries are anxious to send the refugees back to Rwanda and are likely to avoid options that enable them to stay. Conversely, Rwanda itself hosts almost 160,000 refugees as of 2017; virtually all of them fleeing conflict in neighboring Burundi and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.Rwanda’s fertility rate declined sharply during the last decade, as a result of the government’s commitment to family planning, the increased use of contraceptives, and a downward trend in ideal family size. Increases in educational attainment, particularly among girls, and exposure to social media also contributed to the reduction in the birth rate. The average number of births per woman decreased from a 5.6 in 2005 to 4.5 in 2016. Despite these significant strides in reducing fertility, Rwanda’s birth rate remains very high and will continue to for an extended period of time because of its large population entering reproductive age. Because Rwanda is one of the most densely populated countries in Africa, its persistent high population growth and increasingly small agricultural landholdings will put additional strain on families’ ability to raise foodstuffs and access potable water. These conditions will also hinder the government’s efforts to reduce poverty and prevent environmental degradation.The UNHCR recommended that effective 30 June 2013 countries invoke a cessation of refugee status for those Rwandans who fled their homeland between 1959 and 1998, including the 1994 genocide, on the grounds that the conditions that drove them to seek protection abroad no longer exist. The UNHCR’s decision is controversial because many Rwandan refugees still fear persecution if they return home, concerns that are supported by the number of Rwandans granted asylum since 1998 and by the number exempted from the cessation. Rwandan refugees can still seek an exemption or local integration, but host countries are anxious to send the refugees back to Rwanda and are likely to avoid options that enable them to stay. Conversely, Rwanda itself hosts almost 160,000 refugees as of 2017; virtually all of them fleeing conflict in neighboring Burundi and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Age structure: 0-14 years: 39.95% (male 2,564,893/female 2,513,993)
15-24 years: 20.1% (male 1,280,948/female 1,273,853)
25-54 years: 33.06% (male 2,001,629/female 2,201,132)
55-64 years: 4.24% (male 241,462/female 298,163)
65 years and over: 2.65% (2020 est.) (male 134,648/female 201,710)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 74.2
youth dependency ratio: 68.8
elderly dependency ratio: 5.4
potential support ratio: 18.4 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 19.7 years
male: 18.9 years
female: 20.4 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 1.74% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 26.44 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 5.86 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: -3.21 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: one of Africa's most densely populated countries; large concentrations tend to be in the central regions and along the shore of Lake Kivu in the west as shown in this population distribution map
Urbanization: urban population: 17.7% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 3.07% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 1.208 million KIGALI (capital) (2022)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.02 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.01 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 0.9 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 0.82 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.54 male(s)/female
total population: 0.96 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth: 22.7 years (2014/15 est.)
note: median age at first birth among women 25-49
Maternal mortality ratio: 248 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 26.39 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 28.9 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 23.81 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 65.85 years
male: 63.89 years
female: 67.86 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 3.33 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: 53.2% (2014/15)
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 92.3% of population
rural: 80.7% of population
total: 82.7% of population
unimproved: urban: 7.7% of population
rural: 19.3% of population
total: 17.3% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 6.4% (2019)
Physicians density: 0.13 physicians/1,000 population (2018)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 89.1% of population
rural: 83.2% of population
total: 84.2% of population
unimproved: urban: 10.9% of population
rural: 16.8% of population
total: 15.8% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: 2.5% (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: 220,000 (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - deaths: 2,500 (2020 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: very high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial diarrhea, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever
vectorborne diseases: malaria and dengue fever
animal contact diseases: rabies
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 5.8% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: 7.7% (2019/20)
Education expenditures: 3.4% of GDP (2020)
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 73.2%
male: 77.6%
female: 69.4% (2018)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 11 years
male: 11 years
female: 11 years (2019)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 20.5%
male: 18.8%
female: 22.4% (2019 est.)
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: deforestation results from uncontrolled cutting of trees for fuel; overgrazing; land degradation; soil erosion; a decline in soil fertility (soil exhaustion); wetland degradation and loss of biodiversity; widespread poaching
Environment - international agreements: party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands
signed, but not ratified: Law of the Sea
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 40.75 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 1.11 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 2.92 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: temperate; two rainy seasons (February to April, November to January); mild in mountains with frost and snow possible
Land use: agricultural land: 74.5% (2018 est.)
arable land: 47% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 10.1% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 17.4% (2018 est.)
forest: 18% (2018 est.)
other: 7.5% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 17.7% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 3.07% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 3.75% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0% of GDP (2018 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: very high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial diarrhea, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever
vectorborne diseases: malaria and dengue fever
animal contact diseases: rabies
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 4,384,969 tons (2016 est.)
Major lakes (area sq km): Fresh water lake(s): Lake Kivu (shared with Democratic Republic of Congo) - 2,220 sq km
Major rivers (by length in km): Nile river source (shared with Tanzania, Uganda, South Sudan, Sudan, and Egypt [m]) - 6,650 km
note – [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
Major watersheds (area sq km): Atlantic Ocean drainage: Congo (3,730,881 sq km), (Mediterranean Sea) Nile (3,254,853 sq km)
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 61.4 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 20.5 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 102 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 13.3 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Republic of Rwanda
conventional short form: Rwanda
local long form: Republika y'u Rwanda
local short form: Rwanda
former: Ruanda, German East Africa
etymology: the name translates as "domain" in the native Kinyarwanda language
Government type: presidential republic
Capital: name: Kigali
geographic coordinates: 1 57 S, 30 03 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the city takes its name from nearby Mount Kigali; the name "Kigali" is composed of the Bantu prefix "ki" and the Rwandan "gali" meaning "broad" and likely refers to the broad, sprawling hill that has been dignified with the title of "mount"
Administrative divisions: 4 provinces (in French - provinces, singular - province; in Kinyarwanda - intara for singular and plural) and 1 city* (in French - ville; in Kinyarwanda - umujyi); Est (Eastern), Kigali*, Nord (Northern), Ouest (Western), Sud (Southern)
Independence: 1 July 1962 (from Belgium-administered UN trusteeship)
National holiday: Independence Day, 1 July (1962)
Constitution: history: several previous; latest adopted by referendum 26 May 2003, effective 4 June 2003
amendments: proposed by the president of the republic (with Council of Ministers approval) or by two-thirds majority vote of both houses of Parliament; passage requires at least three-quarters majority vote in both houses; changes to constitutional articles on national sovereignty, the presidential term, the form and system of government, and political pluralism also require approval in a referendum; amended several times, last in 2015
Legal system: mixed legal system of civil law, based on German and Belgian models, and customary law; judicial review of legislative acts in the Supreme Court
International law organization participation: has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; non-party state to the ICCt
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: no
citizenship by descent only: the father must be a citizen of Rwanda; if the father is stateless or unknown, the mother must be a citizen
dual citizenship recognized: no
residency requirement for naturalization: 10 years
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: President Paul KAGAME (since 22 April 2000)
head of government: Prime Minister Edouard NGIRENTE (since 30 August 2017)
cabinet: Council of Ministers appointed by the president
elections/appointments: president directly elected by simple majority vote for a 5-year term (eligible for a second term); note - a constitutional amendment approved in December 2016 reduced the presidential term from 7 to 5 years but included an exception that allowed President KAGAME to serve another 7-year term in 2017, potentially followed by two additional 5-year terms; election last held on 4 August 2017 (next to be held in August 2024); prime minister appointed by the president
election results: Paul KAGAME reelected president; Paul KAGAME (RPF) 98.8%, Philippe MPAYIMANA (independent) 0.7%, Frank HABINEZA (DGPR)0.5%
Legislative branch: description: bicameral Parliament consists of:
Senate or Senat (26 seats; 12 members indirectly elected by local councils, 8 appointed by the president, 4 appointed by the Political Organizations Forum - a body of registered political parties, and 2 selected by institutions of higher learning; members serve 8-year terms)
Chamber of Deputies or Chambre des Deputes (80 seats; 53 members directly elected by proportional representation vote, 24 women selected by special interest groups, and 3 selected by youth and disability organizations; members serve 5-year terms)
elections:
Senate - last held on 16-18 September 2019 (next to be held in 2027)
Chamber of Deputies - last held on 3 September 2018 (next to be held in September 2023)
election results: Senate - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - NA; composition - men 16, women 10, percent of women 38.5%
Chamber of Deputies - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - Rwandan Patriotic Front Coalition 40, PSD 5, PL 4, other 4 indirectly elected 27; composition - men 26, women 54, percent of women 67.5%; note - total Parliament percent of women 60.4%
Judicial branch: highest courts: Supreme Court (consists of the chief and deputy chief justices and 15 judges; normally organized into 3-judge panels); High Court (consists of the court president, vice president, and a minimum of 24 judges and organized into 5 chambers)
judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court judges nominated by the president after consultation with the Cabinet and the Superior Council of the Judiciary (SCJ), a 27-member body of judges, other judicial officials, and legal professionals) and approved by the Senate; chief and deputy chief justices appointed for 8-year nonrenewable terms; tenure of judges NA; High Court president and vice president appointed by the president of the republic upon approval by the Senate; judges appointed by the Supreme Court chief justice upon approval of the SCJ; judge tenure NA
subordinate courts: High Court of the Republic; commercial courts including the High Commercial Court; intermediate courts; primary courts; and military specialized courts
Political parties and leaders: Democratic Green Party of Rwanda or DGPR [Frank HABINEZA]
Liberal Party or PL [Donatille MUKABALISA]
Party for Progress and Concord or PPC [Dr. Alivera MUKABARAMBA]
Party Imberakuri or PS-Imberakuri [Christine MUKABUNANI]
Rwandan Patriotic Front or RPF [Paul KAGAME]
Rwandan Patriotic Front Coalition (includes RPF, PPC) [Paul KAGAME]
Social Democratic Party or PSD [Vincent BIRUTA]
International organization participation: ACP, AfDB, AU, C, CEPGL, COMESA, EAC, EADB, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, MINUSMA, NAM, OIF, OPCW, PCA, UN, UNAMID, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNISFA, UNMISS, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Mathilde MUKANTABANA (since 18 July 2013)
chancery: 1714 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009
telephone: [1] (202) 232-2882
FAX: [1] (202) 232-4544
email address and website:
info@rwandaembassy.org
https://rwandaembassy.org/
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Peter H. VROOMAN (since 5 April 2018)
embassy: 2657 Avenue de la Gendarmerie (Kaciyiru), P. O. Box 28 Kigali
mailing address: 2210 Kigali Place, Washington DC 20521-2210
telephone: [250] 252 596-400
FAX: [250] 252 580-325
email address and website:
consularkigali@state.gov
https://rw.usembassy.gov/
Flag description: three horizontal bands of sky blue (top, double width), yellow, and green, with a golden sun with 24 rays near the fly end of the blue band; blue represents happiness and peace, yellow economic development and mineral wealth, green hope of prosperity and natural resources; the sun symbolizes unity, as well as enlightenment and transparency from ignorance
National symbol(s): traditional woven basket with peaked lid; national colors: blue, yellow, green
National anthem: name: "Rwanda nziza" (Rwanda, Our Beautiful Country)
lyrics/music: Faustin MURIGO/Jean-Bosco HASHAKAIMANA
note: adopted 2001
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Rwanda is a rural, agrarian country with agriculture accounting for about 63% of export earnings, and with some mineral and agro-processing. Population density is high but, with the exception of the capital Kigali, is not concentrated in large cities – its 12 million people are spread out on a small amount of land (smaller than the state of Maryland). Tourism, minerals, coffee, and tea are Rwanda's main sources of foreign exchange. Despite Rwanda's fertile ecosystem, food production often does not keep pace with demand, requiring food imports. Energy shortages, instability in neighboring states, and lack of adequate transportation linkages to other countries continue to handicap private sector growth. The 1994 genocide decimated Rwanda's fragile economic base, severely impoverished the population, particularly women, and temporarily stalled the country's ability to attract private and external investment. However, Rwanda has made substantial progress in stabilizing and rehabilitating its economy well beyond pre-1994 levels. GDP has rebounded with an average annual growth of 6%-8% since 2003 and inflation has been reduced to single digits. In 2015, 39% of the population lived below the poverty line, according to government statistics, compared to 57% in 2006. The government has embraced an expansionary fiscal policy to reduce poverty by improving education, infrastructure, and foreign and domestic investment. Rwanda consistently ranks well for ease of doing business and transparency. The Rwandan Government is seeking to become a regional leader in information and communication technologies and aims to reach middle-income status by 2020 by leveraging the service industry. In 2012, Rwanda completed the first modern Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Kigali. The SEZ seeks to attract investment in all sectors, but specifically in agribusiness, information and communications, trade and logistics, mining, and construction. In 2016, the government launched an online system to give investors information about public land and its suitability for agricultural development.Rwanda is a rural, agrarian country with agriculture accounting for about 63% of export earnings, and with some mineral and agro-processing. Population density is high but, with the exception of the capital Kigali, is not concentrated in large cities – its 12 million people are spread out on a small amount of land (smaller than the state of Maryland). Tourism, minerals, coffee, and tea are Rwanda's main sources of foreign exchange. Despite Rwanda's fertile ecosystem, food production often does not keep pace with demand, requiring food imports. Energy shortages, instability in neighboring states, and lack of adequate transportation linkages to other countries continue to handicap private sector growth. The 1994 genocide decimated Rwanda's fragile economic base, severely impoverished the population, particularly women, and temporarily stalled the country's ability to attract private and external investment. However, Rwanda has made substantial progress in stabilizing and rehabilitating its economy well beyond pre-1994 levels. GDP has rebounded with an average annual growth of 6%-8% since 2003 and inflation has been reduced to single digits. In 2015, 39% of the population lived below the poverty line, according to government statistics, compared to 57% in 2006. The government has embraced an expansionary fiscal policy to reduce poverty by improving education, infrastructure, and foreign and domestic investment. Rwanda consistently ranks well for ease of doing business and transparency. The Rwandan Government is seeking to become a regional leader in information and communication technologies and aims to reach middle-income status by 2020 by leveraging the service industry. In 2012, Rwanda completed the first modern Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Kigali. The SEZ seeks to attract investment in all sectors, but specifically in agribusiness, information and communications, trade and logistics, mining, and construction. In 2016, the government launched an online system to give investors information about public land and its suitability for agricultural development.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $27.18 billion (2020 est.)
$28.13 billion (2019 est.)
$25.7 billion (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 6.1% (2017 est.)
6% (2016 est.)
8.9% (2015 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $2,100 (2020 est.)
$2,200 (2019 est.)
$2,100 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $9.136 billion (2017 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 3.3% (2019 est.)
-0.3% (2018 est.)
8.4% (2017 est.)
Credit ratings: Fitch rating: B+ (2014)
Moody's rating: B2 (2016)
Standard & Poors rating: B+ (2019)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 30.9% (2017 est.)
industry: 17.6% (2017 est.)
services: 51.5% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 75.9% (2017 est.)
government consumption: 15.2% (2017 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 22.9% (2017 est.)
investment in inventories: 0.5% (2017 est.)
exports of goods and services: 18.2% (2017 est.)
imports of goods and services: -32.8% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: bananas, sweet potatoes, cassava, potatoes, plantains, beans, maize, gourds, milk, taro
Industries: cement, agricultural products, small-scale beverages, soap, furniture, shoes, plastic goods, textiles, cigarettes
Industrial production growth rate: 4.2% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 6.227 million (2017 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 75.3%
industry: 6.7%
services: 18% (2012 est.)
Unemployment rate: 2.7% (2014 est.)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 20.5%
male: 18.8%
female: 22.4% (2019 est.)
Population below poverty line: 38.2% (2016 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 43.7 (2016 est.)
51.3 (2010 est.)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: 2.1%
highest 10%: 43.2% (2011 est.)
Budget: revenues: 1.943 billion (2017 est.)
expenditures: 2.337 billion (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): -4.3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 40.5% of GDP (2017 est.)
37.3% of GDP (2016 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 21.3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: calendar year
Current account balance: -$622 million (2017 est.)
-$1.336 billion (2016 est.)
Exports: $2.25 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$2.04 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Exports - partners: United Arab Emirates 35%, Democratic Republic of the Congo 28%, Uganda 5% (2019)
Exports - commodities: gold, refined petroleum, coffee, tea, tin (2019)
Imports: $3.74 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$3.34 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Imports - partners: China 17%, Kenya 10%, Tanzania 9%, United Arab Emirates 9%, India 7%, Saudi Arabia 5% (2019)
Imports - commodities: refined petroleum, gold, raw sugar, packaged medicines, broadcasting equipment (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $997.6 million (31 December 2017 est.)
$1.104 billion (31 December 2016 est.)
Debt - external: $3.258 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
$2.611 billion (31 December 2016 est.)
Exchange rates: Rwandan francs (RWF) per US dollar -
839.1 (2017 est.)
787.25 (2016 est.)
787.25 (2015 est.)
720.54 (2014 est.)
680.95 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 53% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 76% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 48% (2019)
Electricity - production: 525 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 527.3 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 4 million kWh (2015 est.)
Electricity - imports: 42 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 191,000 kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 42% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 51% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 7% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 0 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 0 bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 6,700 bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 6,628 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 56.63 billion cu m (1 January 2018 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 11,671 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 0 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 9,658,550 (2019)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 76.49 (2019)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: telecom market impacted by energy shortages and instability in neighboring states; government investing in smart city infrastructure; growing economy and foreign aid from South Korea help launch telecom sector, despite widespread poverty; expansion of LTE services; competing operators roll out national fiber optic backbone through connection to submarine cables, ending expensive dependence on satellite; importer of broadcasting equipment from China (2020)
domestic: the capital, Kigali, is connected to provincial centers by microwave radio relay, and recently by cellular telephone service; much of the network depends on wire and HF radiotelephone; fixed-line less than 1 per 100 and mobile-cellular telephone density has increased to nearly 82 telephones per 100 persons (2020)
international: country code - 250; international connections employ microwave radio relay to neighboring countries and satellite communications to more distant countries; satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) in Kigali (includes telex and telefax service); international submarine fiber-optic cables on the African east coast has brought international bandwidth and lessened the dependency on satellites
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: 13 TV stations; 35 radio stations registered, including international broadcasters, government owns most popular TV and radio stations; regional satellite-based TV services available
Internet country code: .rw
Internet users: total: 3,497,096 (2020 est.)
percent of population: 27% (2020 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 17,685 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 0.14 (2020 est.) less than 1
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 1 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 12
annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 1,073,528 (2018)
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: 9XR
Airports: total: 7 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 4
over 3,047 m: 1
914 to 1,523 m: 2
under 914 m: 1 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 3
914 to 1,523 m: 2
under 914 m: 1 (2021)
Roadways: total: 4,700 km (2012)
paved: 1,207 km (2012)
unpaved: 3,493 km (2012)
Waterways: (2011) (Lac Kivu navigable by shallow-draft barges and native craft)
Ports and terminals: lake port(s): Cyangugu, Gisenyi, Kibuye (Lake Kivu)
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: Rwanda Defense Force (RDF): Rwanda Army (Rwanda Land Force), Rwanda Air Force (Force Aerienne Rwandaise, FAR), Rwanda Reserve Force, Special Units (2021)
Military expenditures: 1.4% of GDP (2021 est.)
1.3% of GDP (2020 est.)
1.2% of GDP (2019 est.) (approximately $220 million)
1.2% of GDP (2018 est.) (approximately $200 million)
1.2% of GDP (2017 est.) (approximately $190 million)
Military and security service personnel strengths: the Rwanda Defense Force (RDF) has approximately 33,000 active personnel (32,000 Army; 1,000 Air Force) (2021)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the RDF's inventory includes mostly Russian, Soviet-era, and older Western - largely French and South African - equipment; since 2010, Russia has been the top supplier (2021)
Military service age and obligation: 18 years of age for voluntary military service (men and women); no conscription; Rwandan citizenship is required; enlistment is either as contract (5-years, renewable twice) or career (2021)
Military deployments: 2,450 (plus about 500 police) Central African Republic (approximately 1,700 for MINUSCA; an additional 750 sent bilaterally in August, 2021); 1,000 Mozambique (deployed mid-2021 to assist with combating insurgency); 2,600 (plus about 400 police) South Sudan (UNMISS) (Feb 2022)
Military - note: the RDF is widely regarded as one of Africa’s best trained and most capable and professional military forces; as of late 2021, over 5,000 RDF personnel were deployed on missions in the African countries of the Central African Republic, Mozambique, and South Sudanthe RDF is widely regarded as one of Africa’s best trained and most capable and professional military forces; as of late 2021, over 5,000 RDF personnel were deployed on missions in the African countries of the Central African Republic, Mozambique, and South Sudan
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: Rwanda-Burundi: Burundi's Ngozi province and Rwanda's Butare province dispute the two-kilometer-square hilly farmed area of Sabanerwa in the Rukurazi Valley where the Akanyaru/Kanyaru River shifted its course southward after heavy rains in 1965 around Kibinga Hill in Rwanda's Butare Province
Rwanda-Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): the 2005 DRC and Rwanda border verification mechanism to stem rebel actions on both sides of the border remains in place
Rwanda-Uganda: a joint technical committee established in 2007 to demarcate sections of the border
Rwanda-Burundi: Burundi's Ngozi province and Rwanda's Butare province dispute the two-kilometer-square hilly farmed area of Sabanerwa in the Rukurazi Valley where the Akanyaru/Kanyaru River shifted its course southward after heavy rains in 1965 around Kibinga Hill in Rwanda's Butare Province
Rwanda-Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): the 2005 DRC and Rwanda border verification mechanism to stem rebel actions on both sides of the border remains in place
Rwanda-Uganda: a joint technical committee established in 2007 to demarcate sections of the border
Refugees and internally displaced persons: refugees (country of origin): 77,288 (Democratic Republic of the Congo) 48,070 (Burundi) (2022)
stateless persons: 9,500 (mid-year 2021) |
20220601 | countries-cabo-verde-travel-facts |
US State Dept Travel Advisory: The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise normal precautions in Cabo Verde. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws and special circumstances in this country.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements: US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. They should also make sure they have at least 1 blank page in their passport for any entry stamp and or visa that will be required. A visa is required. US citizens will need to get in touch with the country’s embassy or nearest consulate to obtain a visa prior to visiting the country.
US Embassy/Consulate: [238] 260-89-00; US Embassy in Praia, Rua Abilio Macedo 6, Praia, Cape Verde; https://cv.usembassy.gov/; PraiaConsular@state.gov
Telephone Code: 238
Local Emergency Phone: Ambulance: 130; Fire: 131; Police: 132
Vaccinations: An International Certificate of Vaccination for yellow fever is required for travelers arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission and for travelers having transited through the airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. See WHO recommendations.
http://www.who.int/
Climate: Temperate; warm, dry summer; precipitation meager and erratic
Currency (Code): Cabo Verdean escudos (CVE)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s): 230 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): C, F
Major Languages: Portuguese, Krioulo
Major Religions: Roman Catholic 77.3%, Protestant 4.6%, other Christian 3.4%, Muslim 1.8%
Time Difference: UTC-1 (4 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Potable Water: Opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit: Suggested
Road Driving Side: Right
Tourist Destinations: Praia de Santa Maria; Praia de Chaves; Pedra do Lume Salt Crater; Buracona (Blue Eye); Cidade Velha
Major Sports: Soccer, surfing, sailing
Cultural Practices: It is common for people to make a "sssss" sound with their mouth to get your attention. This is not meant to be rude.
Tipping Guidelines: Tip a couple of euros or round up when possible in all situations.Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444
Page last updated: Friday, March 25, 2022 |
20220601 | field-refined-petroleum-products-production-country-comparison | |
20220601 | countries-ireland |
Topic: Photos of Ireland
Topic: Introduction
Background: Celtic tribes arrived on the island between 600 and 150 B.C. Invasions by Norsemen that began in the late 8th century were finally ended when King Brian BORU defeated the Danes in 1014. Norman invasions began in the 12th century and set off more than seven centuries of Anglo-Irish struggle marked by fierce rebellions and harsh repressions. The Irish famine of the mid-19th century was responsible for a drop in the island's population by more than one quarter through starvation, disease, and emigration. For more than a century afterward, the population of the island continued to fall only to begin growing again in the 1960s. Over the last 50 years, Ireland's high birthrate has made it demographically one of the youngest populations in the EU. The modern Irish state traces its origins to the failed 1916 Easter Monday Uprising that galvanized nationalist sentiment and fostered a guerrilla war resulting in independence from the UK in 1921 with the signing of the Anglo-Irish Treaty and the creation of the Irish Free State. The treaty was deeply controversial in Ireland in part because it helped solidify the partition of Ireland, with six of the island's 32 counties remaining in the UK as Northern Ireland. The split between pro-Treaty and anti-Treaty partisans led to the Irish Civil War (1922-23). The traditionally dominant political parties in Ireland, Fine Gael and Fianna Fail, are de facto descendants of the opposing sides of the treaty debate. Ireland formally left the British Dominion in 1949 when Ireland declared itself a republic.
Deep sectarian divides between the Catholic and Protestant populations and systemic discrimination in Northern Ireland erupted into years of violence known as the "Troubles" that began in the 1960s. In 1998, the governments of Ireland and the UK, along with most political parties in Northern Ireland, reached the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement with the support of the US. This agreement helped end the Troubles and initiated a new phase of cooperation between the Irish and British Governments.
Ireland was neutral in World War II and continues its policy of military neutrality. Ireland joined the European Community in 1973 and the euro-zone currency union in 1999. The economic boom years of the Celtic Tiger (1995-2007) saw rapid economic growth, which came to an abrupt end in 2008 with the meltdown of the Irish banking system. As a small, open economy, Ireland has excelled at courting foreign direct investment, especially from US multi-nationals, which helped the economy recover from the financial crisis and insolated it from the economic shocks of the COVID-19 pandemic.Celtic tribes arrived on the island between 600 and 150 B.C. Invasions by Norsemen that began in the late 8th century were finally ended when King Brian BORU defeated the Danes in 1014. Norman invasions began in the 12th century and set off more than seven centuries of Anglo-Irish struggle marked by fierce rebellions and harsh repressions. The Irish famine of the mid-19th century was responsible for a drop in the island's population by more than one quarter through starvation, disease, and emigration. For more than a century afterward, the population of the island continued to fall only to begin growing again in the 1960s. Over the last 50 years, Ireland's high birthrate has made it demographically one of the youngest populations in the EU.The modern Irish state traces its origins to the failed 1916 Easter Monday Uprising that galvanized nationalist sentiment and fostered a guerrilla war resulting in independence from the UK in 1921 with the signing of the Anglo-Irish Treaty and the creation of the Irish Free State. The treaty was deeply controversial in Ireland in part because it helped solidify the partition of Ireland, with six of the island's 32 counties remaining in the UK as Northern Ireland. The split between pro-Treaty and anti-Treaty partisans led to the Irish Civil War (1922-23). The traditionally dominant political parties in Ireland, Fine Gael and Fianna Fail, are de facto descendants of the opposing sides of the treaty debate. Ireland formally left the British Dominion in 1949 when Ireland declared itself a republic.
Deep sectarian divides between the Catholic and Protestant populations and systemic discrimination in Northern Ireland erupted into years of violence known as the "Troubles" that began in the 1960s. In 1998, the governments of Ireland and the UK, along with most political parties in Northern Ireland, reached the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement with the support of the US. This agreement helped end the Troubles and initiated a new phase of cooperation between the Irish and British Governments.
Ireland was neutral in World War II and continues its policy of military neutrality. Ireland joined the European Community in 1973 and the euro-zone currency union in 1999. The economic boom years of the Celtic Tiger (1995-2007) saw rapid economic growth, which came to an abrupt end in 2008 with the meltdown of the Irish banking system. As a small, open economy, Ireland has excelled at courting foreign direct investment, especially from US multi-nationals, which helped the economy recover from the financial crisis and insolated it from the economic shocks of the COVID-19 pandemic.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Western Europe, occupying five-sixths of the island of Ireland in the North Atlantic Ocean, west of Great Britain
Geographic coordinates: 53 00 N, 8 00 W
Map references: Europe
Area: total: 70,273 sq km
land: 68,883 sq km
water: 1,390 sq km
Area - comparative: slightly larger than West Virginia
Land boundaries: total: 490 km
border countries (1): UK 490 km
Coastline: 1,448 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
Climate: temperate maritime; modified by North Atlantic Current; mild winters, cool summers; consistently humid; overcast about half the time
Terrain: mostly flat to rolling interior plain surrounded by rugged hills and low mountains; sea cliffs on west coast
Elevation: highest point: Carrauntoohil 1,041 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 118 m
Natural resources: natural gas, peat, copper, lead, zinc, silver, barite, gypsum, limestone, dolomite
Land use: agricultural land: 66.1% (2018 est.)
arable land: 15.4% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 0% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 50.7% (2018 est.)
forest: 10.9% (2018 est.)
other: 23% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 0 sq km (2012)
Population distribution: population distribution is weighted to the eastern side of the island, with the largest concentration being in and around Dublin; populations in the west are small due to mountainous land, poorer soil, lack of good transport routes, and fewer job opportunities
Natural hazards: rare extreme weather events
Geography - note: strategic location on major air and sea routes between North America and northern Europe; over 40% of the population resides within 100 km of Dublin
Map description: Ireland map showing major cities and the island’s setting in the North Atlantic Ocean.Ireland map showing major cities and the island’s setting in the North Atlantic Ocean.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 5,275,004 (2022 est.)
Nationality: noun: Irishman(men), Irishwoman(women), Irish (collective plural)
adjective: Irish
Ethnic groups: Irish 82.2%, Irish travelers 0.7%, other White 9.5%, Asian 2.1%, Black 1.4%, other 1.5%, unspecified 2.6% (2016 est.)
Languages: English (official, the language generally used), Irish (Gaelic or Gaeilge) (official, spoken by approximately 39.8% of the population as of 2016; mainly spoken in areas along Ireland's western coast known as gaeltachtai, which are officially recognized regions where Irish is the predominant language)
Religions: Roman Catholic 78.3%, Church of Ireland 2.7%, other Christian 1.6%, Orthodox 1.3%, Muslim 1.3%, other 2.4%, none 9.8%, unspecified 2.6% (2016 est.)
Age structure: 0-14 years: 21.15% (male 560,338/female 534,570)
15-24 years: 12.08% (male 316,239/female 308,872)
25-54 years: 42.19% (male 1,098,058/female 1,085,794)
55-64 years: 10.77% (male 278,836/female 278,498)
65 years and over: 13.82% (2020 est.) (male 331,772/female 383,592)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 54.8
youth dependency ratio: 32.3
elderly dependency ratio: 22.6
potential support ratio: 4.4 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 37.8 years
male: 37.4 years
female: 38.2 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 0.94% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 12.32 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 6.73 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: 3.79 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: population distribution is weighted to the eastern side of the island, with the largest concentration being in and around Dublin; populations in the west are small due to mountainous land, poorer soil, lack of good transport routes, and fewer job opportunities
Urbanization: urban population: 64.2% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 1.15% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 1.256 million DUBLIN (capital) (2022)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.05 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.02 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 1.01 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 1.01 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.71 male(s)/female
total population: 1 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth: 30.7 years (2019 est.)
Maternal mortality ratio: 5 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 3.47 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 3.9 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 3.01 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 81.66 years
male: 79.35 years
female: 84.1 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 1.92 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: NA
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 97% of population
rural: 98.1% of population
total: 97.4% of population
unimproved: urban: 3% of population
rural: 1.9% of population
total: 2.6% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 6.7% (2019)
Physicians density: 3.31 physicians/1,000 population (2018)
Hospital bed density: 3 beds/1,000 population (2018)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 97.8% of population
rural: 99.1% of population
total: 98.3% of population
unimproved: urban: 2.2% of population
rural: 0.9% of population
total: 1.7% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: 0.2% (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: 7,800 (2020 est.)
note: estimate does not include children
HIV/AIDS - deaths: (2020 est.) <100
note: estimate does not include children
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 25.3% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: NA
Education expenditures: 3.4% of GDP (2018)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 19 years
male: 19 years
female: 19 years (2019)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 15.3%
male: 15.3%
female: 15.3% (2020 est.)
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: water pollution, especially of lakes, from agricultural runoff; acid rain kills plants, destroys soil fertility, and contributes to deforestation
Environment - international agreements: party to: Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Persistent Organic Pollutants, Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping-London Convention, Marine Dumping-London Protocol, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 2006, Wetlands, Whaling
signed, but not ratified: Air Pollution-Heavy Metals, Air Pollution-Multi-effect Protocol, Marine Life Conservation
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 8.26 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 37.71 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 13.67 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: temperate maritime; modified by North Atlantic Current; mild winters, cool summers; consistently humid; overcast about half the time
Land use: agricultural land: 66.1% (2018 est.)
arable land: 15.4% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 0% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 50.7% (2018 est.)
forest: 10.9% (2018 est.)
other: 23% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 64.2% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 1.15% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 0.01% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0% of GDP (2018 est.)
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 2,692,537 tons (2012 est.)
municipal solid waste recycled annually: 888,537 tons (2012 est.)
percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 33% (2012 est.)
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 631 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 51 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 179 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 52 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: none
conventional short form: Ireland
local long form: none
local short form: Eire
etymology: the modern Irish name "Eire" evolved from the Gaelic "Eriu," the name of the matron goddess of Ireland (goddess of the land); the names "Ireland" in English and "Eire" in Irish are direct translations of each other
Government type: parliamentary republic
Capital: name: Dublin
geographic coordinates: 53 19 N, 6 14 W
time difference: UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: derived from Irish "dubh" and "lind" meaning respectively "black, dark" and "pool" and which referred to the dark tidal pool where the River Poddle entered the River Liffey; today the area is the site of the castle gardens behind Dublin Castle
Administrative divisions: 28 counties and 3 cities*; Carlow, Cavan, Clare, Cork, Cork*, Donegal, Dublin*, Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown, Fingal, Galway, Galway*, Kerry, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Leitrim, Limerick, Longford, Louth, Mayo, Meath, Monaghan, Offaly, Roscommon, Sligo, South Dublin, Tipperary, Waterford, Westmeath, Wexford, Wicklow
Independence: 6 December 1921 (from the UK by the Anglo-Irish Treaty, which ended British rule); 6 December 1922 (Irish Free State established); 18 April 1949 (Republic of Ireland Act enabled)
National holiday: Saint Patrick's Day, 17 March; note - marks the traditional death date of Saint Patrick, patron saint of Ireland, during the latter half of the fifth century A.D. (most commonly cited years are c. 461 and c. 493); although Saint Patrick's feast day was celebrated in Ireland as early as the ninth century, it only became an official public holiday in Ireland in 1903
Constitution: history: previous 1922; latest drafted 14 June 1937, adopted by plebiscite 1 July 1937, effective 29 December 1937
amendments: proposed as bills by Parliament; passage requires majority vote by both the Senate and House of Representatives, majority vote in a referendum, and presidential signature; amended many times, last in 2019
Legal system: common law system based on the English model but substantially modified by customary law; judicial review of legislative acts by Supreme Court
International law organization participation: accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction with reservations; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: no, unless a parent of a child born in Ireland has been legally resident in Ireland for at least three of the four years prior to the birth of the child
citizenship by descent only: yes
dual citizenship recognized: yes
residency requirement for naturalization: 4 of the previous 8 years
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: President Michael D. HIGGINS (since 11 November 2011)
head of government: Taoiseach (Prime Minister) Micheál MARTIN (since 27 June 2020); note - MARTIN will serve through December 2022 and will then be succeeded by Leo VARADKAR
cabinet: Cabinet nominated by the prime minister, appointed by the president, approved by the Dali Eireann (lower house of Parliament)
elections/appointments: president directly elected by majority popular vote for a 7-year term (eligible for a second term); election last held on 26 October 2018 (next to be held no later than November 2025); taoiseach (prime minister) nominated by the House of Representatives (Dail Eireann), appointed by the president
election results: Michael D. HIGGINS reelected president; percent of vote - Michael D. HIGGINS (independent) 55.8%, Peter CASEY (independent) 23.3%, Sean GALLAGHER (independent) 6.4%, Liadh NI RIADA (Sinn Fein) 6.4%, Joan FREEMAN (independent) 6%, Gavin DUFFY (independent) 2.2%
Legislative branch: description: bicameral Parliament or Oireachtas consists of:
Senate or Seanad Eireann (60 seats; 49 members indirectly elected from 5 vocational panels of nominees by an electoral college, 11 appointed by the prime minister
House of Representatives or Dail Eireann (160 seats; members directly elected in multi-seat constituencies by proportional representation vote; all Parliament members serve 5-year terms)
elections:
Senate - last held early on 21-30 May 2020 (next to be held in March 2025)
House of Representatives - last held on 8 February 2020 (next to be held no later than 2025)
election results:
Senate - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - Fianna Fail 16, Fine Gael 12, Labor Party 5, Sinn Fein 5, Green Party 2, independent 9; composition - men 36, women 24, percent of women 40%
House of Representatives - percent of vote by party - Sinn Fein 23%, Fianna Fail 23%, Fine Gael 22%, Green Party 8%, Labor Party 4%, Social Democrats 4%, AAA-PBD 3%, Aontu 0.6%, Independents for Change 0.6%, Ceann Comhairle 0.6%, independent 12%; seats by party - Sinn Fein 37, Fianna Fail 37, Fine Gael 35, Green Party 12, Labor Party 6, Social Democrats 6, AAA-PBD 5, Aontu l, Independents for Change 1, Ceann Comhairle 1, Independents 19; composition as of March 2022 - men 123, women 37, percent of women 23.1%; note - total Parliament percent of women 27.7%
Judicial branch: highest courts: Supreme Court of Ireland (consists of the chief justice, 9 judges, 2 ex-officio members - the presidents of the High Court and Court of Appeal - and organized in 3-, 5-, or 7-judge panels, depending on the importance or complexity of an issue of law)
judge selection and term of office: judges nominated by the prime minister and Cabinet and appointed by the president; chief justice serves in the position for 7 years; judges can serve until age 70
subordinate courts: High Court, Court of Appeal; circuit and district courts; criminal courts
Political parties and leaders: Solidarity-People Before Profit or AAAS-PBP [collective leadership]
Fianna Fail [Micheal MARTIN]
Fine Gael [Leo VARADKAR]
Green Party [Eamon RYAN]
Labor (Labour) Party [Alan KELLY]
Renua Ireland (vacant)
Sinn Fein [Mary Lou MCDONALD]
Social Democrats [Catherine MURPHY, Roisin SHORTALL]
Socialist Party [collective leadership]
The Workers' Party [Michael DONNELLY]
International organization participation: ADB (nonregional member), Australia Group, BIS, CD, CE, EAPC, EBRD, ECB, EIB, EMU, ESA, EU, FAO, FATF, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IGAD (partners), IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, MINURSO, MONUSCO, NEA, NSG, OAS (observer), OECD, OPCW, OSCE, Paris Club, PCA, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, UNDOF, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNOCI, UNRWA, UNTSO, UPU, Wassenaar Arrangement, WCO, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Daniel Gerard MULHALL (since 8 September 2017)
chancery: 2234 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 462-3939
FAX: [1] (202) 232-5993
email address and website:
https://www.dfa.ie/irish-embassy/usa/
consulate(s) general: Atlanta, Austin (TX), Boston, Chicago, New York, San Francisco
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Claire D. CRONIN (since 10 February 2022)
embassy: 42 Elgin Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4
mailing address: 5290 Dublin Place, Washington DC 20521-5290
telephone: [353] (1) 668-8777
FAX: [353] (1) 688-8056
email address and website:
ACSDublin@state.gov
https://ie.usembassy.gov/
Flag description: three equal vertical bands of green (hoist side), white, and orange; officially the flag colors have no meaning, but a common interpretation is that the green represents the Irish nationalist (Gaelic) tradition of Ireland; orange represents the Orange tradition (minority supporters of William of Orange); white symbolizes peace (or a lasting truce) between the green and the orange
note: similar to the flag of Cote d'Ivoire, which is shorter and has the colors reversed - orange (hoist side), white, and green; also similar to the flag of Italy, which is shorter and has colors of green (hoist side), white, and red
National symbol(s): harp, shamrock (trefoil); national colors: blue, green
National anthem: name: "Amhran na bhFiann" (The Soldier's Song)
lyrics/music: Peadar KEARNEY [English], Liam O RINN [Irish]/Patrick HEENEY and Peadar KEARNEY
note: adopted 1926; instead of "Amhran na bhFiann," the song "Ireland's Call" is often used at athletic events where citizens of Ireland and Northern Ireland compete as a unified team
National heritage: total World Heritage Sites: 2 (both cultural)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Brú na Bóinne - Archaeological Ensemble of the Bend of the Boyne, Sceilg Mhichíl
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Ireland is a small, modern, trade-dependent economy. It was among the initial group of 12 EU nations that began circulating the euro on 1 January 2002. GDP growth averaged 6% in 1995-2007, but economic activity dropped sharply during the world financial crisis and the subsequent collapse of its domestic property market and construction industry during 2008-11. Faced with sharply reduced revenues and a burgeoning budget deficit from efforts to stabilize its fragile banking sector, the Irish Government introduced the first in a series of draconian budgets in 2009. These measures were not sufficient to stabilize Ireland’s public finances. In 2010, the budget deficit reached 32.4% of GDP - the world's largest deficit, as a percentage of GDP. In late 2010, the former COWEN government agreed to a $92 billion loan package from the EU and IMF to help Dublin recapitalize Ireland’s banking sector and avoid defaulting on its sovereign debt. In March 2011, the KENNY government intensified austerity measures to meet the deficit targets under Ireland's EU-IMF bailout program. In late 2013, Ireland formally exited its EU-IMF bailout program, benefiting from its strict adherence to deficit-reduction targets and success in refinancing a large amount of banking-related debt. In 2014, the economy rapidly picked up. In late 2014, the government introduced a fiscally neutral budget, marking the end of the austerity program. Continued growth of tax receipts has allowed the government to lower some taxes and increase public spending while keeping to its deficit-reduction targets. In 2015, GDP growth exceeded 26%. The magnitude of the increase reflected one-off statistical revisions, multinational corporate restructurings in intellectual property, and the aircraft leasing sector, rather than real gains in the domestic economy, which was still growing. Growth moderated to around 4.1% in 2017, but the recovering economy assisted lowering the deficit to 0.6% of GDP. In the wake of the collapse of the construction sector and the downturn in consumer spending and business investment during the 2008-11 economic crisis, the export sector, dominated by foreign multinationals, has become an even more important component of Ireland's economy. Ireland’s low corporation tax of 12.5% and a talented pool of high-tech laborers have been some of the key factors in encouraging business investment. Loose tax residency requirements made Ireland a common destination for international firms seeking to pay less tax or, in the case of U.S. multinationals, defer taxation owed to the United States. In 2014, amid growing international pressure, the Irish government announced it would phase in more stringent tax laws, effectively closing a commonly used loophole. The Irish economy continued to grow in 2017 and is forecast to do so through 2019, supported by a strong export sector, robust job growth, and low inflation, to the point that the Government must now address concerns about overheating and potential loss of competitiveness. The greatest risks to the economy are the UK’s scheduled departure from the European Union ("Brexit") in March 2019, possible changes to international taxation policies that could affect Ireland’s revenues, and global trade pressures.Ireland is a small, modern, trade-dependent economy. It was among the initial group of 12 EU nations that began circulating the euro on 1 January 2002. GDP growth averaged 6% in 1995-2007, but economic activity dropped sharply during the world financial crisis and the subsequent collapse of its domestic property market and construction industry during 2008-11. Faced with sharply reduced revenues and a burgeoning budget deficit from efforts to stabilize its fragile banking sector, the Irish Government introduced the first in a series of draconian budgets in 2009. These measures were not sufficient to stabilize Ireland’s public finances. In 2010, the budget deficit reached 32.4% of GDP - the world's largest deficit, as a percentage of GDP. In late 2010, the former COWEN government agreed to a $92 billion loan package from the EU and IMF to help Dublin recapitalize Ireland’s banking sector and avoid defaulting on its sovereign debt. In March 2011, the KENNY government intensified austerity measures to meet the deficit targets under Ireland's EU-IMF bailout program. In late 2013, Ireland formally exited its EU-IMF bailout program, benefiting from its strict adherence to deficit-reduction targets and success in refinancing a large amount of banking-related debt. In 2014, the economy rapidly picked up. In late 2014, the government introduced a fiscally neutral budget, marking the end of the austerity program. Continued growth of tax receipts has allowed the government to lower some taxes and increase public spending while keeping to its deficit-reduction targets. In 2015, GDP growth exceeded 26%. The magnitude of the increase reflected one-off statistical revisions, multinational corporate restructurings in intellectual property, and the aircraft leasing sector, rather than real gains in the domestic economy, which was still growing. Growth moderated to around 4.1% in 2017, but the recovering economy assisted lowering the deficit to 0.6% of GDP. In the wake of the collapse of the construction sector and the downturn in consumer spending and business investment during the 2008-11 economic crisis, the export sector, dominated by foreign multinationals, has become an even more important component of Ireland's economy. Ireland’s low corporation tax of 12.5% and a talented pool of high-tech laborers have been some of the key factors in encouraging business investment. Loose tax residency requirements made Ireland a common destination for international firms seeking to pay less tax or, in the case of U.S. multinationals, defer taxation owed to the United States. In 2014, amid growing international pressure, the Irish government announced it would phase in more stringent tax laws, effectively closing a commonly used loophole. The Irish economy continued to grow in 2017 and is forecast to do so through 2019, supported by a strong export sector, robust job growth, and low inflation, to the point that the Government must now address concerns about overheating and potential loss of competitiveness. The greatest risks to the economy are the UK’s scheduled departure from the European Union ("Brexit") in March 2019, possible changes to international taxation policies that could affect Ireland’s revenues, and global trade pressures.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $447.97 billion (2020 est.)
$433.17 billion (2019 est.)
$410.33 billion (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 5.86% (2019 est.)
9.42% (2018 est.)
9.49% (2017 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $89,700 (2020 est.)
$87,800 (2019 est.)
$84,300 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $398.476 billion (2019 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 0.9% (2019 est.)
0.4% (2018 est.)
0.3% (2017 est.)
Credit ratings: Fitch rating: A+ (2017)
Moody's rating: A2 (2017)
Standard & Poors rating: AA- (2019)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 1.2% (2017 est.)
industry: 38.6% (2017 est.)
services: 60.2% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 34% (2017 est.)
government consumption: 10.1% (2017 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 23.4% (2017 est.)
investment in inventories: 1.2% (2017 est.)
exports of goods and services: 119.9% (2017 est.)
imports of goods and services: -89.7% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: milk, barley, beef, wheat, potatoes, pork, oats, poultry, mushrooms/truffles, mutton
Industries: pharmaceuticals, chemicals, computer hardware and software, food products, beverages and brewing; medical devices
Industrial production growth rate: 7.8% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 2.289 million (2020 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 5%
industry: 11%
services: 84% (2015 est.)
Unemployment rate: 4.98% (2019 est.)
5.78% (2018 est.)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 15.3%
male: 15.3%
female: 15.3% (2020 est.)
Population below poverty line: 13.1% (2018 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 32.8 (2016 est.)
35.9 (1987 est.)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: 2.9%
highest 10%: 27.2% (2000)
Budget: revenues: 86.04 billion (2017 est.)
expenditures: 87.19 billion (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): -0.3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 68.6% of GDP (2017 est.)
73.6% of GDP (2016 est.)
note: data cover general government debt and include debt instruments issued (or owned) by government entities other than the treasury; the data include treasury debt held by foreign entities; the data include debt issued by subnational entities, as well as intragovernmental debt; intragovernmental debt consists of treasury borrowings from surpluses in the social funds, such as for retirement, medical care, and unemployment; debt instruments for the social funds are not sold at public auctions
Taxes and other revenues: 26% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: calendar year
Current account balance: -$44.954 billion (2019 est.)
$24.154 billion (2018 est.)
Exports: $502.31 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$471.6 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$440.693 billion (2017 est.)
Exports - partners: United States 28%, Belgium 10%, Germany 10%, UK 9%, China 5%, Netherlands 5% (2019)
Exports - commodities: medical cultures/vaccines, nitrogen compounds, packaged medicines, integrated circuits, scented mixtures (2019)
Imports: $452.98 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$361.12 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$359.725 billion (2017 est.)
Imports - partners: United Kingdom 31%, United States 16%, Germany 10%, Netherlands 5%, France 5% (2019)
Imports - commodities: aircraft, computers, packaged medicines, refined petroleum, medical cultures/vaccines (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $4.412 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
$2.203 billion (31 December 2015 est.)
Debt - external: $2,829,303,000,000 (2019 est.)
$2,758,949,000,000 (2018 est.)
Exchange rates: euros (EUR) per US dollar -
0.82771 (2020 est.)
0.90338 (2019 est.)
0.87789 (2018 est.)
0.885 (2014 est.)
0.7634 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Electricity - production: 28.53 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 25.68 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 1.583 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - imports: 871 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 9.945 million kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 65% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 2% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 33% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 0 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 5,900 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 66,210 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 0 bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 64,970 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 153,700 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 37,040 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 126,600 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Natural gas - production: 3.511 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 5.238 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 1.642 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 9.911 billion cu m (1 January 2018 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 1,678,651 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 34 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 5,234,027 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 106 (2020 est.)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: infrastructure projects are underway, including the national plan to deliver fiber-based service of at least 150Mb/s nationally by the end of 2022; operators invested in fiber-based networks to deliver a 1Gb/s service to most premises, and on 5G to cover more than half of population; operator test of satellite broadband; Dublin is a smart city (2020)
domestic: increasing levels of broadband access particularly in urban areas; fixed-line 34 per 100 and mobile-cellular 106 per 100 subscriptions; digital system using cable and microwave radio relay (2020)
international: country code - 353; landing point for the AEConnect -1, Celtic-Norse, Havfrue/AEC-2, GTT Express, Celtic, ESAT-1, IFC-1, Solas, Pan European Crossing, ESAT-2, CeltixConnect -1 & 2, GTT Atlantic, Sirius South, Emerald Bridge Fibres and Geo Eirgrid submarine cable with links to the US, Canada, Norway, Isle of Man and UK; satellite earth stations - 81 (2019)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: publicly owned broadcaster Radio Telefis Eireann (RTE) operates 4 TV stations; commercial TV stations are available; about 75% of households utilize multi-channel satellite and TV services that provide access to a wide range of stations; RTE operates 4 national radio stations and has launched digital audio broadcasts on several stations; a number of commercial broadcast stations operate at the national, regional, and local levels (2019)
Internet country code: .ie
Internet users: total: 4,586,820 (2020 est.)
percent of population: 92% (2020 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 1,516,473 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 31 (2020 est.)
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 9 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 450
annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 167,598,633 (2018)
annual freight traffic on registered air carriers: 168.71 million (2018) mt-km
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: EI
Airports: total: 40 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 16
over 3,047 m: 1
2,438 to 3,047 m: 1
1,524 to 2,437 m: 4
914 to 1,523 m: 5
under 914 m: 5 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 24
2,438 to 3,047 m: 1
914 to 1,523 m: 2
under 914 m: 21 (2021)
Pipelines: 2,427 km gas (2017)
Railways: total: 4,301 km (2018)
narrow gauge: 1,930 km (2018) 0.914-m gauge (operated by the Irish Peat Board to transport peat to power stations and briquetting plants)
broad gauge: 2,371 km (2018) 1.600-m gauge (53 km electrified)
Roadways: total: 99,830 km (2018)
paved: 99,830 km (2018) (includes 2,717 km of expressways)
Waterways: 956 km (2010) (pleasure craft only)
Merchant marine: total: 96
by type: bulk carrier 12, general cargo 36, oil tanker 1, other 47 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Dublin, Shannon Foynes
cruise port(s): Cork (250,000), Dublin (359,966) (2020)
container port(s) (TEUs): Dublin (529,563) (2016)
river port(s): Cork (Lee), Waterford (Suir)
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: Irish Defense Forces (Oglaigh na h-Eireannn): Army, Air Corps, Naval Service, Reserve Defense Forces (2022)
Military expenditures: 0.3% of GDP (2021)
0.3% of GDP (2020)
0.3% of GDP (2019) (approximately $1.27 billion)
0.3% of GDP (2018) (approximately $1.25 billion
0.3% of GDP (2017) (approximately $1.21 billion)
Military and security service personnel strengths: the Irish Defense Forces have approximately 8,700 active duty personnel (7,000 Army; 1,000 Navy; 700 Air Force) (2021)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the Irish Defense Forces have a small inventory of imported weapons systems from a variety of mostly European countries; the UK is the leading supplier of military hardware to Ireland since 2010 (2020)
Military service age and obligation: 18-25 years of age for male and female voluntary military service recruits to the Defence Forces (18-27 years of age for the Naval Service); 18-26 for cadetship (officer) applicants; 12-year service (5 active, 7 reserves); Irish citizen, European Economic Area citizenship, or refugee status (2021)
note - as of 2019, women made up about 7% of the military's full-time personnel
Military deployments: 130 Golan Heights (UNDOF); 330 Lebanon (UNIFIL) (Feb 2022)
Military - note: the Irish Defense Forces trace their origins back to the Irish Volunteers, a unit established in 1913; the Irish Volunteers took part in the 1916 Easter Rising and the Irish War of Independence, 1919-1921 Ireland has a long-standing policy of military neutrality; however, it participates in international peacekeeping and humanitarian operations, as well as crisis management; Ireland is a signatory of the EU’s Common Security and Defense Policy and has committed a battalion of troops to the EU’s Rapid Reaction Force; Ireland is not a member of NATO, but has a relationship going back to 1997 when it deployed personnel in support of the NATO-led peacekeeping operations in Bosnia and Herzegovina; Ireland joined NATO’s Partnership for Peace program in 1999; Ireland has been an active participate in UN peacekeeping operations since the 1950sthe Irish Defense Forces trace their origins back to the Irish Volunteers, a unit established in 1913; the Irish Volunteers took part in the 1916 Easter Rising and the Irish War of Independence, 1919-1921Ireland has a long-standing policy of military neutrality; however, it participates in international peacekeeping and humanitarian operations, as well as crisis management; Ireland is a signatory of the EU’s Common Security and Defense Policy and has committed a battalion of troops to the EU’s Rapid Reaction Force; Ireland is not a member of NATO, but has a relationship going back to 1997 when it deployed personnel in support of the NATO-led peacekeeping operations in Bosnia and Herzegovina; Ireland joined NATO’s Partnership for Peace program in 1999; Ireland has been an active participate in UN peacekeeping operations since the 1950s
Topic: Terrorism
Terrorist group(s): Continuity Irish Republican Army; New Irish Republican Army; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS) (2019)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: Ireland, Iceland, and the UK dispute Denmark's claim that the Faroe Islands' continental shelf extends beyond 200 nmIreland, Iceland, and the UK dispute Denmark's claim that the Faroe Islands' continental shelf extends beyond 200 nm
Refugees and internally displaced persons: stateless persons: 107 (mid-year 2021)
Trafficking in persons: current situation: human traffickers exploit domestic and foreign victims in Ireland and Irish victims abroad; traffickers subject Irish children and foreign trafficking victims from Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, and South America to sex trafficking; victims are exploited in forced domestic work, the restaurant industry, waste management, fishing, seasonal agriculture, and car washing services; Vietnamese and Chinese nationals convicted for cannabis cultivation often report indicators of forced labor, such as document retention, restriction of movement, and non-payment of wages; undocumented workers in the fishing industry and domestic workers, particularly au pairs, are vulnerable to trafficking; women from Eastern Europe forced into marriage in Ireland are at risk for sex trafficking and forced labor; the problem of forced labor in the country is growing
tier rating: Tier 2 Watch List — Ireland does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking but is making significant efforts to do so; efforts included increasing prosecutions and funding to NGOs for victim assistance, increasing the number of police and immigration officers receiving anti-trafficking training, and reorganizing its anti-trafficking coordination unit; however, the government did not demonstrate overall increasing efforts; no traffickers have been convicted since the anti-trafficking law was amended in 2013; weakened deterrence meant impunity for traffickers and undermined efforts to support victims testifying against traffickers; systematic deficiencies in victim identification, a lack of specialized services for victims continued, and the amended working scheme for sea fishers increased their vulnerability to trafficking (2020)
Illicit drugs: transshipment point for and consumer of hashish from North Africa to the UK and Netherlands and of European-produced synthetic drugs; increasing consumption of South American cocaine; minor transshipment point for heroin and cocaine destined for Western Europe; despite recent legislation, narcotics-related money laundering - using bureaux de change, trusts, and shell companies involving the offshore financial community - remains a concern |
20220601 | field-agricultural-products | This entry provides a list of a country's most important agricultural products, listed by annual tonnage.
Topic: Afghanistanwheat, milk, grapes, vegetables, potatoes, watermelons, melons, rice, onions, apples
Topic: Albaniamilk, maize, tomatoes, potatoes, watermelons, wheat, grapes, cucumbers, onions, apples
Topic: Algeriapotatoes, wheat, milk, watermelons, barley, onions, tomatoes, oranges, dates, vegetables
Topic: American Samoabananas, coconuts, vegetables, taro, breadfruit, yams, copra, pineapples, papayas; dairy products, livestock
Topic: Andorrasmall quantities of rye, wheat, barley, oats, vegetables, tobacco; sheep, cattle
Topic: Angolacassava, bananas, maize, sweet potatoes, pineapples, sugar cane, potatoes, citrus fruit, vegetables, cabbage
Topic: Anguillasmall quantities of tobacco, vegetables; cattle raising
Topic: Antigua and Barbudatropical fruit, milk, mangoes/guavas, melons, tomatoes, pineapples, lemons, limes, eggplants, onions
Topic: Argentinamaize, soybeans, wheat, sugar cane, milk, barley, sunflower seed, beef, grapes, potatoes
Topic: Armeniamilk, potatoes, grapes, vegetables, tomatoes, watermelons, wheat, apples, cabbages, barley
Topic: Arubaaloes; livestock; fish
Topic: Australiasugar cane, wheat, barley, milk, rapeseed, beef, cotton, grapes, poultry, potatoes
Topic: Austriamilk, maize, sugar beet, wheat, barley, potatoes, pork, triticale, grapes, apples
Topic: Azerbaijanmilk, wheat, potatoes, barley, tomatoes, watermelons, cotton, apples, maize, onions
Topic: Bahamas, Thesugar cane, grapefruit, vegetables, bananas, tomatoes, poultry, tropical fruit, oranges, coconuts, mangoes/guavas
Topic: Bahrainmutton, dates, milk, poultry, tomatoes, fruit, sheep offals, sheep skins, eggs, pumpkins
Topic: Bangladeshrice, potatoes, maize, sugar cane, milk, vegetables, onions, jute, mangoes/guavas, wheat
Topic: Barbadossugar cane, poultry, vegetables, milk, eggs, pork, coconuts, pulses, sweet potatoes, tropical fruit
Topic: Belarusmilk, potatoes, sugar beet, wheat, triticale, barley, maize, rye, rapeseed, poultry
Topic: Belgiumsugar beet, milk, potatoes, wheat, pork, lettuce, poultry, maize, barley, pears
Topic: Belizesugar care, oranges, bananas, maize, poultry, rice, sorghum, papayas, grapefruit, soybeans
Topic: Benincassava, yams, maize, cotton, oil palm fruit, rice, pineapples, tomatoes, vegetables, soybeans
Topic: Bermudabananas, vegetables, citrus, flowers; dairy products, honey
Topic: Bhutanmilk, rice, maize, potatoes, roots/tubers, oranges, areca nuts, chillies/peppers, spices, ginger
Topic: Boliviasugar cane, soybeans, potatoes, maize, sorghum, rice, milk, plantains, poultry, bananas
Topic: Bosnia and Herzegovinamaize, milk, vegetables, potatoes, wheat, plums/sloes, apples, barley, cabbages, poultry
Topic: Botswanamilk, roots/tubers, vegetables, sorghum, beef, game meat, watermelons, cabbages, goat milk, onions
Topic: Brazilsugar cane, soybeans, maize, milk, cassava, oranges, poultry, rice, beef, cotton
Topic: British Virgin Islandsfruits, vegetables; livestock, poultry; fish
Topic: Bruneipoultry, eggs, fruit, cassava, bananas, legumes, cucumbers, rice, pineapples, beef
Topic: Bulgariawheat, maize, sunflower seed, milk, barley, rapeseed, potatoes, grapes, tomatoes, watermelons
Topic: Burkina Fasosorghum, maize, millet, cotton, cow peas, sugar cane, groundnuts, rice, sesame seed, vegetables
Topic: Burmarice, sugar cane, beans, vegetables, milk, maize, poultry, groundnuts, fruit, plantains
Topic: Burundicassava, bananas, sweet potatoes, plantains, beans, vegetables, potatoes, cashew nuts, maize, taro
Topic: Cabo Verdesugar cane, tomatoes, bananas, cabbages, coconuts, cassava, pulses nes, vegetables, milk, goat milk
Topic: Cambodiacassava, rice, maize, vegetables, sugar cane, soybeans, rubber, oil palm fruit, bananas, pork
Topic: Camerooncassava, plantains, maize, oil palm fruit, taro, sugar cane, sorghum, tomatoes, bananas, vegetables
Topic: Canadawheat, rapeseed, maize, barley, milk, soybeans, potatoes, oats, peas, pork
Topic: Cayman Islandsvegetables, fruit; livestock; turtle farming
Topic: Central African Republiccassava, yams, groundnuts, taro, bananas, sugar cane, beef, maize, plantains, milk
Topic: Chadsorghum, groundnuts, millet, yams, cereals, sugar cane, beef, maize, cotton, cassava
Topic: Chilegrapes, apples, wheat, sugar beet, milk, potatoes, tomatoes, maize, poultry, pork
Topic: Chinamaize, rice, vegetables, wheat, sugar cane, potatoes, cucumbers, tomatoes, watermelons, sweet potatoes
Topic: Christmas IslandNA
Topic: Cocos (Keeling) Islandsvegetables, bananas, pawpaws, coconuts
Topic: Colombiasugar cane, milk, oil palm fruit, potatoes, rice, bananas, cassava leaves, plantains, poultry, maize
Topic: Comoroscoconuts, cassava, rice, bananas, pulses nes, milk, taro, sweet potatoes, maize, cloves
Topic: Congo, Democratic Republic of thecassava, plantains, sugar cane, maize, oil palm fruit, rice, roots/tubers nes, bananas, sweet potatoes, groundnuts
Topic: Congo, Republic of thecassava, sugar cane, oil palm fruit, cassava leaves, bananas, plantains, roots/tubers, game meat, vegetables, mangoes/guavas
Topic: Cook Islandsvegetables, coconuts, roots/tubers, cassava, papayas, tomatoes, pork, fruit, sweet potatoes, mangoes/guavas
Topic: Costa Ricasugar cane, pineapples, bananas, milk, oil palm fruit, fruit, oranges, watermelons, cassava, rice
Topic: Cote d'Ivoireyams, cassava, cocoa, oil palm fruit, sugar cane, rice, plantains, maize, cashew nuts, rubber
Topic: Croatiamaize, wheat, sugar beet, milk, barley, soybeans, potatoes, pork, grapes, sunflower seed
Topic: Cubasugar cane, cassava, vegetables, plantains, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, milk, pumpkins, mangoes/guavas, rice
Topic: Curacaoaloe, sorghum, peanuts, vegetables, tropical fruit
Topic: Cyprusmilk, potatoes, pork, sheep milk, goat milk, barley, wheat, poultry, olives, tangerines/mandarins
Topic: Czechiawheat, sugar beet, milk, barley, rapeseed, potatoes, maize, pork, triticale, poultry
Topic: Denmarkmilk, wheat, barley, potatoes, sugar beet, pork, rye, rapeseed, oats, poultry
Topic: Djiboutivegetables, milk, beef, camel milk, lemons, limes, goat meat, mutton, beans, tomatoes
Topic: Dominicabananas, yams, grapefruit, taro, milk, coconuts, oranges, yautia, plantains, sugar cane
note: forest and fishery potential not exploited
Topic: Dominican Republicsugar cane, bananas, papayas, rice, plantains, milk, avocados, fruit, pineapples, coconuts
Topic: Ecuadorsugar cane, bananas, milk, oil palm fruit, maize, rice, plantains, poultry, cocoa, potatoes
Topic: Egyptsugar cane, sugar beet, wheat, maize, tomatoes, rice, potatoes, oranges, onions, milk
Topic: El Salvadorsugar cane, maize, milk, poultry, sorghum, beans, coconuts, eggs, apples, oranges
Topic: Equatorial Guineasweet potatoes, cassava, roots/tubers nes, plantains, oil palm fruit, bananas, coconuts, coffee, cocoa, eggs
Topic: Eritreasorghum, milk, vegetables, barley, cereals, pulses nes, roots/tubers nes, wheat, millet, beef
Topic: Estoniawheat, milk, barley, rapeseed, rye, oats, peas, potatoes, pork, triticale
Topic: Eswatinisugar cane, maize, roots/tubers nes, grapefruit, oranges, milk, beef, potatoes, vegetables, bananas
Topic: Ethiopiamaize, cereals, wheat, sorghum, milk, barley, sweet potatoes, roots/tubers nes, sugar cane, millet
Topic: European Unionwheat, barley, oilseeds, sugar beets, wine, grapes; dairy products, cattle, sheep, pigs, poultry; fish
Topic: Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)fodder and vegetable crops; venison, sheep, dairy products; fish, squid
Topic: Faroe Islandspotatoes, mutton, sheep skins, sheep offals, beef, sheep fat, cattle offals, cattle hides, cattle fat
Topic: Fijisugar cane, cassava, taro, poultry, vegetables, coconuts, eggs, milk, ginger, sweet potatoes
Topic: Finlandmilk, barley, oats, wheat, potatoes, sugar beet, rye, pork, poultry, beef
Topic: Francewheat, sugar beet, milk, barley, maize, potatoes, grapes, rapeseed, pork, apples
Topic: French Polynesiacoconuts, fruit, roots/tubers nes, pineapples, cassava, sugar cane, eggs, tropical fruit, tomatoes
Topic: Gabonplantains, cassava, sugar cane, yams, taro, vegetables, maize, groundnuts, game meat, rubber
Topic: Gambia, Thegroundnuts, milk, oil palm fruit, millet, sorghum, rice, maize, vegetables, cassava, fruit
Topic: Gaza Striptomatoes, cucumbers, olives, poultry, milk, potatoes, sheep milk, eggplants, gourds
Topic: Georgiamilk, grapes, maize, potatoes, wheat, watermelons, tomatoes, tangerines/mandarins, barley, apples
Topic: Germanymilk, sugar beet, wheat, barley, potatoes, pork, maize, rye, rapeseed, triticale
Topic: Ghanacassava, yams, plantains, maize, oil palm fruit, taro, rice, cocoa, oranges, pineapples
Topic: Gibraltarnone
Topic: Greecemaize, olives, wheat, milk, peaches/nectarines, oranges, tomatoes, grapes, milk, potatoes
Topic: Greenlandsheep, cattle, reindeer, fish, shellfish
Topic: Grenadabananas, watermelons, sweet potatoes, sugar cane, tomatoes, plantains, coconuts, melons, cucumbers, cabbages
Topic: Guamfruits, copra, vegetables; eggs, pork, poultry, beef
Topic: Guatemalasugar cane, bananas, oil palm fruit, maize, melons, potatoes, milk, plantains, pineapples, rubber
Topic: Guernseytomatoes, greenhouse flowers, sweet peppers, eggplant, fruit; Guernsey cattle
Topic: Guinearice, cassava, groundnuts, maize, oil palm fruit, fonio, plantains, sugar cane, sweet potatoes, vegetables
Topic: Guinea-Bissaurice, cashew nuts, roots/tubers nes, oil palm fruit, plantains, cassava, groundnuts, vegetables, coconuts, fruit
Topic: Guyanarice, sugar cane, coconuts, pumpkins, squash, gourds, milk, eggplants, green chillies/peppers, poultry
Topic: Haitisugar cane, cassava, mangoes/guavas, plantains, bananas, yams, avocados, maize, rice, vegetables
Topic: Hondurassugarcane, oil palm fruit, milk, bananas, maize, coffee, melons, oranges, poultry, beans
Topic: Hong Kongpork, poultry, spinach, vegetables, pork offals, game meat, fruit, lettuce, green onions, pig fat
Topic: Hungarymaize, wheat, milk, sunflower seed, barley, rapeseed, sugar beet, apples, pork, grapes
Topic: Icelandmilk, mutton, poultry, potatoes, barley, pork, eggs, beef, other meat, sheep skins
Topic: Indiasugar cane, rice, wheat, buffalo milk, milk, potatoes, vegetables, bananas, maize, mangoes/guavas
Topic: Indonesiaoil palm fruit, rice, maize, sugar cane, coconuts, cassava, bananas, eggs, poultry, rubber
Topic: Iranwheat, sugar cane, milk, sugar beet, tomatoes, barley, potatoes, oranges, poultry, apples
Topic: Iraqwheat, barley, dates, tomatoes, rice, maize, grapes, potatoes, rice, watermelons
Topic: Irelandmilk, barley, beef, wheat, potatoes, pork, oats, poultry, mushrooms/truffles, mutton
Topic: Isle of Mancereals, vegetables; cattle, sheep, pigs, poultry
Topic: Israelmilk, potatoes, poultry, tomatoes, carrots, turnips, tangerines/mandarins, green chillies/peppers, eggs, vegetables
Topic: Italymilk, grapes, wheat, maize, tomatoes, apples, olives, sugar beet, oranges, rice
Topic: Jamaicasugar cane, goat milk, yams, poultry, coconuts, oranges, bananas, gourds, plantains, grapefruit
Topic: Japanrice, milk, sugar beet, vegetables, eggs, poultry, potatoes, cabbages, onions, pork
Topic: Jerseypotatoes, cauliflower, tomatoes; beef, dairy products
Topic: Jordantomatoes, poultry, olives, milk, potatoes, cucumbers, vegetables, watermelons, green chillies/peppers, peaches/nectarines
Topic: Kazakhstanwheat, milk, potatoes, barley, watermelons, melons, linseed, onions, maize, sunflower seed
Topic: Kenyasugar cane, milk, maize, potatoes, bananas, camel milk, cassava, sweet potatoes, mangoes/guavas, cabbages
Topic: Kiribaticoconuts, roots/tubers nes, bananas, vegetables, taro, tropical fruit, poultry, pork, nuts, eggs
Topic: Korea, Northrice, maize, vegetables, apples, potatoes, cabbages, fruit, sweet potatoes, beans, soybeans
Topic: Korea, Southrice, vegetables, cabbages, milk, onions, pork, poultry, eggs, tangerines/mandarins, potatoes
Topic: Kosovowheat, corn, berries, potatoes, peppers, fruit; dairy, livestock; fish
Topic: Kuwaiteggs, dates, tomatoes, cucumbers, poultry, milk, mutton, potatoes, vegetables, eggplants
Topic: Kyrgyzstanmilk, potatoes, sugar beet, maize, wheat, barley, tomatoes, watermelons, onions, carrots/turnips
Topic: Laosrice, roots/tubers nes, cassava, sugar cane, vegetables, bananas, maize, watermelons, coffee, taro
Topic: Latviawheat, milk, rapeseed, barley, oats, potatoes, rye, beans, pork, poultry
Topic: Lebanonpotatoes, milk, tomatoes, apples, oranges, olives, wheat, cucumbers, poultry, lemons
Topic: Lesothomilk, potatoes, maize, vegetables, fruit, beef, game meat, mutton, beans, wool
Topic: Liberiacassava, sugar cane, oil palm fruit, rice, bananas, vegetables, plantains, rubber, taro, maize
Topic: Libyapotatoes, watermelons, tomatoes, onions, dates, milk, olives, wheat, poultry, vegetables
Topic: Liechtensteinwheat, barley, corn, potatoes; livestock, dairy products
Topic: Lithuaniawheat, milk, sugar beet, rapeseed, barley, triticale, potatoes, oats, peas, beans
Topic: Luxembourgmilk, wheat, barley, triticale, potatoes, pork, beef, grapes, rapeseed, oats
Topic: Macaupork, poultry, beef, pig fat, pig offals, eggs, pepper, cattle offals, cattle hides, goose/guinea fowl meat
Topic: Madagascarrice, sugar cane, cassava, sweet potatoes, milk, vegetables, bananas, mangoes/guavas, tropical fruit, potatoes
Topic: Malawisweet potatoes, cassava, sugar cane, maize, mangoes/guavas, potatoes, tomatoes, pigeon peas, bananas, plantains
Topic: Malaysiaoil palm fruit, rice, poultry, eggs, vegetables, rubber, coconuts, bananas, pineapples, pork
Topic: Maldivespapayas, vegetables, roots/tubers nes, nuts, fruit, other meat, tomatoes, coconuts, bananas, maize
Topic: Malimaize, rice, millet, sorghum, mangoes/guavas, cotton, watermelons, green onions/shallots, okra, sugar cane
Topic: Maltamilk, tomatoes, potatoes, onions, cauliflowers, broccoli, eggplants, pork, cabbages, poultry
Topic: Marshall Islandscoconuts
Topic: Mauritaniarice, milk, goat milk, sheep milk, sorghum, mutton, beef, camel milk, camel meat, dates
Topic: Mauritiussugar cane, poultry, pumpkins, gourds, potatoes, eggs, tomatoes, pineapples, bananas, fruit
Topic: Mexicosugar cane, maize, milk, oranges, sorghum, tomatoes, poultry, wheat, green chillies/peppers, eggs
Topic: Micronesia, Federated States ofcoconuts, cassava, vegetables, sweet potatoes, bananas, pork, plantains, fruit, eggs, beef
Topic: Moldovamaize, wheat, sunflower seed, grapes, apples, sugar beet, milk, potatoes, barley, plums/sloes
Topic: Monaconone
Topic: Mongoliamilk, wheat, goat milk, potatoes, mutton, sheep milk, beef, goat meat, horse meat, carrots/turnips
Topic: Montenegromilk, potatoes, grapes, vegetables, tomatoes, watermelons, wheat, apples, cabbages, barley
Topic: Montserratcabbages, carrots, cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, peppers; livestock products
Topic: Moroccowheat, sugar beet, milk, potatoes, olives, tangerines/mandarins, tomatoes, oranges, barley, onions
Topic: Mozambiquesugar cane, cassava, maize, milk, bananas, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, rice, sorghum, potatoes
Topic: Namibiaroots/tubers nes, milk, maize, onions, beef, grapes, fruit, pulses nes, vegetables, millet
Topic: Naurucoconuts, tropical fruit, vegetables, pork, eggs, pig offals, pig fat, poultry, papayas, cabbages
Topic: Nepalrice, vegetables, sugar cane, potatoes, maize, wheat, buffalo milk, milk, fruit, mangoes/guavas
Topic: Netherlandsmilk, potatoes, sugar beet, pork, onions, wheat, poultry, tomatoes, carrots/turnips, beef
Topic: New Caledoniacoconuts, vegetables, maize, fruit, beef, pork, potatoes, bananas, eggs, yams
Topic: New Zealandmilk, beef, kiwi fruit, apples, potatoes, mutton, grapes, wheat, barley, green onions/shallots
Topic: Nicaraguasugar cane, milk, rice, maize, plantains, groundnuts, cassava, beans, coffee, poultry
Topic: Nigermillet, cow peas, sorghum, onions, milk, groundnuts, cassava, cabbages, goat milk, fruit
Topic: Nigeriacassava, yams, maize, oil palm fruit, rice, vegetables, sorghum, groundnuts, fruit, sweet potatoes
Topic: Niuecoconuts, taro, fruit, sweet potatoes, tropical fruit, yams, vegetables, lemons, limes, bananas
Topic: Norfolk IslandNorfolk Island pine seed, Kentia palm seed, cereals, vegetables, fruit; cattle, poultry
Topic: North Macedoniamilk, grapes, wheat, potatoes, green chillies/peppers, cabbages, tomatoes, maize, barley, watermelons
Topic: Northern Mariana Islandsvegetables and melons, fruits and nuts; ornamental plants; livestock, poultry, eggs; fish and aquaculture products
Topic: Norwaymilk, barley, wheat, potatoes, oats, pork, poultry, beef, eggs, rye
Topic: Omandates, tomatoes, vegetables, goat milk, milk, cucumbers, green chillies/peppers, watermelons, sorghum, melons
Topic: Pakistansugar cane, buffalo milk, wheat, milk, rice, maize, potatoes, cotton, fruit, mangoes/guavas
Topic: Palaucoconuts, cassava (manioc, tapioca), sweet potatoes; fish, pigs, chickens, eggs, bananas, papaya, breadfruit, calamansi, soursop, Polynesian chestnuts, Polynesian almonds, mangoes, taro, guava, beans, cucumbers, squash/pumpkins (various), eggplant, green onions, kangkong (watercress), cabbages (various), radishes, betel nuts, melons, peppers, noni, okra
Topic: Panamasugar cane, bananas, rice, poultry, milk, plantains, pineapples, maize, beef, pork
Topic: Papua New Guineaoil palm fruit, bananas, coconuts, fruit, sweet potatoes, game meat, yams, roots/tubers nes, vegetables, taro
Topic: Paraguaysoybeans, sugar cane, maize, cassava, wheat, rice, beef, milk, oranges, oil palm fruit
Topic: Perusugar cane, potatoes, rice, plantains, milk, poultry, maize, cassava, oil palm fruit, grapes
Topic: Philippinessugar cane, rice, coconuts, maize, bananas, vegetables, tropical fruit, plantains, pineapples, cassava
Topic: Pitcairn Islandshoney; wide variety of fruits and vegetables; goats, chickens; fish
Topic: Polandmilk, sugar beet, wheat, potatoes, triticale, maize, barley, apples, mixed grains, rye
Topic: Portugalmilk, tomatoes, olives, grapes, maize, potatoes, pork, apples, oranges, poultry
Topic: Puerto Ricomilk, plantains, bananas, poultry, tomatoes, mangoes/guavas, eggs, oranges, gourds, papayas
Topic: Qatartomatoes, dates, camel milk, sheep milk, goat milk, pumpkins/gourds, mutton, poultry, milk, eggplants
Topic: Romaniamaize, wheat, milk, sunflower seed, potatoes, barley, grapes, sugar beet, rapeseed, plums/sloes
Topic: Russiawheat, sugar beet, milk, potatoes, barley, sunflower seed, maize, poultry, oats, soybeans
Topic: Rwandabananas, sweet potatoes, cassava, potatoes, plantains, beans, maize, gourds, milk, taro
Topic: Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunhacoffee, corn, potatoes, vegetables; fish, lobster; livestock; timber
Topic: Saint Kitts and Neviscoconuts, tropical fruit, roots/tubers, vegetables, sweet potatoes, pulses, watermelons, carrots/turnips, eggs, tomatoes
Topic: Saint Luciabananas, coconuts, fruit, tropical fruit, plantains, roots/tubers, cassava, poultry, vegetables, mangoes/guavas
Topic: Saint Pierre and Miquelonvegetables; poultry, cattle, sheep, pigs; fish
Topic: Saint Vincent and the Grenadinesbananas, sugar cane, roots/tubers, plantains, vegetables, fruit, coconuts, sweet potatoes, yams, mangoes/guavas
Topic: Samoacoconuts, taro, bananas, yams, tropical fruit, pineapples, mangoes/guavas, papayas, roots/tubers nes, pork
Topic: San Marinowheat, grapes, corn, olives; cattle, pigs, horses, beef, cheese, hides
Topic: Sao Tome and Principeplantains, oil palm fruit, coconuts, taro, bananas, fruit, cocoa, yams, cassava, maize
Topic: Saudi Arabiamilk, dates, poultry, fruit, watermelons, barley, wheat, potatoes, eggs, tomatoes
Topic: Senegalgroundnuts, watermelons, rice, sugar cane, cassava, millet, maize, onions, sorghum, vegetables
Topic: Serbiamaize, wheat, sugar beet, milk, sunflower seed, potatoes, soybeans, plums/sloes, apples, barley
Topic: Seychellescoconuts, vegetables, bananas, fruit, eggs, poultry, tomatoes, pork, tropical fruit, cassava
Topic: Sierra Leonecassava, rice, vegetables, oil palm fruit, sweet potatoes, milk, citrus fruit, groundnuts, fruit, pulses nes
Topic: Singaporepoultry, eggs, vegetables, pork, duck meat, spinach, pig offals, bird eggs, pig fat, cabbages
Topic: Sint Maartensugar
Topic: Slovakiawheat, maize, sugar beet, milk, barley, rapeseed, potatoes, sunflower seed, soybeans, pork
Topic: Sloveniamilk, maize, wheat, grapes, barley, potatoes, poultry, apples, beef, pork
Topic: Solomon Islandsoil palm fruit, sweet potatoes, coconuts, taro, yams, fruit, pulses nes, vegetables, cocoa, cassava
Topic: Somaliacamel milk, milk, sheep milk, goat milk, sugar cane, fruit, sorghum, cassava, vegetables, maize
Topic: South Africasugar cane, maize, milk, potatoes, grapes, poultry, oranges, wheat, soybeans, beef
Topic: South Sudanmilk, sorghum, vegetables, cassava, goat milk, fruit, beef, sesame seed, sheep milk, mutton
Topic: Spainbarley, milk, wheat, olives, grapes, tomatoes, pork, maize, oranges, sugar beet
Topic: Sri Lankarice, coconuts, sugar cane, plantains, milk, tea, cassava, maize, poultry, coir
Topic: Sudansugar cane, sorghum, milk, groundnuts, onions, sesame seed, goat milk, millet, bananas, wheat
Topic: Surinamerice, sugar cane, bananas, oranges, vegetables, plantains, coconuts, poultry, cassava, eggs
Topic: Swedenwheat, milk, sugar beet, barley, potatoes, oats, rapeseed, pork, rye, triticale
Topic: Switzerlandmilk, sugar beet, wheat, potatoes, pork, barley, apples, maize, beef, grapes
Topic: Syriawheat, barley, milk, olives, tomatoes, oranges, potatoes, sheep milk, lemons, limes
Topic: Taiwanrice, vegetables, pork, cabbages, poultry, sugar cane, milk, eggs, pineapples, tropical fruit
Topic: Tajikistanmilk, potatoes, wheat, watermelons, onions, tomatoes, vegetables, cotton, carrots/turnips, beef
Topic: Tanzaniacassava, maize, sweet potatoes, sugar cane, rice, bananas, vegetables, milk, beans, sunflower seed
Topic: Thailandsugar cane, cassava, rice, oil palm fruit, rubber, maize, tropical fruit, poultry, pineapples, mangoes/guavas
Topic: Timor-Lesterice, maize, vegetables, coffee, roots/tubers nes, other meats, cassava, pork, beans, mangoes/guavas
Topic: Togocassava, maize, yams, sorghum, beans, oil palm fruit, rice, vegetables, cotton, groundnuts
Topic: Tokelaucoconuts, roots/tubers nes, tropical fruit, pork, bananas, eggs, poultry, pig offals, pig fat, fruit
Topic: Tongacoconuts, gourds, cassava, sweet potatoes, vegetables, yams, taro, roots/tubers nes, plantains, lemons/limes
Topic: Trinidad and Tobagopoultry, fruit, coconuts, citrus fruit, milk, plantains, maize, oranges, eggs, gourds
Topic: Tunisiawheat, milk, tomatoes, barley, olives, watermelons, green chillies/peppers, potatoes, dates, green onions/shallots
Topic: Turkeymilk, wheat, sugar beet, tomatoes, barley, maize, potatoes, grapes, watermelons, apples
Topic: Turkmenistanmilk, wheat, cotton, tomatoes, potatoes, watermelons, grapes, sugar beet, beef, rice
Topic: Turks and Caicos Islandscorn, beans, cassava (manioc, tapioca), citrus fruits; fish
Topic: Tuvalucoconuts, vegetables, tropical fruit, bananas, roots/tubers nes, pork, poultry, eggs, pig fat, pig offals
Topic: Ugandasugar cane, plantains, cassava, maize, sweet potatoes, milk, vegetables, beans, bananas, sorghum
Topic: Ukrainemaize, wheat, potatoes, sunflower seed, sugar beet, milk, barley, soybeans, rapeseed, tomatoes
Topic: United Arab Emiratesdates, cucumbers, tomatoes, goat meat, eggs, milk, poultry, carrots/turnips, goat milk, sheep milk
Topic: United Kingdomwheat, milk, barley, sugar beet, potatoes, rapeseed, poultry, oats, pork, beef
Topic: United Statesmaize, milk, soybeans, wheat, sugar cane, sugar beet, poultry, potatoes, cotton, pork
Topic: Uruguaysoybeans, milk, rice, maize, wheat, barley, beef, sugar cane, sorghum, oranges
Topic: Uzbekistanmilk, wheat, potatoes, carrots/turnips, cotton, tomatoes, vegetables, grapes, onions, watermelons
Topic: Vanuatucoconuts, roots/tubers nes, bananas, vegetables, pork, fruit, milk, beef, groundnuts, cocoa
Topic: Venezuelasugar cane, maize, milk, rice, plantains, bananas, pineapples, potatoes, beef, poultry
Topic: Vietnamrice, vegetables, sugar cane, cassava, maize, pork, fruit, bananas, coffee, coconuts
Topic: Virgin Islandsfruit, vegetables, sorghum; Senepol cattle
Topic: Wallis and Futunacoconuts, breadfruit, yams, taro, bananas; pigs, goats; fish
Topic: West Banktomatoes, cucumbers, olives, poultry, milk, potatoes, sheep milk, eggplants, gourds
Topic: Yemenmangoes/guavas, potatoes, sorghum, onions, milk, poultry, watermelons, grapes, oranges, bananas
Topic: Zambiasugar cane, cassava, maize, milk, vegetables, soybeans, beef, tobacco, wheat, groundnuts
Topic: Zimbabwesugar cane, maize, milk, tobacco, cassava, vegetables, bananas, beef, cotton, oranges |
20220601 | field-refined-petroleum-products-exports | This entry is the country's total exports of refined petroleum products, in barrels per day (bbl/day).
Topic: Country Comparison Ranking
Topic: Afghanistan0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Albania3,250 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Algeria578,800 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: American Samoa0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Angola30,340 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Antigua and Barbuda91 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Argentina58,360 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Armenia0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Aruba0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Australia64,120 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Austria49,960 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Azerbaijan46,480 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Bahamas, The0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Bahrain245,300 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Bangladesh901 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Barbados0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Belarus351,200 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Belgium680,800 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Belize0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Benin1,514 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Bermuda0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Bhutan0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Bolivia9,686 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Bosnia and Herzegovina4,603 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Botswana0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Brazil279,000 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: British Virgin Islands0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Brunei0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Bulgaria92,720 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Burkina Faso0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Burma0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Burundi0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Cabo Verde0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Cambodia0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Cameroon8,545 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Canada1.115 million bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Cayman Islands0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Central African Republic0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Chad0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Chile7,359 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: China848,400 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Colombia56,900 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Comoros0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Congo, Democratic Republic of the0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Congo, Republic of the5,766 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Cook Islands0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Costa Rica0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Cote d'Ivoire31,450 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Croatia40,530 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Cuba24,190 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Curacao167,500 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Cyprus500 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Czechia52,200 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Denmark133,700 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Djibouti403 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Dominica0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Dominican Republic0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Ecuador25,870 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Egypt47,360 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: El Salvador347 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Equatorial Guinea0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Eritrea0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Estonia27,150 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Eswatini0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Ethiopia0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: European Union2.196 million bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Faroe Islands0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Fiji0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Finland166,200 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: France440,600 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: French Polynesia0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Gabon4,662 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Gambia, The42 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Georgia2,052 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Germany494,000 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Ghana2,654 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Gibraltar0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Greece371,900 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Greenland0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Grenada0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Guam0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Guatemala10,810 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Guinea0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Guinea-Bissau0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Guyana0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Haiti0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Honduras12,870 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Hong Kong13,570 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Hungary58,720 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Iceland2,530 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: India1.305 million bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Indonesia79,930 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Iran397,200 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Iraq8,284 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Ireland37,040 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Israel111,700 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Italy615,900 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Jamaica823 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Japan370,900 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Jordan0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Kazakhstan105,900 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Kenya173 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Kiribati0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Korea, North0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Korea, South1.396 million bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Kosovo192 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Kuwait705,500 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Kyrgyzstan2,290 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Laos0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Latvia16,180 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Lebanon0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Lesotho0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Liberia0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Libya16,880 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Lithuania174,800 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Luxembourg0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Macau0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Madagascar0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Malawi0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Malaysia208,400 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Maldives0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Mali0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Malta10,400 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Marshall Islands0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Mauritania0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Mauritius0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Mexico155,800 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Micronesia, Federated States of0 bbl/day
Topic: Moldova275 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Mongolia0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Montenegro357 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Montserrat0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Morocco9,504 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Mozambique0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Namibia80 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Nauru0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Nepal0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Netherlands2.406 million bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: New Caledonia0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: New Zealand1,782 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Nicaragua460 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Niger5,422 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Nigeria2,332 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Niue0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: North Macedonia3,065 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Norway432,800 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Oman33,700 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Pakistan25,510 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Panama66 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Papua New Guinea0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Paraguay0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Peru62,640 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Philippines26,710 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Poland104,800 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Portugal143,500 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Puerto Rico18,420 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Qatar485,000 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Romania103,000 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Russia2.671 million bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Rwanda0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Saint Kitts and Nevis0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Saint Lucia0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Saint Pierre and Miquelon0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Saint Vincent and the Grenadines0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Samoa0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Sao Tome and Principe0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Saudi Arabia1.784 million bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Senegal4,063 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Serbia15,750 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Seychelles0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Sierra Leone0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Singapore1.82 million bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Sint Maarten0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Slovakia81,100 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Slovenia29,350 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Solomon Islands0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Somalia0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: South Africa105,600 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: South Sudan0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Spain562,400 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Sri Lanka3,871 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Sudan8,541 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Suriname14,000 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Svalbard4,488 bbl/day (2012 est.)
Topic: Sweden371,100 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Switzerland7,345 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Syria12,520 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Taiwan349,600 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Tajikistan0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Tanzania0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Thailand278,300 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Timor-Leste0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Togo0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Tonga0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Trinidad and Tobago106,100 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Tunisia13,660 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Turkey141,600 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Turkmenistan53,780 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Turks and Caicos Islands0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Tuvalu0 bbl/day
Topic: Uganda0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Ukraine1,828 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: United Arab Emirates817,700 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: United Kingdom613,800 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: United States5.218 million bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Uruguay0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Uzbekistan3,977 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Vanuatu0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Venezuela325,800 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Vietnam25,620 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Virgin Islands3,285 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: West Bank19 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: World29.66 million bbl/day (2014 est.)
Topic: Yemen12,670 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Zambia371 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Zimbabwe0 bbl/day (2015 est.) |
20220601 | africa | |
20220601 | countries-uruguay |
Topic: Photos of Uruguay
Topic: Introduction
Background: Montevideo, founded by the Spanish in 1726 as a military stronghold, soon became an important commercial center due to its natural harbor. Claimed by Argentina but annexed by Brazil in 1821, Uruguay declared its independence in 1825 and secured its freedom in 1828 after a three-year struggle. The administrations of President Jose BATLLE in the early 20th century launched widespread political, social, and economic reforms that established a statist tradition. A violent Marxist urban guerrilla movement named the Tupamaros (or Movimiento de Liberación Nacional-Tupamaros (MLN-T)), launched in the late 1960s, led Uruguay's president to cede control of the government to the military in 1973. By year-end, the rebels had been crushed, but the military continued to expand its hold over the government. Civilian rule was restored in 1985. In 2004, the left-of-center Frente Amplio Coalition won national elections that effectively ended 170 years of political control previously held by the Colorado and National (Blanco) parties. The left-of-center retained the presidency and control of both chambers of congress until 2019. Uruguay's political and labor conditions are among the freest on the continent.Montevideo, founded by the Spanish in 1726 as a military stronghold, soon became an important commercial center due to its natural harbor. Claimed by Argentina but annexed by Brazil in 1821, Uruguay declared its independence in 1825 and secured its freedom in 1828 after a three-year struggle. The administrations of President Jose BATLLE in the early 20th century launched widespread political, social, and economic reforms that established a statist tradition. A violent Marxist urban guerrilla movement named the Tupamaros (or Movimiento de Liberación Nacional-Tupamaros (MLN-T)), launched in the late 1960s, led Uruguay's president to cede control of the government to the military in 1973. By year-end, the rebels had been crushed, but the military continued to expand its hold over the government. Civilian rule was restored in 1985. In 2004, the left-of-center Frente Amplio Coalition won national elections that effectively ended 170 years of political control previously held by the Colorado and National (Blanco) parties. The left-of-center retained the presidency and control of both chambers of congress until 2019. Uruguay's political and labor conditions are among the freest on the continent.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Southern South America, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean, between Argentina and Brazil
Geographic coordinates: 33 00 S, 56 00 W
Map references: South America
Area: total: 176,215 sq km
land: 175,015 sq km
water: 1,200 sq km
Area - comparative: about the size of Virginia and West Virginia combined; slightly smaller than the state of Washington
Land boundaries: total: 1,591 km
border countries (2): Argentina 541 km; Brazil 1,050 km
Coastline: 660 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm or the edge of continental margin
Climate: warm temperate; freezing temperatures almost unknown
Terrain: mostly rolling plains and low hills; fertile coastal lowland
Elevation: highest point: Cerro Catedral 514 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 109 m
Natural resources: arable land, hydropower, minor minerals, fish
Land use: agricultural land: 87.2% (2018 est.)
arable land: 10.1% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 0.2% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 76.9% (2018 est.)
forest: 10.2% (2018 est.)
other: 2.6% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 2,380 sq km (2012)
Major lakes (area sq km): Salt water lake(s): Lagoa Mirim (shared with Brazil) - 2,970 sq km
Major rivers (by length in km): Rio de la Plata/Parana river mouth (shared with Brazil [s], Argentina, Paraguay) - 4,880 km; Uruguay river mouth (shared with Brazil [s] and Argentina) - 1,610 km
note – [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
Major aquifers: Guarani Aquifer System
Population distribution: most of the country's population resides in the southern half of the country; approximately 80% of the populace is urban, living in towns or cities; nearly half of the population lives in and around the capital of Montevideo
Natural hazards: seasonally high winds (the pampero is a chilly and occasional violent wind that blows north from the Argentine pampas), droughts, floods; because of the absence of mountains, which act as weather barriers, all locations are particularly vulnerable to rapid changes from weather fronts
Geography - note: second-smallest South American country (after Suriname); most of the low-lying landscape (three-quarters of the country) is grassland, ideal for cattle and sheep raising
Map description: Uruguay map showing major population centers as well as parts of neighboring countries and the South Atlantic Ocean.Uruguay map showing major population centers as well as parts of neighboring countries and the South Atlantic Ocean.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 3,407,213 (2022 est.)
Nationality: noun: Uruguayan(s)
adjective: Uruguayan
Ethnic groups: White 87.7%, Black 4.6%, Indigenous 2.4%, other 0.3%, none or unspecified 5% (2011 est.)
note: data represent primary ethnic identity
Languages: Spanish (official)
major-language sample(s):
La Libreta Informativa del Mundo, la fuente indispensable de información básica. (Spanish)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Religions: Roman Catholic 42%, Protestant 15%, other 6%, agnostic 3%, atheist 10%, unspecified 24% (2014 est.)
Demographic profile: Uruguay rates high for most development indicators and is known for its secularism, liberal social laws, and well-developed social security, health, and educational systems. It is one of the few countries in Latin America and the Caribbean where the entire population has access to clean water. Uruguay's provision of free primary through university education has contributed to the country's high levels of literacy and educational attainment. However, the emigration of human capital has diminished the state's return on its investment in education. Remittances from the roughly 18% of Uruguayans abroad amount to less than 1 percent of national GDP. The emigration of young adults and a low birth rate are causing Uruguay's population to age rapidly.In the 1960s, Uruguayans for the first time emigrated en masse - primarily to Argentina and Brazil - because of economic decline and the onset of more than a decade of military dictatorship. Economic crises in the early 1980s and 2002 also triggered waves of emigration, but since 2002 more than 70% of Uruguayan emigrants have selected the US and Spain as destinations because of better job prospects. Uruguay had a tiny population upon its independence in 1828 and welcomed thousands of predominantly Italian and Spanish immigrants, but the country has not experienced large influxes of new arrivals since the aftermath of World War II. More recent immigrants include Peruvians and Arabs.Uruguay rates high for most development indicators and is known for its secularism, liberal social laws, and well-developed social security, health, and educational systems. It is one of the few countries in Latin America and the Caribbean where the entire population has access to clean water. Uruguay's provision of free primary through university education has contributed to the country's high levels of literacy and educational attainment. However, the emigration of human capital has diminished the state's return on its investment in education. Remittances from the roughly 18% of Uruguayans abroad amount to less than 1 percent of national GDP. The emigration of young adults and a low birth rate are causing Uruguay's population to age rapidly.In the 1960s, Uruguayans for the first time emigrated en masse - primarily to Argentina and Brazil - because of economic decline and the onset of more than a decade of military dictatorship. Economic crises in the early 1980s and 2002 also triggered waves of emigration, but since 2002 more than 70% of Uruguayan emigrants have selected the US and Spain as destinations because of better job prospects. Uruguay had a tiny population upon its independence in 1828 and welcomed thousands of predominantly Italian and Spanish immigrants, but the country has not experienced large influxes of new arrivals since the aftermath of World War II. More recent immigrants include Peruvians and Arabs.
Age structure: 0-14 years: 19.51% (male 336,336/female 324,563)
15-24 years: 15.14% (male 259,904/female 252,945)
25-54 years: 39.86% (male 670,295/female 679,850)
55-64 years: 10.79% (male 172,313/female 193,045)
65 years and over: 14.71% (2020 est.) (male 200,516/female 297,838)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 54.9
youth dependency ratio: 31.5
elderly dependency ratio: 23.4
potential support ratio: 4.3 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 35.5 years
male: 33.8 years
female: 37.3 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 0.27% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 12.71 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 9.18 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: -0.88 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: most of the country's population resides in the southern half of the country; approximately 80% of the populace is urban, living in towns or cities; nearly half of the population lives in and around the capital of Montevideo
Urbanization: urban population: 95.7% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 0.4% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 1.767 million MONTEVIDEO (capital) (2022)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.04 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.04 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.03 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 0.99 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 0.9 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.55 male(s)/female
total population: 0.94 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Maternal mortality ratio: 17 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 8.31 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 9.46 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 7.12 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 78.43 years
male: 75.32 years
female: 81.64 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 1.76 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: 79.6% (2015)
note: percent of women aged 15-44
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 100% of population
rural: 100% of population
total: 100% of population
unimproved: urban: 0% of population
rural: 0% of population
total: 0% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 9.4% (2019)
Physicians density: 5.08 physicians/1,000 population (2017)
Hospital bed density: 2.4 beds/1,000 population (2017)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 99.2% of population
rural: 99.6% of population
total: 99.2% of population
unimproved: urban: 0.8% of population
rural: 0.4% of population
total: 0.8% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: 0.4% (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: 12,000 (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - deaths: (2020 est.) <200
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 27.9% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: 1.8% (2018)
Education expenditures: 4.7% of GDP (2019)
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 98.8%
male: 98.5%
female: 99% (2019)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 19 years
male: 17 years
female: 20 years (2019)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 33.5%
male: 29.4%
female: 38.8% (2020 est.)
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: water pollution from meat packing/tannery industry; heavy metal pollution; inadequate solid/hazardous waste disposal; deforestation
Environment - international agreements: party to: Antarctic-Environmental Protection, Antarctic-Marine Living Resources, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping-London Protocol, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands, Whaling
signed, but not ratified: Marine Dumping-London Convention, Marine Life Conservation
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 8.63 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 6.77 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 25.59 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: warm temperate; freezing temperatures almost unknown
Land use: agricultural land: 87.2% (2018 est.)
arable land: 10.1% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 0.2% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 76.9% (2018 est.)
forest: 10.2% (2018 est.)
other: 2.6% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 95.7% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 0.4% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 1.56% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0% of GDP (2018 est.)
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 1,260,140 tons (2012 est.)
municipal solid waste recycled annually: 100,811 tons (2011 est.)
percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 8% (2011 est.)
Major lakes (area sq km): Salt water lake(s): Lagoa Mirim (shared with Brazil) - 2,970 sq km
Major rivers (by length in km): Rio de la Plata/Parana river mouth (shared with Brazil [s], Argentina, Paraguay) - 4,880 km; Uruguay river mouth (shared with Brazil [s] and Argentina) - 1,610 km
note – [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
Major aquifers: Guarani Aquifer System
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 410 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 80 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 3.17 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 172.2 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Oriental Republic of Uruguay
conventional short form: Uruguay
local long form: Republica Oriental del Uruguay
local short form: Uruguay
former: Banda Oriental, Cisplatine Province
etymology: name derives from the Spanish pronunciation of the Guarani Indian designation of the Uruguay River, which makes up the western border of the country and whose name later came to be applied to the entire country
Government type: presidential republic
Capital: name: Montevideo
geographic coordinates: 34 51 S, 56 10 W
time difference: UTC-3 (2 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name "Montevidi" was originally applied to the hill that overlooked the bay upon which the city of Montevideo was founded; the earliest meaning may have been "[the place where we] saw the hill"
Administrative divisions: 19 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento); Artigas, Canelones, Cerro Largo, Colonia, Durazno, Flores, Florida, Lavalleja, Maldonado, Montevideo, Paysandu, Rio Negro, Rivera, Rocha, Salto, San Jose, Soriano, Tacuarembo, Treinta y Tres
Independence: 25 August 1825 (from Brazil)
National holiday: Independence Day, 25 August (1825)
Constitution: history: several previous; latest approved by plebiscite 27 November 1966, effective 15 February 1967, reinstated in 1985 at the conclusion of military rule
amendments: initiated by public petition of at least 10% of qualified voters, proposed by agreement of at least two fifths of the General Assembly membership, or by existing "constitutional laws" sanctioned by at least two thirds of the membership in both houses of the Assembly; proposals can also be submitted by senators, representatives, or by the executive power and require the formation of and approval in a national constituent convention; final passage by either method requires approval by absolute majority of votes cast in a referendum; amended many times, last in 2004
Legal system: civil law system based on the Spanish civil code
International law organization participation: accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: yes
citizenship by descent only: yes
dual citizenship recognized: yes
residency requirement for naturalization: 3-5 years
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal and compulsory
Executive branch: chief of state: President Luis Alberto LACALLE POU (since 1 March 2020); Vice President Beatriz ARGIMON Cedeira (since 1 March 2020); the president is both chief of state and head of government
head of government: President Luis Alberto LACALLE POU (since 1 March 2020); Vice President Beatriz ARGIMON Cedeira (since 1 March 2020)
cabinet: Council of Ministers appointed by the president with approval of the General Assembly
elections/appointments: president and vice president directly elected on the same ballot by absolute majority vote in 2 rounds if needed for a 5-year term (eligible for nonconsecutive terms); election last held on 27 October 2019 with a runoff election on 24 November 2019 (next to be held in October 2024, and a runoff if needed in November 2024)
election results:
2019: Luis Alberto LACALLE POU elected president - results of the first round of presidential elections: percent of vote - Daniel MARTINEZ (FA) 40.7%, Luis Alberto LACALLE POU (Blanco) 29.7%, Ernesto TALVI (Colorado Party) 12.8%, and Guido MANINI RIOS (Open Cabildo) 11.3%, other 5.5%; results of the second round: percent of vote - Luis Alberto LACALLE POU (Blanco) 50.6%, Daniel MARTINEZ (FA) 49.4%
2014: Tabare VAZQUEZ elected president in second round; percent of vote - Tabare VAZQUEZ (Socialist Party) 56.5%, Luis Alberto LACALLE Pou (Blanco) 43.4%
Legislative branch: description: bicameral General Assembly or Asamblea General consists of:
Chamber of Senators or Camara de Senadores (30 seats; members directly elected in a single nationwide constituency by proportional representation vote; the vice-president serves as the presiding ex-officio member; elected members serve 5-year terms)
Chamber of Representatives or Camara de Representantes (99 seats; members directly elected in multi-seat constituencies by party-list proportional representation vote using the D'Hondt method; members serve 5-year terms)
elections:
Chamber of Senators - last held on 27 October 2019 (next to be held in October 2024)
Chamber of Representatives - last held on 27 October 2019 (next to be held in October 2024)
election results:
Chamber of Senators - percent of vote by coalition/party - NA; seats by coalition/party - Frente Amplio 13, National Party 10, Colorado Party 4, Open Cabildo 3; composition - men 21, women 9, percent of women 30%
Chamber of Representatives - percent of vote by coalition/party - NA; seats by coalition/party - Frente Amplio 42, National Party 30, Colorado Party 13, Open Cabildo 11, Independent Party 1, other 2; composition - men 75, women 24, percent of women 24.2%; note - total General Assembly percent of women 25.6%
Judicial branch: highest courts: Supreme Court of Justice (consists of 5 judges)
judge selection and term of office: judges nominated by the president and appointed by two-thirds vote in joint conference of the General Assembly; judges serve 10-year terms, with reelection possible after a lapse of 5 years following the previous term
subordinate courts: Courts of Appeal; District Courts (Juzgados Letrados); Peace Courts (Juzgados de Paz); Rural Courts (Juzgados Rurales)
Political parties and leaders: Broad Front or FA (Frente Amplio) [Fernando PEREIRA] - (a broad governing coalition that comprises 34 factions including Uruguay Assembly [Danilo ASTORI], Progressive Alliance [Rodolfo NIN NOVOA], New Space [Rafael MICHELINI], Socialist Party [Gonzalo CIVILA], Vertiente Artiguista [Enrique RUBIO], Christian Democratic Party [Jorge RODRIGUEZ], For the People’s Victory [Luis PUIG], Popular Participation Movement (MPP) [Jose MUJICA], Big House [Constanza MOREIRA], Communist Party [Juan CASTILLO], The Federal League [Sergio LIER], Fuerza Renovadora [Mario BERGARA],
Colorado Party (including Batllistas [Julio Maria SANGUINETTI], and Ciudadanos [Adrian Pena])
Independent Party [Pablo MIERES]
National Party or Blanco (including Todos (Everyone) [Luis LACALLE POU] and National Alliance [Carlos CAMY])
Popular Unity [Gonzalo ABELLA]
Open Cabildo [Guido MANINI RIOS]
International organization participation: CAN (associate), CD, CELAC, FAO, G-77, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, LAES, LAIA, Mercosur, MIGA, MINUSTAH, MONUSCO, NAM (observer), OAS, OIF (observer), OPANAL, OPCW, Pacific Alliance (observer), PCA, SICA (observer), UN, UNASUR, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, Union Latina, UNISFA, UNMOGIP, UNOCI, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Andres Augusto DURAN HAREAU (since 23 December 2020)
chancery: 1913 I Street NW, Washington, DC 20006
telephone: [1] (202) 331-1313
FAX: [1] (202) 331-8142
email address and website:
urueeuu@mrree.gub.uy
consulate(s) general: Miami, New York, San Francisco
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Jennifer SAVAGE (since 20 January 2021)
embassy: Lauro Muller 1776, Montevideo 11200
mailing address: 3360 Montevideo Place, Washington DC 20521-3360
telephone: (+598) 1770-2000
FAX: [+598] 1770-2128
email address and website:
MontevideoACS@state.gov
https://uy.usembassy.gov/
Flag description: nine equal horizontal stripes of white (top and bottom) alternating with blue; a white square in the upper hoist-side corner with a yellow sun bearing a human face (delineated in black) known as the Sun of May with 16 rays that alternate between triangular and wavy; the stripes represent the nine original departments of Uruguay; the sun symbol evokes the legend of the sun breaking through the clouds on 25 May 1810 as independence was first declared from Spain (Uruguay subsequently won its independence from Brazil); the sun features are said to represent those of Inti, the Inca god of the sun
note: the banner was inspired by the national colors of Argentina and by the design of the US flag
National symbol(s): Sun of May (a sun-with-face symbol); national colors: blue, white, yellow
National anthem: name: "Himno Nacional" (National Anthem of Uruguay)
lyrics/music: Francisco Esteban ACUNA de Figueroa/Francisco Jose DEBALI
note: adopted 1848; the anthem is also known as "Orientales, la Patria o la tumba!" ("Uruguayans, the Fatherland or Death!"); it is the world's longest national anthem in terms of music (105 bars; almost five minutes); generally only the first verse and chorus are sung
National heritage: total World Heritage Sites: 3 (all cultural)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Historic City of Colonia del Sacramento, Fray Bentos Industrial Landscape, The work of engineer Eladio Dieste: Church of Atlántida
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Uruguay has a free market economy characterized by an export-oriented agricultural sector, a well-educated workforce, and high levels of social spending. Uruguay has sought to expand trade within the Common Market of the South (Mercosur) and with non-Mercosur members, and President VAZQUEZ has maintained his predecessor's mix of pro-market policies and a strong social safety net.
Following financial difficulties in the late 1990s and early 2000s, Uruguay's economic growth averaged 8% annually during the 2004-08 period. The 2008-09 global financial crisis put a brake on Uruguay's vigorous growth, which decelerated to 2.6% in 2009. Nevertheless, the country avoided a recession and kept growth rates positive, mainly through higher public expenditure and investment; GDP growth reached 8.9% in 2010 but slowed markedly in the 2012-16 period as a result of a renewed slowdown in the global economy and in Uruguay's main trade partners and Mercosur counterparts, Argentina and Brazil. Reforms in those countries should give Uruguay an economic boost. Growth picked up in 2017.Uruguay has a free market economy characterized by an export-oriented agricultural sector, a well-educated workforce, and high levels of social spending. Uruguay has sought to expand trade within the Common Market of the South (Mercosur) and with non-Mercosur members, and President VAZQUEZ has maintained his predecessor's mix of pro-market policies and a strong social safety net.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $75.06 billion (2020 est.)
$79.73 billion (2019 est.)
$79.45 billion (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 2.7% (2017 est.)
1.7% (2016 est.)
0.4% (2015 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $21,600 (2020 est.)
$23,000 (2019 est.)
$23,000 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $56.108 billion (2019 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 7.8% (2019 est.)
7.5% (2018 est.)
6.2% (2017 est.)
Credit ratings: Fitch rating: BBB- (2013)
Moody's rating: Baa2 (2014)
Standard & Poors rating: BBB (2015)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 6.2% (2017 est.)
industry: 24.1% (2017 est.)
services: 69.7% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 66.8% (2017 est.)
government consumption: 14.3% (2017 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 16.7% (2017 est.)
investment in inventories: -1% (2017 est.)
exports of goods and services: 21.6% (2017 est.)
imports of goods and services: -18.4% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: soybeans, milk, rice, maize, wheat, barley, beef, sugar cane, sorghum, oranges
Industries: food processing, electrical machinery, transportation equipment, petroleum products, textiles, chemicals, beverages
Industrial production growth rate: -3.6% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 1.748 million (2017 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 13%
industry: 14%
services: 73% (2010 est.)
Unemployment rate: 7.6% (2017 est.)
7.9% (2016 est.)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 33.5%
male: 29.4%
female: 38.8% (2020 est.)
Population below poverty line: 8.8% (2019 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 39.7 (2018 est.)
41.9 (2013)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: 1.9%
highest 10%: 30.8% (2014 est.)
Budget: revenues: 17.66 billion (2017 est.)
expenditures: 19.72 billion (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): -3.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 65.7% of GDP (2017 est.)
61.6% of GDP (2016 est.)
note: data cover general government debt and include debt instruments issued (or owned) by government entities other than the treasury; the data include treasury debt held by foreign entities; the data include debt issued by subnational entities, as well as intragovernmental debt; intragovernmental debt consists of treasury borrowings from surpluses in the social funds, such as for retirement, medical care, and unemployment; debt instruments for the social funds are not sold at public auctions.
Taxes and other revenues: 29.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: calendar year
Current account balance: $879 million (2017 est.)
$410 million (2016 est.)
Exports: $13.55 billion (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$16.99 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$17.04 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Exports - partners: China 29%, Brazil 12%, United States 5%, Netherlands 5%, Argentina 5% (2019)
Exports - commodities: sulfate wood pulp, beef, soybeans, concentrated milk, rice (2019)
Imports: $11.29 billion (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$13.31 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$13.82 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Imports - partners: Brazil 25%, China 15%, United States 11%, Argentina 11% (2019)
Imports - commodities: crude petroleum, packaged medicines, cars, broadcasting equipment, delivery trucks (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $15.96 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
$13.47 billion (31 December 2016 est.)
Debt - external: $43.705 billion (2019 est.)
$42.861 billion (2018 est.)
Exchange rates: Uruguayan pesos (UYU) per US dollar -
42.645 (2020 est.)
37.735 (2019 est.)
32.2 (2018 est.)
27.52 (2014 est.)
23.25 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Electricity - production: 13.13 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 10.77 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 1.321 billion kWh (2015 est.)
Electricity - imports: 24 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 4.808 million kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 29% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 29% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 42% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 0 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 40,200 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 0 bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 42,220 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 53,000 bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 9,591 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 70.79 million cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 70.79 million cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 0 cu m (1 January 2014 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 1,224,600 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 35 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 4,779,790 (2019)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 138.08 (2019)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: Uruguay has an advanced telecom market, with excellent infrastructure and one of the highest broadband penetration rates in Latin America; fully digitized; high computer use and fixed-line/mobile penetrations; deployment of fiber infrastructure will encourage economic growth and stimulate e-commerce; state-owned monopoly on fixed-line market and dominance of mobile market; nationwide 3G coverage and LTE networks; limited 5G commercial reach; strong focus on fiber infrastructure with high percentage of residential fixed-broadband connections and near total business connections; importer of broadcasting equipment from China (2020)
domestic: most modern facilities concentrated in Montevideo; nationwide microwave radio relay network; overall fixed-line roughly 34 per 100 and mobile-cellular teledensity 138 per 100 persons (2019)
international: country code - 598; landing points for the Unisor, Tannat, and Bicentenario submarine cable system providing direct connectivity to Brazil and Argentina; Bicentenario 2012 and Tannat 2017 cables helped end-users with Internet bandwidth; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) (2020)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: mixture of privately owned and state-run broadcast media; more than 100 commercial radio stations and about 20 TV channels; cable TV is available; many community radio and TV stations; adopted the hybrid Japanese/Brazilian HDTV standard (ISDB-T) in December 2010 (2019)
Internet country code: .uy
Internet users: total: 2,987,405 (2020 est.)
percent of population: 86% (2020 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 1,063,701 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 31 (2020 est.)
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 2 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 5
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: CX
Airports: total: 133 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 11
over 3,047 m: 1
1,524 to 2,437 m: 4
914 to 1,523 m: 4
under 914 m: 2 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 122
1,524 to 2,437 m: 3
914 to 1,523 m: 40
under 914 m: 79 (2021)
Pipelines: 257 km gas, 160 km oil (2013)
Railways: total: 1,673 km (2016) (operational; government claims overall length is 2,961 km)
standard gauge: 1,673 km (2016) 1.435-m gauge
Roadways: total: 77,732 km (2010)
paved: 7,743 km (2010)
unpaved: 69,989 km (2010)
Waterways: 1,600 km (2011)
Merchant marine: total: 61
by type: container ship 1, general cargo 4, oil tanker 4, other 52 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Montevideo
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: Armed Forces of Uruguay (Fuerzas Armadas del Uruguay): National Army (Ejercito Nacional), National Navy (Armada Nacional, includes Coast Guard (Prefectura Nacional Naval)), Uruguayan Air Force (Fuerza Aerea); Guardia Nacional Republicana (paramilitary regiment of the National Police) (2022)
Military expenditures: 2.3% of GDP (2021 est.)
2% of GDP (2020 est.)
2.1% of GDP (2019 est.) (approximately $1.47 billion)
2.1% of GDP (2018 est.) (approximately $1.51 billion)
2% of GDP (2017 est.) (approximately $1.38 billion)
Military and security service personnel strengths: approximately 22,000 active personnel (14,000 Army; 5,000 Navy; 3,000 Air Force) (2021)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the inventory of the Armed Forces of Uruguay includes a wide variety of older or second-hand equipment; since 2010, it has imported limited amounts of military hardware from about 10 countries with Spain as the leading supplier (2021)
Military service age and obligation: 18-30 years of age (18-22 years of age for Navy) for male or female voluntary military service; up to 40 years of age for specialists; enlistment is voluntary in peacetime, but the government has the authority to conscript in emergencies (2021)
note - as of 2017, women comprised about 19% of the active military
Military deployments: 830 Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO); 210 Golan Heights (UNDOF) (Feb 2022)
Military - note: as of 2021, the military had some domestic responsibilities, including perimeter security for a number of prisons and border security; in 2020, the military deployed more than 1,000 troops to assist the National Police in securing the land border with Brazil and the riverine border with Argentina as part of a border control law passed in 2018 as of 2021, the military had some domestic responsibilities, including perimeter security for a number of prisons and border security; in 2020, the military deployed more than 1,000 troops to assist the National Police in securing the land border with Brazil and the riverine border with Argentina as part of a border control law passed in 2018
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: in 2010, the ICJ ruled in favor of Uruguay's operation of two paper mills on the Uruguay River, which forms the border with Argentina; the two countries formed a joint pollution monitoring regime; uncontested boundary dispute between Brazil and Uruguay over Braziliera/Brasiliera Island in the Quarai/Cuareim River leaves the tripoint with Argentina in question; smuggling of firearms and narcotics continues to be an issue along the Uruguay-Brazil borderin 2010, the ICJ ruled in favor of Uruguay's operation of two paper mills on the Uruguay River, which forms the border with Argentina; the two countries formed a joint pollution monitoring regime; uncontested boundary dispute between Brazil and Uruguay over Braziliera/Brasiliera Island in the Quarai/Cuareim River leaves the tripoint with Argentina in question; smuggling of firearms and narcotics continues to be an issue along the Uruguay-Brazil border
Refugees and internally displaced persons: refugees (country of origin): 19,000 (Venezuela) (economic and political crisis; includes Venezuelans who have claimed asylum or have received alternative legal stay) (2022)
stateless persons: 5 (mid-year 2021)
Illicit drugs: transit country for drugs mainly bound for Europe, often through sea-borne containers; limited law enforcement corruption; money laundering; weak border control along Brazilian frontier; increasing consumption of cocaine base and synthetic drugs |
20220601 | countries-bulgaria-travel-facts |
US State Dept Travel Advisory: The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens DO NOT TRAVEL to Bulgaria due to COVID-19. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws and special circumstances in this country.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements: US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. They should also make sure they have at least 2 blank pages in their passport for any entry stamp. A visa is not required as long as you do not stay in the country more than 90 days.
US Embassy/Consulate: [359] (2) 937-5100; US Embassy in Sofia, 16, Kozyak Street, Sofia 1408, Bulgaria; https://bg.usembassy.gov/; acs_sofia@state.gov
Telephone Code: 359
Local Emergency Phone: Ambulance: 150; Fire: 160; Police: 166
Vaccinations: See WHO recommendations
http://www.who.int/
Climate: Temperate; cold, damp winters; hot, dry summers
Currency (Code): Leva (BGN)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s): 230 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): C, F
Major Languages: Bulgarian, Turkish, Romani
Major Religions: Eastern Orthodox 59.4%, Muslim 7.8%
Time Difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time);
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March, ends last Sunday in October
Potable Water: Opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit: Suggested
Road Driving Side: Right
Tourist Destinations: Rila Monastery; Pirin National Park; Plovdiv Roman Theater; Sunny Beach; Tsarevets Fortress; Baba Vida Fortress; Belogradchik Fortress; Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari, ancient city of Nessebar
Major Sports: Soccer, skiing, basketball
Cultural Practices: Unlike in most other countries, a vertical shaking of the head indicates "no" in Bulgaria while a sideways shaking indicates "yes."
Tipping Guidelines: At restaurants, typically leave 10% of the total bill for a tip. Tip porters 50 levas per bag and hotel housekeepers 1.50 levas per day. It is common to tip taxi drivers 10% of the fare. Tour guides should also be tipped 5-10% of the total bill.Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444
Page last updated: Tuesday, March 22, 2022 |
20220601 | countries-samoa |
Topic: Photos of Samoa
Topic: Introduction
Background: The first Austronesian settlers arrived in Samoa around 1000 B.C., and early Samoans traded and intermarried with Fijian and Tongan nobility. The fa’amatai system of titles and nobility developed, which dominates Samoan politics to this day; all but two seats in the legislature are reserved for matai, or heads of families. Dutch explorer Jacob ROGGEVEEN was the first European to spot the islands in 1722. Christian missionaries arrived in the 1830s, converting most of the population. In the 1850s, Apia became a center for Pacific trading and hosted an American commercial agent and British and German consuls. In 1892, American traders convinced the Samoan king to align his country’s date with the US, moving to the east of the International Date Line.
Following the death of the Samoan king in 1841, rival families competed for his titles, devolving into civil war in 1886 with factions getting support from either Germany, the UK, or the US. All three countries sent warships to Apia in 1889, presaging a larger war, but a cyclone destroyed the ships and Malietoa LAUPEPA was installed as king. Upon LAUPEPA’s death in 1898, a second civil war over succession broke out. The war ended in 1899 and the Western powers abolished the monarchy, giving the western Samoan islands to Germany and the eastern Samoan islands to the US. The UK abandoned claims in Samoa and received former German territory in the Solomon Islands.
The Mau, a non-violent popular movement to advocate for Samoan independence, formed in 1908. New Zealand annexed Samoa in 1914 after the outbreak of World War I. Opposition to New Zealand’s rule quickly grew. In 1918, a New Zealand ship introduced the Spanish flu, infecting 90% of the population and killing more than 20%. In 1929, New Zealand police shot into a crowd of peaceful protestors, killing 11, in an event known as Black Sunday. In 1962, Samoa became the first Polynesian nation to reestablish its independence as Western Samoa but dropped the “Western” from its name in 1997. The Human Rights Protection Party has dominated politics since 1982, especially under Prime Minister Sailele TUILAEPA, who has been in power since 1998.
In the late 2000s, Samoa began making efforts to align more closely with Australia and New Zealand. In 2009, Samoa changed its driving orientation to the left side of the road, in line with other Commonwealth countries. In 2011, Samoa jumped forward one day - skipping December 30 - by moving to the west side of the International Date Line so that it was one hour ahead of New Zealand and three hours ahead of the east coast of Australia, rather than 23 and 21 hours behind, respectively.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Oceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand
Geographic coordinates: 13 35 S, 172 20 W
Map references: Oceania
Area: total: 2,831 sq km
land: 2,821 sq km
water: 10 sq km
Area - comparative: slightly smaller than Rhode Island
Land boundaries: total: 0 km
Coastline: 403 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
Climate: tropical; rainy season (November to April), dry season (May to October)
Terrain: two main islands (Savaii, Upolu) and several smaller islands and uninhabited islets; narrow coastal plain with volcanic, rugged mountains in interior
Elevation: highest point: Mount Silisili 1,857 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
Natural resources: hardwood forests, fish, hydropower
Land use: agricultural land: 12.4% (2018 est.)
arable land: 2.8% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 7.8% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 1.8% (2018 est.)
forest: 60.4% (2018 est.)
other: 27.2% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 0 sq km (2012)
Population distribution: about three-quarters of the population lives on the island of Upolu
Natural hazards: occasional cyclones; active volcanismvolcanism: Savai'I Island (1,858 m), which last erupted in 1911, is historically activeoccasional cyclones; active volcanismvolcanism: Savai'I Island (1,858 m), which last erupted in 1911, is historically active
Geography - note: occupies an almost central position within Polynesia
Map description: Samoa map showing the islands that comprise this archipelagic country in the South Pacific Ocean.Samoa map showing the islands that comprise this archipelagic country in the South Pacific Ocean.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 206,179 (2022 est.)
Nationality: noun: Samoan(s)
adjective: Samoan
Ethnic groups: Samoan 96%, Samoan/New Zealander 2%, other 1.9% (2011 est.)
note: data represent the population by country of citizenship
Languages: Samoan (Polynesian) (official) 91.1%, Samoan/English 6.7%, English (official) 0.5%, other 0.2%, unspecified 1.6% (2006 est.)
Religions: Protestant 54.9% (Congregationalist 29%, Methodist 12.4%, Assembly of God 6.8%, Seventh Day Adventist 4.4%, other Protestant 2.3%), Roman Catholic 18.8%, Church of Jesus Christ 16.9%, Worship Centre 2.8%, other Christian 3.6%, other 2.9% (includes Baha'i, Muslim), none 0.2% (2016 est.)
Age structure: 0-14 years: 29.31% (male 30,825/female 28,900)
15-24 years: 19.61% (male 20,519/female 19,439)
25-54 years: 37.4% (male 39,011/female 37,200)
55-64 years: 7.5% (male 7,780/female 7,505)
65 years and over: 6.18% (2020 est.) (male 5,513/female 7,082)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 73.3
youth dependency ratio: 64.5
elderly dependency ratio: 8.8
potential support ratio: 11.4 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 25.6 years
male: 25.3 years
female: 26 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 0.63% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 19.21 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 5.37 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: -7.51 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: about three-quarters of the population lives on the island of Upolu
Urbanization: urban population: 17.6% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: -0.03% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 36,000 APIA (capital) (2018)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.07 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.06 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 1.05 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 1.05 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.61 male(s)/female
total population: 1.03 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth: 23.6 years (2009 est.)
note: median age at first birth among women 25-29
Maternal mortality ratio: 43 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 18 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 21.76 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 14.05 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 75.19 years
male: 72.28 years
female: 78.25 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 2.42 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: 16.6% (2019/20)
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 100% of population
rural: 98% of population
total: 98.4% of population
unimproved: urban: 0% of population
rural: 2% of population
total: 1.6% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 6.4% (2019)
Physicians density: 0.35 physicians/1,000 population (2016)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 99.5% of population
rural: 99.5% of population
total: 99.5% of population
unimproved: urban: 0.5% of population
rural: 0.5% of population
total: 0.5% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: NA
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: NA
HIV/AIDS - deaths: NA
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial diarrhea
vectorborne diseases: malaria
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 47.3% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: 3.4% (2019/20)
Child marriage: women married by age 15: 0.9% (2020)
women married by age 18: 7.4% (2020)
men married by age 18: 2% (2020 est.)
Education expenditures: 4.8% of GDP (2020)
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 99.1%
male: 99%
female: 99.2% (2018)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 31.9%
male: 24.6%
female: 43.4% (2017 est.)
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: soil erosion, deforestation, invasive species, overfishing
Environment - international agreements: party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 10.56 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 0.25 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 0.27 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: tropical; rainy season (November to April), dry season (May to October)
Land use: agricultural land: 12.4% (2018 est.)
arable land: 2.8% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 7.8% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 1.8% (2018 est.)
forest: 60.4% (2018 est.)
other: 27.2% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 17.6% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: -0.03% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 0.27% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0% of GDP (2018 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial diarrhea
vectorborne diseases: malaria
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 27,399 tons (2011 est.)
municipal solid waste recycled annually: 9,864 tons (2013 est.)
percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 36% (2013 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 0 cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Independent State of Samoa
conventional short form: Samoa
local long form: Malo Sa'oloto Tuto'atasi o Samoa
local short form: Samoa
former: Western Samoa
etymology: the meaning of Samoa is disputed; some modern explanations are that the "sa" connotes "sacred" and "moa" indicates "center," so the name can mean "Holy Center"; alternatively, some assertions state that it can mean "place of the sacred moa bird" of Polynesian mythology; the name, however, may go back to Proto-Polynesian (PPn) times (before 1000 B.C.); a plausible PPn reconstruction has the first syllable as "sa'a" meaning "tribe or people" and "moa" meaning "deep sea or ocean" to convey the meaning "people of the deep sea"
Government type: parliamentary republic
Capital: name: Apia
geographic coordinates: 13 49 S, 171 46 W
time difference: UTC+13 (18 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: name derives from the native village around which the capital was constructed in the 1850s; the village still exists within the larger modern capital
Administrative divisions: 11 districts; A'ana, Aiga-i-le-Tai, Atua, Fa'asaleleaga, Gaga'emauga, Gagaifomauga, Palauli, Satupa'itea, Tuamasaga, Va'a-o-Fonoti, Vaisigano
Independence: 1 January 1962 (from New Zealand-administered UN trusteeship)
National holiday: Independence Day Celebration, 1 June (1962); note - 1 January 1962 is the date of independence from the New Zealand-administered UN trusteeship, but it is observed in June
Constitution: history: several previous (preindependence); latest 1 January 1962
amendments: proposed as an act by the Legislative Assembly; passage requires at least two-thirds majority vote by the Assembly membership in the third reading - provided at least 90 days have elapsed since the second reading, and assent of the chief of state; passage of amendments affecting constitutional articles on customary land or constitutional amendment procedures also requires at least two-thirds majority approval in a referendum; amended several times, last in 2020
Legal system: mixed legal system of English common law and customary law; judicial review of legislative acts with respect to fundamental rights of the citizen
International law organization participation: has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: no
citizenship by descent only: at least one parent must be a citizen of Samoa
dual citizenship recognized: no
residency requirement for naturalization: 5 years
Suffrage: 21 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: TUIMALEALI'IFANO Va’aletoa Sualauvi II (since 21 July 2017)
head of government: Prime Minister FIAME Naomi Mata’afa (since 24 May 2021)
cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the chief of state on the prime minister's advice
elections/appointments: chief of state indirectly elected by the Legislative Assembly to serve a 5-year term (2- term limit); election last held on 4 July 2017 (next to be held in 2022); following legislative elections, the leader of the majority party is usually appointed prime minister by the chief of state, approved by the Legislative Assembly
election results: TUIMALEALI'IFANO Va’aletoa Sualauvi unanimously elected by the Legislative Assembly on 5 July 2017
Legislative branch: description: unicameral Legislative Assembly or Fono (53 seats for 2021-2026 term); members from 51 single-seat constituencies directly elected by simple majority vote, with a minimum 10% representation of women in the Assembly required; members serve 5-year terms)
elections: election last held on 9 April 2021 (next election to be held in 2026)
election results: percent of vote by party - HRPP 55%, FAST 37%, TSP 3%, independents 5%; seats by party – FAST 30, HRPP 22, independents 1; composition - men 47, women 6, percent of women 11.3%
note - on 29 November 2021, the Election Commissioner added two women seats to parliament, bringing the HRPP’s total from 20 to 22 seats
Judicial branch: highest courts: Court of Appeal (consists of the chief justice and 2 Supreme Court judges and meets once or twice a year); Supreme Court (consists of the chief justice and several judges)
judge selection and term of office: chief justice appointed by the chief of state upon the advice of the prime minister; other Supreme Court judges appointed by the Judicial Service Commission, a 3-member body chaired by the chief justice and includes the attorney general and an appointee of the Minister of Justice; judges normally serve until retirement at age 68
subordinate courts: District Court; Magistrates' Courts; Land and Titles Courts; village fono or village chief councils
Political parties and leaders: Human Rights Protection Party or HRPP [TUILA'EPA Sailele Malielegaoi]
Fa'atuatua i le Atua Samoa ua Tasi or FAST [FIAME Naomi Mata'afa]
Tautua Samoa Party or TSP [Afualo Wood Uti SALELE]
International organization participation: ACP, ADB, AOSIS, C, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IPU, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, OPCW, PIF, Sparteca, SPC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCO, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Pa’olelei LUTERU (since 7 July 2021)
chancery: 685 Third Avenue, 44th Street, 11th Floor, Suite 1102, New York, NY 10017
telephone: [1] (212) 599-6196
FAX: [1] (212) 599-0797
email address and website:
samoanymission@outlook.com
https://www.un.int/samoa/samoa/embassy-independent-state-samoa-united-states-america
consulate(s) general: Pago Pago (American Samoa)
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: the US Ambassador to New Zealand is accredited to Samoa
embassy: 5th Floor, Accident Corporation Building, Matafele Apia
mailing address: 4400 Apia Place, Washington DC 20521-4400
telephone: [685] 21-436 (2018)
FAX: [685] 22-030 (2018)
email address and website:
ApiaConsular@state.gov
https://ws.usembassy.gov/
Flag description: red with a blue rectangle in the upper hoist-side quadrant bearing five white, five-pointed stars representing the Southern Cross constellation; red stands for courage, blue represents freedom, and white signifies purity
note: similar to the flag of Taiwan
National symbol(s): Southern Cross constellation (five, five-pointed stars); national colors: red, white, blue
National anthem: name: "O le Fu'a o le Sa'olotoga o Samoa" (The Banner of Freedom)
lyrics/music: Sauni Liga KURESA
note: adopted 1962; also known as "Samoa Tula'i" (Samoa Arise)
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: The economy of Samoa has traditionally been dependent on development aid, family remittances from overseas, tourism, agriculture, and fishing. It has a nominal GDP of $844 million. Agriculture, including fishing, furnishes 90% of exports, featuring fish, coconut oil, nonu products, and taro. The manufacturing sector mainly processes agricultural products. Industry accounts for nearly 22% of GDP while employing less than 6% of the work force. The service sector accounts for nearly two-thirds of GDP and employs approximately 50% of the labor force. Tourism is an expanding sector accounting for 25% of GDP; 132,000 tourists visited the islands in 2013. The country is vulnerable to devastating storms. In September 2009, an earthquake and the resulting tsunami severely damaged Samoa and nearby American Samoa, disrupting transportation and power generation, and resulting in about 200 deaths. In December 2012, extensive flooding and wind damage from Tropical Cyclone Evan killed four people, displaced over 6,000, and damaged or destroyed an estimated 1,500 homes on Samoa's Upolu Island. The Samoan Government has called for deregulation of the country's financial sector, encouragement of investment, and continued fiscal discipline, while at the same time protecting the environment. Foreign reserves are relatively healthy and inflation is low, but external debt is approximately 45% of GDP. Samoa became the 155th member of the WTO in May 2012, and graduated from least developed country status in January 2014.The economy of Samoa has traditionally been dependent on development aid, family remittances from overseas, tourism, agriculture, and fishing. It has a nominal GDP of $844 million. Agriculture, including fishing, furnishes 90% of exports, featuring fish, coconut oil, nonu products, and taro. The manufacturing sector mainly processes agricultural products. Industry accounts for nearly 22% of GDP while employing less than 6% of the work force. The service sector accounts for nearly two-thirds of GDP and employs approximately 50% of the labor force. Tourism is an expanding sector accounting for 25% of GDP; 132,000 tourists visited the islands in 2013. The country is vulnerable to devastating storms. In September 2009, an earthquake and the resulting tsunami severely damaged Samoa and nearby American Samoa, disrupting transportation and power generation, and resulting in about 200 deaths. In December 2012, extensive flooding and wind damage from Tropical Cyclone Evan killed four people, displaced over 6,000, and damaged or destroyed an estimated 1,500 homes on Samoa's Upolu Island. The Samoan Government has called for deregulation of the country's financial sector, encouragement of investment, and continued fiscal discipline, while at the same time protecting the environment. Foreign reserves are relatively healthy and inflation is low, but external debt is approximately 45% of GDP. Samoa became the 155th member of the WTO in May 2012, and graduated from least developed country status in January 2014.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $1.25 billion (2020 est.)
$1.28 billion (2019 est.)
$1.24 billion (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 2.5% (2017 est.)
7.1% (2016 est.)
1.6% (2015 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $6,300 (2020 est.)
$6,500 (2019 est.)
$6,300 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $841 million (2017 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 1.3% (2017 est.)
0.1% (2016 est.)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 10.4% (2017 est.)
industry: 23.6% (2017 est.)
services: 66% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: NA
government consumption: NA
investment in fixed capital: NA
investment in inventories: NA
exports of goods and services: 27.2% (2015 est.)
imports of goods and services: -50.5% (2015 est.)
Agricultural products: coconuts, taro, bananas, yams, tropical fruit, pineapples, mangoes/guavas, papayas, roots/tubers nes, pork
Industries: food processing, building materials, auto parts
Industrial production growth rate: -1.8% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 50,700 (2016 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 65%
industry: 6%
services: 29% (2015 est.)
Unemployment rate: 5.2% (2017 est.)
5.5% (2016 est.)
NA
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 31.9%
male: 24.6%
female: 43.4% (2017 est.)
Population below poverty line: 20.3% (2013 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 38.7 (2013 est.)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Budget: revenues: 237.3 million (2017 est.)
expenditures: 276.8 million (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): -4.7% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 49.1% of GDP (2017 est.)
52.6% of GDP (2016 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 28.2% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: June 1 - May 31
Current account balance: -$19 million (2017 est.)
-$37 million (2016 est.)
Exports: $310 million (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Exports - partners: American Samoa 21%, United States 13%, New Zealand 12%, Australia 10%, Tokelau 6%, Taiwan 5% (2019)
Exports - commodities: refined petroleum, fish, fruit juice, coconut oil, beer (2019)
Imports: $430 million (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$312.6 million (2016 est.)
Imports - partners: New Zealand 22%, China 16%, Singapore 13%, United States 10%, Australia 9%, South Korea 8%, Fiji 5% (2019)
Imports - commodities: refined petroleum, iron products, poultry meats, cars, insulated wiring (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $133 million (31 December 2017 est.)
$122.5 million (31 December 2015 est.)
Debt - external: $447.2 million (31 December 2013 est.)
Exchange rates: tala (SAT) per US dollar -
2.54712 (2020 est.)
2.65534 (2019 est.)
2.57069 (2018 est.)
2.5609 (2014 est.)
2.3318 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Electricity - production: 132 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 122.8 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - imports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 45,000 kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 48% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 23% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 29% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 0 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 0 bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 2,400 bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 2,363 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 0 cu m (1 January 2014 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 6,000 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 3 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 124,211 (2018)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 63.58 (2019)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: development of infrastructure is hampered by geography of remote islands, vulnerable to devastating storms; telecom sector has been inhibited by lack of international connectivity; most households have at least one mobile phone; businesses in the capital area have access to broadband and Wi-Fi; rural islands have some access to Internet and Wi-Fi; liberalized regulatory infrastructure and competition in the mobile market increased coverage and reduced cost; access to submarine cables improved Internet data rates and reliability; Australian companies countering Chinese companies in the acquisition of Pacific operations; importer of broadcasting equipment from USA (2020)
domestic: fixed-line roughly 4 per 100 and mobile-cellular teledensity nearly 64 telephones per 100 persons (2019)
international: country code - 685; landing points for the Tui-Samo, Manatua, SAS, and Southern Cross NEXT submarine cables providing connectivity to Samoa, Fiji, Wallis & Futuna, Cook Islands, Niue, French Polynesia, American Samoa, Australia, New Zealand, Kiribati, Los Angeles (US), and Tokelau; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean) (2019)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: state-owned TV station privatized in 2008; 4 privately owned television broadcast stations; about a half-dozen privately owned radio stations and one state-owned radio station; TV and radio broadcasts of several stations from American Samoa are available (2019)
Internet country code: .ws
Internet users: total: 67,012 (2019 est.)
percent of population: 34% (2019 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 1,692 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 0.85 (2020 est.) less than 1
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 1 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 4
annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 137,770 (2018)
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: 5W
Airports: total: 4 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 1
2,438 to 3,047 m: 1 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 3
under 914 m: 3 (2021)
Roadways: total: 1,150 km (2018)
Merchant marine: total: 12
by type: general cargo 3, oil tanker 3, other 6 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Apia
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: no regular military forces; Samoa Police Force (Ministry of Police)
Military - note: Samoa has no formal defense structure or regular armed forces; informal defense ties exist with NZ, which is required to consider any Samoan request for assistance under the 1962 Treaty of Friendship
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: nonenone |
20220601 | field-infant-mortality-rate-country-comparison | |
20220601 | field-household-income-or-consumption-by-percentage-share | Data on household income or consumption come from household surveys, with the results adjusted for household size. Nations use different standards and procedures in collecting and adjusting the data. Surveys based on income will normally show a more unequal distribution than surveys based on consumption. The quality of surveys is improving with time, yet caution is still necessary in making inter-country comparisons.
Topic: Afghanistanlowest 10%: 3.8%
highest 10%: 24% (2008)
Topic: Albanialowest 10%: 4.1%
highest 10%: 19.6% (2015 est.)
Topic: Algerialowest 10%: 2.8%
highest 10%: 26.8% (1995)
Topic: American Samoalowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Andorralowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Angolalowest 10%: 0.6%
highest 10%: 44.7% (2000)
Topic: Anguillalowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Antigua and Barbudalowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Argentinalowest 10%: 1.8%
highest 10%: 31% (2017 est.)
Topic: Armenialowest 10%: 3.5%
highest 10%: 25.7% (2014)
Topic: Arubalowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Australialowest 10%: 2%
highest 10%: 25.4% (1994)
Topic: Austrialowest 10%: 2.8%
highest 10%: 23.5% (2012 est.)
Topic: Azerbaijanlowest 10%: 3.4%
highest 10%: 27.4% (2008)
Topic: Bahamas, Thelowest 10%: 1%
highest 10%: 22% (2007 est.)
Topic: Bahrainlowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Bangladeshlowest 10%: 4%
highest 10%: 27% (2010 est.)
Topic: Barbadoslowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Belaruslowest 10%: 3.8%
highest 10%: 21.9% (2008)
Topic: Belgiumlowest 10%: 3.4%
highest 10%: 28.4% (2006)
Topic: Belizelowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Beninlowest 10%: 3.1%
highest 10%: 29% (2003)
Topic: Bermudalowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Bhutanlowest 10%: 2.8%
highest 10%: 30.6% (2012)
Topic: Bolivialowest 10%: 0.9%
highest 10%: 36.1% (2014 est.)
Topic: Bosnia and Herzegovinalowest 10%: 2.9%
highest 10%: 25.8% (2011 est.)
Topic: Botswanalowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Brazillowest 10%: 0.8%
highest 10%: 43.4% (2016 est.)
Topic: British Virgin Islandslowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Bruneilowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Bulgarialowest 10%: 1.9%
highest 10%: 31.2% (2017)
Topic: Burkina Fasolowest 10%: 2.9%
highest 10%: 32.2% (2009 est.)
Topic: Burmalowest 10%: 2.8%
highest 10%: 32.4% (1998)
Topic: Burundilowest 10%: 4.1%
highest 10%: 28% (2006)
Topic: Cabo Verdelowest 10%: 1.9%
highest 10%: 40.6% (2000)
Topic: Cambodialowest 10%: 2%
highest 10%: 28% (2013 est.)
Topic: Cameroonlowest 10%: 37.5%
highest 10%: 35.4% (2001)
Topic: Canadalowest 10%: 2.6%
highest 10%: 24.8% (2000)
Topic: Cayman Islandslowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Central African Republiclowest 10%: 2.1%
highest 10%: 33% (2003)
Topic: Chadlowest 10%: 2.6%
highest 10%: 30.8% (2003)
Topic: Chilelowest 10%: 1.7%
highest 10%: 41.5% (2013 est.)
Topic: Chinalowest 10%: 2.1%
highest 10%: 31.4% (2012)
note: data are for urban households only
Topic: Colombialowest 10%: 1.2%
highest 10%: 39.6% (2015 est.)
Topic: Comoroslowest 10%: 0.9%
highest 10%: 55.2% (2004)
Topic: Congo, Democratic Republic of thelowest 10%: 2.3%
highest 10%: 34.7% (2006)
Topic: Congo, Republic of thelowest 10%: 2.1%
highest 10%: 37.1% (2005)
Topic: Cook Islandslowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Costa Ricalowest 10%: 1.5%
highest 10%: 36.9% (2014 est.)
Topic: Cote d'Ivoirelowest 10%: 2.2%
highest 10%: 31.8% (2008)
Topic: Croatialowest 10%: 2.7%
highest 10%: 23% (2015 est.)
Topic: Cubalowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Cypruslowest 10%: 3.3%
highest 10%: 28.8% (2014)
Topic: Czechialowest 10%: 4.1%
highest 10%: 21.7% (2015 est.)
Topic: Denmarklowest 10%: 9%
highest 10%: 23.4% (2016 est.)
Topic: Djiboutilowest 10%: 2.4%
highest 10%: 30.9% (2002)
Topic: Dominicalowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Dominican Republiclowest 10%: 1.9%
highest 10%: 37.4% (2013 est.)
Topic: Ecuadorlowest 10%: 1.4%
highest 10%: 35.4% (2012 est.)
note: data are for urban households only
Topic: Egyptlowest 10%: 4%
highest 10%: 26.6% (2008)
Topic: El Salvadorlowest 10%: 2.2%
highest 10%: 32.3% (2014 est.)
Topic: Equatorial Guinealowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Eritrealowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Estonialowest 10%: 2.3%
highest 10%: 25.6% (2015)
Topic: Eswatinilowest 10%: 1.7%
highest 10%: 40.1% (2010 est.)
Topic: Ethiopialowest 10%: 4.1%
highest 10%: 25.6% (2005)
Topic: European Unionlowest 10%: 2.8%
highest 10%: 23.8% (2016 est.)
Topic: Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)lowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Faroe Islandslowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Fijilowest 10%: 2.6%
highest 10%: 34.9% (2009 est.)
Topic: Finlandlowest 10%: 6.7%
highest 10%: 45.2% (2013)
Topic: Francelowest 10%: 3.6%
highest 10%: 25.4% (2013)
Topic: French Polynesialowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Gabonlowest 10%: 2.5%
highest 10%: 32.7% (2005)
Topic: Gambia, Thelowest 10%: 2%
highest 10%: 36.9% (2003)
Topic: Georgialowest 10%: 2%
highest 10%: 31.3% (2008)
Topic: Germanylowest 10%: 3.6%
highest 10%: 24% (2000)
Topic: Ghanalowest 10%: 2%
highest 10%: 32.8% (2006)
Topic: Gibraltarlowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Greecelowest 10%: 1.7%
highest 10%: 26.7% (2015 est.)
Topic: Greenlandlowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Grenadalowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Guamlowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Guatemalalowest 10%: 1.6%
highest 10%: 38.4% (2014)
Topic: Guernseylowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Guinealowest 10%: 2.7%
highest 10%: 30.3% (2007)
Topic: Guinea-Bissaulowest 10%: 2.9%
highest 10%: 28% (2002)
Topic: Guyanalowest 10%: 1.3%
highest 10%: 33.8% (1999)
Topic: Haitilowest 10%: 0.7%
highest 10%: 47.7% (2001)
Topic: Honduraslowest 10%: 1.2%
highest 10%: 38.4% (2014)
Topic: Hong Konglowest 10%: 1.8% NA
highest 10%: 38.1% (2016) NA
Topic: Hungarylowest 10%: 3.3%
highest 10%: 22.4% (2015)
Topic: Icelandlowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Indialowest 10%: 3.6%
highest 10%: 29.8% (2011)
Topic: Indonesialowest 10%: 3.4%
highest 10%: 28.2% (2010)
Topic: Iranlowest 10%: 2.6%
highest 10%: 29.6% (2005)
Topic: Iraqlowest 10%: 3.6%
highest 10%: 25.7% (2007 est.)
Topic: Irelandlowest 10%: 2.9%
highest 10%: 27.2% (2000)
Topic: Isle of Manlowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Israellowest 10%: 1.7%
highest 10%: 31.3% (2010)
Topic: Italylowest 10%: 2.3%
highest 10%: 26.8% (2000)
Topic: Jamaicalowest 10%: 2.6%
highest 10%: 29.3% (2015)
Topic: Japanlowest 10%: 2.7%
highest 10%: 24.8% (2008)
Topic: Jerseylowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Jordanlowest 10%: 3.4%
highest 10%: 28.7% (2010 est.)
Topic: Kazakhstanlowest 10%: 4.2%
highest 10%: 23.3% (2016)
Topic: Kenyalowest 10%: 1.8%
highest 10%: 37.8% (2005)
Topic: Kiribatilowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Korea, Northlowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Korea, Southlowest 10%: 6.8%
highest 10%: 48.5% (2015 est.)
Topic: Kosovolowest 10%: 3.8%
highest 10%: 22% (2015 est.)
Topic: Kuwaitlowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Kyrgyzstanlowest 10%: 4.4%
highest 10%: 22.9% (2014 est.)
Topic: Laoslowest 10%: 3.3%
highest 10%: 30.3% (2008)
Topic: Latvialowest 10%: 2.2%
highest 10%: 26.3% (2015)
Topic: Lebanonlowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Lesotholowest 10%: 1%
highest 10%: 39.4% (2003)
Topic: Liberialowest 10%: 2.4%
highest 10%: 30.1% (2007)
Topic: Libyalowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Liechtensteinlowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Lithuanialowest 10%: 2.2%
highest 10%: 28.8% (2015)
Topic: Luxembourglowest 10%: 3.5%
highest 10%: 23.8% (2000)
Topic: Macaulowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Madagascarlowest 10%: 2.2%
highest 10%: 34.7% (2010 est.)
Topic: Malawilowest 10%: 2.2%
highest 10%: 37.5% (2010 est.)
Topic: Malaysialowest 10%: 1.8%
highest 10%: 34.7% (2009 est.)
Topic: Maldiveslowest 10%: 1.2%
highest 10%: 33.3% (FY09/10)
Topic: Malilowest 10%: 3.5%
highest 10%: 25.8% (2010 est.)
Topic: Maltalowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Marshall Islandslowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Mauritanialowest 10%: 2.5%
highest 10%: 29.5% (2000)
Topic: Mauritiuslowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Mexicolowest 10%: 2%
highest 10%: 40% (2014)
Topic: Micronesia, Federated States oflowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Moldovalowest 10%: 4.2%
highest 10%: 22.1% (2014 est.)
Topic: Monacolowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Mongolialowest 10%: 13.7%
highest 10%: 5.7% (2017)
Topic: Montenegrolowest 10%: 3.5%
highest 10%: 25.7% (2014 est.)
Topic: Montserratlowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Moroccolowest 10%: 2.7%
highest 10%: 33.2% (2007)
Topic: Mozambiquelowest 10%: 1.9%
highest 10%: 36.7% (2008)
Topic: Namibialowest 10%: 2.4%
highest 10%: 42% (2010)
Topic: Naurulowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Nepallowest 10%: 3.2%
highest 10%: 29.5% (2011)
Topic: Netherlandslowest 10%: 2.3%
highest 10%: 24.9% (2014 est.)
Topic: New Caledonialowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: New Zealandlowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Nicaragualowest 10%: 1.8%
highest 10%: 47.1% (2014)
Topic: Nigerlowest 10%: 3.2%
highest 10%: 26.8% (2014)
Topic: Nigerialowest 10%: 1.8%
highest 10%: 38.2% (2010 est.)
Topic: Niuelowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: North Macedonialowest 10%: 1.7%
highest 10%: 25% (2015 est.)
Topic: Northern Mariana Islandslowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Norwaylowest 10%: 3.8%
highest 10%: 21.2% (2014)
Topic: Omanlowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Pakistanlowest 10%: 4%
highest 10%: 26.1% (FY2013)
Topic: Palaulowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Panamalowest 10%: 1.1%
highest 10%: 38.9% (2014 est.)
Topic: Papua New Guinealowest 10%: 1.7%
highest 10%: 40.5% (1996)
Topic: Paraguaylowest 10%: 1.5%
highest 10%: 37.6% (2013 est.)
Topic: Perulowest 10%: 1.4%
highest 10%: 36.1% (2010 est.)
Topic: Philippineslowest 10%: 3.2%
highest 10%: 29.5% (2015 est.)
Topic: Polandlowest 10%: 3%
highest 10%: 23.9% (2015 est.)
Topic: Portugallowest 10%: 2.6%
highest 10%: 25.9% (2015 est.)
Topic: Puerto Ricolowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Qatarlowest 10%: 1.3%
highest 10%: 35.9% (2007)
Topic: Romanialowest 10%: 15.3%
highest 10%: 7.6% (2014 est.)
Topic: Russialowest 10%: 2.3%
highest 10%: 32.2% (2012 est.)
Topic: Rwandalowest 10%: 2.1%
highest 10%: 43.2% (2011 est.)
Topic: Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunhalowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Saint Kitts and Nevislowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Saint Lucialowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Saint Pierre and Miquelonlowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Saint Vincent and the Grenadineslowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Samoalowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: San Marinolowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Sao Tome and Principelowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Saudi Arabialowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Senegallowest 10%: 2.5%
highest 10%: 31.1% (2011)
Topic: Serbialowest 10%: 2.2%
highest 10%: 23.8% (2011)
Topic: Seychelleslowest 10%: 4.7%
highest 10%: 15.4% (2007)
Topic: Sierra Leonelowest 10%: 2.6%
highest 10%: 33.6% (2003)
Topic: Singaporelowest 10%: 1.6%
highest 10%: 27.5% (2017)
Topic: Slovakialowest 10%: 3.3%
highest 10%: 19.3% (2015 est.)
Topic: Slovenialowest 10%: 3.8%
highest 10%: 20.1% (2016)
Topic: Solomon Islandslowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Somalialowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: South Africalowest 10%: 1.2%
highest 10%: 51.3% (2011 est.)
Topic: Spainlowest 10%: 2.5%
highest 10%: 24% (2011)
Topic: Sri Lankalowest 10%: 3%
highest 10%: 32.2% (2012 est.)
Topic: Sudanlowest 10%: 2.7%
highest 10%: 26.7% (2009 est.)
Topic: Surinamelowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Swedenlowest 10%: 3.4%
highest 10%: 24% (2012)
Topic: Switzerlandlowest 10%: 7.5%
highest 10%: 19% (2007)
Topic: Syrialowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Taiwanlowest 10%: 6.4% (2010)
highest 10%: 40.3% (2010)
Topic: Tajikistanlowest 10%: (2009 est.) NA
highest 10%: (2009 est.) NA
Topic: Tanzanialowest 10%: 2.8%
highest 10%: 29.6% (2007)
Topic: Thailandlowest 10%: 2.8%
highest 10%: 31.5% (2009 est.)
Topic: Timor-Lestelowest 10%: 4%
highest 10%: 27% (2007)
Topic: Togolowest 10%: 3.3%
highest 10%: 27.1% (2006)
Topic: Tongalowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Trinidad and Tobagolowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Tunisialowest 10%: 2.6%
highest 10%: 27% (2010 est.)
Topic: Turkeylowest 10%: 2.1%
highest 10%: 30.3% (2008)
Topic: Turkmenistanlowest 10%: 2.6%
highest 10%: 31.7% (1998)
Topic: Turks and Caicos Islandslowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Tuvalulowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Ugandalowest 10%: 2.4%
highest 10%: 36.1% (2009 est.)
Topic: Ukrainelowest 10%: 4.2%
highest 10%: 21.6% (2015 est.)
Topic: United Arab Emirateslowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: United Kingdomlowest 10%: 1.7%
highest 10%: 31.1% (2012)
Topic: United Stateslowest 10%: 2%
highest 10%: 30% (2007 est.)
Topic: Uruguaylowest 10%: 1.9%
highest 10%: 30.8% (2014 est.)
Topic: Uzbekistanlowest 10%: 2.8%
highest 10%: 29.6% (2003)
Topic: Vanuatulowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Venezuelalowest 10%: 1.7%
highest 10%: 32.7% (2006)
Topic: Vietnamlowest 10%: 2.7%
highest 10%: 26.8% (2014)
Topic: Virgin Islandslowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: Wallis and Futunalowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Topic: West Banklowest 10%: 3.2%
highest 10%: 28.2% (2009 est.)
note: includes Gaza Strip
Topic: Worldlowest 10%: 2.6%
highest 10%: 30.2% (2008 est.)
Topic: Yemenlowest 10%: 2.6%
highest 10%: 30.3% (2008 est.)
Topic: Zambialowest 10%: 1.5%
highest 10%: 47.4% (2010)
Topic: Zimbabwelowest 10%: 2%
highest 10%: 40.4% (1995) |
20220601 | countries-tanzania |
Topic: Photos of Tanzania
Topic: Introduction
Background: Tanzania contains some of Africa’s most iconic national parks and famous archeological sites, and its diverse cultural heritage reflects the multiple ethnolinguistic groups that live in the country. Its long history of integration into trade networks spanning the Indian Ocean and the African interior led to the development of Swahili as a common language in much of east Africa and the introduction of Islam into the region. A number of independent coastal and island trading posts in what is now Tanzania came under Portuguese control after 1498 when they began to take control of much of the coast and Indian Ocean trade. By 1700, the Sultanate of Oman had become the dominant power in the region after ousting the Portuguese who were also facing a series of local uprisings. During the following hundred years, Zanzibar - an archipelago off the coast of Tanzania - became a hub of Indian Ocean trade, with Arab and Indian traders establishing and consolidating trade routes with communities in mainland Tanzania that contributed to the expansion of the slave trade. Zanzibar briefly become the capital of the Sultanate of Oman before it split into separate Omani and Zanzibar Sultanates in 1856. Beginning in the mid-1800s, European explorers, traders, and Christian missionaries became more active in the region. The Germans eventually established control over mainland Tanzania - which they called Tanganyika - and the British established control over Zanzibar. Tanganyika later came under British administration after the German defeat in World War I. Tanganyika gained independence from Great Britain in 1961, and Zanzibar followed in 1963 as a constitutional monarchy. In Tanganyika, Julius NYERERE, a charismatic and idealistic socialist, established a one-party political system that centralized power and encouraged national self-reliance and rural development. In 1964, a popular uprising overthrew the Sultan in Zanzibar and either killed or expelled many of the Arabs and Indians who had dominated the isles for more than 200 years. Later that year, Tanganyika and Zanzibar combined to form the United Republic of Tanzania, but Zanzibar retained considerable autonomy. Their two ruling parties combined to form the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party in 1977. NYERERE handed over power to Ali Hassan MWINYI in 1985 and remained CCM chair until 1990. Tanzania held its first multi-party elections in 1995, but CCM candidates have continued to dominate politics. Political opposition in Zanzibar has led to four contentious elections since 1995, in which the ruling party claimed victory despite international observers' claims of voting irregularities. In 2001, 35 people in Zanzibar died when soldiers fired on protestors following the 2000 election. John MAGUFULI won the 2015 presidential election and the CCM won a two-thirds majority in Parliament. He was reelected in 2020 and the CCM increased its majority in an election that was also critiqued by observers. MAGUFULI died in March 2021 while in office and was constitutionally succeeded by his vice president, Samia Suluhu HASSAN.Tanzania contains some of Africa’s most iconic national parks and famous archeological sites, and its diverse cultural heritage reflects the multiple ethnolinguistic groups that live in the country. Its long history of integration into trade networks spanning the Indian Ocean and the African interior led to the development of Swahili as a common language in much of east Africa and the introduction of Islam into the region. A number of independent coastal and island trading posts in what is now Tanzania came under Portuguese control after 1498 when they began to take control of much of the coast and Indian Ocean trade. By 1700, the Sultanate of Oman had become the dominant power in the region after ousting the Portuguese who were also facing a series of local uprisings. During the following hundred years, Zanzibar - an archipelago off the coast of Tanzania - became a hub of Indian Ocean trade, with Arab and Indian traders establishing and consolidating trade routes with communities in mainland Tanzania that contributed to the expansion of the slave trade. Zanzibar briefly become the capital of the Sultanate of Oman before it split into separate Omani and Zanzibar Sultanates in 1856. Beginning in the mid-1800s, European explorers, traders, and Christian missionaries became more active in the region. The Germans eventually established control over mainland Tanzania - which they called Tanganyika - and the British established control over Zanzibar. Tanganyika later came under British administration after the German defeat in World War I.Tanganyika gained independence from Great Britain in 1961, and Zanzibar followed in 1963 as a constitutional monarchy. In Tanganyika, Julius NYERERE, a charismatic and idealistic socialist, established a one-party political system that centralized power and encouraged national self-reliance and rural development. In 1964, a popular uprising overthrew the Sultan in Zanzibar and either killed or expelled many of the Arabs and Indians who had dominated the isles for more than 200 years. Later that year, Tanganyika and Zanzibar combined to form the United Republic of Tanzania, but Zanzibar retained considerable autonomy. Their two ruling parties combined to form the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party in 1977. NYERERE handed over power to Ali Hassan MWINYI in 1985 and remained CCM chair until 1990. Tanzania held its first multi-party elections in 1995, but CCM candidates have continued to dominate politics. Political opposition in Zanzibar has led to four contentious elections since 1995, in which the ruling party claimed victory despite international observers' claims of voting irregularities. In 2001, 35 people in Zanzibar died when soldiers fired on protestors following the 2000 election. John MAGUFULI won the 2015 presidential election and the CCM won a two-thirds majority in Parliament. He was reelected in 2020 and the CCM increased its majority in an election that was also critiqued by observers. MAGUFULI died in March 2021 while in office and was constitutionally succeeded by his vice president, Samia Suluhu HASSAN.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Eastern Africa, bordering the Indian Ocean, between Kenya and Mozambique
Geographic coordinates: 6 00 S, 35 00 E
Map references: Africa
Area: total: 947,300 sq km
land: 885,800 sq km
water: 61,500 sq km
note: includes the islands of Mafia, Pemba, and Zanzibar
Area - comparative: more than six times the size of Georgia; slightly larger than twice the size of California
Land boundaries: total: 4,161 km
border countries (8): Burundi 589 km; Democratic Republic of the Congo 479 km; Kenya 775 km; Malawi 512 km; Mozambique 840 km; Rwanda 222 km; Uganda 391 km; Zambia 353 km
Coastline: 1,424 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
Climate: varies from tropical along coast to temperate in highlands
Terrain: plains along coast; central plateau; highlands in north, south
Elevation: highest point: Kilimanjaro (highest point in Africa) 5,895 m
lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 1,018 m
Natural resources: hydropower, tin, phosphates, iron ore, coal, diamonds, gemstones (including tanzanite, found only in Tanzania), gold, natural gas, nickel
Land use: agricultural land: 43.7% (2018 est.)
arable land: 14.3% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 2.3% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 27.1% (2018 est.)
forest: 37.3% (2018 est.)
other: 19% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 1,840 sq km (2012)
Major lakes (area sq km): Fresh water lake(s): Lake Victoria (shared with Uganda and Kenya) - 62,940 sq km; Lake Tanganyika (shared with Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, and Zambia) - 32,000 sq km; Lake Malawi (shared with Mozambique and Malawi) - 22,490
Salt water lake(s): Lake Rukwa - 5,760 sq km
Major rivers (by length in km): Nile (shared with Rwanda [s], Uganda, South Sudan, Sudan, and Egypt [m]) - 6,650 km
note – [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
Major watersheds (area sq km): Atlantic Ocean drainage: Congo (3,730,881 sq km), (Mediterranean Sea) Nile (3,254,853 sq km)
Indian Ocean drainage: Zambezi (1,332,412 sq km)
Population distribution: the largest and most populous East African country; population distribution is extremely uneven, but greater population clusters occur in the northern half of country and along the east coast as shown in this population distribution map
Natural hazards: flooding on the central plateau during the rainy season; droughtvolcanism: limited volcanic activity; Ol Doinyo Lengai (2,962 m) has emitted lava in recent years; other historically active volcanoes include Kieyo and Meruflooding on the central plateau during the rainy season; droughtvolcanism: limited volcanic activity; Ol Doinyo Lengai (2,962 m) has emitted lava in recent years; other historically active volcanoes include Kieyo and Meru
Geography - note: Kilimanjaro is the highest point in Africa and one of only three mountain ranges on the continent that has glaciers (the others are Mount Kenya [in Kenya] and the Ruwenzori Mountains [on the Uganda-Democratic Republic of the Congo border]); Tanzania is bordered by three of the largest lakes on the continent: Lake Victoria (the world's second-largest freshwater lake) in the north, Lake Tanganyika (the world's second deepest) in the west, and Lake Nyasa (Lake Malawi) in the southwest
Map description: Tanzania map showing major cities as well as parts of surrounding countries and the Indian Ocean.Tanzania map showing major cities as well as parts of surrounding countries and the Indian Ocean.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 63,852,892 (2022 est.)
note: estimates for this country explicitly taken into account the impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic
Nationality: noun: Tanzanian(s)
adjective: Tanzanian
Ethnic groups: mainland - African 99% (of which 95% are Bantu consisting of more than 130 tribes), other 1% (consisting of Asian, European, and Arab); Zanzibar - Arab, African, mixed Arab and African
Languages: Kiswahili or Swahili (official), Kiunguja (name for Swahili in Zanzibar), English (official, primary language of commerce, administration, and higher education), Arabic (widely spoken in Zanzibar), many local languages; note - Kiswahili (Swahili) is the mother tongue of the Bantu people living in Zanzibar and nearby coastal Tanzania; although Kiswahili is Bantu in structure and origin, its vocabulary draws on a variety of sources including Arabic and English; it has become the lingua franca of central and eastern Africa; the first language of most people is one of the local languages
major-language sample(s):
The World Factbook, Chanzo cha Lazima Kuhusu Habari ya Msingi. (Kiswahili)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Religions: Christian 63.1%, Muslim 34.1%, folk religion 1.1%, Buddhist <1%, Hindu <1%, Jewish <1%, other <1%, unspecified 1.6% (2020 est.)
note: Zanzibar is almost entirely Muslim
Demographic profile: Tanzania has the largest population in East Africa and the lowest population density; almost a third of the population is urban. Tanzania’s youthful population – about two-thirds of the population is under 25 – is growing rapidly because of the high total fertility rate of 4.8 children per woman. Progress in reducing the birth rate has stalled, sustaining the country’s nearly 3% annual growth. The maternal mortality rate has improved since 2000, yet it remains very high because of early and frequent pregnancies, inadequate maternal health services, and a lack of skilled birth attendants – problems that are worse among poor and rural women. Tanzania has made strides in reducing under-5 and infant mortality rates, but a recent drop in immunization threatens to undermine gains in child health. Malaria is a leading killer of children under 5, while HIV is the main source of adult mortalityFor Tanzania, most migration is internal, rural to urban movement, while some temporary labor migration from towns to plantations takes place seasonally for harvests. Tanzania was Africa’s largest refugee-hosting country for decades, hosting hundreds of thousands of refugees from the Great Lakes region, primarily Burundi, over the last fifty years. However, the assisted repatriation and naturalization of tens of thousands of Burundian refugees between 2002 and 2014 dramatically reduced the refugee population. Tanzania is increasingly a transit country for illegal migrants from the Horn of Africa and the Great Lakes region who are heading to southern Africa for security reasons and/or economic opportunities. Some of these migrants choose to settle in Tanzania.Tanzania has the largest population in East Africa and the lowest population density; almost a third of the population is urban. Tanzania’s youthful population – about two-thirds of the population is under 25 – is growing rapidly because of the high total fertility rate of 4.8 children per woman. Progress in reducing the birth rate has stalled, sustaining the country’s nearly 3% annual growth. The maternal mortality rate has improved since 2000, yet it remains very high because of early and frequent pregnancies, inadequate maternal health services, and a lack of skilled birth attendants – problems that are worse among poor and rural women. Tanzania has made strides in reducing under-5 and infant mortality rates, but a recent drop in immunization threatens to undermine gains in child health. Malaria is a leading killer of children under 5, while HIV is the main source of adult mortalityFor Tanzania, most migration is internal, rural to urban movement, while some temporary labor migration from towns to plantations takes place seasonally for harvests. Tanzania was Africa’s largest refugee-hosting country for decades, hosting hundreds of thousands of refugees from the Great Lakes region, primarily Burundi, over the last fifty years. However, the assisted repatriation and naturalization of tens of thousands of Burundian refugees between 2002 and 2014 dramatically reduced the refugee population. Tanzania is increasingly a transit country for illegal migrants from the Horn of Africa and the Great Lakes region who are heading to southern Africa for security reasons and/or economic opportunities. Some of these migrants choose to settle in Tanzania.
Age structure: 0-14 years: 42.7% (male 12,632,772/female 12,369,115)
15-24 years: 20.39% (male 5,988,208/female 5,948,134)
25-54 years: 30.31% (male 8,903,629/female 8,844,180)
55-64 years: 3.52% (male 954,251/female 1,107,717)
65 years and over: 3.08% (2020 est.) (male 747,934/female 1,056,905)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 85.9
youth dependency ratio: 81
elderly dependency ratio: 4.9
potential support ratio: 20.4 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 18.2 years
male: 17.9 years
female: 18.4 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 2.78% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 33.3 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 5.09 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: -0.41 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: the largest and most populous East African country; population distribution is extremely uneven, but greater population clusters occur in the northern half of country and along the east coast as shown in this population distribution map
Urbanization: urban population: 36.7% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 4.89% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 262,000 Dodoma (legislative capital) (2018), 7.405 million DAR ES SALAAM (administrative capital), 1.245 million Mwanza, 766,000 Zanzibar (2022)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.02 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.01 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 0.99 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 0.92 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.7 male(s)/female
total population: 1 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth: 19.8 years (2015/16 est.)
note: median age at first birth among women 20-49
Maternal mortality ratio: 524 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 30.87 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 33.66 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 28 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 70.19 years
male: 68.42 years
female: 72.02 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 4.39 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: 38.4% (2015/16)
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 95.1% of population
rural: 59.4% of population
total: 72% of population
unimproved: urban: 4.9% of population
rural: 40.6% of population
total: 28% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 3.8% (2019)
Physicians density: 0.01 physicians/1,000 population (2016)
Hospital bed density: 0.7 beds/1,000 population
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 89.4% of population
rural: 29.2% of population
total: 50.4% of population
unimproved: urban: 10.6% of population
rural: 70.8% of population
total: 49.6% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: 4.7% (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: 1.7 million (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - deaths: 32,000 (2020 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: very high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial diarrhea, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever
vectorborne diseases: malaria, dengue fever, and Rift Valley fever
water contact diseases: schistosomiasis
animal contact diseases: rabies
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 8.4% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: 14.6% (2018)
Child marriage: women married by age 15: 5.2% (2016)
women married by age 18: 30.5% (2016)
men married by age 18: 3.9% (2016 est.)
Education expenditures: 3.1% of GDP (2020)
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write Kiswahili (Swahili), English, or Arabic
total population: 77.9%
male: 83.2%
female: 73.1% (2015)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 9 years
male: 9 years
female: 9 years (2020)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 3.9%
male: 3.1%
female: 4.6% (2014 est.)
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: water polution; improper management of liquid waste; indoor air pollution caused by the burning of fuel wood or charcoal for cooking and heating is a large environmental health issue; soil degradation; deforestation; desertification; destruction of coral reefs threatens marine habitats; wildlife threatened by illegal hunting and trade, especially for ivory; loss of biodiversity; solid waste disposal
Environment - international agreements: party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping-London Convention, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands, Whaling
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 25.59 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 11.97 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 59.08 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: varies from tropical along coast to temperate in highlands
Land use: agricultural land: 43.7% (2018 est.)
arable land: 14.3% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 2.3% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 27.1% (2018 est.)
forest: 37.3% (2018 est.)
other: 19% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 36.7% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 4.89% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 2.19% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0.02% of GDP (2018 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: very high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial diarrhea, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever
vectorborne diseases: malaria, dengue fever, and Rift Valley fever
water contact diseases: schistosomiasis
animal contact diseases: rabies
Food insecurity: severe localized food insecurity: due to localized shortfalls in staple food production - about 437,000 people were estimated to be in need of humanitarian assistance between November 2021 and April 2022, mainly located in northeastern Mara, Arusha, Kilimanjaro and Tanga regions, reflecting a reduced “Vuli” harvest due to poor rains (2022)
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 9,276,995 tons (2012 est.)
Major lakes (area sq km): Fresh water lake(s): Lake Victoria (shared with Uganda and Kenya) - 62,940 sq km; Lake Tanganyika (shared with Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, and Zambia) - 32,000 sq km; Lake Malawi (shared with Mozambique and Malawi) - 22,490
Salt water lake(s): Lake Rukwa - 5,760 sq km
Major rivers (by length in km): Nile (shared with Rwanda [s], Uganda, South Sudan, Sudan, and Egypt [m]) - 6,650 km
note – [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
Major watersheds (area sq km): Atlantic Ocean drainage: Congo (3,730,881 sq km), (Mediterranean Sea) Nile (3,254,853 sq km)
Indian Ocean drainage: Zambezi (1,332,412 sq km)
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 527 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 25 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 4.632 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 96.27 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: United Republic of Tanzania
conventional short form: Tanzania
local long form: Jamhuri ya Muungano wa Tanzania
local short form: Tanzania
former: German East Africa, Trust Territory of Tanganyika, Republic of Tanganyika, People's Republic of Zanzibar, United Republic of Tanganyika and Zanzibar
etymology: the country's name is a combination of the first letters of Tanganyika and Zanzibar, the two states that merged to form Tanzania in 1964
Government type: presidential republic
Capital: name: Dar es Salaam (de facto administrative capital), Dodoma (national capital); note - Dodoma, designated the national capital in 1996, serves as the meeting place for the National Assembly and is thus the legislative capital; Dar es Salaam (the original national capital) remains the de facto capital, the country's largest city and commercial center, and the site of the executive branch offices and diplomatic representation
geographic coordinates: 6 48 S, 39 17 E
time difference: UTC+3 (8 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: Dar es Salaam was the name given by Majid bin Said, the first sultan of Zanzibar, to the new city he founded on the Indian Ocean coast; the Arabic name is commonly translated as "abode/home of peace"; Dodoma, in the native Gogo language, means "it has sunk"; supposedly, one day during the rainy season, an elephant drowned in the area; the villagers in that place were so struck by what had occurred, that ever since the locale has been referred to as the place where "it (the elephant) sunk"
Administrative divisions: 31 regions; Arusha, Dar es Salaam, Dodoma, Geita, Iringa, Kagera, Kaskazini Pemba (Pemba North), Kaskazini Unguja (Zanzibar North), Katavi, Kigoma, Kilimanjaro, Kusini Pemba (Pemba South), Kusini Unguja (Zanzibar Central/South), Lindi, Manyara, Mara, Mbeya, Mjini Magharibi (Zanzibar Urban/West), Morogoro, Mtwara, Mwanza, Njombe, Pwani (Coast), Rukwa, Ruvuma, Shinyanga, Simiyu, Singida, Songwe, Tabora, Tanga
Independence: 26 April 1964 (Tanganyika united with Zanzibar to form the United Republic of Tanganyika and Zanzibar); 29 October 1964 (renamed United Republic of Tanzania); notable earlier dates: 9 December 1961 (Tanganyika became independent from UK-administered UN trusteeship); 10 December 1963 (Zanzibar became independent from UK)
National holiday: Union Day (Tanganyika and Zanzibar), 26 April (1964)
Constitution: history: several previous; latest adopted 25 April 1977; note - progress enacting a new constitution drafted in 2014 by the Constituent Assembly has stalled
amendments: proposed by the National Assembly; passage of amendments to constitutional articles including those on sovereignty of the United Republic, the authorities and powers of the government, the president, the Assembly, and the High Court requires two-thirds majority vote of the mainland Assembly membership and of the Zanzibar House of Representatives membership; House of Representatives approval of other amendments is not required; amended several times, last in 2017 (2021)
Legal system: English common law; judicial review of legislative acts limited to matters of interpretation
International law organization participation: has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: no
citizenship by descent only: at least one parent must be a citizen of Tanzania; if a child is born abroad, the father must be a citizen of Tanzania
dual citizenship recognized: no
residency requirement for naturalization: 5 years
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: President Samia Suluhu HASSAN (since 19 March 2021); note - President John MAGUFULI died on 17 March 2021; vice president Philip MPANGO; note - the president is both chief of state and head of government
head of government: President Samia Suluhu HASSAN (since 19 March 2021); note - President John MAGUFULI died on 17 March 2021; vice president (vacant); Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa MAJALIWA (since 20 November 2015) has authority over the day-to-day functions of the government, is the leader of government business in the National Assembly, and is head of the Cabinet
cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the president from among members of the National Assembly
elections/appointments: president and vice president directly elected on the same ballot by simple majority popular vote for a 5-year term (eligible for a second term); election last held on 28 October, 2020 (next to be held in October 2025); prime minister appointed by the president
election results: John MAGUFULI elected president; percent of vote - John MAGUFULI (CCM) 58.5%, Edward LOWASSA (CHADEMA) 40%, other 1.5% (2020)
note: Zanzibar elects a president as head of government for internal matters; elections were held on 28 October, 2020 and CCM candidate Hussein MWINYI won with 76 percent of the vote followed by ACT-Wazalendo candidate Maalim Seif SHARIF with 19 percent of the vote
Legislative branch: description: unicameral National Assembly or Parliament (Bunge) (393 seats; 264 members directly elected in single-seat constituencies by simple majority vote, 113 women indirectly elected by proportional representation vote, 5 indirectly elected by simple majority vote by the Zanzibar House of Representatives, 10 appointed by the president, and 1 seat reserved for the attorney general; members serve a 5-year term); note - in addition to enacting laws that apply to the entire United Republic of Tanzania, the National Assembly enacts laws that apply only to the mainland; Zanzibar has its own House of Representatives or Baraza La Wawakilishi (82 seats; 50 members directly elected in single-seat constituencies by simple majority vote, 20 women directly elected by proportional representation vote, 10 appointed by the Zanzibar president, 1 seat for the House speaker, and 1 ex-officio seat for the attorney general; elected members serve a 5-year term)
elections: Tanzania National Assembly and Zanzibar House of Representatives - elections last held on 25 October 2015 (next National Assembly election to be held in October 2020; next Zanzibar election either October 2020 or March 2021); note the Zanzibar Electoral Commission annulled the 2015 election; repoll held on 20 March 2016
election results: National Assembly - percent of vote by party - CCM 55%, Chadema 31.8%, CUF 8.6%, other 4.6%; seats by party - CCM 253, Chadema 70, CUF 42, other 2; composition as of September 2018 - men 245, women 145, percent of women 37.2%
Zanzibar House of Representatives - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - NA; composition - NA
Judicial branch: highest courts: Court of Appeal of the United Republic of Tanzania (consists of the chief justice and 14 justices); High Court of the United Republic for Mainland Tanzania (consists of the principal judge and 30 judges organized into commercial, land, and labor courts); High Court of Zanzibar (consists of the chief justice and 10 justices)
judge selection and term of office: Court of Appeal and High Court justices appointed by the national president after consultation with the Judicial Service Commission for Tanzania, a judicial body of high level judges and 2 members appointed by the national president; Court of Appeal and High Court judges serve until mandatory retirement at age 60, but terms can be extended; High Court of Zanzibar judges appointed by the national president after consultation with the Judicial Commission of Zanzibar; judges can serve until mandatory retirement at age 65
subordinate courts: Resident Magistrates Courts; Kadhi courts (for Islamic family matters); district and primary courts
Political parties and leaders: Alliance for Change and Transparency (Wazalendo) or ACT [Zitto KABWE]
Alliance for Democratic Change or ADC [Hamad Rashid MOHAMED]
Civic United Front (Chama Cha Wananchi) or CUF [Ibrahim LIPUMBA]
National Convention for Construction and Reform-Mageuzi or NCCR-M [James Francis MBATIA]
National League for Democracy
Party of Democracy and Development (Chama Cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo) or Chadema [President Samia Suluhu HASSAN]
Revolutionary Party (Chama Cha Mapinduzi) or CCM
Tanzania Labor Party or TLP [Augustine MREMA]
United Democratic Party or UDP [John Momose CHEYO]
International organization participation: ACP, AfDB, AU, C, CD, EAC, EADB, EITI, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (NGOs), ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, IMSO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, MONUSCO, NAM, OPCW, SADC, UN, UNAMID, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNISFA, UNMISS, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Elsie Sia KANZA (since August 2021)
chancery: 1232 22nd Street NW, Washington, DC 20037
telephone: [1] (202) 884-1080, [1] (202) 939-6125, [1] (202) 939-6127
FAX: [1] (202) 797-7408
email address and website:
ubalozi@tanzaniaembassy-us.org
https://tanzaniaembassy-us.org/
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Donald J. WRIGHT (since 2 April 2020)
embassy: 686 Old Bagamoyo Road, Msasani, P.O. Box 9123, Dar es Salaam
mailing address: 2140 Dar es Salaam Place, Washington, DC 20521-2140
telephone: [255] (22) 229-4000
FAX: [255] (22) 229-4721
email address and website:
DRSACS@state.gov
https://tz.usembassy.gov/
Flag description: divided diagonally by a yellow-edged black band from the lower hoist-side corner; the upper triangle (hoist side) is green and the lower triangle is blue; the banner combines colors found on the flags of Tanganyika and Zanzibar; green represents the natural vegetation of the country, gold its rich mineral deposits, black the native Swahili people, and blue the country's many lakes and rivers, as well as the Indian Ocean
National symbol(s): Uhuru (Freedom) torch, giraffe; national colors: green, yellow, blue, black
National anthem: name: "Mungu ibariki Afrika" (God Bless Africa)
lyrics/music: collective/Enoch Mankayi SONTONGA
note: adopted 1961; the anthem, which is also a popular song in Africa, shares the same melody with that of Zambia but has different lyrics; the melody is also incorporated into South Africa's anthem
National heritage: total World Heritage Sites: 7 (3 cultural, 3 natural, 1 mixed)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Ngorongoro Conservation Area (m), Ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani and Songo Mnara (c), Serengeti National Park (n), Selous Game Reserve (n), Kilimanjaro National Park (n), Stone Town of Zanzibar (c), Kondoa Rock-Art Sites (c)
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Tanzania has achieved high growth rates based on its vast natural resource wealth and tourism with GDP growth in 2009-17 averaging 6%-7% per year. Dar es Salaam used fiscal stimulus measures and easier monetary policies to lessen the impact of the global recession and in general, benefited from low oil prices. Tanzania has largely completed its transition to a market economy, though the government retains a presence in sectors such as telecommunications, banking, energy, and mining. The economy depends on agriculture, which accounts for slightly less than one-quarter of GDP and employs about 65% of the work force, although gold production in recent years has increased to about 35% of exports. All land in Tanzania is owned by the government, which can lease land for up to 99 years. Proposed reforms to allow for land ownership, particularly foreign land ownership, remain unpopular. The financial sector in Tanzania has expanded in recent years and foreign-owned banks account for about 48% of the banking industry's total assets. Competition among foreign commercial banks has resulted in significant improvements in the efficiency and quality of financial services, though interest rates are still relatively high, reflecting high fraud risk. Banking reforms have helped increase private-sector growth and investment. The World Bank, the IMF, and bilateral donors have provided funds to rehabilitate Tanzania's aging infrastructure, including rail and port, which provide important trade links for inland countries. In 2013, Tanzania completed the world's largest Millennium Challenge Compact (MCC) grant, worth $698 million, but in late 2015, the MCC Board of Directors deferred a decision to renew Tanzania’s eligibility because of irregularities in voting in Zanzibar and concerns over the government's use of a controversial cybercrime bill. The new government elected in 2015 has developed an ambitious development agenda focused on creating a better business environment through improved infrastructure, access to financing, and education progress, but implementing budgets remains challenging for the government. Recent policy moves by President MAGUFULI are aimed at protecting domestic industry and have caused concern among foreign investors.Tanzania has achieved high growth rates based on its vast natural resource wealth and tourism with GDP growth in 2009-17 averaging 6%-7% per year. Dar es Salaam used fiscal stimulus measures and easier monetary policies to lessen the impact of the global recession and in general, benefited from low oil prices. Tanzania has largely completed its transition to a market economy, though the government retains a presence in sectors such as telecommunications, banking, energy, and mining. The economy depends on agriculture, which accounts for slightly less than one-quarter of GDP and employs about 65% of the work force, although gold production in recent years has increased to about 35% of exports. All land in Tanzania is owned by the government, which can lease land for up to 99 years. Proposed reforms to allow for land ownership, particularly foreign land ownership, remain unpopular. The financial sector in Tanzania has expanded in recent years and foreign-owned banks account for about 48% of the banking industry's total assets. Competition among foreign commercial banks has resulted in significant improvements in the efficiency and quality of financial services, though interest rates are still relatively high, reflecting high fraud risk. Banking reforms have helped increase private-sector growth and investment. The World Bank, the IMF, and bilateral donors have provided funds to rehabilitate Tanzania's aging infrastructure, including rail and port, which provide important trade links for inland countries. In 2013, Tanzania completed the world's largest Millennium Challenge Compact (MCC) grant, worth $698 million, but in late 2015, the MCC Board of Directors deferred a decision to renew Tanzania’s eligibility because of irregularities in voting in Zanzibar and concerns over the government's use of a controversial cybercrime bill. The new government elected in 2015 has developed an ambitious development agenda focused on creating a better business environment through improved infrastructure, access to financing, and education progress, but implementing budgets remains challenging for the government. Recent policy moves by President MAGUFULI are aimed at protecting domestic industry and have caused concern among foreign investors.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $152.79 billion (2020 est.)
$149.79 billion (2019 est.)
$141.59 billion (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 6.98% (2019 est.)
6.95% (2018 est.)
6.78% (2017 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $2,600 (2020 est.)
$2,700 (2019 est.)
$2,600 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $60.633 billion (2019 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 3.4% (2019 est.)
3.5% (2018 est.)
5.3% (2017 est.)
Credit ratings: Moody's rating: B2 (2020)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 23.4% (2017 est.)
industry: 28.6% (2017 est.)
services: 47.6% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 62.4% (2017 est.)
government consumption: 12.5% (2017 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 36.1% (2017 est.)
investment in inventories: -8.7% (2017 est.)
exports of goods and services: 18.1% (2017 est.)
imports of goods and services: -20.5% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: cassava, maize, sweet potatoes, sugar cane, rice, bananas, vegetables, milk, beans, sunflower seed
Industries: agricultural processing (sugar, beer, cigarettes, sisal twine); mining (diamonds, gold, and iron), salt, soda ash; cement, oil refining, shoes, apparel, wood products, fertilizer
Industrial production growth rate: 12% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 24.89 million (2017 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 66.9%
industry: 6.4%
services: 26.6% (2014 est.)
Unemployment rate: 10.3% (2014 est.)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 3.9%
male: 3.1%
female: 4.6% (2014 est.)
Population below poverty line: 26.4% (2017 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 40.5 (2017 est.)
34.6 (2000)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: 2.8%
highest 10%: 29.6% (2007)
Budget: revenues: 7.873 billion (2017 est.)
expenditures: 8.818 billion (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): -1.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 37% of GDP (2017 est.)
38% of GDP (2016 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 15.2% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: 1 July - 30 June
Current account balance: -$1.313 billion (2019 est.)
-$1.898 billion (2018 est.)
Exports: $9.66 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$8.46 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Exports - partners: India 20%, United Arab Emirates 13%, China 8%, Switzerland 7%, Rwanda 6%, Kenya 5%, Vietnam 5% (2019)
Exports - commodities: gold, tobacco, cashews, sesame seeds, refined petroleum (2019)
Imports: $10.36 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$10.2 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Imports - partners: China 34%, India 15%, United Arab Emirates 12% (2019)
Imports - commodities: refined petroleum, palm oil, packaged medicines, cars, wheat (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $5.301 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
$4.067 billion (31 December 2016 est.)
note: excludes gold
Debt - external: $22.054 billion (2019 est.)
$20.569 billion (2018 est.)
Exchange rates: Tanzanian shillings (TZS) per US dollar -
2,319 (2020 est.)
2,300 (2019 est.)
2,299.155 (2018 est.)
1,989.7 (2014 est.)
1,654 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 40% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 71% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 23% (2019)
Electricity - production: 6.699 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 5.682 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - imports: 102 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 1.457 million kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 55% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 40% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 6% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 0 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 0 bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 72,000 bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 67,830 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 3.115 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 3.115 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 6.513 billion cu m (1 January 2018 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 72,469 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 0 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 47,685,200 (2019)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 82.21 (2019)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: Tanzania’s telecom services are being developed to reach parity with more advanced networks from neighboring countries such as Kenya and fierce competition exists amongst Tanzania's 5 major mobile network operators; one fixed-line operator with competition in mobile networks; high tariffs on telecom; mobile use remains popular, with the government subsidizing expansion of mobile networks into rural communities; most mobile networks rely on older 2G and 3G technology with 4G/LTE service available in urban centers; the government is currently testing 5G technology and plans to begin rolling out 5G service in 2024; the government continues to improve rural telecom infrastructure including work on a national fiber backbone network connecting the entire population (2022)
domestic: fixed-line telephone network inadequate with less than 1 connection per 100 persons; mobile-cellular service, aided by multiple providers, is increasing rapidly and exceeds 82 telephones per 100 persons; trunk service provided by open-wire, microwave radio relay, tropospheric scatter, and fiber-optic cable; some links being made digital (2019)
international: country code - 255; landing points for the EASSy, SEACOM/Tata TGN-Eurasia, and SEAS fiber-optic submarine cable system linking East Africa with the Middle East; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean, 1 Atlantic Ocean) (2019)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: according to statistics from the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA), Tanzania had 45 television stations as of 2020; 13 of those stations provided national content services (commercially broadcasting free-to-air television); there are 196 radio stations, most operating at the district level, but also including 5 independent nationally broadcasting stations and 1 state-owned national radio station; international broadcasting is available through satellite television which is becoming increasingly widespread; there are 3 major satellite TV providers (2020)
Internet country code: .tz
Internet users: total: 13,141,527 (2020 est.)
percent of population: 22% (2020 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 1,135,608 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 2 (2020 est.)
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 11 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 91
annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 1,481,557 (2018)
annual freight traffic on registered air carriers: 390,000 (2018) mt-km
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: 5H
Airports: total: 166 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 10
over 3,047 m: 2
2,438 to 3,047 m: 2
1,524 to 2,437 m: 4
914 to 1,523 m: 2 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 156
over 3,047 m: 1
1,524 to 2,437 m: 24
914 to 1,523 m: 98
under 914 m: 33 (2021)
Pipelines: 311 km gas, 891 km oil, 8 km refined products (2013)
Railways: total: 4,097 km
standard gauge: 421 km
narrow gauge: 1,969 km (2014) 1.067 m gauge
broad gauge: 2,707 km 1.000 m guage
2707 km 1.000-m gauge
Roadways: total: 145,203 km
paved: 11,201 km (2015)
unpaved: 135,002 km
Waterways: (2011) (Lake Tanganyika, Lake Victoria, and Lake Nyasa (Lake Malawi) are the principal avenues of commerce with neighboring countries; the rivers are not navigable)
Merchant marine: total: 314
by type: bulk carrier 4, container ship 6, general cargo 144, oil tanker 49, other 111 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: Tanzania People's Defense Forces (TPDF or Jeshi la Wananchi la Tanzania, JWTZ): Land Forces, Naval Forces, Air Force, National Building Army (Jeshi la Kujenga Taifa, JKT), People's Militia (Reserves); Ministry of Home Affairs: Tanzania Police force (includes paramilitary Police Field Force) (2022)
note - the National Building Army is a paramilitary organization under the Defense Forces that provides 6 months of military and vocational training to individuals as part of their 2 years of public service; after completion of training, some graduates join the regular Defense Forces while the remainder become part of the People's (or Citizen's) Militia
Military expenditures: 1.1% of GDP (2021 est.)
1.2% of GDP (2020 est.)
1.1% of GDP (2019 est.) (approximately $810 million)
1.2% of GDP (2018 est.) (approximately $800 million)
1% of GDP (2017 est.) (approximately $690 million)
Military and security service personnel strengths: approximately 25,000 active personnel (21,000 Land Forces; 1,000 Naval Forces; 3,000 Air Force) (2021)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the TPDF inventory includes mostly Soviet-era and Chinese equipment; since 2010, China is the leading supplier of arms to the TPDF (2021)
Military service age and obligation: 18-25 years of age for voluntary military service; 6-year commitment (2-year contracts afterwards); selective conscription for 2 years of public service (2021)
Military deployments: 450 Central African Republic (MINUSCA); 850 Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO); 125 Lebanon (UNIFIL) (Feb 2022)
Military - note: in 2021-2022, Tanzania deployed additional troops to its border with Mozambique and contributed troops to the Southern African Development Community (SADC) intervention force that was assisting the Mozambique Government's fight against Islamic militants
Maritime threats: the International Maritime Bureau reports that shipping in territorial and offshore waters in the Indian Ocean remain at risk for piracy and armed robbery against shipsthe International Maritime Bureau reports that shipping in territorial and offshore waters in the Indian Ocean remain at risk for piracy and armed robbery against ships
Topic: Terrorism
Terrorist group(s): Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham - Mozambique
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: dispute with Malawi over the boundary in Lake Nyasa (Lake Malawi) and the meandering Songwe River; Malawi contends that the entire lake up to the Tanzanian shoreline is its territory, while Tanzania claims the border is in the center of the lake; the conflict was reignited in 2012 when Malawi awarded a license to a British company for oil exploration in the lakedispute with Malawi over the boundary in Lake Nyasa (Lake Malawi) and the meandering Songwe River; Malawi contends that the entire lake up to the Tanzanian shoreline is its territory, while Tanzania claims the border is in the center of the lake; the conflict was reignited in 2012 when Malawi awarded a license to a British company for oil exploration in the lake
Refugees and internally displaced persons: refugees (country of origin): 127,104 (Burundi), 80,599 (Democratic Republic of the Congo) (2022)
Trafficking in persons: current situation: Tanzania is a source, transit, and destination country for men, women, and children subjected to forced labor and sex trafficking; the exploitation of young girls in domestic servitude continues to be Tanzania’s largest human trafficking problem; Tanzanian boys are subject to forced labor mainly on farms but also in mines, in the commercial service sector, in the sex trade, and possibly on small fishing boats; internal trafficking is more prevalent than transnational trafficking and is usually facilitated by friends, family members, or intermediaries offering education or legitimate job opportunities; trafficking victims from Burundi, Kenya, Bangladesh, Nepal, Yemen, and India are forced to work in Tanzania’s agricultural, mining, and domestic service sectors or may be sex trafficked; traffickers transported Tanzanian children with physical disabilities to Kenya to work as beggars or in massage parlors; girls forced to donate a kidney to pay for supposed transportation fees to the United Arab Emirates; traffickers subject Tanzanians to forced labor, including in domestic service, and sex trafficking in other African countries, the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and the United States
tier rating: Tier 2 Watch List — Tanzania does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking but is making significant efforts to do so; efforts were made to identify and refer victims for care; investigations and convictions of traffickers, training for officials, and public awareness campaigns were increased along with a National Guideline for Safe Houses; however, the government did not amend its law to remove sentencing provisions that allow fines in lieu of imprisonment; fewer prosecutions were initiated; the government did not implement the 2018-2021 national action plan; officials did not fully implement the creation of the anti-trafficking fund nor disperse funds; no formal victim identification and protection was provided (2020)
Illicit drugs: significant transit country for illicit drugs in East Africa; international drug-trafficking organizations and courier networks transit through Tanzania to smuggle heroin and methamphetamine from Southwest Asia; produces cannabis products and khat for domestic consumption and regional and international distribution; traffickers influence politicians, law enforcement, and others in positions of power with moneysignificant transit country for illicit drugs in East Africa; international drug-trafficking organizations and courier networks transit through Tanzania to smuggle heroin and methamphetamine from Southwest Asia; produces cannabis products and khat for domestic consumption and regional and international distribution; traffickers influence politicians, law enforcement, and others in positions of power with money |
20220601 | countries-somalia |
Topic: Photos of Somalia
Topic: Introduction
Background: Ancient Egypt trade expeditions along the northeastern coast of Africa - including today's Eritrea, Djibouti, and Somalia - occurred at various times between the 25th and 12th centuries B.C. Between A.D. 800 and 1100, immigrant Muslim Arabs and Persians set up coastal trading posts along the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean, solidifying Somalia’s close trading relationship with the Arab Peninsula. In the late 19th century, Britain and Italy established colonies in the Somali Peninsula, where they remained until 1960, when British Somaliland gained independence and joined with Italian Somaliland to form the Republic of Somalia. The country functioned as a parliamentary democracy until 1969, when General Mohamed SIAD Barre took control in a coup, beginning a 22-year authoritarian socialist dictatorship. In an effort to centralize power, SIAD called for the eradication of the clan, the key cultural and social organizing principle in Somali society. Resistance to SIAD’s socialist leadership, which was causing a rapid deterioration of the country, prompted allied clan militias to overthrow SIAD in early 1991, resulting in state collapse. Subsequent fighting between rival clans for resources and territory overwhelmed the country, resulting in a manmade famine and prompting international intervention. Beginning in 1993, the UN spearheaded a humanitarian mission supported by international forces, but the international community largely withdrew by 1995 following Black Hawk Down - an incident in which two American Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters were shot down in Mogadishu, killing 21 international forces and wounding 82.
International peace conferences in the 2000s resulted in a number of transitional governments that operated outside of Somalia. Left largely to themselves, Somalis in the country established alternative governance structures; some areas formed their own administrations, such as Somaliland and Puntland, while others developed localized institutions. Many local populations turned to using sharia courts, an Islamic judicial system that implements religious law. Several of these courts came together in 2006 to form the Islamic Courts Union (ICU). The ICU established order in many areas of central and southern Somalia, including Mogadishu, but was forced out when Ethiopia intervened militarily in December 2006 on behalf of the Somali Transitional Federal Government (TFG). While the TFG settled in the capital, the ICU fled to rural areas or from Somalia altogether, reemerging less than a year later as the Islamic insurgent and terrorist movement al-Shabaab, which is still active today. In January 2007, the African Union (AU) established the AU Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) peacekeeping force, which allowed Ethiopia to withdraw its forces, took over security responsibility for the country, and gave the TFG space to develop Somalia’s new government. By 2012, Somali powerbrokers agreed on a provisional constitution with a loose federal structure and established the central government in Mogadishu. Since then, four interim regional administrations have been established and there have been two presidential elections. However, significant and fundamental governance and security problems remain.
.Ancient Egypt trade expeditions along the northeastern coast of Africa - including today's Eritrea, Djibouti, and Somalia - occurred at various times between the 25th and 12th centuries B.C. Between A.D. 800 and 1100, immigrant Muslim Arabs and Persians set up coastal trading posts along the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean, solidifying Somalia’s close trading relationship with the Arab Peninsula. In the late 19th century, Britain and Italy established colonies in the Somali Peninsula, where they remained until 1960, when British Somaliland gained independence and joined with Italian Somaliland to form the Republic of Somalia. The country functioned as a parliamentary democracy until 1969, when General Mohamed SIAD Barre took control in a coup, beginning a 22-year authoritarian socialist dictatorship. In an effort to centralize power, SIAD called for the eradication of the clan, the key cultural and social organizing principle in Somali society. Resistance to SIAD’s socialist leadership, which was causing a rapid deterioration of the country, prompted allied clan militias to overthrow SIAD in early 1991, resulting in state collapse. Subsequent fighting between rival clans for resources and territory overwhelmed the country, resulting in a manmade famine and prompting international intervention. Beginning in 1993, the UN spearheaded a humanitarian mission supported by international forces, but the international community largely withdrew by 1995 following Black Hawk Down - an incident in which two American Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters were shot down in Mogadishu, killing 21 international forces and wounding 82.
International peace conferences in the 2000s resulted in a number of transitional governments that operated outside of Somalia. Left largely to themselves, Somalis in the country established alternative governance structures; some areas formed their own administrations, such as Somaliland and Puntland, while others developed localized institutions. Many local populations turned to using sharia courts, an Islamic judicial system that implements religious law. Several of these courts came together in 2006 to form the Islamic Courts Union (ICU). The ICU established order in many areas of central and southern Somalia, including Mogadishu, but was forced out when Ethiopia intervened militarily in December 2006 on behalf of the Somali Transitional Federal Government (TFG). While the TFG settled in the capital, the ICU fled to rural areas or from Somalia altogether, reemerging less than a year later as the Islamic insurgent and terrorist movement al-Shabaab, which is still active today. In January 2007, the African Union (AU) established the AU Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) peacekeeping force, which allowed Ethiopia to withdraw its forces, took over security responsibility for the country, and gave the TFG space to develop Somalia’s new government. By 2012, Somali powerbrokers agreed on a provisional constitution with a loose federal structure and established the central government in Mogadishu. Since then, four interim regional administrations have been established and there have been two presidential elections. However, significant and fundamental governance and security problems remain.
.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Eastern Africa, bordering the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean, east of Ethiopia
Geographic coordinates: 10 00 N, 49 00 E
Map references: Africa
Area: total: 637,657 sq km
land: 627,337 sq km
water: 10,320 sq km
Area - comparative: almost five times the size of Alabama; slightly smaller than Texas
Land boundaries: total: 2,385 km
border countries (3): Djibouti 61 km; Ethiopia 1,640 km; Kenya 684 km
Coastline: 3,025 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 200 nm; note: the US does not recognize this claim
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
Climate: principally desert; northeast monsoon (December to February), moderate temperatures in north and hot in south; southwest monsoon (May to October), torrid in the north and hot in the south, irregular rainfall, hot and humid periods (tangambili) between monsoons
Terrain: mostly flat to undulating plateau rising to hills in north
Elevation: highest point: Mount Shimbiris 2,460 m
lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 410 m
Natural resources: uranium and largely unexploited reserves of iron ore, tin, gypsum, bauxite, copper, salt, natural gas, likely oil reserves
Land use: agricultural land: 70.3% (2018 est.)
arable land: 1.8% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 0% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 68.5% (2018 est.)
forest: 10.6% (2018 est.)
other: 19.1% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 2,000 sq km (2012)
Major aquifers: Ogaden-Juba Basin
Population distribution: distribution varies greatly throughout the country; least densely populated areas are in the northeast and central regions, as well as areas along the Kenyan border; most populated areas are in and around the cities of Mogadishu, Marka, Boorama, Hargeysa, and Baidoa as shown on this population distribution map
Natural hazards: recurring droughts; frequent dust storms over eastern plains in summer; floods during rainy season
Geography - note: strategic location on Horn of Africa along southern approaches to Bab el Mandeb and route through Red Sea and Suez Canal
Map description: Somalia map showing major population centers as well as parts of surrounding countries and the Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden.Somalia map showing major population centers as well as parts of surrounding countries and the Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 12,386,248 (2022 est.)
note: this estimate was derived from an official census taken in 1975 by the Somali Government; population counting in Somalia is complicated by the large number of nomads and by refugee movements in response to famine and clan warfare
Nationality: noun: Somali(s)
adjective: Somali
Ethnic groups: Somali 85%, Bantu and other non-Somali 15% (including 30,000 Arabs)
Languages: Somali (official, according to the 2012 Transitional Federal Charter), Arabic (official, according to the 2012 Transitional Federal Charter), Italian, English
major-language sample(s):
Buugga Xaqiiqda Aduunka, waa laga maarmaanka macluumaadka assasiga. (Somali)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Religions: Sunni Muslim (Islam) (official, according to the 2012 Transitional Federal Charter)
Demographic profile: Somalia scores very low for most humanitarian indicators, suffering from poor governance, protracted internal conflict, underdevelopment, economic decline, poverty, social and gender inequality, and environmental degradation. Despite civil war and famine raising its mortality rate, Somalia’s high fertility rate and large proportion of people of reproductive age maintain rapid population growth, with each generation being larger than the prior one. More than 60% of Somalia’s population is younger than 25, and the fertility rate is among the world’s highest at almost 6 children per woman – a rate that has decreased little since the 1970s.A lack of educational and job opportunities is a major source of tension for Somalia’s large youth cohort, making them vulnerable to recruitment by extremist and pirate groups. Somalia has one of the world’s lowest primary school enrollment rates – just over 40% of children are in school – and one of world’s highest youth unemployment rates. Life expectancy is low as a result of high infant and maternal mortality rates, the spread of preventable diseases, poor sanitation, chronic malnutrition, and inadequate health services.During the two decades of conflict that followed the fall of the SIAD regime in 1991, hundreds of thousands of Somalis fled their homes. Today Somalia is the world’s third highest source country for refugees, after Syria and Afghanistan. Insecurity, drought, floods, food shortages, and a lack of economic opportunities are the driving factors.As of 2016, more than 1.1 million Somali refugees were hosted in the region, mainly in Kenya, Yemen, Egypt, Ethiopia, Djibouti, and Uganda, while more than 1.1 million Somalis were internally displaced. Since the implementation of a tripartite voluntary repatriation agreement among Kenya, Somalia, and the UNHCR in 2013, nearly 40,000 Somali refugees have returned home from Kenya’s Dadaab refugee camp – still houses to approximately 260,000 Somalis. The flow sped up rapidly after the Kenyan Government in May 2016 announced its intention to close the camp, worsening security and humanitarian conditions in receiving communities in south-central Somalia. Despite the conflict in Yemen, thousands of Somalis and other refugees and asylum seekers from the Horn of Africa risk their lives crossing the Gulf of Aden to reach Yemen and beyond (often Saudi Arabia). Bossaso in Puntland overtook Obock, Djibouti, as the primary departure point in mid-2014.Somalia scores very low for most humanitarian indicators, suffering from poor governance, protracted internal conflict, underdevelopment, economic decline, poverty, social and gender inequality, and environmental degradation. Despite civil war and famine raising its mortality rate, Somalia’s high fertility rate and large proportion of people of reproductive age maintain rapid population growth, with each generation being larger than the prior one. More than 60% of Somalia’s population is younger than 25, and the fertility rate is among the world’s highest at almost 6 children per woman – a rate that has decreased little since the 1970s.A lack of educational and job opportunities is a major source of tension for Somalia’s large youth cohort, making them vulnerable to recruitment by extremist and pirate groups. Somalia has one of the world’s lowest primary school enrollment rates – just over 40% of children are in school – and one of world’s highest youth unemployment rates. Life expectancy is low as a result of high infant and maternal mortality rates, the spread of preventable diseases, poor sanitation, chronic malnutrition, and inadequate health services.During the two decades of conflict that followed the fall of the SIAD regime in 1991, hundreds of thousands of Somalis fled their homes. Today Somalia is the world’s third highest source country for refugees, after Syria and Afghanistan. Insecurity, drought, floods, food shortages, and a lack of economic opportunities are the driving factors.As of 2016, more than 1.1 million Somali refugees were hosted in the region, mainly in Kenya, Yemen, Egypt, Ethiopia, Djibouti, and Uganda, while more than 1.1 million Somalis were internally displaced. Since the implementation of a tripartite voluntary repatriation agreement among Kenya, Somalia, and the UNHCR in 2013, nearly 40,000 Somali refugees have returned home from Kenya’s Dadaab refugee camp – still houses to approximately 260,000 Somalis. The flow sped up rapidly after the Kenyan Government in May 2016 announced its intention to close the camp, worsening security and humanitarian conditions in receiving communities in south-central Somalia. Despite the conflict in Yemen, thousands of Somalis and other refugees and asylum seekers from the Horn of Africa risk their lives crossing the Gulf of Aden to reach Yemen and beyond (often Saudi Arabia). Bossaso in Puntland overtook Obock, Djibouti, as the primary departure point in mid-2014.
Age structure: 0-14 years: 42.38% (male 2,488,604/female 2,493,527)
15-24 years: 19.81% (male 1,167,807/female 1,161,040)
25-54 years: 30.93% (male 1,881,094/female 1,755,166)
55-64 years: 4.61% (male 278,132/female 264,325)
65 years and over: 2.27% (2020 est.) (male 106,187/female 161,242)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 96.3
youth dependency ratio: 90.6
elderly dependency ratio: 5.7
potential support ratio: 17.6 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 18.5 years
male: 18.7 years
female: 18.3 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 2.42% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 37.98 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 11.62 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: -2.18 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: distribution varies greatly throughout the country; least densely populated areas are in the northeast and central regions, as well as areas along the Kenyan border; most populated areas are in and around the cities of Mogadishu, Marka, Boorama, Hargeysa, and Baidoa as shown on this population distribution map
Urbanization: urban population: 47.3% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 4.2% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 2.497 million MOGADISHU (capital), 1.079 million Hargeysa (2022)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 1.08 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 1.08 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.56 male(s)/female
total population: 1.01 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Maternal mortality ratio: 829 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 86.53 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 96.18 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 76.59 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 55.72 years
male: 53.39 years
female: 58.12 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 5.31 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: 6.9% (2018/19)
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 96.4% of population
rural: 73.7% of population
total: 84.2% of population
unimproved: urban: 3.6% of population
rural: 26.3% of population
total: 15.8% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: NA
Physicians density: 0.02 physicians/1,000 population (2014)
Hospital bed density: 0.9 beds/1,000 population (2017)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 82.4% of population
rural: 33.8% of population
total: 56.2% of population
unimproved: urban: 17.6% of population
rural: 66.2% of population
total: 43.8% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: (2020 est.) <.1%
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: 8,700 (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - deaths: (2020 est.) <500
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: very high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial and protozoal diarrhea, hepatitis A and E, and typhoid fever
vectorborne diseases: dengue fever, malaria, and Rift Valley fever
water contact diseases: schistosomiasis
animal contact diseases: rabies
note: on 21 March 2022, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Travel Alert for polio in Africa; Somalia is currently considered a high risk to travelers for circulating vaccine-derived polioviruses (cVDPV); vaccine-derived poliovirus (VDPV) is a strain of the weakened poliovirus that was initially included in oral polio vaccine (OPV) and that has changed over time and behaves more like the wild or naturally occurring virus; this means it can be spread more easily to people who are unvaccinated against polio and who come in contact with the stool or respiratory secretions, such as from a sneeze, of an “infected” person who received oral polio vaccine; the CDC recommends that before any international travel, anyone unvaccinated, incompletely vaccinated, or with an unknown polio vaccination status should complete the routine polio vaccine series; before travel to any high-risk destination, CDC recommends that adults who previously completed the full, routine polio vaccine series receive a single, lifetime booster dose of polio vaccine
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 8.3% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: 23% (2009)
Child marriage: women married by age 15: 16.8% (2020)
women married by age 18: 35.5% (2020)
men married by age 18: 5.6% (2020 est.)
Education expenditures: NA
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: water scarcity; contaminated water contributes to human health problems; improper waste disposal; deforestation; land degradation; overgrazing; soil erosion; desertification
Environment - international agreements: party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection
signed, but not ratified: Nuclear Test Ban
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 29.51 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 0.65 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 20.13 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: principally desert; northeast monsoon (December to February), moderate temperatures in north and hot in south; southwest monsoon (May to October), torrid in the north and hot in the south, irregular rainfall, hot and humid periods (tangambili) between monsoons
Land use: agricultural land: 70.3% (2018 est.)
arable land: 1.8% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 0% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 68.5% (2018 est.)
forest: 10.6% (2018 est.)
other: 19.1% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 47.3% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 4.2% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: very high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial and protozoal diarrhea, hepatitis A and E, and typhoid fever
vectorborne diseases: dengue fever, malaria, and Rift Valley fever
water contact diseases: schistosomiasis
animal contact diseases: rabies
note: on 21 March 2022, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Travel Alert for polio in Africa; Somalia is currently considered a high risk to travelers for circulating vaccine-derived polioviruses (cVDPV); vaccine-derived poliovirus (VDPV) is a strain of the weakened poliovirus that was initially included in oral polio vaccine (OPV) and that has changed over time and behaves more like the wild or naturally occurring virus; this means it can be spread more easily to people who are unvaccinated against polio and who come in contact with the stool or respiratory secretions, such as from a sneeze, of an “infected” person who received oral polio vaccine; the CDC recommends that before any international travel, anyone unvaccinated, incompletely vaccinated, or with an unknown polio vaccination status should complete the routine polio vaccine series; before travel to any high-risk destination, CDC recommends that adults who previously completed the full, routine polio vaccine series receive a single, lifetime booster dose of polio vaccine
Food insecurity: exceptional shortfall in aggregate food production/supplies: due to drought conditions and internal conflict - an estimated 4.15 million people are facing severe food insecurity between February and March 2022, mainly as a result of consecutive poor rainy seasons since late 2020, which severely affected crop and livestock production, and due to heightened conflict since early 2021; two consecutive poor rainy seasons resulted in significant crop and livestock production shortfalls, while food access has been severely affected in recent months by declining employment opportunities in rural areas and by the escalation of conflict (2022)
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 2,326,099 tons (2016 est.)
Major aquifers: Ogaden-Juba Basin
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 15 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 2 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 3.281 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 14.7 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Federal Republic of Somalia
conventional short form: Somalia
local long form: Jamhuuriyadda Federaalka Soomaaliya (Somali), Jumhuriyat as Sumal al Fidiraliyah (Arabic)
local short form: Soomaaliya (Somali), As Sumal (Arabic)
former: British Somaliland, Italian Somaliland, Somali Republic, Somali Democratic Republic
etymology: "Land of the Somali" (ethnic group)
Government type: federal parliamentary republic
Capital: name: Mogadishu
geographic coordinates: 2 04 N, 45 20 E
time difference: UTC+3 (8 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: several theories attempt to explain the city's name; one of the more plausible is that it derives from "maq'ad-i-shah" meaning "the seat of the shah," reflecting the city's links with Persia
Administrative divisions: 18 regions (plural - NA, singular - gobolka); Awdal, Bakool, Banaadir, Bari, Bay, Galguduud, Gedo, Hiiraan, Jubbada Dhexe (Middle Jubba), Jubbada Hoose (Lower Jubba), Mudug, Nugaal, Sanaag, Shabeellaha Dhexe (Middle Shabeelle), Shabeellaha Hoose (Lower Shabeelle), Sool, Togdheer, Woqooyi Galbeed
Independence: 1 July 1960 (from a merger of British Somaliland, which became independent from the UK on 26 June 1960, and Italian Somaliland, which became independent from the Italian-administered UN trusteeship on 1 July 1960 to form the Somali Republic)
National holiday: Foundation of the Somali Republic, 1 July (1960); note - 26 June (1960) in Somaliland
Constitution: history: previous 1961, 1979; latest drafted 12 June 2012, adopted 1 August 2012 (provisional)
amendments: proposed by the federal government, by members of the state governments, the Federal Parliament, or by public petition; proposals require review by a joint committee of Parliament with inclusion of public comments and state legislatures’ comments; passage requires at least two-thirds majority vote in both houses of Parliament and approval by a majority of votes cast in a referendum; constitutional clauses on Islamic principles, the federal system, human rights and freedoms, powers and authorities of the government branches, and inclusion of women in national institutions cannot be amended; note - in late December 2020, the president signed a decree blocking the approval of amendments (2021)
Legal system: mixed legal system of civil law, Islamic (sharia) law, and customary law (referred to as Xeer)
International law organization participation: accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction with reservations; non-party state to the ICCt
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: no
citizenship by descent only: the father must be a citizen of Somalia
dual citizenship recognized: no
residency requirement for naturalization: 7 years
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: President Mohamed ABDULLAHI Mohamed "Farmaajo" (since 8 February 2017)
head of government: Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein ROBLE (since 27 September 2020)
cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the prime minister, approved by the House of the People
elections/appointments: president indirectly elected by the Federal Parliament by two-thirds majority vote in 2 rounds if needed for a single 4-year term; election last held on 8 February 2017; prime minister appointed by the president, approved by the House of the People; note - elections were scheduled for 10 October 2021 but did not take place; clan elders are scheduled to pick members of a lower house of parliament in November 2021; the parliament will then select a new president at an undetermined future date
election results: Mohamed ABDULLAHI Mohamed "Farmaajo" elected president in second round; Federal Parliament second round vote - Mohamed ABDULLAHI Mohamed "Farmaajo" (TPP) 184, HASSAN SHEIKH Mohamud (PDP) 97, Sheikh SHARIF Sheikh Ahmed (ARS) 46
Legislative branch: description: bicameral Federal Parliament to consist of:
Upper House (54 seats; senators indirectly elected by state assemblies to serve 4-year terms)
House of the People (275 seats; members indirectly elected by electoral colleges, each consisting of 51 delegates selected by the 136 Traditional Elders in consultation with sub-clan elders; members serve 4-year terms)
elections:
Upper House - first held on 10 October 2016 (next to be held by 25 February 2022)
House of the People - first held 23 October - 10 November 2016 (next to be held by 25 February 2022)
election results:
Upper House - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - NA; composition - men 41, women 13, percent of women 24.1%
House of the People - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - NA; composition - men 208, women 67, percent of women 24.4%; note - total Parliament percent of women 24.3%
note: the inaugural House of the People was appointed in September 2012 by clan elders; in 2016 and 2017, the Federal Parliament became bicameral with elections scheduled for 10 October 2016 for the Upper House and 23 October to 10 November 2016 for the House of the People; while the elections were delayed, they were eventually held in most regions despite voting irregularities; on 27 December 2016, 41 Upper House senators and 242 House of the People members were sworn in
Judicial branch: highest courts: the provisional constitution stipulates the establishment of the Constitutional Court (consists of 5 judges, including the chief judge and deputy chief judge); note - under the terms of the 2004 Transitional National Charter, a Supreme Court based in Mogadishu and the Appeal Court were established; yet most regions have reverted to local forms of conflict resolution, either secular, traditional Somali customary law, or Islamic law
judge selection and term of office: judges appointed by the president upon proposal of the Judicial Service Commission, a 9-member judicial and administrative body; judge tenure NA
subordinate courts: federal courts; federal member state-level courts; military courts; sharia courts
Political parties and leaders: Cosmopolitan Democratic Party [Yarow Sharef ADEN]
Daljir Party or DP [Hassan MOALIM]
Democratic Green Party of Somalia or DGPS [Abdullahi Y. MAHAMOUD]
Democratic Party of Somalia or DPS [Maslah Mohamed SIAD]
Green Leaf for Democracy or GLED
Hiil Qaran
Justice and Communist Party [Mohamed NUR]
Justice and Development of Democracy and Self-Respectfulness Party or CAHDI [Abdirahman Abdigani IBRAHIM Bile]
Justice Party [SAKARIYE Haji]
Liberal Party of Somalia
National Democratic Party [Abdirashid ALI]
National Unity Party (Xisbiga MIdnimo-Quaran) [Abdurahman BAADIYOW]
Peace and Development Party or PDP
Somali Green Party (local chapter of Federation of Green Parties of Africa)
Somali National Party or SNP [Mohammed Ameen Saeed AHMED]
Somali People's Party [Salad JEELE]
Somali Society Unity Party [Yasin MAALIM]
Tayo or TPP [Mohamed Abdullahi MOHAMED]
Tiir Party [Fadhil Sheik MOHAMUD]
Union for Peace and Development or UPD [HASSAN SHEIKH Mohamud]
United and Democratic Party [FAUZIA Haji]
United Somali Parliamentarians
United Somali Republican Party [Ali TIMA-JLIC]
inactive: Alliance for the Reliberation of Somalia; reportedly inactive since 2009
International organization participation: ACP, AfDB, AFESD, AMF, AU, CAEU (candidate), FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IGAD, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ITSO, ITU, LAS, NAM, OIC, OPCW, OPCW (signatory), UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Ali Sharif AHMED (since 16 September 2019)
chancery: 1609 22nd Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 853-9164
email address and website:
info@somaliembassydc.net
https://somaliembassydc.net/
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Larry E. ANDRE, Jr. (since 9 February 2022)
embassy: Mogadishu, (reopened October 2019 on the grounds of the Mogadishu Airport)
mailing address: P.O. Box 606 Village Market
00621 Nairobi, Kenya
telephone: [254] 20 363-6451
email address and website:
Kenya_ACS@state.gov
https://so.usembassy.gov/
Flag description: light blue with a large white five-pointed star in the center; the blue field was originally influenced by the flag of the UN but today is said to denote the sky and the neighboring Indian Ocean; the five points of the star represent the five regions in the horn of Africa that are inhabited by Somali people: the former British Somaliland and Italian Somaliland (which together make up Somalia), Djibouti, Ogaden (Ethiopia), and the North East Province (Kenya)
National symbol(s): leopard; national colors: blue, white
National anthem: name: "Qolobaa Calankeed" (Every Nation Has its own Flag)
lyrics/music: lyrics/music: Abdullahi QARSHE
note: adopted 2012; written in 1959
Government - note: regional and local governing bodies continue to exist and control various areas of the country, including the self-declared Republic of Somaliland in northwestern Somalia
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Despite the lack of effective national governance, Somalia maintains an informal economy largely based on livestock, remittance/money transfer companies, and telecommunications. Somalia's government lacks the ability to collect domestic revenue and external debt – mostly in arrears – was estimated at about 77% of GDP in 2017. Agriculture is the most important sector, with livestock normally accounting for about 40% of GDP and more than 50% of export earnings. Nomads and semi-pastoralists, who are dependent upon livestock for their livelihood, make up a large portion of the population. Economic activity is estimated to have increased by 2.4% in 2017 because of growth in the agriculture, construction and telecommunications sector. Somalia's small industrial sector, based on the processing of agricultural products, has largely been looted and the machinery sold as scrap metal. In recent years, Somalia's capital city, Mogadishu, has witnessed the development of the city's first gas stations, supermarkets, and airline flights to Turkey since the collapse of central authority in 1991. Mogadishu's main market offers a variety of goods from food to electronic gadgets. Hotels continue to operate and are supported with private-security militias. Formalized economic growth has yet to expand outside of Mogadishu and a few regional capitals, and within the city, security concerns dominate business. Telecommunication firms provide wireless services in most major cities and offer the lowest international call rates on the continent. In the absence of a formal banking sector, money transfer/remittance services have sprouted throughout the country, handling up to $1.6 billion in remittances annually, although international concerns over the money transfers into Somalia continues to threaten these services’ ability to operate in Western nations. In 2017, Somalia elected a new president and collected a record amount of foreign aid and investment, a positive sign for economic recovery.Despite the lack of effective national governance, Somalia maintains an informal economy largely based on livestock, remittance/money transfer companies, and telecommunications. Somalia's government lacks the ability to collect domestic revenue and external debt – mostly in arrears – was estimated at about 77% of GDP in 2017. Agriculture is the most important sector, with livestock normally accounting for about 40% of GDP and more than 50% of export earnings. Nomads and semi-pastoralists, who are dependent upon livestock for their livelihood, make up a large portion of the population. Economic activity is estimated to have increased by 2.4% in 2017 because of growth in the agriculture, construction and telecommunications sector. Somalia's small industrial sector, based on the processing of agricultural products, has largely been looted and the machinery sold as scrap metal. In recent years, Somalia's capital city, Mogadishu, has witnessed the development of the city's first gas stations, supermarkets, and airline flights to Turkey since the collapse of central authority in 1991. Mogadishu's main market offers a variety of goods from food to electronic gadgets. Hotels continue to operate and are supported with private-security militias. Formalized economic growth has yet to expand outside of Mogadishu and a few regional capitals, and within the city, security concerns dominate business. Telecommunication firms provide wireless services in most major cities and offer the lowest international call rates on the continent. In the absence of a formal banking sector, money transfer/remittance services have sprouted throughout the country, handling up to $1.6 billion in remittances annually, although international concerns over the money transfers into Somalia continues to threaten these services’ ability to operate in Western nations. In 2017, Somalia elected a new president and collected a record amount of foreign aid and investment, a positive sign for economic recovery.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $13.19 billion (2020 est.)
$13.39 billion (2019 est.)
$13.01 billion (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 US dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 2.3% (2017 est.)
4.4% (2016 est.)
3.9% (2015 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $800 (2020 est.)
$900 (2019 est.)
$900 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $7.052 billion (2017 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 1.5% (2017 est.)
-71.1% (2016 est.)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 60.2% (2013 est.)
industry: 7.4% (2013 est.)
services: 32.5% (2013 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 72.6% (2015 est.)
government consumption: 8.7% (2015 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 20% (2015 est.)
investment in inventories: 0.8% (2016 est.)
exports of goods and services: 0.3% (2015 est.)
imports of goods and services: -1.6% (2015 est.)
Agricultural products: camel milk, milk, sheep milk, goat milk, sugar cane, fruit, sorghum, cassava, vegetables, maize
Industries: light industries, including sugar refining, textiles, wireless communication
Industrial production growth rate: 3.5% (2014 est.)
Labor force: 4.154 million (2016 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 71%
industry: 29%
industry and services: 29% (1975)
Unemployment rate: NANA
Population below poverty line: NA
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Budget: revenues: 145.3 million (2014 est.)
expenditures: 151.1 million (2014 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): -0.1% (of GDP) (2014 est.)
Public debt: 76.7% of GDP (2017 est.)
93% of GDP (2014 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 2.1% (of GDP) (2014 est.)
Fiscal year: NA
Current account balance: -$464 million (2017 est.)
-$427 million (2016 est.)
Exports: $819 million (2014 est.)
$779 million (2013 est.)
Exports - partners: United Arab Emirates 47%, Saudi Arabia 19%, India 5%, Japan 5% (2019)
Exports - commodities: gold, sheep, goats, sesame seeds, insect resins, cattle (2019)
Imports: $94.43 billion (2018 est.)
$80.07 billion (2017 est.)
Imports - partners: United Arab Emirates 32%, China 20%, India 17%, Turkey 7% (2019)
Imports - commodities: cigarettes, raw sugar, rice, broadcasting equipment, textiles (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $30.45 million (2014 est.)
Debt - external: $5.3 billion (31 December 2014 est.)
Exchange rates: Somali shillings (SOS) per US dollar -
23,960 (2016 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 18% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 34% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 4% (2019)
Electricity - production: 339 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 315.3 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - imports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 85,000 kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 93% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 7% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 0 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 0 bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 5,600 bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 5,590 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 5.663 billion cu m (1 January 2018 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 91,000 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 1 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 7.119 million (2018)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 48.8 (2019)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: the public telecom system was almost completely destroyed during years of civil war; private companies offer limited local fixed-line and wireless service in most major cities; early 2020 landing of DARE 1 submarine cables in Mogadishu and Bossaso eased dependence on expensive satellite dependency for Internet access; in 2019, Al Shabaab Islamic militant group forced closure of Internet services in some parts of the country; new telecom regulatory sector in place (2020)
domestic: seven networks compete for customers in the mobile sector; some of these mobile-service providers offer fixed-lines and Internet services; fixed-line is 0 per 100 and mobile-cellular roughly 51 per 100 (2019)
international: country code - 252; landing points for the G2A, DARE1, PEACE, and EASSy fiber-optic submarine cable system linking East Africa, Indian Ocean Islands, the Middle East, North Africa and Europe (2019)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: 2 private TV stations rebroadcast Al-Jazeera and CNN; Somaliland has 1 government-operated TV station and Puntland has 1 private TV station; the transitional government operates Radio Mogadishu; 1 SW and roughly 10 private FM radio stations broadcast in Mogadishu; several radio stations operate in central and southern regions; Somaliland has 1 government-operated radio station; Puntland has roughly a half-dozen private radio stations; transmissions of at least 2 international broadcasters are available (2019)
Internet country code: .so
Internet users: total: 308,858 (2019 est.)
percent of population: 2% (2019 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 119,000 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 0.75 (2020 est.) less than 1
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 6 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 7
annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 4,486 (2018)
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: 6O
Airports: total: 52 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 8
over 3,047 m: 5
2,438 to 3,047 m: 1
1,524 to 2,437 m: 2 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 44
2,438 to 3,047 m: 5
1,524 to 2,437 m: 16
914 to 1,523 m: 22
under 914 m: 1 (2021)
Roadways: total: 15,000 km (2018)
Merchant marine: total: 4
by type: general cargo 1, other 3 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Berbera, Kismaayo
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: Ministry of Defense: Somali National Army (SNA); Ministry of Internal Security: Somali National Police (SNP, includes a maritime unit and a Turkish-trained commando unit known as Harmacad, or Cheetah) (2021)
note(s) - Somalia also has numerous militia and regional forces operating throughout the country; these forces include ones that are clan- and warlord-based, semi-official paramilitary and special police forces (aka darwish), and externally-sponsored militias; the SNA is attempting to incorporate some of these militia units; in addition, Somaliland has army and naval forces under the Somaliland Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces
Military expenditures: 5.6% of GDP (2019 est.) (approximately $120 million)
6% of GDP (2018 est.) (approximately $120 million)
5.9% of GDP (2017 est.) (approximately $110 million)
6% of GDP (2016 est.) (approximately $110 million)
5.9% of GDP (2015 est.) (approximately $110 million)
Military and security service personnel strengths: estimates for the size of the Somali National Army (SNA) vary widely, from a low of about 10,000 to a high of some 25,000 due to inconsistent internal reporting and the ongoing attempts to integrate various militias (2021)
note(s) - in 2017, the Somali Government announced a plan for the SNA to eventually number about 18,000 troops; the same plan called for 32,000 federal and regional police; estimates for the number of militia forces operating in the country run as high as 50,000
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the SNA is lightly armed with an inventory that includes a variety of older, second-hand equipment largely from Italy, Russia, South Africa, and the UK; since 2015, it has received small quantities of second-hand equipment from up to 10 different countries, usually as aid/donations (2021)
Military service age and obligation: 18 is the legal minimum age for compulsory and voluntary military service; conscription is authorized, but not currently utilized (2021)
Military - note: as of 2022, large parts of the country remained outside government control and under the control of the insurgent Islamist group al-Shabaab; al-Shabaab contested government control in some other areas (see Appendix T)
as of 2022, a significant portion of the SNA was comprised of militia forces that lacked the discipline, structure, weapons, and overall capabilities for effective military operations; of the SNA’s approximately 13 brigades, the most effective were assessed to be the US-trained Danab ("Lightning") Advanced Infantry Brigade and those of the Turkish-trained Gorgor ("Eagle") Special Division; in 2020-2021, the Danab Brigade conducted most of the SNA’s offensive operations in Somalia and nearly all counterterrorism operations against the al-Shabaab terrorist group; as of 2021, it numbered about 1,000 troops with an eventual projected strength of 3,000, while the Gorgor Division was estimated to have 4,500-5,000 trained troops AMISOM has operated in the country with the approval of the United Nations (UN) since 2007; its peacekeeping mission includes assisting Somali forces in providing security for a stable political process, enabling the gradual handing over of security responsibilities from AMISOM to the Somali security forces, and reducing the threat posed by Al-Shabaab and other armed opposition groups; as of early 2022, AMISOM had about 20,000 military troops from six African countries deployed in Somalia; note - AMISOM's mandate scheduled to end on 31 March 2022; it is to be replaced by the AU Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS); the ATMIS mission will be to support the Somalia Federal Government (FGS) in implementing the security objectives of the FGS's security transition plan, a comprehensive strategy developed by the FGS and its international partners to gradually transfer security responsibilities from AMISOM to Somali security forces
UN Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) is mandated by the Security Council to work with the Federal Government of Somalia to support national reconciliation, provide advice on peace-building and state-building, monitor the human rights situation, and help coordinate the efforts of the international community
the UN Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) is responsible for providing logistical field support to AMISOM, UNSOM, the Somali National Army, and the Somali Police Force on joint operations with AMISOM
the European Union Training Mission in Somalia (EUTM-S) has operated in the country since 2010; the EUTM provides advice and training to the Somali military; the US and Turkey maintain separate unilateral military training missions in Somalia; the UAE also maintains a military presence in Somalia (Somaliland)as of 2022, large parts of the country remained outside government control and under the control of the insurgent Islamist group al-Shabaab; al-Shabaab contested government control in some other areas (see Appendix T)
as of 2022, a significant portion of the SNA was comprised of militia forces that lacked the discipline, structure, weapons, and overall capabilities for effective military operations; of the SNA’s approximately 13 brigades, the most effective were assessed to be the US-trained Danab ("Lightning") Advanced Infantry Brigade and those of the Turkish-trained Gorgor ("Eagle") Special Division; in 2020-2021, the Danab Brigade conducted most of the SNA’s offensive operations in Somalia and nearly all counterterrorism operations against the al-Shabaab terrorist group; as of 2021, it numbered about 1,000 troops with an eventual projected strength of 3,000, while the Gorgor Division was estimated to have 4,500-5,000 trained troops
Maritime threats: the International Maritime Bureau’s (IMB) Piracy Reporting Center (PRC) received one incident of piracy and armed robbery in 2021 for the Horn of Africa; while there were no recorded incidents, the IMB PRC warns that Somalia pirates continue to possess the capacity to carry out attacks in the Somali basin and wider Indian Ocean; in particular, the report warns that, "Masters and crew must remain vigilant and cautious when transiting these waters."; the presence of several naval task forces in the Gulf of Aden and additional anti-piracy measures on the part of ship operators, including the use of on-board armed security teams, contributed to the drop in incidents; the EU naval mission, Operation ATALANTA, continues its operations in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean through 2022; naval units from China, India, Japan, Pakistan, South Korea, the US, and other countries also operate in conjunction with EU forces; China has established a logistical base in Djibouti to support its deployed naval units in the Horn of Africathe International Maritime Bureau’s (IMB) Piracy Reporting Center (PRC) received one incident of piracy and armed robbery in 2021 for the Horn of Africa; while there were no recorded incidents, the IMB PRC warns that Somalia pirates continue to possess the capacity to carry out attacks in the Somali basin and wider Indian Ocean; in particular, the report warns that, "Masters and crew must remain vigilant and cautious when transiting these waters."; the presence of several naval task forces in the Gulf of Aden and additional anti-piracy measures on the part of ship operators, including the use of on-board armed security teams, contributed to the drop in incidents; the EU naval mission, Operation ATALANTA, continues its operations in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean through 2022; naval units from China, India, Japan, Pakistan, South Korea, the US, and other countries also operate in conjunction with EU forces; China has established a logistical base in Djibouti to support its deployed naval units in the Horn of Africa
Topic: Terrorism
Terrorist group(s): al-Shabaab; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham – Somalia
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: Ethiopian forces invaded southern Somalia and routed Islamist Courts from Mogadishu in January 2007; "Somaliland" secessionists provide port facilities in Berbera to landlocked Ethiopia and have established commercial ties with other regional states; "Puntland" and "Somaliland" "governments" seek international support in their secessionist aspirations and overlapping border claims; the undemarcated former British administrative line has little meaning as a political separation to rival clans within Ethiopia's Ogaden and southern Somalia's Oromo region; Kenya works hard to prevent the clan and militia fighting in Somalia from spreading south across the border, which has long been open to nomadic pastoralistsEthiopian forces invaded southern Somalia and routed Islamist Courts from Mogadishu in January 2007; "Somaliland" secessionists provide port facilities in Berbera to landlocked Ethiopia and have established commercial ties with other regional states; "Puntland" and "Somaliland" "governments" seek international support in their secessionist aspirations and overlapping border claims; the undemarcated former British administrative line has little meaning as a political separation to rival clans within Ethiopia's Ogaden and southern Somalia's Oromo region; Kenya works hard to prevent the clan and militia fighting in Somalia from spreading south across the border, which has long been open to nomadic pastoralists
Refugees and internally displaced persons: refugees (country of origin): 6,979 (Yemen) (mid-year 2021)
IDPs: 2.968 million (civil war since 1988, clan-based competition for resources; 2011 famine; insecurity because of fighting between al-Shabaab and the Transitional Federal Government's allied forces) (2022) |
20220601 | field-geographic-overview | This entry, which appears only in the World, Geography category, provides basic geographic information about the earth's oceans and continents. The entry also lists all of the countries that compose each continent. |
20220601 | field-location | This entry identifies the country's regional location, neighboring countries, and adjacent bodies of water.
Topic: AfghanistanSouthern Asia, north and west of Pakistan, east of Iran
Topic: AkrotiriEastern Mediterranean, peninsula on the southwest coast of Cyprus
Topic: AlbaniaSoutheastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea and Ionian Sea, between Greece to the south and Montenegro and Kosovo to the north
Topic: AlgeriaNorthern Africa, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Morocco and Tunisia
Topic: American SamoaOceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand
Topic: AndorraSouthwestern Europe, Pyrenees mountains, on the border between France and Spain
Topic: AngolaSouthern Africa, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean, between Namibia and Democratic Republic of the Congo
Topic: AnguillaCaribbean, islands between the Caribbean Sea and North Atlantic Ocean, east of Puerto Rico
Topic: Antarcticacontinent mostly south of the Antarctic Circle
Topic: Antigua and BarbudaCaribbean, islands between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east-southeast of Puerto Rico
Topic: Arctic Oceanbody of water between Europe, Asia, and North America, mostly north of the Arctic Circle
Topic: ArgentinaSouthern South America, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean, between Chile and Uruguay
Topic: ArmeniaSouthwestern Asia, between Turkey (to the west) and Azerbaijan; note - Armenia views itself as part of Europe; geopolitically, it can be classified as falling within Europe, the Middle East, or both
Topic: ArubaCaribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, north of Venezuela
Topic: Ashmore and Cartier IslandsSoutheastern Asia, islands in the Indian Ocean, midway between northwestern Australia and Timor island; Ashmore Reef is 840 km west of Darwin and 610 km north of Broome; Cartier Islet is 70 km east of Ashmore Reef
Topic: Atlantic Oceanbody of water between Africa, Europe, the Arctic Ocean, the Americas, and the Southern Ocean
Topic: AustraliaOceania, continent between the Indian Ocean and the South Pacific Ocean
Topic: AustriaCentral Europe, north of Italy and Slovenia
Topic: AzerbaijanSouthwestern Asia, bordering the Caspian Sea, between Iran and Russia, with a small European portion north of the Caucasus range
Topic: Bahamas, Thechain of islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, southeast of Florida, northeast of Cuba
Topic: BahrainMiddle East, archipelago in the Persian Gulf, east of Saudi Arabia
Topic: BangladeshSouthern Asia, bordering the Bay of Bengal, between Burma and India
Topic: BarbadosCaribbean, island in the North Atlantic Ocean, northeast of Venezuela
Topic: BelarusEastern Europe, east of Poland
Topic: BelgiumWestern Europe, bordering the North Sea, between France and the Netherlands
Topic: BelizeCentral America, bordering the Caribbean Sea, between Guatemala and Mexico
Topic: BeninWestern Africa, bordering the Bight of Benin, between Nigeria and Togo
Topic: BermudaNorth America, group of islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, east of South Carolina (US)
Topic: BhutanSouthern Asia, between China and India
Topic: BoliviaCentral South America, southwest of Brazil
Topic: Bosnia and HerzegovinaSoutheastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea and Croatia
Topic: BotswanaSouthern Africa, north of South Africa
Topic: Bouvet Islandisland in the South Atlantic Ocean, southwest of the Cape of Good Hope (South Africa)
Topic: BrazilEastern South America, bordering the Atlantic Ocean
Topic: British Indian Ocean Territoryarchipelago in the Indian Ocean, south of India, about halfway between Africa and Indonesia
Topic: British Virgin IslandsCaribbean, between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east of Puerto Rico
Topic: BruneiSoutheastern Asia, along the northern coast of the island of Borneo, bordering the South China Sea and Malaysia
Topic: BulgariaSoutheastern Europe, bordering the Black Sea, between Romania and Turkey
Topic: Burkina FasoWestern Africa, north of Ghana
Topic: BurmaSoutheastern Asia, bordering the Andaman Sea and the Bay of Bengal, between Bangladesh and Thailand
Topic: BurundiCentral Africa, east of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, west of Tanzania
Topic: Cabo VerdeWestern Africa, group of islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, west of Senegal
Topic: CambodiaSoutheastern Asia, bordering the Gulf of Thailand, between Thailand, Vietnam, and Laos
Topic: CameroonCentral Africa, bordering the Bight of Biafra, between Equatorial Guinea and Nigeria
Topic: CanadaNorthern North America, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean on the east, North Pacific Ocean on the west, and the Arctic Ocean on the north, north of the conterminous US
Topic: Cayman IslandsCaribbean, three-island group (Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, Little Cayman) in Caribbean Sea, 240 km south of Cuba and 268 km northwest of Jamaica
Topic: Central African RepublicCentral Africa, north of Democratic Republic of the Congo
Topic: ChadCentral Africa, south of Libya
Topic: ChileSouthern South America, bordering the South Pacific Ocean, between Argentina and Peru
Topic: ChinaEastern Asia, bordering the East China Sea, Korea Bay, Yellow Sea, and South China Sea, between North Korea and Vietnam
Topic: Christmas IslandSoutheastern Asia, island in the Indian Ocean, south of Indonesia
Topic: Clipperton IslandMiddle America, atoll in the North Pacific Ocean, 1,120 km southwest of Mexico
Topic: Cocos (Keeling) IslandsSoutheastern Asia, group of islands in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Indonesia, about halfway between Australia and Sri Lanka
Topic: ColombiaNorthern South America, bordering the Caribbean Sea, between Panama and Venezuela, and bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between Ecuador and Panama
Topic: ComorosSouthern Africa, group of islands at the northern mouth of the Mozambique Channel, about two-thirds of the way between northern Madagascar and northern Mozambique
Topic: Congo, Democratic Republic of theCentral Africa, northeast of Angola
Topic: Congo, Republic of theCentral Africa, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean, between Angola and Gabon
Topic: Cook IslandsOceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand
Topic: Coral Sea IslandsOceania, islands in the Coral Sea, northeast of Australia
Topic: Costa RicaCentral America, bordering both the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific Ocean, between Nicaragua and Panama
Topic: Cote d'IvoireWestern Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Ghana and Liberia
Topic: CroatiaSoutheastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea, between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Slovenia
Topic: CubaCaribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, 150 km south of Key West, Florida
Topic: CuracaoCaribbean, an island in the Caribbean Sea, 55 km off the coast of Venezuela
Topic: CyprusMiddle East, island in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Turkey; note - Cyprus views itself as part of Europe; geopolitically, it can be classified as falling within Europe, the Middle East, or both
Topic: CzechiaCentral Europe, between Germany, Poland, Slovakia, and Austria
Topic: DenmarkNorthern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea and the North Sea, on a peninsula north of Germany (Jutland); also includes several major islands (Sjaelland, Fyn, and Bornholm)
Topic: DhekeliaEastern Mediterranean, on the southeast coast of Cyprus near Famagusta
Topic: DjiboutiEastern Africa, bordering the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea, between Eritrea and Somalia
Topic: DominicaCaribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, about halfway between Puerto Rico and Trinidad and Tobago
Topic: Dominican RepublicCaribbean, eastern two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola, between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east of Haiti
Topic: EcuadorWestern South America, bordering the Pacific Ocean at the Equator, between Colombia and Peru
Topic: EgyptNorthern Africa, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Libya and the Gaza Strip, and the Red Sea north of Sudan, and includes the Asian Sinai Peninsula
Topic: El SalvadorCentral America, bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between Guatemala and Honduras
Topic: Equatorial GuineaCentral Africa, bordering the Bight of Biafra, between Cameroon and Gabon
Topic: EritreaEastern Africa, bordering the Red Sea, between Djibouti and Sudan
Topic: EstoniaEastern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea and Gulf of Finland, between Latvia and Russia
Topic: EswatiniSouthern Africa, between Mozambique and South Africa
Topic: EthiopiaEastern Africa, west of Somalia
Topic: European UnionEurope between the North Atlantic Ocean in the west and Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine to the east
Topic: Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)Southern South America, islands in the South Atlantic Ocean, about 500 km east of southern Argentina
Topic: Faroe IslandsNorthern Europe, island group between the Norwegian Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, about halfway between Iceland and Norway
Topic: FijiOceania, island group in the South Pacific Ocean, about two-thirds of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand
Topic: FinlandNorthern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, Gulf of Bothnia, and Gulf of Finland, between Sweden and Russia
Topic: Francemetropolitan France: Western Europe, bordering the Bay of Biscay and English Channel, between Belgium and Spain, southeast of the UK; bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Italy and Spain; French Guiana: Northern South America, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Brazil and Suriname; Guadeloupe: Caribbean, islands between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, southeast of Puerto Rico; Martinique: Caribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and North Atlantic Ocean, north of Trinidad and Tobago; Mayotte: Southern Indian Ocean, island in the Mozambique Channel, about halfway between northern Madagascar and northern Mozambique; Reunion: Southern Africa, island in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascarmetropolitan France: Western Europe, bordering the Bay of Biscay and English Channel, between Belgium and Spain, southeast of the UK; bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Italy and Spain; French Guiana: Northern South America, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Brazil and Suriname; Guadeloupe: Caribbean, islands between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, southeast of Puerto Rico; Martinique: Caribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and North Atlantic Ocean, north of Trinidad and Tobago; Mayotte: Southern Indian Ocean, island in the Mozambique Channel, about halfway between northern Madagascar and northern Mozambique; Reunion: Southern Africa, island in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar
Topic: French PolynesiaOceania, five archipelagoes (Archipel des Tuamotu, Iles Gambier, Iles Marquises, Iles Tubuai, Society Islands) in the South Pacific Ocean about halfway between South America and Australia
Topic: French Southern and Antarctic Landssoutheast and east of Africa, islands in the southern Indian Ocean, some near Madagascar and others about equidistant between Africa, Antarctica, and Australia; note - French Southern and Antarctic Lands include Ile Amsterdam, Ile Saint-Paul, Iles Crozet, Iles Kerguelen, Bassas da India, Europa Island, Glorioso Islands, Juan de Nova Island, and Tromelin Island in the southern Indian Ocean, along with the French-claimed sector of Antarctica, "Adelie Land"; the US does not recognize the French claim to "Adelie Land"
Topic: GabonCentral Africa, bordering the Atlantic Ocean at the Equator, between Republic of the Congo and Equatorial Guinea
Topic: Gambia, TheWestern Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean and Senegal
Topic: Gaza StripMiddle East, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Egypt and Israel
Topic: GeorgiaSouthwestern Asia, bordering the Black Sea, between Turkey and Russia, with a sliver of land north of the Caucasus extending into Europe; note - Georgia views itself as part of Europe; geopolitically, it can be classified as falling within Europe, the Middle East, or both
Topic: GermanyCentral Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea and the North Sea, between the Netherlands and Poland, south of Denmark
Topic: GhanaWestern Africa, bordering the Gulf of Guinea, between Cote d'Ivoire and Togo
Topic: GibraltarSouthwestern Europe, bordering the Strait of Gibraltar, which links the Mediterranean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, on the southern coast of Spain
Topic: GreeceSouthern Europe, bordering the Aegean Sea, Ionian Sea, and the Mediterranean Sea, between Albania and Turkey
Topic: GreenlandNorthern North America, island between the Arctic Ocean and the North Atlantic Ocean, northeast of Canada
Topic: GrenadaCaribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean, north of Trinidad and Tobago
Topic: GuamOceania, island in the North Pacific Ocean, about three-quarters of the way from Hawaii to the Philippines
Topic: GuatemalaCentral America, bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between El Salvador and Mexico, and bordering the Gulf of Honduras (Caribbean Sea) between Honduras and Belize
Topic: GuernseyWestern Europe, islands in the English Channel, northwest of France
Topic: GuineaWestern Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Guinea-Bissau and Sierra Leone
Topic: Guinea-BissauWestern Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Guinea and Senegal
Topic: GuyanaNorthern South America, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Suriname and Venezuela
Topic: HaitiCaribbean, western one-third of the island of Hispaniola, between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, west of the Dominican Republic
Topic: Heard Island and McDonald Islandsislands in the Indian Ocean, about two-thirds of the way from Madagascar to Antarctica
Topic: Holy See (Vatican City)Southern Europe, an enclave of Rome (Italy)
Topic: HondurasCentral America, bordering the Caribbean Sea, between Guatemala and Nicaragua and bordering the Gulf of Fonseca (North Pacific Ocean), between El Salvador and Nicaragua
Topic: Hong KongEastern Asia, bordering the South China Sea and China
Topic: HungaryCentral Europe, northwest of Romania
Topic: IcelandNorthern Europe, island between the Greenland Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, northwest of the United Kingdom
Topic: IndiaSouthern Asia, bordering the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal, between Burma and Pakistan
Topic: Indian Oceanbody of water between Africa, the Southern Ocean, Asia, and Australia
Topic: IndonesiaSoutheastern Asia, archipelago between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean
Topic: IranMiddle East, bordering the Gulf of Oman, the Persian Gulf, and the Caspian Sea, between Iraq and Pakistan
Topic: IraqMiddle East, bordering the Persian Gulf, between Iran and Kuwait
Topic: IrelandWestern Europe, occupying five-sixths of the island of Ireland in the North Atlantic Ocean, west of Great Britain
Topic: Isle of ManWestern Europe, island in the Irish Sea, between Great Britain and Ireland
Topic: IsraelMiddle East, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Egypt and Lebanon
Topic: ItalySouthern Europe, a peninsula extending into the central Mediterranean Sea, northeast of Tunisia
Topic: JamaicaCaribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, south of Cuba
Topic: Jan MayenNorthern Europe, island between the Greenland Sea and the Norwegian Sea, northeast of Iceland
Topic: JapanEastern Asia, island chain between the North Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Japan, east of the Korean Peninsula
Topic: JerseyWestern Europe, island in the English Channel, northwest of France
Topic: JordanMiddle East, northwest of Saudi Arabia, between Israel (to the west) and Iraq
Topic: KazakhstanCentral Asia, northwest of China; a small portion west of the Ural (Oral) River in easternmost Europe
Topic: KenyaEastern Africa, bordering the Indian Ocean, between Somalia and Tanzania
Topic: KiribatiOceania, group of 32 coral atolls and one raised coral island in the Pacific Ocean, straddling the Equator; the capital Tarawa is about halfway between Hawaii and Australia
Topic: Korea, NorthEastern Asia, northern half of the Korean Peninsula bordering the Korea Bay and the Sea of Japan, between China and South Korea
Topic: Korea, SouthEastern Asia, southern half of the Korean Peninsula bordering the Sea of Japan and the Yellow Sea
Topic: KosovoSoutheast Europe, between Serbia and Macedonia
Topic: KuwaitMiddle East, bordering the Persian Gulf, between Iraq and Saudi Arabia
Topic: KyrgyzstanCentral Asia, west of China, south of Kazakhstan
Topic: LaosSoutheastern Asia, northeast of Thailand, west of Vietnam
Topic: LatviaEastern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, between Estonia and Lithuania
Topic: LebanonMiddle East, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Israel and Syria
Topic: LesothoSouthern Africa, an enclave of South Africa
Topic: LiberiaWestern Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Cote d'Ivoire and Sierra Leone
Topic: LibyaNorthern Africa, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Egypt, Tunisia, and Algeria
Topic: LiechtensteinCentral Europe, between Austria and Switzerland
Topic: LithuaniaEastern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, between Latvia and Russia, west of Belarus
Topic: LuxembourgWestern Europe, between France and Germany
Topic: MacauEastern Asia, bordering the South China Sea and China
Topic: MadagascarSouthern Africa, island in the Indian Ocean, east of Mozambique
Topic: MalawiSouthern Africa, east of Zambia, west and north of Mozambique
Topic: MalaysiaSoutheastern Asia, peninsula bordering Thailand and northern one-third of the island of Borneo, bordering Indonesia, Brunei, and the South China Sea, south of Vietnam
Topic: MaldivesSouthern Asia, group of atolls in the Indian Ocean, south-southwest of India
Topic: Maliinterior Western Africa, southwest of Algeria, north of Guinea, Cote d'Ivoire, and Burkina Faso, west of Niger
Topic: MaltaSouthern Europe, islands in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Sicily (Italy)
Topic: Marshall IslandsOceania, consists of 29 atolls and five isolated islands in the North Pacific Ocean, about halfway between Hawaii and Australia; the atolls and islands are situated in two, almost-parallel island chains - the Ratak (Sunrise) group and the Ralik (Sunset) group; the total number of islands and islets is about 1,225; 22 of the atolls and four of the islands are uninhabited
Topic: MauritaniaWestern Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Senegal and Western Sahara
Topic: MauritiusSouthern Africa, island in the Indian Ocean, about 800 km (500 mi) east of Madagascar
Topic: MexicoNorth America, bordering the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, between Belize and the United States and bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between Guatemala and the United States
Topic: Micronesia, Federated States ofOceania, island group in the North Pacific Ocean, about three-quarters of the way from Hawaii to Indonesia
Topic: MoldovaEastern Europe, northeast of Romania
Topic: MonacoWestern Europe, bordering the Mediterranean Sea on the southern coast of France, near the border with Italy
Topic: MongoliaNorthern Asia, between China and Russia
Topic: MontenegroSoutheastern Europe, between the Adriatic Sea and Serbia
Topic: MontserratCaribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, southeast of Puerto Rico
Topic: MoroccoNorthern Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, between Algeria and Mauritania
Topic: MozambiqueSoutheastern Africa, bordering the Mozambique Channel, between South Africa and Tanzania
Topic: NamibiaSouthern Africa, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean, between Angola and South Africa
Topic: NauruOceania, island in the South Pacific Ocean, south of the Marshall Islands
Topic: Navassa IslandCaribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, 30 nm west of Tiburon Peninsula of Haiti
Topic: NepalSouthern Asia, between China and India
Topic: NetherlandsWestern Europe, bordering the North Sea, between Belgium and Germany
Topic: New CaledoniaOceania, islands in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Australia
Topic: New ZealandOceania, islands in the South Pacific Ocean, southeast of Australia
Topic: NicaraguaCentral America, bordering both the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific Ocean, between Costa Rica and Honduras
Topic: NigerWestern Africa, southeast of Algeria
Topic: NigeriaWestern Africa, bordering the Gulf of Guinea, between Benin and Cameroon
Topic: NiueOceania, island in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Tonga
Topic: Norfolk IslandOceania, island in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Australia
Topic: North MacedoniaSoutheastern Europe, north of Greece
Topic: Northern Mariana IslandsOceania, islands in the North Pacific Ocean, about three-quarters of the way from Hawaii to the Philippines
Topic: NorwayNorthern Europe, bordering the North Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, west of Sweden
Topic: OmanMiddle East, bordering the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman, and Persian Gulf, between Yemen and the UAE
Topic: Pacific Oceanbody of water between the Southern Ocean, Asia, Australia, and the Western Hemisphere
Topic: PakistanSouthern Asia, bordering the Arabian Sea, between India on the east and Iran and Afghanistan on the west and China in the north
Topic: PalauOceania, group of islands in the North Pacific Ocean, southeast of the Philippines
Topic: PanamaCentral America, bordering both the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific Ocean, between Colombia and Costa Rica
Topic: Papua New GuineaOceania, group of islands including the eastern half of the island of New Guinea between the Coral Sea and the South Pacific Ocean, east of Indonesia
Topic: Paracel IslandsSoutheastern Asia, group of small islands and reefs in the South China Sea, about one-third of the way from central Vietnam to the northern Philippines
Topic: ParaguayCentral South America, northeast of Argentina, southwest of Brazil
Topic: PeruWestern South America, bordering the South Pacific Ocean, between Chile and Ecuador
Topic: PhilippinesSoutheastern Asia, archipelago between the Philippine Sea and the South China Sea, east of Vietnam
Topic: Pitcairn IslandsOceania, islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about midway between Peru and New Zealand
Topic: PolandCentral Europe, east of Germany
Topic: PortugalSouthwestern Europe, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, west of Spain
Topic: Puerto RicoCaribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east of the Dominican Republic
Topic: QatarMiddle East, peninsula bordering the Persian Gulf and Saudi Arabia
Topic: RomaniaSoutheastern Europe, bordering the Black Sea, between Bulgaria and Ukraine
Topic: RussiaNorth Asia bordering the Arctic Ocean, extending from Europe (the portion west of the Urals) to the North Pacific Ocean
Topic: RwandaCentral Africa, east of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, north of Burundi
Topic: Saint BarthelemyCaribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean; located in the Leeward Islands (northern) group; Saint Barthelemy lies east of the US Virgin Islands
Topic: Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunhaislands in the South Atlantic Ocean, about midway between South America and Africa; Ascension Island lies 1,300 km (800 mi) northwest of Saint Helena; Tristan da Cunha lies 4,300 km (2,700 mi) southwest of Saint Helena
Topic: Saint Kitts and NevisCaribbean, islands in the Caribbean Sea, about one-third of the way from Puerto Rico to Trinidad and Tobago
Topic: Saint LuciaCaribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and North Atlantic Ocean, north of Trinidad and Tobago
Topic: Saint MartinCaribbean, located in the Leeward Islands (northern) group; French part of the island of Saint Martin in the Caribbean Sea; Saint Martin lies east of the US Virgin Islands
Topic: Saint Pierre and MiquelonNorthern North America, islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, south of Newfoundland (Canada)
Topic: Saint Vincent and the GrenadinesCaribbean, islands between the Caribbean Sea and North Atlantic Ocean, north of Trinidad and Tobago
Topic: SamoaOceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand
Topic: San MarinoSouthern Europe, an enclave in central Italy
Topic: Sao Tome and PrincipeCentral Africa, islands in the Gulf of Guinea, just north of the Equator, west of Gabon
Topic: Saudi ArabiaMiddle East, bordering the Persian Gulf and the Red Sea, north of Yemen
Topic: SenegalWestern Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Guinea-Bissau and Mauritania
Topic: SerbiaSoutheastern Europe, between Macedonia and Hungary
Topic: Seychellesarchipelago in the Indian Ocean, northeast of Madagascar
Topic: Sierra LeoneWestern Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Guinea and Liberia
Topic: SingaporeSoutheastern Asia, islands between Malaysia and Indonesia
Topic: Sint MaartenCaribbean, located in the Leeward Islands (northern) group; Dutch part of the island of Saint Martin in the Caribbean Sea; Sint Maarten lies east of the US Virgin IslandsCaribbean, located in the Leeward Islands (northern) group; Dutch part of the island of Saint Martin in the Caribbean Sea; Sint Maarten lies east of the US Virgin Islands
Topic: SlovakiaCentral Europe, south of Poland
Topic: Sloveniasouth Central Europe, Julian Alps between Austria and Croatia
Topic: Solomon IslandsOceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Papua New Guinea
Topic: SomaliaEastern Africa, bordering the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean, east of Ethiopia
Topic: South AfricaSouthern Africa, at the southern tip of the continent of Africa
Topic: South Georgia and South Sandwich IslandsSouthern South America, islands in the South Atlantic Ocean, east of the tip of South America
Topic: South SudanEast-Central Africa; south of Sudan, north of Uganda and Kenya, west of Ethiopia
Topic: Southern Oceanbody of water between 60 degrees south latitude and Antarctica
Topic: SpainSouthwestern Europe, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, North Atlantic Ocean, Bay of Biscay, and Pyrenees Mountains; southwest of France
Topic: Spratly IslandsSoutheastern Asia, group of reefs and islands in the South China Sea, about two-thirds of the way from southern Vietnam to the southern Philippines
Topic: Sri LankaSouthern Asia, island in the Indian Ocean, south of India
Topic: Sudannorth-eastern Africa, bordering the Red Sea, between Egypt and Eritrea
Topic: SurinameNorthern South America, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between French Guiana and Guyana
Topic: SvalbardNorthern Europe, islands between the Arctic Ocean, Barents Sea, Greenland Sea, and Norwegian Sea, north of Norway
Topic: SwedenNorthern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, Gulf of Bothnia, Kattegat, and Skagerrak, between Finland and Norway
Topic: SwitzerlandCentral Europe, east of France, north of Italy
Topic: SyriaMiddle East, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Lebanon and Turkey
Topic: TaiwanEastern Asia, islands bordering the East China Sea, Philippine Sea, South China Sea, and Taiwan Strait, north of the Philippines, off the southeastern coast of China
Topic: TajikistanCentral Asia, west of China, south of Kyrgyzstan
Topic: TanzaniaEastern Africa, bordering the Indian Ocean, between Kenya and Mozambique
Topic: ThailandSoutheastern Asia, bordering the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, southeast of Burma
Topic: Timor-LesteSoutheastern Asia, northwest of Australia in the Lesser Sunda Islands at the eastern end of the Indonesian archipelago; note - Timor-Leste includes the eastern half of the island of Timor, the Oecussi (Ambeno) region on the northwest portion of the island of Timor, and the islands of Pulau Atauro and Pulau Jaco
Topic: TogoWestern Africa, bordering the Bight of Benin, between Benin and Ghana
Topic: TokelauOceania, group of three atolls in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand
Topic: TongaOceania, archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean, about two-thirds of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand
Topic: Trinidad and TobagoCaribbean, islands between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, northeast of Venezuela
Topic: TunisiaNorthern Africa, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Algeria and Libya
Topic: TurkeySoutheastern Europe and Southwestern Asia (that portion of Turkey west of the Bosporus is geographically part of Europe), bordering the Black Sea, between Bulgaria and Georgia, and bordering the Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, between Greece and Syria
Topic: TurkmenistanCentral Asia, bordering the Caspian Sea, between Iran and Kazakhstan
Topic: Turks and Caicos Islandstwo island groups in the North Atlantic Ocean, southeast of The Bahamas, north of Haiti
Topic: TuvaluOceania, island group consisting of nine coral atolls in the South Pacific Ocean, about half way from Hawaii to Australia
Topic: UgandaEast-Central Africa, west of Kenya, east of the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Topic: UkraineEastern Europe, bordering the Black Sea, between Poland, Romania, and Moldova in the west and Russia in the east
Topic: United Arab EmiratesMiddle East, bordering the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf, between Oman and Saudi Arabia
Topic: United KingdomWestern Europe, islands - including the northern one-sixth of the island of Ireland - between the North Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea; northwest of France
Topic: United StatesNorth America, bordering both the North Atlantic Ocean and the North Pacific Ocean, between Canada and Mexico
Topic: United States Pacific Island Wildlife RefugesOceaniaBaker Island: atoll in the North Pacific Ocean 3,390 km southwest of Honolulu, about halfway between Hawaii and Australia; Howland Island: island in the North Pacific Ocean 3,360 km southwest of Honolulu, about halfway between Hawaii and Australia; Jarvis Island: island in the South Pacific Ocean 2,415 km south of Honolulu, about halfway between Hawaii and Cook Islands; Johnston Atoll: atoll in the North Pacific Ocean 1,330 km southwest of Honolulu, about one-third of the way from Hawaii to the Marshall Islands; Kingman Reef: reef in the North Pacific Ocean 1,720 km south of Honolulu, about halfway between Hawaii and American Samoa; Midway Islands: atoll in the North Pacific Ocean 2,335 km northwest of Honolulu near the end of the Hawaiian Archipelago, about one-third of the way from Honolulu to Tokyo; Palmyra Atoll: atoll in the North Pacific Ocean 1,780 km south of Honolulu, about halfway between Hawaii and American SamoaOceaniaBaker Island: atoll in the North Pacific Ocean 3,390 km southwest of Honolulu, about halfway between Hawaii and Australia; Howland Island: island in the North Pacific Ocean 3,360 km southwest of Honolulu, about halfway between Hawaii and Australia; Jarvis Island: island in the South Pacific Ocean 2,415 km south of Honolulu, about halfway between Hawaii and Cook Islands; Johnston Atoll: atoll in the North Pacific Ocean 1,330 km southwest of Honolulu, about one-third of the way from Hawaii to the Marshall Islands; Kingman Reef: reef in the North Pacific Ocean 1,720 km south of Honolulu, about halfway between Hawaii and American Samoa; Midway Islands: atoll in the North Pacific Ocean 2,335 km northwest of Honolulu near the end of the Hawaiian Archipelago, about one-third of the way from Honolulu to Tokyo; Palmyra Atoll: atoll in the North Pacific Ocean 1,780 km south of Honolulu, about halfway between Hawaii and American Samoa
Topic: UruguaySouthern South America, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean, between Argentina and Brazil
Topic: UzbekistanCentral Asia, north of Turkmenistan, south of Kazakhstan
Topic: VanuatuOceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about three-quarters of the way from Hawaii to Australia
Topic: VenezuelaNorthern South America, bordering the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, between Colombia and Guyana
Topic: VietnamSoutheastern Asia, bordering the Gulf of Thailand, Gulf of Tonkin, and South China Sea, as well as China, Laos, and Cambodia
Topic: Virgin IslandsCaribbean, islands between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east of Puerto Rico
Topic: Wake IslandOceania, atoll in the North Pacific Ocean, about two-thirds of the way from Hawaii to the Northern Mariana Islands
Topic: Wallis and FutunaOceania, islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about two-thirds of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand
Topic: West BankMiddle East, west of Jordan, east of Israel
Topic: YemenMiddle East, bordering the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden, and Red Sea, between Oman and Saudi Arabia
Topic: ZambiaSouthern Africa, east of Angola, south of the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Topic: ZimbabweSouthern Africa, between South Africa and Zambia |
20220601 | countries-algeria |
Topic: Photos of Algeria
Topic: Introduction
Background: Algeria has known many empires and dynasties starting with the ancient Numidians (3rd century B.C.), Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Vandals, Byzantines, over a dozen different Arab and Berber dynasties, Spaniards, and Ottoman Turks. It was under the latter that the Barbary pirates operated from North Africa and preyed on shipping beginning in roughly 1500, peaking in the early to mid-17th century, until finally subdued by the French capture of Algiers in 1830. The French southward conquest of the entirety of Algeria proceeded throughout the 19th century and was marked by many atrocities. The country was heavily colonized by the French in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. A bloody eight-year struggle culminated in Algerian independence in 1962.
Algeria's primary political party, the National Liberation Front (FLN), was established in 1954 as part of the struggle for independence and has since largely dominated politics, though is falling out of favor with the youth. The Government of Algeria in 1988 instituted a multi-party system in response to public unrest, but the surprising first round success of the Islamic Salvation Front (FIS) in the December 1991 legislative elections led the Algerian army to intervene and postpone the second round of elections to prevent what the secular elite feared would be an extremist-led government from assuming power. The army began a crackdown on the FIS that spurred FIS supporters to begin attacking government targets. Fighting escalated into an insurgency, which saw intense violence from 1992-98, resulting in over 100,000 deaths – many attributed to indiscriminate massacres of villagers by extremists. The government gained the upper hand by the late-1990s, and FIS’s armed wing, the Islamic Salvation Army, disbanded in January 2000. FIS membership is illegal. Former president Abdelaziz BOUTEFLIKA, with the backing of the military, won the presidency in 1999 in an election that was boycotted by several candidates protesting alleged fraud, and won subsequent elections in 2004, 2009, and 2014. Protests broke out across the country in late February 2019 against President BOUTEFLIKA’s decision to seek a fifth term. BOUTEFLIKA resigned in April 2019, and in December 2019, Algerians elected former Prime Minister Abdelmadjid TEBBOUNE as the country's new president. A longtime FLN member, TEBBOUNE ran for president as an independent. In 2020, Algeria held a constitutional referendum, which President TEBBOUNE enacted in January 2021. Subsequent reforms to the national electoral law introduced open list voting to curb corruption. The new law also eliminated gender quotas in Parliament, and the June 2021 legislative elections saw female representation plummet. Local elections took place in November 2021. The referendum, parliamentary elections, and local elections saw record low voter turnout. Since 2014, Algeria’s reliance on hydrocarbon revenues to fund the government and finance the large subsidies for the population has fallen under stress because of declining oil prices.Algeria has known many empires and dynasties starting with the ancient Numidians (3rd century B.C.), Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Vandals, Byzantines, over a dozen different Arab and Berber dynasties, Spaniards, and Ottoman Turks. It was under the latter that the Barbary pirates operated from North Africa and preyed on shipping beginning in roughly 1500, peaking in the early to mid-17th century, until finally subdued by the French capture of Algiers in 1830. The French southward conquest of the entirety of Algeria proceeded throughout the 19th century and was marked by many atrocities. The country was heavily colonized by the French in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. A bloody eight-year struggle culminated in Algerian independence in 1962.
Algeria's primary political party, the National Liberation Front (FLN), was established in 1954 as part of the struggle for independence and has since largely dominated politics, though is falling out of favor with the youth. The Government of Algeria in 1988 instituted a multi-party system in response to public unrest, but the surprising first round success of the Islamic Salvation Front (FIS) in the December 1991 legislative elections led the Algerian army to intervene and postpone the second round of elections to prevent what the secular elite feared would be an extremist-led government from assuming power. The army began a crackdown on the FIS that spurred FIS supporters to begin attacking government targets. Fighting escalated into an insurgency, which saw intense violence from 1992-98, resulting in over 100,000 deaths – many attributed to indiscriminate massacres of villagers by extremists. The government gained the upper hand by the late-1990s, and FIS’s armed wing, the Islamic Salvation Army, disbanded in January 2000. FIS membership is illegal.Former president Abdelaziz BOUTEFLIKA, with the backing of the military, won the presidency in 1999 in an election that was boycotted by several candidates protesting alleged fraud, and won subsequent elections in 2004, 2009, and 2014. Protests broke out across the country in late February 2019 against President BOUTEFLIKA’s decision to seek a fifth term. BOUTEFLIKA resigned in April 2019, and in December 2019, Algerians elected former Prime Minister Abdelmadjid TEBBOUNE as the country's new president. A longtime FLN member, TEBBOUNE ran for president as an independent. In 2020, Algeria held a constitutional referendum, which President TEBBOUNE enacted in January 2021. Subsequent reforms to the national electoral law introduced open list voting to curb corruption. The new law also eliminated gender quotas in Parliament, and the June 2021 legislative elections saw female representation plummet. Local elections took place in November 2021. The referendum, parliamentary elections, and local elections saw record low voter turnout. Since 2014, Algeria’s reliance on hydrocarbon revenues to fund the government and finance the large subsidies for the population has fallen under stress because of declining oil prices.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Northern Africa, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Morocco and Tunisia
Geographic coordinates: 28 00 N, 3 00 E
Map references: Africa
Area: total: 2,381,740 sq km
land: 2,381,740 sq km
water: 0 sq km
Area - comparative: slightly less than 3.5 times the size of Texas
Land boundaries: total: 6,734 km
border countries (6): Libya 989 km; Mali 1,359 km; Mauritania 460 km; Morocco 1,941 km; Niger 951 km; Tunisia 1,034 km
Coastline: 998 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive fishing zone: 32-52 nm
Climate: arid to semiarid; mild, wet winters with hot, dry summers along coast; drier with cold winters and hot summers on high plateau; sirocco is a hot, dust/sand-laden wind especially common in summer
Terrain: mostly high plateau and desert; Atlas Mountains in the far north and Hoggar Mountains in the south; narrow, discontinuous coastal plain
Elevation: highest point: Tahat 2,908 m
lowest point: Chott Melrhir -40 m
mean elevation: 800 m
Natural resources: petroleum, natural gas, iron ore, phosphates, uranium, lead, zinc
Land use: agricultural land: 17.4% (2018 est.)
arable land: 3.1% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 0.4% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 13.8% (2018 est.)
forest: 0.8% (2018 est.)
other: 81.8% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 13,600 sq km (2014)
Major watersheds (area sq km): Atlantic Ocean drainage: Niger (2,261,741 sq km)
Internal (endorheic basin) drainage: Lake Chad (2,497,738 sq km)
Major aquifers: Lullemeden-Irhazer Aquifer System, Murzuk-Djado Basin, North Western Sahara Aquifer, Taoudeni-Tanezrouft Basin
Population distribution: the vast majority of the populace is found in the extreme northern part of the country along the Mediterranean Coast as shown in this population distribution map
Natural hazards: mountainous areas subject to severe earthquakes; mudslides and floods in rainy season; droughts
Geography - note: largest country in Africa but 80% desert; canyons and caves in the southern Hoggar Mountains and in the barren Tassili n'Ajjer area in the southeast of the country contain numerous examples of prehistoric art - rock paintings and carvings depicting human activities and wild and domestic animals (elephants, giraffes, cattle) - that date to the African Humid Period, roughly 11,000 to 5,000 years ago, when the region was completely vegetated
Map description: Algeria map showing major cities as well as parts of surrounding countries and the Mediterranean Sea.Algeria map showing major cities as well as parts of surrounding countries and the Mediterranean Sea.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 44,178,884 (2022 est.)
Nationality: noun: Algerian(s)
adjective: Algerian
Ethnic groups: Arab-Berber 99%, European less than 1%
note: although almost all Algerians are Berber in origin (not Arab), only a minority identify themselves as primarily Berber, about 15% of the total population; these people live mostly in the mountainous region of Kabylie east of Algiers and several other communities; the Berbers are also Muslim but identify with their Berber rather than Arab cultural heritage; Berbers have long agitated, sometimes violently, for autonomy; the government is unlikely to grant autonomy but has officially recognized Berber languages and introduced them into public schools
Languages: Arabic (official), French (lingua franca), Berber or Tamazight (official); dialects include Kabyle Berber (Taqbaylit), Shawiya Berber (Tacawit), Mzab Berber, Tuareg Berber (Tamahaq)
major-language sample(s):
كتاب حقائق العالم، المصدر الذي لا يمكن الاستغناء عنه للمعلومات الأساسية (Arabic)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Religions: Muslim (official; predominantly Sunni) 99%, other (includes Christian, Jewish, Ahmadi Muslims, Shia Muslims, Ibadi Muslims) <1% (2012 est.)
Demographic profile: For the first two thirds of the 20th century, Algeria's high fertility rate caused its population to grow rapidly. However, about a decade after independence from France in 1962, the total fertility rate fell dramatically from 7 children per woman in the 1970s to about 2.4 in 2000, slowing Algeria's population growth rate by the late 1980s. The lower fertility rate was mainly the result of women's rising age at first marriage (virtually all Algerian children being born in wedlock) and to a lesser extent the wider use of contraceptives. Later marriages and a preference for smaller families are attributed to increases in women's education and participation in the labor market; higher unemployment; and a shortage of housing forcing multiple generations to live together. The average woman's age at first marriage increased from about 19 in the mid-1950s to 24 in the mid-1970s to 30.5 in the late 1990s. Algeria's fertility rate experienced an unexpected upturn in the early 2000s, as the average woman's age at first marriage dropped slightly. The reversal in fertility could represent a temporary fluctuation in marriage age or, less likely, a decrease in the steady rate of contraceptive use. Thousands of Algerian peasants - mainly Berber men from the Kabylia region - faced with land dispossession and economic hardship under French rule migrated temporarily to France to work in manufacturing and mining during the first half of the 20th century. This movement accelerated during World War I, when Algerians filled in for French factory workers or served as soldiers. In the years following independence, low-skilled Algerian workers and Algerians who had supported the French (known as Harkis) emigrated en masse to France. Tighter French immigration rules and Algiers' decision to cease managing labor migration to France in the 1970s limited legal emigration largely to family reunification. Not until Algeria's civil war in the 1990s did the country again experience substantial outmigration. Many Algerians legally entered Tunisia without visas claiming to be tourists and then stayed as workers. Other Algerians headed to Europe seeking asylum, although France imposed restrictions. Sub-Saharan African migrants came to Algeria after its civil war to work in agriculture and mining. In the 2000s, a wave of educated Algerians went abroad seeking skilled jobs in a wider range of destinations, increasing their presence in North America and Spain. At the same time, legal foreign workers principally from China and Egypt came to work in Algeria's construction and oil sectors. Illegal migrants from Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly Malians, Nigeriens, and Gambians, continue to come to Algeria in search of work or to use it as a stepping stone to Libya and Europe. Since 1975, Algeria also has been the main recipient of Sahrawi refugees from the ongoing conflict in Western Sahara (today part of Morocco). More than 1000,000 Sahrawis are estimated to be living in five refugee camps in southwestern Algeria near Tindouf.For the first two thirds of the 20th century, Algeria's high fertility rate caused its population to grow rapidly. However, about a decade after independence from France in 1962, the total fertility rate fell dramatically from 7 children per woman in the 1970s to about 2.4 in 2000, slowing Algeria's population growth rate by the late 1980s. The lower fertility rate was mainly the result of women's rising age at first marriage (virtually all Algerian children being born in wedlock) and to a lesser extent the wider use of contraceptives. Later marriages and a preference for smaller families are attributed to increases in women's education and participation in the labor market; higher unemployment; and a shortage of housing forcing multiple generations to live together. The average woman's age at first marriage increased from about 19 in the mid-1950s to 24 in the mid-1970s to 30.5 in the late 1990s.Algeria's fertility rate experienced an unexpected upturn in the early 2000s, as the average woman's age at first marriage dropped slightly. The reversal in fertility could represent a temporary fluctuation in marriage age or, less likely, a decrease in the steady rate of contraceptive use.Thousands of Algerian peasants - mainly Berber men from the Kabylia region - faced with land dispossession and economic hardship under French rule migrated temporarily to France to work in manufacturing and mining during the first half of the 20th century. This movement accelerated during World War I, when Algerians filled in for French factory workers or served as soldiers. In the years following independence, low-skilled Algerian workers and Algerians who had supported the French (known as Harkis) emigrated en masse to France. Tighter French immigration rules and Algiers' decision to cease managing labor migration to France in the 1970s limited legal emigration largely to family reunification.Not until Algeria's civil war in the 1990s did the country again experience substantial outmigration. Many Algerians legally entered Tunisia without visas claiming to be tourists and then stayed as workers. Other Algerians headed to Europe seeking asylum, although France imposed restrictions. Sub-Saharan African migrants came to Algeria after its civil war to work in agriculture and mining. In the 2000s, a wave of educated Algerians went abroad seeking skilled jobs in a wider range of destinations, increasing their presence in North America and Spain. At the same time, legal foreign workers principally from China and Egypt came to work in Algeria's construction and oil sectors. Illegal migrants from Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly Malians, Nigeriens, and Gambians, continue to come to Algeria in search of work or to use it as a stepping stone to Libya and Europe.Since 1975, Algeria also has been the main recipient of Sahrawi refugees from the ongoing conflict in Western Sahara (today part of Morocco). More than 1000,000 Sahrawis are estimated to be living in five refugee camps in southwestern Algeria near Tindouf.
Age structure: 0-14 years: 29.58% (male 6,509,490/female 6,201,450)
15-24 years: 13.93% (male 3,063,972/female 2,922,368)
25-54 years: 42.91% (male 9,345,997/female 9,091,558)
55-64 years: 7.41% (male 1,599,369/female 1,585,233)
65 years and over: 6.17% (2020 est.) (male 1,252,084/female 1,401,357)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 60.1
youth dependency ratio: 49.3
elderly dependency ratio: 10.8
potential support ratio: 9.3 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 28.9 years
male: 28.6 years
female: 29.3 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 1.34% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 18.52 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 4.32 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: -0.82 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: the vast majority of the populace is found in the extreme northern part of the country along the Mediterranean Coast as shown in this population distribution map
Urbanization: urban population: 74.8% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 1.99% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 2.854 million ALGIERS (capital), 922,000 Oran (2022)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.05 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.05 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 1.03 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 1 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.75 male(s)/female
total population: 1.03 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Maternal mortality ratio: 112 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 19.72 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 21.77 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 17.55 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 78.03 years
male: 76.57 years
female: 79.57 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 2.51 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: 57.1% (2012/13)
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 99.6% of population
rural: 98.8% of population
total: 99.4% of population
unimproved: urban: 0.4% of population
rural: 1.2% of population
total: 0.6% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 6.2% (2019)
Physicians density: 1.72 physicians/1,000 population (2018)
Hospital bed density: 1.9 beds/1,000 population (2015)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 98.3% of population
rural: 91.3% of population
total: 96.5% of population
unimproved: urban: 1.7% of population
rural: 8.7% of population
total: 3.5% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: (2020 est.) <.1%
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: 18,000 (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - deaths: (2020 est.) <200
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 27.4% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: 2.7% (2018/19)
Child marriage: women married by age 15: 0% (2019)
women married by age 18: 3.8% (2019 est.)
Education expenditures: 6.1% of GDP (2019)
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 81.4%
male: 87.4%
female: 75.3% (2018)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 14 years
male: 14 years
female: 15 years (2011)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 39.3%
male: 33.1%
female: 82% (2017 est.)
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: air pollution in major cities; soil erosion from overgrazing and other poor farming practices; desertification; dumping of raw sewage, petroleum refining wastes, and other industrial effluents is leading to the pollution of rivers and coastal waters; Mediterranean Sea, in particular, becoming polluted from oil wastes, soil erosion, and fertilizer runoff; inadequate supplies of potable water
Environment - international agreements: party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands
signed, but not ratified: Nuclear Test Ban
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 35.17 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 150.01 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 49.94 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: arid to semiarid; mild, wet winters with hot, dry summers along coast; drier with cold winters and hot summers on high plateau; sirocco is a hot, dust/sand-laden wind especially common in summer
Land use: agricultural land: 17.4% (2018 est.)
arable land: 3.1% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 0.4% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 13.8% (2018 est.)
forest: 0.8% (2018 est.)
other: 81.8% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 74.8% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 1.99% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 0.1% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0% of GDP (2018 est.)
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 12,378,740 tons (2016 est.)
municipal solid waste recycled annually: 990,299 tons (2013 est.)
percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 8% (2013 est.)
Major watersheds (area sq km): Atlantic Ocean drainage: Niger (2,261,741 sq km)
Internal (endorheic basin) drainage: Lake Chad (2,497,738 sq km)
Major aquifers: Lullemeden-Irhazer Aquifer System, Murzuk-Djado Basin, North Western Sahara Aquifer, Taoudeni-Tanezrouft Basin
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 3.6 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 191 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 6.671 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 11.667 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: People's Democratic Republic of Algeria
conventional short form: Algeria
local long form: Al Jumhuriyah al Jaza'iriyah ad Dimuqratiyah ash Sha'biyah
local short form: Al Jaza'ir
etymology: the country name derives from the capital city of Algiers
Government type: presidential republic
Capital: name: Algiers
geographic coordinates: 36 45 N, 3 03 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: name derives from the Arabic "al-Jazair" meaning "the islands" and refers to the four islands formerly off the coast but joined to the mainland since 1525
Administrative divisions: 58 provinces (wilayas, singular - wilaya); Adrar, Ain Defla, Ain Temouchent, Alger, Annaba, Batna, Bechar, Bejaia, Beni Abbes, Biskra, Blida, Bordj Badji Mokhtar, Bordj Bou Arreridj, Bouira, Boumerdes, Chlef, Constantine, Djanet, Djelfa, El Bayadh, El Meghaier, El Meniaa, El Oued, El Tarf, Ghardaia, Guelma, Illizi, In Guezzam, In Salah, Jijel, Khenchela, Laghouat, Mascara, Medea, Mila, Mostaganem, M'Sila, Naama, Oran, Ouargla, Ouled Djellal, Oum el Bouaghi, Relizane, Saida, Setif, Sidi Bel Abbes, Skikda, Souk Ahras, Tamanrasset, Tebessa, Tiaret, Timimoun, Tindouf, Tipaza, Tissemsilt, Tizi Ouzou, Tlemcen, Touggourt
Independence: 5 July 1962 (from France)
National holiday: Independence Day, 5 July (1962); Revolution Day, 1 November (1954)
Constitution: history: several previous; latest approved by referendum November 2020
amendments: proposed by the president of the republic or through the president with the support of three fourths of the members of both houses of Parliament in joint session; passage requires approval by both houses, approval by referendum, and promulgation by the president; the president can forego a referendum if the Constitutional Council determines the proposed amendment does not conflict with basic constitutional principles; articles including the republican form of government, the integrity and unity of the country, and fundamental citizens’ liberties and rights cannot be amended; amended 2002, 2008, 2016; last in 2020
Legal system: mixed legal system of French civil law and Islamic law; judicial review of legislative acts in ad hoc Constitutional Council composed of various public officials including several Supreme Court justices
International law organization participation: has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; non-party state to the ICCt
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: no
citizenship by descent only: the mother must be a citizen of Algeria
dual citizenship recognized: no
residency requirement for naturalization: 7 years
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: President Abdelmadjid TEBBOUNE (since 12 December 2019)
head of government: Prime Minister Ayman BENABDERRAHMANE (since 7 July 2021); note - President TEBBOUNE appointed BENABDERRAHMANE as prime minister following the resignation of Prime Minister Abdelaziz DJERAD on 24 June 2021 Abdelaziz DJERAD (since 28 December 2019)
cabinet: Cabinet of Ministers appointed by the president
elections/appointments: president directly elected by absolute majority popular vote in two rounds if needed for a 5-year term (eligible for a second term); election last held on 12 December 2019 (next to be held in 2024); prime minister nominated by the president after consultation with the majority party in Parliament
election results: 2019: Abdelmadjid TEBBOUNE (FLN) 58.1%, Abdelkader BENGRINA (El-Bina) 17.4%, Ali BENFLIS (Talaie El Hurriyet) 10.6%, Azzedine MIHOUBI (National Democratic Rally, RND) 7.3%, Abdelaziz BELAID (Front El Mustakbal, FM) 6.7%
2014: Abdelaziz BOUTEFLIKA reelected president for a fourth term; percent of vote - Abdelaziz BOUTEFLIKA (FLN) 81.5%, Ali BENFLIS (FLN) 12.2%, Abdelaziz BELAID (Future Front) 3.4%, other 2.9%
Legislative branch: description: bicameral Parliament or Barlaman consists of:
Council of the Nation or Majlis al-Umma (174 seats; two-thirds of members indirectly elected by simple majority vote by an electoral college composed of local assemblies within each wilaya, and one-third of members appointed by the president; members serve 6-year terms with one-half of the membership renewed every 3 years)
National People's Assembly or al-Majlis al-Sha'abi al-Watani (407 seats including 8 seats for Algerian diaspora); members directly elected in multi-seat constituencies by open-list proportional representation vote to serve 5-year terms); note - in March 2021, President TEBBOUNE ordered the number of Assembly seats be reduced to 407 from 462
elections:
Council of the Nation - last held on 5 February 2022 (next election NA)
National People's Assembly - snap election held on 12 June 2021 (next to be held on 12 June 2026)
election results:
Council of the Nation - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - FLN 54, RND 22, Future Front 7, National Construction Movement 5, FFS 4, other 6, independent 18, appointed 58; composition NA
National People's Assembly - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - FLN 98, MSP 65, RND 58, (Future Front) 48, Movement of National Construction 39, other 15, independent 84; composition - men 374, women 33, percent of women 8.1%; note - total Parliament percent of women 7.3%
Judicial branch: highest courts: Supreme Court or Le Cour Suprême, (consists of 150 judges organized into 8 chambers: Civil, Commercial and Maritime, Criminal, House of Offenses and Contraventions, House of Petitions, Land, Personal Status, and Social; Constitutional Council (consists of 12 members including the court chairman and deputy chairman); note - Algeria's judicial system does not include sharia courts
judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court judges appointed by the High Council of Magistracy, an administrative body presided over by the president of the republic, and includes the republic vice-president and several members; judges appointed for life; Constitutional Council members - 4 appointed by the president of the republic, 2 each by the 2 houses of Parliament, 2 by the Supreme Court, and 2 by the Council of State; Council president and members appointed for single 6-year terms with half the membership renewed every 3 years
subordinate courts: appellate or wilaya courts; first instance or daira tribunals
Political parties and leaders: Algerian National Front or FNA [Moussa TOUATI]
Algerian Popular Movement or MPA [Amara BENYOUNES]
Algerian Rally or RA [Ali ZAGHDOUD]
Algeria's Hope Rally or TAJ [Fatma Zohra ZEROUATI]
Democratic and Social Movement or MDS [Fethi GHARES]
Dignity or El Karama [Mohamed DAOUI]
El-Bina (Harakat El-Binaa El-Watani) [Abdelkader BENGRINA]
El-Islah [Filali GHOUINI]
Ennahda [Yazid BENAICHA]
Ennour El Djazairi Party (Algerian Radiance Party) or PED [Badreddine BELBAZ]
Front for Justice and Development or El Adala [Abdallah DJABALLAH]
Future Front or El Mostakbel [Abdelaziz BELAID]
Islamic Renaissance Movement or Ennahda Movement [Mohamed DOUIBI]
Justice and Development Front or FJD [Abdellah DJABALLAH]
Movement for National Reform or Islah [Filali GHOUINI]
Movement of National Understanding or MEN
Movement of Society for Peace or MSP [Abderrazak MAKRI]
National Construction Movement or Harakat Al-bina' Al-watanii [Abdelkader BENGRINA]
National Democratic Rally (Rassemblement National Democratique) or RND [Tayeb ZITOUNI]
National Front for Social Justice or FNJS [Khaled BOUNEDJEMA]
National Liberation Front or FLN [Abou El Fadhel BAADJI]
National Party for Solidarity and Development or PNSD [Dalila YALAQUI]
National Reform Movement or Islah [Djahid YOUNSI]
National Republican Alliance or ANR [Belkacem SAHLI]
New Dawn Party or El-Fajr El-Jadid [Tahar BENBAIBECHE]
New Generation or Jil Jadid [Soufiane DJILALI]
Oath of 1954 or Ahd 54 [Ali Fawzi REBAINE]
Party of Justice and Liberty or PLJ [Djamel Ben ZIADI]
Rally for Culture and Democracy or RCD [Mohcine BELABBAS]
Socialist Forces Front or FFS [Youcef AOUCHICHE]
Union for Change and Progress or UCP [Zoubida ASSOUL]
Union of Democratic and Social Forces or UFDS [Noureddine BAHBOUH]
Vanguard of Liberties or Talaie El Hurriyet [Abdelkader SAADI]
Workers Party or PT [Louisa HANOUNE]
Youth Party or PJ [Hamana BOUCHARMA]
note: a law banning political parties based on religion was enacted in March 1997
International organization participation: ABEDA, AfDB, AFESD, AMF, AMU, AU, BIS, CAEU, CD, FAO, G-15, G-24, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, IMSO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), LAS, MIGA, MONUSCO, NAM, OAPEC, OAS (observer), OIC, OPCW, OPEC, OSCE (partner), UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNITAR, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO (observer)
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Ahmed BOUTACHE (since 26 October 2021)
chancery: 2118 Kalorama Road NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 265-2800
FAX: [1] (202) 986-5906
email address and website:
mail@algerianembassy.org
https://www.algerianembassy.org/
consulate(s) general: New York
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: ambassador (vacant); Chargé d’Affaires Gautam RANA (since 20 January 2021)
embassy: 05 Chemin Cheikh Bachir, Ibrahimi, El-Biar 16030, Alger
mailing address: 6030 Algiers Place, Washington DC 20521-6030
telephone: [213] (0) 770-08-2000
FAX: [213] (0) 770-08-2299
email address and website:
ACSAlgiers@state.gov
https://dz.usembassy.gov/
Flag description: two equal vertical bands of green (hoist side) and white; a red, five-pointed star within a red crescent centered over the two-color boundary; the colors represent Islam (green), purity and peace (white), and liberty (red); the crescent and star are also Islamic symbols, but the crescent is more closed than those of other Muslim countries because Algerians believe the long crescent horns bring happiness
National symbol(s): five-pointed star between the extended horns of a crescent moon, fennec fox; national colors: green, white, red
National anthem: name: "Kassaman" (We Pledge)
lyrics/music: Mufdi ZAKARIAH/Mohamed FAWZI
note: adopted 1962; ZAKARIAH wrote "Kassaman" as a poem while imprisoned in Algiers by French colonial forces
National heritage: total World Heritage Sites: 7 (6 cultural, 1 mixed)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Beni Hammad Fort (c), Djémila (c), Casbah of Algiers (c), M'zab Valley (c), Tassili n'Ajjer (m), Timgad (c), Tipasa (c)
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Algeria's economy remains dominated by the state, a legacy of the country's socialist post-independence development model. In recent years the Algerian Government has halted the privatization of state-owned industries and imposed restrictions on imports and foreign involvement in its economy, pursuing an explicit import substitution policy. Hydrocarbons have long been the backbone of the economy, accounting for roughly 30% of GDP, 60% of budget revenues, and nearly 95% of export earnings. Algeria has the 10th-largest reserves of natural gas in the world - including the 3rd-largest reserves of shale gas - and is the 6th-largest gas exporter. It ranks 16th in proven oil reserves. Hydrocarbon exports enabled Algeria to maintain macroeconomic stability, amass large foreign currency reserves, and maintain low external debt while global oil prices were high. With lower oil prices since 2014, Algeria’s foreign exchange reserves have declined by more than half and its oil stabilization fund has decreased from about $20 billion at the end of 2013 to about $7 billion in 2017, which is the statutory minimum. Declining oil prices have also reduced the government’s ability to use state-driven growth to distribute rents and fund generous public subsidies, and the government has been under pressure to reduce spending. Over the past three years, the government has enacted incremental increases in some taxes, resulting in modest increases in prices for gasoline, cigarettes, alcohol, and certain imported goods, but it has refrained from reducing subsidies, particularly for education, healthcare, and housing programs. Algiers has increased protectionist measures since 2015 to limit its import bill and encourage domestic production of non-oil and gas industries. Since 2015, the government has imposed additional restrictions on access to foreign exchange for imports, and import quotas for specific products, such as cars. In January 2018 the government imposed an indefinite suspension on the importation of roughly 850 products, subject to periodic review. President BOUTEFLIKA announced in fall 2017 that Algeria intends to develop its non-conventional energy resources. Algeria has struggled to develop non-hydrocarbon industries because of heavy regulation and an emphasis on state-driven growth. Algeria has not increased non-hydrocarbon exports, and hydrocarbon exports have declined because of field depletion and increased domestic demand.Algeria's economy remains dominated by the state, a legacy of the country's socialist post-independence development model. In recent years the Algerian Government has halted the privatization of state-owned industries and imposed restrictions on imports and foreign involvement in its economy, pursuing an explicit import substitution policy. Hydrocarbons have long been the backbone of the economy, accounting for roughly 30% of GDP, 60% of budget revenues, and nearly 95% of export earnings. Algeria has the 10th-largest reserves of natural gas in the world - including the 3rd-largest reserves of shale gas - and is the 6th-largest gas exporter. It ranks 16th in proven oil reserves. Hydrocarbon exports enabled Algeria to maintain macroeconomic stability, amass large foreign currency reserves, and maintain low external debt while global oil prices were high. With lower oil prices since 2014, Algeria’s foreign exchange reserves have declined by more than half and its oil stabilization fund has decreased from about $20 billion at the end of 2013 to about $7 billion in 2017, which is the statutory minimum. Declining oil prices have also reduced the government’s ability to use state-driven growth to distribute rents and fund generous public subsidies, and the government has been under pressure to reduce spending. Over the past three years, the government has enacted incremental increases in some taxes, resulting in modest increases in prices for gasoline, cigarettes, alcohol, and certain imported goods, but it has refrained from reducing subsidies, particularly for education, healthcare, and housing programs. Algiers has increased protectionist measures since 2015 to limit its import bill and encourage domestic production of non-oil and gas industries. Since 2015, the government has imposed additional restrictions on access to foreign exchange for imports, and import quotas for specific products, such as cars. In January 2018 the government imposed an indefinite suspension on the importation of roughly 850 products, subject to periodic review. President BOUTEFLIKA announced in fall 2017 that Algeria intends to develop its non-conventional energy resources. Algeria has struggled to develop non-hydrocarbon industries because of heavy regulation and an emphasis on state-driven growth. Algeria has not increased non-hydrocarbon exports, and hydrocarbon exports have declined because of field depletion and increased domestic demand.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $468.4 billion (2020 est.)
$495.56 billion (2019 est.)
$491.63 billion (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 1.4% (2017 est.)
3.2% (2016 est.)
3.7% (2015 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $10,700 (2020 est.)
$11,500 (2019 est.)
$11,600 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $169.912 billion (2019 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 1.9% (2019 est.)
4.2% (2018 est.)
5.6% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 13.3% (2017 est.)
industry: 39.3% (2017 est.)
services: 47.4% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 42.7% (2017 est.)
government consumption: 20.2% (2017 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 38.1% (2017 est.)
investment in inventories: 11.2% (2017 est.)
exports of goods and services: 23.6% (2017 est.)
imports of goods and services: -35.8% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: potatoes, wheat, milk, watermelons, barley, onions, tomatoes, oranges, dates, vegetables
Industries: petroleum, natural gas, light industries, mining, electrical, petrochemical, food processing
Industrial production growth rate: 0.6% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 10.859 million (2017 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 10.8%
industry: 30.9%
services: 58.4% (2011 est.)
Unemployment rate: 11.7% (2017 est.)
10.5% (2016 est.)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 39.3%
male: 33.1%
female: 82% (2017 est.)
Population below poverty line: 5.5% (2011 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 27.6 (2011 est.)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: 2.8%
highest 10%: 26.8% (1995)
Budget: revenues: 54.15 billion (2017 est.)
expenditures: 70.2 billion (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): -9.6% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 27.5% of GDP (2017 est.)
20.4% of GDP (2016 est.)
note: data cover central government debt as well as debt issued by subnational entities and intra-governmental debt
Taxes and other revenues: 32.3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: calendar year
Current account balance: -$22.1 billion (2017 est.)
-$26.47 billion (2016 est.)
Exports: $38.32 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$44.39 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Exports - partners: Italy 13%, France 13%, Spain 12%, United States 7%, United Kingdom 7%, India 5%, South Korea 5% (2019)
Exports - commodities: crude petroleum, natural gas, refined petroleum, fertilizers, ammonia (2019)
Imports: $54.26 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$60.05 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Imports - partners: China 18%, France 14%, Italy 8%, Spain 8%, Germany 5%, Turkey 5% (2019)
Imports - commodities: refined petroleum, wheat, packaged medical supplies, milk, vehicle parts (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $97.89 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
$114.7 billion (31 December 2016 est.)
Debt - external: $5.574 billion (2019 est.)
$5.666 billion (2018 est.)
Exchange rates: Algerian dinars (DZD) per US dollar -
131.085 (2020 est.)
119.775 (2019 est.)
118.4617 (2018 est.)
100.691 (2014 est.)
80.579 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 99.4% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 99.6% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 97% (2019)
Electricity - production: 66.89 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 55.96 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 641 million kWh (2015 est.)
Electricity - imports: 257 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 19.27 million kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 96% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 1% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 2% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 1.259 million bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 756,400 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 5,340 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 12.2 billion bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 627,900 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 405,000 bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 578,800 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 82,930 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 93.5 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 41.28 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 53.88 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 4.504 trillion cu m (1 January 2018 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 4,784,306 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 11 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 45,555,673 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 104 (2020 est.)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: Algeria has a steadily developing telecom infrastructure through sound regulatory measures and government policies aimed at providing Internet connections across the country, including underserved areas; mobile penetration and LTE services are growing steadily; in common with other markets in the region, mobile connections account for the vast majority of Internet accesses; well served by satellite and submarine cable connections; importer of broadcasting equipment from China (2021)
domestic: a limited network of fixed-lines with a teledensity of slightly less than 11 telephones per 100 persons has been offset by the rapid increase in mobile-cellular subscribership; mobile-cellular teledensity was approximately 104 telephones per 100 persons in 2020 (2020)
international: country code - 213; ALPAL-2 is a submarine telecommunications cable system in the Mediterranean Sea linking Algeria and the Spanish Balearic island of Majorca; ORVAL is a submarine cable to Spain; landing points for the TE North/TGN-Eurasia/SEACOM/SeaMeWe-4 fiber-optic submarine cable system that provides links to Europe, the Middle East, and Asia; MED cable connecting Algeria with France; microwave radio relay to Italy, France, Spain, Morocco, and Tunisia; Algeria part of the 4,500 Km terrestrial Trans Sahara Backbone network which connects to other fiber networks in the region; Alcomstat-1 satellite offering telemedicine network (2020)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: state-run Radio-Television Algerienne operates the broadcast media and carries programming in Arabic, Berber dialects, and French; use of satellite dishes is widespread, providing easy access to European and Arab satellite stations; state-run radio operates several national networks and roughly 40 regional radio stations
Internet country code: .dz
Internet users: total: 27,626,157 (2020 est.)
percent of population: 63% (2020 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 3,790,459 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 9 (2020 est.)
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 3 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 87
annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 6,442,442 (2018)
annual freight traffic on registered air carriers: 28.28 million (2018) mt-km
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: 7T
Airports: total: 149 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 67
over 3,047 m: 14
2,438 to 3,047 m: 27
1,524 to 2,437 m: 18
914 to 1,523 m: 6
under 914 m: 2 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 82
2,438 to 3,047 m: 2
1,524 to 2,437 m: 16
914 to 1,523 m: 36
under 914 m: 28 (2021)
Heliports: 4 (2022)
Pipelines: 2600 km condensate, 16415 km gas, 3447 km liquid petroleum gas, 7036 km oil, 144 km refined products (2013)
Railways: total: 3,973 km (2014)
standard gauge: 2,888 km (2014) 1.432-m gauge (283 km electrified)
narrow gauge: 1,085 km (2014) 1.055-m gauge
Roadways: total: 104,000 km (2015)
paved: 71,656 km (2015)
unpaved: 32,344 km (2015)
Merchant marine: total: 114
by type: bulk carrier 1, container ship 2, general cargo 11, oil tanker 11, other 89 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Algiers, Annaba, Arzew, Bejaia, Djendjene, Jijel, Mostaganem, Oran, Skikda
LNG terminal(s) (export): Arzew, Bethioua, Skikda
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: Algerian People's National Army (ANP): Land Forces, Naval Forces (includes coast guard), Air Forces, Territorial Air Defense Forces, Republican Guard (under ANP, but responsible to the President), National Gendarmerie; Ministry of Interior: General Directorate of National Security (national police) (2022)
Military expenditures: 5.6% of GDP (2021 est.)
6.7% of GDP (2020 est.)
6% of GDP (2019) (approximately $19.2 billion)
5.5% of GDP (2018) (approximately $17.9 billion)
5.9% of GDP (2017) (approximately $18.8 billion)
Military and security service personnel strengths: approximately 140,000 ANP personnel (120,000 Army; 6,000 Navy; 14,000 Air Force); approximately 130,000 National Gendarmerie; approximately 200,000 General Directorate of National Security (2022)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the ANP's inventory includes mostly Russian-sourced equipment; since 2010, Algeria has received arms from more than 15 countries, with Russia as the leading supplier (2021)
Military service age and obligation: 18 is the legal minimum age for voluntary military service (including women); 19-30 years of age for compulsory service (all Algerian men must register at age 17); conscript service obligation reduced from 18 to 12 months in 2014 (2021)
note - as of 2020, conscripts comprised an estimated 70% of the military
Military - note: the ANP has played a large role in the country’s politics since independence in 1962, including coups in 1965 and 1991; it was a key backer of BOUTEFLIKA’s election in 1999 and remained a center of power during his 20-year rule; the military was instrumental in BOUTEFLIKA’s resignation in 2019 when it withdrew support and called for him to be removed from office the ANP traditionally has focused on internal stability and on Morocco where relations as of 2022 remained tense over Western Sahara and Algerian accusations that Morocco supports the Movement for the Autonomy of Kabylie (MAK), a separatist group in Algeria’s Kabylie region; however, following the Arab Spring events of 2011 and a series of cross-border terrorist attacks emanating from Mali in 2012-2013, particularly the 2013 attack on a commercial gas plant by al-Qa’ida-linked terrorists that resulted in the deaths of 35 hostages and 29 jihadists, it has made a concerted effort to beef up security along its other borders and promote regional security cooperation; since 2013, additional Army and paramilitary forces were deployed to the borders with Tunisia, Libya, Niger, and Mali to interdict and deter cross-border attacks by Islamic militant groups; in addition, Algeria has provided security assistance to some neighboring countries, particularly Tunisia, and conducted joint military/counter-terrorism operationsthe ANP has played a large role in the country’s politics since independence in 1962, including coups in 1965 and 1991; it was a key backer of BOUTEFLIKA’s election in 1999 and remained a center of power during his 20-year rule; the military was instrumental in BOUTEFLIKA’s resignation in 2019 when it withdrew support and called for him to be removed from officethe ANP traditionally has focused on internal stability and on Morocco where relations as of 2022 remained tense over Western Sahara and Algerian accusations that Morocco supports the Movement for the Autonomy of Kabylie (MAK), a separatist group in Algeria’s Kabylie region; however, following the Arab Spring events of 2011 and a series of cross-border terrorist attacks emanating from Mali in 2012-2013, particularly the 2013 attack on a commercial gas plant by al-Qa’ida-linked terrorists that resulted in the deaths of 35 hostages and 29 jihadists, it has made a concerted effort to beef up security along its other borders and promote regional security cooperation; since 2013, additional Army and paramilitary forces were deployed to the borders with Tunisia, Libya, Niger, and Mali to interdict and deter cross-border attacks by Islamic militant groups; in addition, Algeria has provided security assistance to some neighboring countries, particularly Tunisia, and conducted joint military/counter-terrorism operations
Topic: Terrorism
Terrorist group(s): al-Qa'ida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM); Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS) – Algeria; al-Mulathamun Battalion (al-Mourabitoun)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix T
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: Algeria-Morocco: the Algerian-Moroccan land border remains closed; Algeria's border with Morocco remains an irritant to bilateral relations, each nation accusing the other of harboring militants and arms smuggling; the National Liberation Front's (FLN) assertions of a claim to Chirac Pastures in southeastern Morocco remain a dormant dispute
Algeria-Libya: dormant dispute includes Libyan claims of about 32,000 sq km still reflected on its maps of southeastern Algeria
Algeria-Mali: none identified
Algeria-Mauritania: none identified
Algeria-Niger: none identified
Algeria-Tunisia: none identifiedAlgeria-Morocco: the Algerian-Moroccan land border remains closed; Algeria's border with Morocco remains an irritant to bilateral relations, each nation accusing the other of harboring militants and arms smuggling; the National Liberation Front's (FLN) assertions of a claim to Chirac Pastures in southeastern Morocco remain a dormant dispute
Algeria-Libya: dormant dispute includes Libyan claims of about 32,000 sq km still reflected on its maps of southeastern Algeria
Algeria-Mali: none identified
Algeria-Mauritania: none identified
Algeria-Niger: none identified
Algeria-Tunisia: none identified
Refugees and internally displaced persons: refugees (country of origin): more than 100,000 (Sahrawi, mostly living in Algerian-sponsored camps in the southwestern Algerian town of Tindouf) (2018); 6,750 (Syria) (mid-year 2021)
Trafficking in persons: current situation: human traffickers exploit domestic and foreign victims; Algerian women and girls are vulnerable to sex trafficking due to financial problems or after running away from home; undocumented sub-Saharan migrants are vulnerable to labor and sex trafficking and are exploited in restaurants, houses, and informal worksites; sub-Saharan men and women needing more funds for their onward journey to Europe work illegally in construction and commercial sex and are vulnerable to sex trafficking and debt bondage; foreign women and girls, mainly from sub-Saharan Africa, are subject to sex trafficking in bars and informal brothels; criminal begging rings that exploit sub-Saharan African migrant children are common
tier rating: Tier 3 — Algeria does not fully comply with the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking and is not making significant efforts to do so; authorities prosecuted fewer traffickers and identified fewer victims compared to last year and convicted no traffickers; the government continued to lack effective procedures and mechanisms to screen for, identify, and refer potential victims to protective services and punished some potential victims for unlawful acts traffickers forced them to commit; the government took some steps to combat trafficking, including prosecuting some traffickers, identifying some victims, and continuing to implement its 2019-2021 national anti-trafficking action plan (2020)human traffickers exploit domestic and foreign victims; Algerian women and girls are vulnerable to sex trafficking due to financial problems or after running away from home; undocumented sub-Saharan migrants are vulnerable to labor and sex trafficking and are exploited in restaurants, houses, and informal worksites; sub-Saharan men and women needing more funds for their onward journey to Europe work illegally in construction and commercial sex and are vulnerable to sex trafficking and debt bondage; foreign women and girls, mainly from sub-Saharan Africa, are subject to sex trafficking in bars and informal brothels; criminal begging rings that exploit sub-Saharan African migrant children are common |
20220601 | countries-peru-travel-facts |
US State Dept Travel Advisory: The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens DO NOT TRAVEL to Peru due to COVID-19. Exercise increased caution in Peru due to crime and terrorism. Some areas have increased risk. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws and special circumstances in this country.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements: US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. They should also make sure they have at least 1 blank page in their passport for any entry stamp that will be required. A visa is required, but US citizens may obtain the visa upon entering the country.
US Embassy/Consulate: [51] (1) 618-2000; US Embassy in Lima, Avenida La Encalada cdra. 17 s/n, Surco, Lima 33, Peru; LimaACS@state.gov;
https://pe.usembassy.gov/
Telephone Code: 51
Local Emergency Phone: 011, 5114
Vaccinations: An International Certificate of Vaccination for yellow fever is required for travelers arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission and for travelers having transited through the airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. See WHO recommendations.
http://www.who.int/
Climate: Varies from tropical in east to dry desert in west; temperate to frigid in Andes
Currency (Code): Nuevo sol (PEN)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s): 220 V / 60 Hz / plug types(s): A, C
Major Languages: Spanish, Quechua, Aymara, Ashaninka
Major Religions: Roman Catholic 60%, Christian 14.6% (includes evangelical 11.1%, other 3.5%)
Time Difference: UTC-5 (same time as Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Potable Water: Opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit: Suggested; additionally, if you plan to drive in Peru, you will need an Inter-American Driving Permit issued by the AAA
Road Driving Side: Right
Tourist Destinations: Machu Picchu; Cusco's architectural treasures; Lake Titicaca; Colca Canyon; Lima; Nazca Lines; Qhapaq Nan/Andean Road System
Major Sports: Soccer, volleyball, tennis
Cultural Practices: Slapping the bottom of one elbow with the open palm of the other hand means someone is cheap.
Tipping Guidelines: Most restaurant and bar bills will include a 10% gratuity. It is customary to add an extra 10% tip if the service has been satisfactory. Tipping is not expected for taxis and fares are negotiated beforehand. One Nuevo sol per bag for porters is appreciated.Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444
Page last updated: Thursday, April 07, 2022 |
20220601 | countries-baker-island | |
20220601 | field-refined-petroleum-products-production | This entry is the country's total output of refined petroleum products, in barrels per day (bbl/day). The discrepancy between the amount of refined petroleum products produced and/or imported and the amount consumed and/or exported is due to the omission of stock changes, refinery gains, and other complicating factors.
Topic: Afghanistan0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Albania5,638 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Algeria627,900 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: American Samoa0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Andorra0 bbl/day (2016)
Topic: Angola53,480 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Antigua and Barbuda0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Argentina669,800 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Armenia0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Aruba0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Australia462,500 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Austria186,500 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Azerbaijan138,900 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Bahamas, The0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Bahrain274,500 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Bangladesh26,280 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Barbados0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Belarus477,200 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Belgium731,700 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Belize36 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Benin0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Bermuda0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Bhutan0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Bolivia65,960 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Bosnia and Herzegovina0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Botswana0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Brazil2.811 million bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: British Virgin Islands0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Brunei10,310 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Bulgaria144,300 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Burkina Faso0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Burma13,330 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Burundi0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Cabo Verde0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Cambodia0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Cameroon39,080 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Canada2.009 million bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Cayman Islands0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Central African Republic0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Chad0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Chile216,200 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: China11.51 million bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Colombia303,600 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Comoros0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Congo, Democratic Republic of the0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Congo, Republic of the15,760 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Cook Islands0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Costa Rica0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Cote d'Ivoire69,360 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Croatia74,620 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Cuba104,100 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Curacao189,800 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Cyprus0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Czechia177,500 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Denmark183,900 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Djibouti0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Dominica0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Dominican Republic16,060 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Ecuador137,400 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Egypt547,500 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: El Salvador0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Equatorial Guinea0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Eritrea0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Estonia0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Eswatini0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Ethiopia0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: European Union11.66 million bbl/day (2016 est.)
Topic: Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Faroe Islands0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Fiji0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Finland310,600 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: France1.311 million bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: French Polynesia0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Gabon16,580 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Gambia, The0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Georgia247 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Germany2.158 million bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Ghana2,073 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Gibraltar0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Greece655,400 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Greenland0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Grenada0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Guam0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Guatemala1,162 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Guinea0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Guinea-Bissau0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Guyana0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Haiti0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Honduras0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Hong Kong0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Hungary152,400 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Iceland0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: India4.897 million bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Indonesia950,000 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Iran1.764 million bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Iraq398,000 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Ireland64,970 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Israel294,300 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Italy1.607 million bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Jamaica24,250 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Japan3.467 million bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Jordan67,240 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Kazakhstan290,700 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Kenya13,960 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Kiribati0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Korea, North11,270 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Korea, South3.302 million bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Kosovo0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Kuwait915,800 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Kyrgyzstan6,996 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Laos0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Latvia0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Lebanon0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Lesotho0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Liberia0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Libya89,620 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Lithuania196,500 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Luxembourg0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Macau0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Madagascar0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Malawi0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Malaysia528,300 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Maldives0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Mali0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Malta0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Marshall Islands0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Mauritania0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Mauritius0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Mexico844,600 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Micronesia, Federated States of0 bbl/day (2014)
Topic: Moldova232 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Mongolia0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Montenegro0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Montserrat0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Morocco66,230 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Mozambique0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Namibia0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Nauru0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Nepal0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Netherlands1.282 million bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: New Caledonia0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: New Zealand115,100 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Nicaragua14,720 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Niger15,280 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Nigeria35,010 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Niue0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: North Macedonia0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Norway371,600 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Oman229,600 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Pakistan291,200 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Panama0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Papua New Guinea22,170 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Paraguay0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Peru166,600 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Philippines215,500 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Poland554,200 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Portugal323,000 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Puerto Rico0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Qatar273,800 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Romania232,600 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Russia6.076 million bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Rwanda0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Saint Kitts and Nevis0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Saint Lucia0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Saint Pierre and Miquelon0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Saint Vincent and the Grenadines0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Samoa0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Sao Tome and Principe0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Saudi Arabia2.476 million bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Senegal17,590 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Serbia74,350 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Seychelles0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Sierra Leone0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Singapore755,000 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Sint Maarten0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Slovakia131,300 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Slovenia0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Solomon Islands0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Somalia0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: South Africa487,100 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: South Sudan0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Spain1.361 million bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Sri Lanka34,210 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Sudan94,830 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Suriname7,571 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Sweden413,200 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Switzerland61,550 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Syria111,600 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Taiwan924,000 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Tajikistan172 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Tanzania0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Thailand1.328 million bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Timor-Leste0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Togo0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Tonga0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Trinidad and Tobago134,700 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Tunisia27,770 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Turkey657,900 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Turkmenistan191,100 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Turks and Caicos Islands0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Tuvalu0 bbl/day (2014 est.)
Topic: Uganda0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Ukraine63,670 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: United Arab Emirates943,500 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: United Kingdom1.29 million bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: United States20.3 million bbl/day (2017 est.)
Topic: Uruguay42,220 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Uzbekistan61,740 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Vanuatu0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Venezuela926,300 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Vietnam153,800 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Virgin Islands0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: West Bank0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: World88.4 million bbl/day (2014 est.)
Topic: Yemen20,180 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Zambia13,120 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Topic: Zimbabwe0 bbl/day (2015 est.) |
20220601 | countries-kazakhstan |
Topic: Photos of Kazakhstan
Topic: Introduction
Background: Ethnic Kazakhs derive from a mix of Turkic nomadic tribes that migrated to the region in the 15th century. The Kazakh steppe was conquered by the Russian Empire in the 18th and 19th centuries, and Kazakhstan became a Soviet Republic in 1925. Repression and starvation caused by forced agricultural collectivization led to more than a million deaths in the early 1930s. During the 1950s and 1960s, the agricultural "Virgin Lands" program led to an influx of settlers (mostly ethnic Russians, but also other nationalities) and at the time of Kazakhstan’s independence in 1991, ethnic Kazakhs were a minority. Non-Muslim ethnic minorities departed Kazakhstan in large numbers from the mid-1990s through the mid-2000s and a national program has repatriated about a million ethnic Kazakhs (from Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Mongolia, and the Xinjiang region of China) back to Kazakhstan. As a result of this shift, the ethnic Kazakh share of the population now exceeds two-thirds.
Kazakhstan's economy is the largest in Central Asia, mainly due to the country's vast natural resources. Current issues include: diversifying the economy, attracting foreign direct investment, enhancing Kazakhstan's economic competitiveness, and strengthening economic relations with neighboring states and foreign powers. Ethnic Kazakhs derive from a mix of Turkic nomadic tribes that migrated to the region in the 15th century. The Kazakh steppe was conquered by the Russian Empire in the 18th and 19th centuries, and Kazakhstan became a Soviet Republic in 1925. Repression and starvation caused by forced agricultural collectivization led to more than a million deaths in the early 1930s. During the 1950s and 1960s, the agricultural "Virgin Lands" program led to an influx of settlers (mostly ethnic Russians, but also other nationalities) and at the time of Kazakhstan’s independence in 1991, ethnic Kazakhs were a minority. Non-Muslim ethnic minorities departed Kazakhstan in large numbers from the mid-1990s through the mid-2000s and a national program has repatriated about a million ethnic Kazakhs (from Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Mongolia, and the Xinjiang region of China) back to Kazakhstan. As a result of this shift, the ethnic Kazakh share of the population now exceeds two-thirds.
Kazakhstan's economy is the largest in Central Asia, mainly due to the country's vast natural resources. Current issues include: diversifying the economy, attracting foreign direct investment, enhancing Kazakhstan's economic competitiveness, and strengthening economic relations with neighboring states and foreign powers. Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Central Asia, northwest of China; a small portion west of the Ural (Oral) River in easternmost Europe
Geographic coordinates: 48 00 N, 68 00 E
Map references: Asia
Area: total: 2,724,900 sq km
land: 2,699,700 sq km
water: 25,200 sq km
Area - comparative: slightly less than four times the size of Texas
Land boundaries: total: 13,364 km
border countries (5): China 1,765 km; Kyrgyzstan 1,212 km; Russia 7,644 km; Turkmenistan 413 km; Uzbekistan 2,330 km
Coastline: 0 km (landlocked); note - Kazakhstan borders the Aral Sea, now split into two bodies of water (1,070 km), and the Caspian Sea (1,894 km)
Maritime claims: none (landlocked)
Climate: continental, cold winters and hot summers, arid and semiarid
Terrain: vast flat steppe extending from the Volga in the west to the Altai Mountains in the east and from the plains of western Siberia in the north to oases and deserts of Central Asia in the south
Elevation: highest point: Pik Khan-Tengri 7,010 m
note - the northern most 7,000 meter peak in the World
lowest point: Qauyndy Oyysy -132 m
mean elevation: 387 m
Natural resources: major deposits of petroleum, natural gas, coal, iron ore, manganese, chrome ore, nickel, cobalt, copper, molybdenum, lead, zinc, bauxite, gold, uranium
Land use: agricultural land: 77.4% (2018 est.)
arable land: 8.9% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 0% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 68.5% (2018 est.)
forest: 1.2% (2018 est.)
other: 21.4% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 20,660 sq km (2012)
Major lakes (area sq km): Fresh water lake(s): Ozero Balkhash - 22,000 sq km; Ozero Zaysan - 1,800 sq km
Salt water lake(s): Caspian Sea (shared with Iran, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, and Russia) - 374,000 sq km; Aral Sea (north) - 3,300 sq km; Ozero Alakol - 2,650 sq km; Ozero Teniz 1,590 sq km; Ozero Seletytenzi - 780 sq km; Ozero Sasykkol - 740 sq km
Major rivers (by length in km): Syr Darya river mouth (shared with Kyrgyzstan [s], Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan) - 3,078 km
note – [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
Major watersheds (area sq km): Internal (endorheic basin) drainage: Tarim Basin (1,152,448 sq km), Amu Darya (534,739 sq km), Syr Darya (782,617 sq km), Lake Balkash (510,015 sq km)
Population distribution: most of the country displays a low population density, particularly the interior; population clusters appear in urban agglomerations in the far northern and southern portions of the country
Natural hazards: earthquakes in the south; mudslides around Almaty
Geography - note: world's largest landlocked country and one of only two landlocked countries in the world that extends into two continents (the other is Azerbaijan); Russia leases approximately 6,000 sq km of territory enclosing the Baikonur Cosmodrome; in January 2004, Kazakhstan and Russia extended the lease to 2050
Map description: Kazakhstan map showing major cities as well as parts of surrounding countries and the Caspian Sea.Kazakhstan map showing major cities as well as parts of surrounding countries and the Caspian Sea.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 19,398,331 (2022 est.)
Nationality: noun: Kazakhstani(s)
adjective: Kazakhstani
Ethnic groups: Kazakh (Qazaq) 68%, Russian 19.3%, Uzbek 3.2%, Ukrainian 1.5%, Uighur 1.5%, Tatar 1.1%, German 1%, other 4.4% (2019 est.)
Languages: Kazakh (official, Qazaq) 83.1% (understand spoken language) and trilingual (Kazakh, Russian, English) 22.3% (2017 est.); Russian (official, used in everyday business, designated the "language of interethnic communication") 94.4% (understand spoken language) (2009 est.)
major-language sample(s):
Әлемдік деректер кітабы, негізгі ақпараттың таптырмайтын көзі. (Kazakh)
Книга фактов о мире – незаменимый источник базовой информации. (Russian)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Religions: Muslim 70.2%, Christian 26.2% (mainly Russian Orthodox), other 0.2%, atheist 2.8%, unspecified 0.5% (2009 est.)
Age structure: 0-14 years: 26.13% (male 2,438,148/female 2,550,535)
15-24 years: 12.97% (male 1,262,766/female 1,212,645)
25-54 years: 42.23% (male 3,960,188/female 4,102,845)
55-64 years: 10.25% (male 856,180/female 1,099,923)
65 years and over: 8.43% (2020 est.) (male 567,269/female 1,041,450)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 58.8
youth dependency ratio: 46.3
elderly dependency ratio: 12.6
potential support ratio: 8 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 31.6 years
male: 30.3 years
female: 32.8 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 0.77% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 15.38 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 8.11 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: 0.39 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: most of the country displays a low population density, particularly the interior; population clusters appear in urban agglomerations in the far northern and southern portions of the country
Urbanization: urban population: 58% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 1.19% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 1.958 million Almaty, 1.254 million NUR-SULTAN (capital), 1.126 million Shimkent (2022)
Sex ratio: at birth: 0.94 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 0.94 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.04 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 0.96 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 0.78 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.35 male(s)/female
total population: 0.9 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth: 28.9 years (2019 est.)
Maternal mortality ratio: 10 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 19.18 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 21.73 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 16.79 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 72.53 years
male: 67.43 years
female: 77.31 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 2.11 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: 53% (2018)
note: percent of women aged 18-49
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 100% of population
rural: 93.8% of population
total: 97.4% of population
unimproved: urban: 0% of population
rural: 6.2% of population
total: 2.6% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 2.8% (2019)
Physicians density: 3.98 physicians/1,000 population (2014)
Hospital bed density: 6.1 beds/1,000 population (2014)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 99.9% of population
rural: 99.9% of population
total: 99.9% of population
unimproved: urban: 0.1% of population
rural: 0.1% of population
total: 0.1% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: 0.3% (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: 35,000 (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - deaths: (2020 est.) <500
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 21% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: 2% (2015)
Education expenditures: 2.9% of GDP (2019)
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 99.8%
male: 99.8%
female: 99.7% (2018)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 16 years
male: 15 years
female: 16 years (2020)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 3.8%
male: 3.4%
female: 4.2% (2020 est.)
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: radioactive or toxic chemical sites associated with former defense industries and test ranges scattered throughout the country pose health risks for humans and animals; industrial pollution is severe in some cities; because the two main rivers that flowed into the Aral Sea have been diverted for irrigation, it is drying up and leaving behind a harmful layer of chemical pesticides and natural salts; these substances are then picked up by the wind and blown into noxious dust storms; pollution in the Caspian Sea; desertification; soil pollution from overuse of agricultural chemicals and salination from poor infrastructure and wasteful irrigation practices
Environment - international agreements: party to: Air Pollution, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 11.32 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 247.21 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 45.03 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: continental, cold winters and hot summers, arid and semiarid
Land use: agricultural land: 77.4% (2018 est.)
arable land: 8.9% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 0% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 68.5% (2018 est.)
forest: 1.2% (2018 est.)
other: 21.4% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 58% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 1.19% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 0% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0.99% of GDP (2018 est.)
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 4,659,740 tons (2012 est.)
municipal solid waste recycled annually: 136,064 tons (2012 est.)
percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 2.9% (2012 est.)
Major lakes (area sq km): Fresh water lake(s): Ozero Balkhash - 22,000 sq km; Ozero Zaysan - 1,800 sq km
Salt water lake(s): Caspian Sea (shared with Iran, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, and Russia) - 374,000 sq km; Aral Sea (north) - 3,300 sq km; Ozero Alakol - 2,650 sq km; Ozero Teniz 1,590 sq km; Ozero Seletytenzi - 780 sq km; Ozero Sasykkol - 740 sq km
Major rivers (by length in km): Syr Darya river mouth (shared with Kyrgyzstan [s], Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan) - 3,078 km
note – [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
Major watersheds (area sq km): Internal (endorheic basin) drainage: Tarim Basin (1,152,448 sq km), Amu Darya (534,739 sq km), Syr Darya (782,617 sq km), Lake Balkash (510,015 sq km)
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 2.347 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 6.984 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 15.12 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 108.41 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Republic of Kazakhstan
conventional short form: Kazakhstan
local long form: Qazaqstan Respublikasy
local short form: Qazaqstan
former: Kazakh Soviet Socialist Republic
etymology: the name "Kazakh" may derive from the Turkic word "kaz" meaning "to wander," recalling the Kazakh's nomadic lifestyle; the Persian suffix "-stan" means "place of" or "country," so the word Kazakhstan literally means "Land of the Wanderers"
Government type: presidential republic
Capital: name: Nur-Sultan
geographic coordinates: 51 10 N, 71 25 E
time difference: UTC+6 (11 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
time zone note: Kazakhstan has two time zones
etymology: on 20 March 2019, Kazakhstan changed the name of its capital city from Astana to Nur-Sultan in honor of its long-serving, recently retired president, Nursultan NAZARBAYEV; this was not the first time the city had its name changed; founded in 1830 as Akmoly, it became Akmolinsk in 1832, Tselinograd in 1961, Akmola (Aqmola) in 1992, and Astana in 1998
Administrative divisions: 14 provinces (oblyslar, singular - oblys) and 4 cities* (qalalar, singular - qala); Almaty (Taldyqorghan), Almaty*, Aqmola (Kokshetau), Aqtobe, Atyrau, Batys Qazaqstan [West Kazakhstan] (Oral), Bayqongyr*, Mangghystau (Aqtau), Nur-Sultan*, Pavlodar, Qaraghandy, Qostanay, Qyzylorda, Shyghys Qazaqstan [East Kazakhstan] (Oskemen), Shymkent*, Soltustik Qazaqstan [North Kazakhstan] (Petropavl), Turkistan, Zhambyl (Taraz)
note: administrative divisions have the same names as their administrative centers (exceptions have the administrative center name following in parentheses); in 1995, the Governments of Kazakhstan and Russia entered into an agreement whereby Russia would lease for a period of 20 years an area of 6,000 sq km enclosing the Baikonur space launch facilities and the city of Bayqongyr (Baikonur, formerly Leninsk); in 2004, a new agreement extended the lease to 2050
Independence: 16 December 1991 (from the Soviet Union)
National holiday: Independence Day, 16 December (1991)
Constitution: history: previous 1937, 1978 (preindependence), 1993; latest approved by referendum 30 August 1995, effective 5 September 1995
amendments: introduced by a referendum initiated by the president of the republic, on the recommendation of Parliament, or by the government; the president has the option of submitting draft amendments to Parliament or directly to a referendum; passage of amendments by Parliament requires four-fifths majority vote of both houses and the signature of the president; passage by referendum requires absolute majority vote by more than one half of the voters in at least two thirds of the oblasts, major cities, and the capital, followed by the signature of the president; amended several times, last in 2019
Legal system: civil law system influenced by Roman-Germanic law and by the theory and practice of the Russian Federation
International law organization participation: has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; non-party state to the ICCt
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: no
citizenship by descent only: at least one parent must be a citizen of Kazakhstan
dual citizenship recognized: no
residency requirement for naturalization: 5 years
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: President Kasym-Zhomart TOKAYEV (since 20 March 2019); note - Nursultan NAZARBAYEV, who was president since 24 April 1990 (and in power since 22 June 1989 under the Soviet period), resigned on 20 March 2019; NAZARBAYEV retained the title and powers of "First President"; TOKAYEV completed NAZARBAYEV's term, which was shortened due to the early election of 9 June 2019, and then continued as president following his election victory
head of government: Prime Minister Alikhan SMAILOV (since 11 January 2022); note - Prime Minister Askar MAMIN resigned on 5 January 2022 in the wake of massive protests of his government that began 2 January 2022 following a sudden, steep rise in gasoline prices
cabinet: the president appoints ministers after consultations with the Chair of the Security Council (NAZARBAYEV) who has veto power over all appointments except for the ministers of defense, internal affairs, and foreign affairs; however, the president is required to discuss these three offices with the National Security Committee, which NAZARBAYEV chairs under a lifetime appointment
elections/appointments: president directly elected by simple majority popular vote for a 5-year term (eligible for a second consecutive term); election last held on 9 June 2019 (next to be held in 2024); prime minister and deputy prime ministers appointed by the president, approved by the Mazhilis
election results: Kasym-Zhomart TOKAYEV elected president; percent of vote - Kasym-Zhomart TOKAYEV (Nur Otan) 71%, Amirzhan KOSANOV (Ult Tagdyry) 16.2%, Daniya YESPAYEVA (Ak Zhol) 5.1%, other 7.7%
Legislative branch: description: bicameral Parliament consists of:
Senate (49 seats statutory, 48 as of October 2021); 34 members indirectly elected by 2-round majority vote by the oblast-level assemblies and 15 members appointed by decree of the president; members serve 6-year terms, with one-half of the membership renewed every 3 years)
Mazhilis (107 seats; 98 members directly elected in a single national constituency by proportional representation vote to serve 5-year terms and 9 indirectly elected by the Assembly of People of Kazakhstan, a 351-member, presidentially appointed advisory body designed to represent the country's ethnic minorities)
elections:
Senate - last held on 12 August 2020 (next to be held in August 2023)
Mazhilis - last held on 10 January 2021 (next to be held in 2026)
election results:
Senate - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - NA; composition (as of October 2021) - men 39, women 9, percent of women 18.4%
Mazhilis - percent of vote by party - Nur Otan 71.1%, Ak Zhol 11%, People's Party 9.1%, other 8.8%; seats by party - Nur Otan 76, Ak Zhol 12, People's Party 10; composition (as of October 2021) - men 78, women 29, percent of women 27.1%; note - total Parliament percent of women 24.4%
Judicial branch: highest courts: Supreme Court of the Republic (consists of 44 members); Constitutional Council (consists of the chairman and 6 members)
judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court judges proposed by the president of the republic on recommendation of the Supreme Judicial Council and confirmed by the Senate; judges normally serve until age 65 but can be extended to age 70; Constitutional Council - the president of the republic, the Senate chairperson, and the Mazhilis chairperson each appoints 2 members for a 6-year term; chairman of the Constitutional Council appointed by the president for a 6-year term
subordinate courts: regional and local courts
Political parties and leaders: Adal [Serik SULTANGALI] (formerly Birlik (Unity) Party)
Ak Zhol (Bright Path) Party or Democratic Party of Kazakhstan Ak Zhol [Azat PERUASHEV]
Amanat [Kasym-Zhomart TOKAYEV] (formerly Nur Otan (Radiant Fatherland))
National Social Democratic Party or NSDP [Zharmakhan TUYAKBAY]
People's Democratic (Patriotic) Party "Auyl" [Ali BEKTAYEV]
People's Party of Kazakhstan [Aikyn KONUROV]
International organization participation: ADB, CICA, CIS, CSTO, EAEU, EAPC, EBRD, ECO, EITI (compliant country), FAO, GCTU, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (NGOs), ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, MIGA, MINURSO, NAM (observer), NSG, OAS (observer), OIC, OPCW, OSCE, PFP, SCO, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UN Security Council (temporary), UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Yerzhan ASHIKBAYEV (since 7 July 2021)
chancery: 1401 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
telephone: [1] (202) 232-5488
FAX: [1] (202) 232-5845
email address and website:
washington@mfa.kz
https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-washington?lang=en
consulate(s) general: New YorkAmbassador Yerzhan ASHIKBAYEV (since 7 July 2021)
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Judy KUO (since October 2021)
embassy: Rakhymzhan Koshkarbayev Avenue, No. 3, Nur-Sultan 010010
mailing address: 2230 Nur-Sultan Place, Washington DC 20521-2230
telephone: [7] (7172) 70-21-00
FAX: [7] (7172) 54-09-14
email address and website:
USAKZ@state.gov
https://kz.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Almaty
Flag description: a gold sun with 32 rays above a soaring golden steppe eagle, both centered on a sky blue background; the hoist side displays a national ornamental pattern "koshkar-muiz" (the horns of the ram) in gold; the blue color is of religious significance to the Turkic peoples of the country, and so symbolizes cultural and ethnic unity; it also represents the endless sky as well as water; the sun, a source of life and energy, exemplifies wealth and plenitude; the sun's rays are shaped like grain, which is the basis of abundance and prosperity; the eagle has appeared on the flags of Kazakh tribes for centuries and represents freedom, power, and the flight to the future
National symbol(s): golden eagle; national colors: blue, yellow
National anthem: name: "Menin Qazaqstanim" (My Kazakhstan)
lyrics/music: Zhumeken NAZHIMEDENOV and Nursultan NAZARBAYEV/Shamshi KALDAYAKOV
note: adopted 2006; President Nursultan NAZARBAYEV played a role in revising the lyrics
National heritage: total World Heritage Sites: 5 (3 cultural, 2 natural)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi (c), Petroglyphs at Tanbaly (c), Saryarka - Steppe and Lakes of Northern Kazakhstan (n), Silk Roads: the Chang'an-Tianshan Corridor (c), Western Tien-Shan (n)
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Kazakhstan's vast hydrocarbon and mineral reserves form the backbone of its economy. Geographically the largest of the former Soviet republics, excluding Russia, Kazakhstan, g possesses substantial fossil fuel reserves and other minerals and metals, such as uranium, copper, and zinc. It also has a large agricultural sector featuring livestock and grain. The government realizes that its economy suffers from an overreliance on oil and extractive industries and has made initial attempts to diversify its economy by targeting sectors like transport, pharmaceuticals, telecommunications, petrochemicals and food processing for greater development and investment. It also adopted a Subsoil Code in December 2017 with the aim of increasing exploration and investment in the hydrocarbon, and particularly mining, sectors. Kazakhstan's oil production and potential is expanding rapidly. A $36.8 billion expansion of Kazakhstan’s premiere Tengiz oil field by Chevron-led Tengizchevroil should be complete in 2022. Meanwhile, the super-giant Kashagan field finally launched production in October 2016 after years of delay and an estimated $55 billion in development costs. Kazakhstan’s total oil production in 2017 climbed 10.5%. Kazakhstan is landlocked and depends on Russia to export its oil to Europe. It also exports oil directly to China. In 2010, Kazakhstan joined Russia and Belarus to establish a Customs Union in an effort to boost foreign investment and improve trade. The Customs Union evolved into a Single Economic Space in 2012 and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) in January 2015. Supported by rising commodity prices, Kazakhstan’s exports to EAEU countries increased 30.2% in 2017. Imports from EAEU countries grew by 24.1%. The economic downturn of its EAEU partner, Russia, and the decline in global commodity prices from 2014 to 2016 contributed to an economic slowdown in Kazakhstan. In 2014, Kazakhstan devalued its currency, the tenge, and announced a stimulus package to cope with its economic challenges. In the face of further decline in the ruble, oil prices, and the regional economy, Kazakhstan announced in 2015 it would replace its currency band with a floating exchange rate, leading to a sharp fall in the value of the tenge. Since reaching a low of 391 to the dollar in January 2016, the tenge has modestly appreciated, helped by somewhat higher oil prices. While growth slowed to about 1% in both 2015 and 2016, a moderate recovery in oil prices, relatively stable inflation and foreign exchange rates, and the start of production at Kashagan helped push 2017 GDP growth to 4%. Despite some positive institutional and legislative changes in the last several years, investors remain concerned about corruption, bureaucracy, and arbitrary law enforcement, especially at the regional and municipal levels. An additional concern is the condition of the country’s banking sector, which suffers from poor asset quality and a lack of transparency. Investors also question the potentially negative effects on the economy of a contested presidential succession as Kazakhstan’s first president, Nursultan NAZARBAYEV, turned 77 in 2017.Kazakhstan's vast hydrocarbon and mineral reserves form the backbone of its economy. Geographically the largest of the former Soviet republics, excluding Russia, Kazakhstan, g possesses substantial fossil fuel reserves and other minerals and metals, such as uranium, copper, and zinc. It also has a large agricultural sector featuring livestock and grain. The government realizes that its economy suffers from an overreliance on oil and extractive industries and has made initial attempts to diversify its economy by targeting sectors like transport, pharmaceuticals, telecommunications, petrochemicals and food processing for greater development and investment. It also adopted a Subsoil Code in December 2017 with the aim of increasing exploration and investment in the hydrocarbon, and particularly mining, sectors. Kazakhstan's oil production and potential is expanding rapidly. A $36.8 billion expansion of Kazakhstan’s premiere Tengiz oil field by Chevron-led Tengizchevroil should be complete in 2022. Meanwhile, the super-giant Kashagan field finally launched production in October 2016 after years of delay and an estimated $55 billion in development costs. Kazakhstan’s total oil production in 2017 climbed 10.5%. Kazakhstan is landlocked and depends on Russia to export its oil to Europe. It also exports oil directly to China. In 2010, Kazakhstan joined Russia and Belarus to establish a Customs Union in an effort to boost foreign investment and improve trade. The Customs Union evolved into a Single Economic Space in 2012 and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) in January 2015. Supported by rising commodity prices, Kazakhstan’s exports to EAEU countries increased 30.2% in 2017. Imports from EAEU countries grew by 24.1%. The economic downturn of its EAEU partner, Russia, and the decline in global commodity prices from 2014 to 2016 contributed to an economic slowdown in Kazakhstan. In 2014, Kazakhstan devalued its currency, the tenge, and announced a stimulus package to cope with its economic challenges. In the face of further decline in the ruble, oil prices, and the regional economy, Kazakhstan announced in 2015 it would replace its currency band with a floating exchange rate, leading to a sharp fall in the value of the tenge. Since reaching a low of 391 to the dollar in January 2016, the tenge has modestly appreciated, helped by somewhat higher oil prices. While growth slowed to about 1% in both 2015 and 2016, a moderate recovery in oil prices, relatively stable inflation and foreign exchange rates, and the start of production at Kashagan helped push 2017 GDP growth to 4%. Despite some positive institutional and legislative changes in the last several years, investors remain concerned about corruption, bureaucracy, and arbitrary law enforcement, especially at the regional and municipal levels. An additional concern is the condition of the country’s banking sector, which suffers from poor asset quality and a lack of transparency. Investors also question the potentially negative effects on the economy of a contested presidential succession as Kazakhstan’s first president, Nursultan NAZARBAYEV, turned 77 in 2017.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $475.18 billion (2020 est.)
$487.87 billion (2019 est.)
$466.86 billion (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 6.13% (2019 est.)
4.41% (2018 est.)
4.38% (2017 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $25,300 (2020 est.)
$26,400 (2019 est.)
$25,500 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $181.194 billion (2019 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 5.2% (2019 est.)
6% (2018 est.)
7.3% (2017 est.)
Credit ratings: Fitch rating: BBB (2016)
Moody's rating: Baa3 (2016)
Standard & Poors rating: BBB- (2016)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 4.7% (2017 est.)
industry: 34.1% (2017 est.)
services: 61.2% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 53.2% (2017 est.)
government consumption: 11.1% (2017 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 22.5% (2017 est.)
investment in inventories: 4.8% (2017 est.)
exports of goods and services: 35.4% (2017 est.)
imports of goods and services: -27.1% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: wheat, milk, potatoes, barley, watermelons, melons, linseed, onions, maize, sunflower seed
Industries: oil, coal, iron ore, manganese, chromite, lead, zinc, copper, titanium, bauxite, gold, silver, phosphates, sulfur, uranium, iron and steel; tractors and other agricultural machinery, electric motors, construction materials
Industrial production growth rate: 5.8% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 8.685 million (2020 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 18.1%
industry: 20.4%
services: 61.6% (2017 est.)
Unemployment rate: 4.8% (2019 est.)
4.85% (2018 est.)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 3.8%
male: 3.4%
female: 4.2% (2020 est.)
Population below poverty line: 4.3% (2018 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 27.5 (2017 est.)
31.5 (2003)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: 4.2%
highest 10%: 23.3% (2016)
Budget: revenues: 35.48 billion (2017 est.)
expenditures: 38.3 billion (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): -1.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 20.8% of GDP (2017 est.)
19.7% of GDP (2016 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 22.3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: calendar year
Current account balance: -$7.206 billion (2019 est.)
-$138 million (2018 est.)
Exports: $51.75 billion (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$65.91 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$67.15 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Exports - partners: China 13%, Italy 12%, Russia 10%, Netherlands 7%, France 6%, South Korea 5% (2019)
Exports - commodities: crude petroleum, natural gas, copper, iron alloys, radioactive chemicals (2019)
Imports: $44.3 billion (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$51.5 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$46.23 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Imports - partners: Russia 34%, China 24% (2019)
Imports - commodities: packaged medicines, natural gas, cars, broadcasting equipment, aircraft (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $30.75 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
$29.53 billion (31 December 2016 est.)
Debt - external: $159.351 billion (2019 est.)
$163.73 billion (2018 est.)
Exchange rates: tenge (KZT) per US dollar -
420.0049 (2020 est.)
385.9248 (2019 est.)
370.4648 (2018 est.)
221.73 (2014 est.)
179.19 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Electricity - production: 100.8 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 94.23 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 5.1 billion kWh (2017 est.)
Electricity - imports: 1.318 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 20.15 million kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 86% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 14% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 1% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 1.856 million bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 1.409 million bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 1,480 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 30 billion bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 290,700 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 274,000 bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 105,900 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 39,120 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 22.41 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 15.37 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 12.8 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 5.748 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 2.407 trillion cu m (1 January 2018 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 3.091 million (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 16 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 24,293,900 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 129 (2020 est.)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: one of the most progressive telecom sectors in Central Asia; vast 4G network; low fixed-line and fixed-broadband penetration; moderate mobile broadband penetration and high mobile penetration depending on location; mobile market highly competitive and growth is slow due to saturation (2020)
domestic: intercity by landline and microwave radio relay; number of fixed-line connections is approximately 17 per 100 persons; mobile-cellular subscriber base 134 per 100 persons (2020)
international: country code - 7; international traffic with other former Soviet republics and China carried by landline and microwave radio relay and with other countries by satellite and by the TAE fiber-optic cable; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: the state owns nearly all radio and TV transmission facilities and operates national TV and radio networks; there are 96 TV channels, many of which are owned by the government, and 4 state-run radio stations; some former state-owned media outlets have been privatized; households with satellite dishes have access to foreign media; a small number of commercial radio stations operate along with state-run radio stations; recent legislation requires all media outlets to register with the government and all TV providers to broadcast in digital format by 2018; broadcasts reach some 99% of the population as well as neighboring countries (2018)
Internet country code: .kz
Internet users: total: 16,128,818 (2020 est.)
percent of population: 86% (2020 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 2,620,400 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 14 (2020 est.)
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 12 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 84
annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 7,143,797 (2018)
annual freight traffic on registered air carriers: 50.22 million (2018) mt-km
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: UP
Airports: total: 96 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 63
over 3,047 m: 10
2,438 to 3,047 m: 25
1,524 to 2,437 m: 15
914 to 1,523 m: 5
under 914 m: 8 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 33
over 3,047 m: 5
2,438 to 3,047 m: 7
1,524 to 2,437 m: 3
914 to 1,523 m: 5
under 914 m: 13 (2021)
Heliports: 3 (2021)
Pipelines: 658 km condensate, 15,256 km gas (2017), 8,013 km oil (2017), 1,095 km refined products, 1,975 km water (2016) (2017)
Railways: total: 16,614 km (2017)
broad gauge: 16,614 km (2017) 1.520-m gauge (4,200 km electrified)
Roadways: total: 95,409 km (2017)
paved: 81,814 km (2017)
unpaved: 13,595 km (2017)
Waterways: 4,000 km (2010) (on the Ertis (Irtysh) River (80%) and Syr Darya (Syrdariya) River)
Merchant marine: total: 119
by type: general cargo 3, oil tanker 7, other 109 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Caspian Sea - Aqtau (Shevchenko), Atyrau (Gur'yev)
river port(s): Oskemen (Ust-Kamenogorsk), Pavlodar, Semey (Semipalatinsk) (Irtysh River)
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: Armed Forces of the Republic of Kazakhstan: Land Forces, Naval Forces, Air and Air Defense Forces; Ministry of Internal Affairs: National Police, National Guard, Border Service (includes Coast Guard), Committee for National Security (2021)
Military expenditures: 1% of GDP (2021 est.)
1.1% of GDP (2020 est.)
1.1% of GDP (2019 est.) (approximately $3.6 billion)
0.9% of GDP (2018 est.) (approximately $3.06 billion)
0.8% of GDP (2017 est.) (approximately $2.85 billion)
Military and security service personnel strengths: information varies; approximately 40,000 active duty personnel (25,000 Land Forces; 3,000 Naval Forces; 12,000 Air and Air Defense Forces) (2021)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the Kazakh military's inventory is comprised of mostly older Russian and Soviet-era equipment; since 2010, Russia is the leading supplier of weapons systems (2021)
Military service age and obligation: all men 18-27 are required to serve in the military for at least one year (2021)
Military - note: Kazakhstan has been a member of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) since 1994 and contributes troops to CSTO's rapid reaction force
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: in January 2019, the Kyrgyz Republic ratified the demarcation agreement of the Kazakh-Kyrgyz border; the demarcation of the Kazakh-Uzbek borders is ongoing; the ongoing demarcation with Russia began in 2007; demarcation with China completed in 2002in January 2019, the Kyrgyz Republic ratified the demarcation agreement of the Kazakh-Kyrgyz border; the demarcation of the Kazakh-Uzbek borders is ongoing; the ongoing demarcation with Russia began in 2007; demarcation with China completed in 2002
Refugees and internally displaced persons: stateless persons: 7,915 (mid-year 2021)
Trafficking in persons: current situation: human traffickers exploit domestic and foreign victims in Kazakhstan and Kazakhstanis abroad; traffickers lure victims from rural areas to larger cities with fake offers of employment; traffickers coerce or force Kazakhstani men and women into labor in Russia, Bahrain, Brazil, the Republic of Korea, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates; sex traffickers exploit Kazakhstani women and girls in the Middle East, Europe, East Asia, the United States, Central Asian and Eastern European countries and rural areas in Kazakhstan; children are forced to beg and adults and children may be coerced into criminal behavior; traffickers are increasingly using debt-based coercion; traffickers capitalize on tough law enforcement policies on migrants to coerce them to remain and leverage these policies to threaten victims with punishment and deportation if they notify authorities, which fosters a distrust in law enforcement
tier rating: Tier 2 Watch List — Kazakhstan does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking but is making significant efforts to do so; the government adopted amendments increasing criminal penalties for traffickers, including rescinding the provision allowing alleged traffickers to pay a settlement to victims to withdraw their criminal cases; authorities developed victim identification guidelines for diplomatic staff and provided victim identification training to some labor inspectors; the government took initial steps toward improving its annual NGO funding process; the government’s efforts to identify and protect foreign victims increased; foreign victims who did not participate in criminal investigations were ineligible for services and were deported; law enforcement continued to make limited efforts to investigate, prosecute, and convict labor trafficking crimes; trafficking convictions decreased for the fourth consecutive year; NGOs reported allegations of police officers’ involvement in human trafficking, but few police or other officials suspected of complicity were investigated or prosecuted (2020)
Illicit drugs: a transit country for Afghan opiates destined for Russia and Europe; increase in clandestine laboratories producing synthetic drugs; Synthetic drugs also trafficked from Southeast Asia, China, Russia, and Europe, and precursor chemicals shipped from Russiaa transit country for Afghan opiates destined for Russia and Europe; increase in clandestine laboratories producing synthetic drugs; Synthetic drugs also trafficked from Southeast Asia, China, Russia, and Europe, and precursor chemicals shipped from Russia |
20220601 | countries-bangladesh |
Topic: Photos of Bangladesh
Topic: Introduction
Background: The huge delta region formed at the confluence of the Ganges and Brahmaputra River systems - now referred to as Bangladesh - was a loosely incorporated outpost of various empires centered on the Gangetic plain for much of the first millennium A.D. Muslim conversions and settlement in the region began in the 10th century, primarily from Arab and Persian traders and preachers. Europeans established trading posts in the area in the 16th century. Eventually the area known as Bengal, primarily Hindu in the western section and mostly Muslim in the eastern half, became part of British India. Partition in 1947 resulted in an eastern wing of Pakistan in the Muslim-majority area, which became East Pakistan. Calls for greater autonomy and animosity between the eastern and western wings of Pakistan led to a Bengali independence movement. That movement, led by the Awami League (AL) and supported by India, won the independence war for Bangladesh in 1971. The post-independence AL government faced daunting challenges and in 1975 it was overthrown by the military, triggering a series of military coups that resulted in a military-backed government and subsequent creation of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in 1978. That government also ended in a coup in 1981, followed by military-backed rule until democratic elections occurred in 1991. The BNP and AL have alternated in power since 1991, with the exception of a military-backed, emergency caretaker regime that suspended parliamentary elections planned for January 2007 in an effort to reform the political system and root out corruption. That government returned the country to fully democratic rule in December 2008 with the election of the AL and Prime Minister Sheikh HASINA. In January 2014, the incumbent AL won the national election by an overwhelming majority after the BNP boycotted the election, which extended HASINA's term as prime minister. In December 2018, HASINA secured a third consecutive term (fourth overall) with the AL coalition securing 96% of available seats, amid widespread claims of election irregularities. With the help of international development assistance, Bangladesh has reduced the poverty rate from over half of the population to less than a third, achieved Millennium Development Goals for maternal and child health, and made great progress in food security since independence. The economy has grown at an annual average of about 6% for the last two decades. In 2021 the UN approved a resolution to allow Bangladesh to officially graduate from least-developed-country (LDC) status in 2026, based on World Bank criteria.The huge delta region formed at the confluence of the Ganges and Brahmaputra River systems - now referred to as Bangladesh - was a loosely incorporated outpost of various empires centered on the Gangetic plain for much of the first millennium A.D. Muslim conversions and settlement in the region began in the 10th century, primarily from Arab and Persian traders and preachers. Europeans established trading posts in the area in the 16th century. Eventually the area known as Bengal, primarily Hindu in the western section and mostly Muslim in the eastern half, became part of British India. Partition in 1947 resulted in an eastern wing of Pakistan in the Muslim-majority area, which became East Pakistan. Calls for greater autonomy and animosity between the eastern and western wings of Pakistan led to a Bengali independence movement. That movement, led by the Awami League (AL) and supported by India, won the independence war for Bangladesh in 1971.The post-independence AL government faced daunting challenges and in 1975 it was overthrown by the military, triggering a series of military coups that resulted in a military-backed government and subsequent creation of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in 1978. That government also ended in a coup in 1981, followed by military-backed rule until democratic elections occurred in 1991. The BNP and AL have alternated in power since 1991, with the exception of a military-backed, emergency caretaker regime that suspended parliamentary elections planned for January 2007 in an effort to reform the political system and root out corruption. That government returned the country to fully democratic rule in December 2008 with the election of the AL and Prime Minister Sheikh HASINA. In January 2014, the incumbent AL won the national election by an overwhelming majority after the BNP boycotted the election, which extended HASINA's term as prime minister. In December 2018, HASINA secured a third consecutive term (fourth overall) with the AL coalition securing 96% of available seats, amid widespread claims of election irregularities. With the help of international development assistance, Bangladesh has reduced the poverty rate from over half of the population to less than a third, achieved Millennium Development Goals for maternal and child health, and made great progress in food security since independence. The economy has grown at an annual average of about 6% for the last two decades. In 2021 the UN approved a resolution to allow Bangladesh to officially graduate from least-developed-country (LDC) status in 2026, based on World Bank criteria.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Southern Asia, bordering the Bay of Bengal, between Burma and India
Geographic coordinates: 24 00 N, 90 00 E
Map references: Asia
Area: total: 148,460 sq km
land: 130,170 sq km
water: 18,290 sq km
Area - comparative: slightly larger than Pennsylvania and New Jersey combined; slightly smaller than Iowa
Land boundaries: total: 4,413 km
border countries (2): Burma 271 km; India 4,142 km
Coastline: 580 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
contiguous zone: 18 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
continental shelf: to the outer limits of the continental margin
Climate: tropical; mild winter (October to March); hot, humid summer (March to June); humid, warm rainy monsoon (June to October)
Terrain: mostly flat alluvial plain; hilly in southeast
Elevation: highest point: Mowdok Taung 1,060 m
note - the Factbook map is incorrect; it shows the wrong high elevation
lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 85 m
Natural resources: natural gas, arable land, timber, coal
Land use: agricultural land: 70.1% (2018 est.)
arable land: 59% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 6.5% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 4.6% (2018 est.)
forest: 11.1% (2018 est.)
other: 18.8% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 53,000 sq km (2012)
Major rivers (by length in km): Brahmaputra river mouth (shared with China [s] and India) - 3,969 km; Ganges river mouth (shared with India [s]) - 2,704 km
note – [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
Major watersheds (area sq km): Indian Ocean drainage: Brahmaputra (651,335 sq km), Ganges (1,016,124 sq km)
Major aquifers: Indus-Ganges-Brahmaputra Basin
Natural hazards: droughts; cyclones; much of the country routinely inundated during the summer monsoon season
Geography - note: most of the country is situated on deltas of large rivers flowing from the Himalayas: the Ganges unites with the Jamuna (main channel of the Brahmaputra) and later joins the Meghna to eventually empty into the Bay of Bengal
Map description: Bangladesh map showing major cities as well as parts of surrounding countries and the Bay of Bengal.Bangladesh map showing major cities as well as parts of surrounding countries and the Bay of Bengal.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 165,650,475 (2022 est.)
Nationality: noun: Bangladeshi(s)
adjective: Bangladeshi
Ethnic groups: Bengali at least 98%, other indigenous ethnic groups 1.1% (2011 est.)
note: Bangladesh's government recognizes 27 indigenous ethnic groups under the 2010 Cultural Institution for Small Anthropological Groups Act; other sources estimate there are about 75 ethnic groups; critics of the 2011 census claim that it underestimates the size of Bangladesh's ethnic population
Languages: Bangla 98.8% (official, also known as Bengali), other 1.2% (2011 est.)
major-language sample(s):
বিশ্ব ফ্যাক্টবুক, মৌলিক তথ্যের অপরিহার্য উৎস (Bangla)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
বিশ্ব ফ্যাক্টবুক, মৌলিক তথ্যের অপরিহার্য উৎস (Bangla)
Religions: Muslim 88.4%, other 11.6% (2020 est.)
Age structure: 0-14 years: 26.48% (male 21,918,651/female 21,158,574)
15-24 years: 18.56% (male 15,186,470/female 15,001,950)
25-54 years: 40.72% (male 31,694,267/female 34,535,643)
55-64 years: 7.41% (male 5,941,825/female 6,115,856)
65 years and over: 6.82% (2020 est.) (male 5,218,206/female 5,879,411)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 47
youth dependency ratio: 39.3
elderly dependency ratio: 7.7
potential support ratio: 13 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 27.9 years
male: 27.1 years
female: 28.6 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 0.93% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 17.69 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 5.47 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: -2.9 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 39.7% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 2.88% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 22.478 million DHAKA (capital), 5.253 million Chittagong, 950,000 Khulna, 942,000 Rajshahi, 928,000 Sylhet, Bogra 864,000 (2022)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.04 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.04 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.02 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 0.92 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 0.96 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.73 male(s)/female
total population: 0.96 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth: 18.6 years (2017/18 est.)
note: median age at first birth among women 20-49
Maternal mortality ratio: 173 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 30.35 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 32.96 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 27.63 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 74.7 years
male: 72.52 years
female: 76.96 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 2.09 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: 62.7% (2019)
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 99% of population
rural: 98.7% of population
total: 98.9% of population
unimproved: urban: 1% of population
rural: 1.3% of population
total: 1.1% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 2.5% (2019)
Physicians density: 0.58 physicians/1,000 population (2018)
Hospital bed density: 0.8 beds/1,000 population (2016)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 85.3% of population
rural: 73.5% of population
total: 78% of population
unimproved: urban: 14.7% of population
rural: 26.5% of population
total: 22% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: (2018 est.) <.1%
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: 14,000 (2018 est.)
HIV/AIDS - deaths: (2018 est.) <1000
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial and protozoal diarrhea, hepatitis A and E, and typhoid fever
vectorborne diseases: dengue fever and malaria are high risks in some locations
water contact diseases: leptospirosis
animal contact diseases: rabies
note: widespread ongoing transmission of a respiratory illness caused by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is occurring throughout Bangladesh; as of 30 March 2022, Bangladesh has reported a total of 1,951,432 cases of COVID-19 or 1,184.91 cumulative cases of COVID-19 per 100,000 population with a total of 29,120 cumulative deaths or a rate of 16.78 cumulative deaths per 100,000 population; as of 29 March 2022, 76.69% of the population has received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 3.6% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: 22.6% (2019)
Child marriage: women married by age 15: 15.5% (2019)
women married by age 18: 51.4% (2019 est.)
Education expenditures: 1.3% of GDP (2019)
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 74.9%
male: 77.8%
female: 72% (2020)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 12 years
male: 12 years
female: 13 years (2020)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 12.8%
male: 10.8%
female: 16.8% (2017 est.)
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: many people are landless and forced to live on and cultivate flood-prone land; waterborne diseases prevalent in surface water; water pollution, especially of fishing areas, results from the use of commercial pesticides; ground water contaminated by naturally occurring arsenic; intermittent water shortages because of falling water tables in the northern and central parts of the country; soil degradation and erosion; deforestation; destruction of wetlands; severe overpopulation with noise pollution
Environment - international agreements: party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 58.33 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 84.25 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 59.3 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: tropical; mild winter (October to March); hot, humid summer (March to June); humid, warm rainy monsoon (June to October)
Land use: agricultural land: 70.1% (2018 est.)
arable land: 59% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 6.5% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 4.6% (2018 est.)
forest: 11.1% (2018 est.)
other: 18.8% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 39.7% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 2.88% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 0.08% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0.02% of GDP (2018 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial and protozoal diarrhea, hepatitis A and E, and typhoid fever
vectorborne diseases: dengue fever and malaria are high risks in some locations
water contact diseases: leptospirosis
animal contact diseases: rabies
note: widespread ongoing transmission of a respiratory illness caused by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is occurring throughout Bangladesh; as of 30 March 2022, Bangladesh has reported a total of 1,951,432 cases of COVID-19 or 1,184.91 cumulative cases of COVID-19 per 100,000 population with a total of 29,120 cumulative deaths or a rate of 16.78 cumulative deaths per 100,000 population; as of 29 March 2022, 76.69% of the population has received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine
Food insecurity: severe localized food insecurity: due to economic constraints - losses in income and remittances caused by the COVID‑19 pandemic and its containment measures led to an increase in poverty; the high prices of rice and other important food items, including edible oils (soybean oil and loose palm oil), have severely constrained the purchasing power for food for a large section of the vulnerable population above the poverty line (2022)
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 14,778,497 tons (2012 est.)
Major rivers (by length in km): Brahmaputra river mouth (shared with China [s] and India) - 3,969 km; Ganges river mouth (shared with India [s]) - 2,704 km
note – [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
Major watersheds (area sq km): Indian Ocean drainage: Brahmaputra (651,335 sq km), Ganges (1,016,124 sq km)
Major aquifers: Indus-Ganges-Brahmaputra Basin
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 3.6 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 770 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 31.5 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 1,227,032,000,000 cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: People's Republic of Bangladesh
conventional short form: Bangladesh
local long form: Gana Prajatantri Bangladesh
local short form: Bangladesh
former: East Bengal, East Pakistan
etymology: the name - a compound of the Bengali words "Bangla" (Bengal) and "desh" (country) - means "Country of Bengal"
Government type: parliamentary republic
Capital: name: Dhaka
geographic coordinates: 23 43 N, 90 24 E
time difference: UTC+6 (11 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the origins of the name are unclear, but some sources state that the city's site was originally called "dhakka," meaning "watchtower," and that the area served as a watch-station for Bengal rulers
Administrative divisions: 8 divisions; Barishal, Chattogram, Dhaka, Khulna, Mymensingh, Rajshahi, Rangpur, Sylhet
Independence: 16 December 1971 (from Pakistan)
National holiday: Independence Day, 26 March (1971); Victory Day, 16 December (1971); note - 26 March 1971 is the date of the Awami League's declaration of an independent Bangladesh, and 16 December (Victory Day) memorializes the military victory over Pakistan and the official creation of the state of Bangladesh
Constitution: history: previous 1935, 1956, 1962 (preindependence); latest enacted 4 November 1972, effective 16 December 1972, suspended March 1982, restored November 1986
amendments: proposed by the House of the Nation; approval requires at least two-thirds majority vote of the House membership and assent of the president of the republic; amended many times, last in 2018
Legal system: mixed legal system of mostly English common law and Islamic law
International law organization participation: has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: no
citizenship by descent only: at least one parent must be a citizen of Bangladesh
dual citizenship recognized: yes, but limited to select countries
residency requirement for naturalization: 5 years
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: President Abdul HAMID (since 24 April 2013); note - Abdul HAMID served as acting president following the death of Zillur RAHMAN in March 2013; HAMID was subsequently indirectly elected by the National Parliament and sworn in 24 April 2013
head of government: Prime Minister Sheikh HASINA Wazed (since 6 January 2009)
cabinet: Cabinet selected by the prime minister, appointed by the president
elections/appointments: president indirectly elected by the National Parliament for a 5-year term (eligible for a second term); election last held on 7 February 2018 (next to be held by 2023); the president appoints as prime minister the majority party leader in the National Parliament
election results: President Abdul HAMID (AL) reelected by the National Parliament unopposed for a second term; Sheikh HASINA reappointed prime minister as leader of the majority AL party following parliamentary elections in 2018
Legislative branch: description: unicameral House of the Nation or Jatiya Sangsad (350 seats; 300 members in single-seat territorial constituencies directly elected by simple majority vote; 50 members - reserved for women only - indirectly elected by the elected members by proportional representation vote using single transferable vote; all members serve 5-year terms)
elections: last held on 30 December 2018 (next to be held in December 2023)
election results: percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party as of February 2022 - AL 299, JP 27, BNP 7, other 10, independent 4; composition - men 277, women 73, percent of women 20.9%
Judicial branch: highest courts: Supreme Court of Bangladesh (organized into the Appellate Division with 7 justices and the High Court Division with 99 justices)
judge selection and term of office: chief justice and justices appointed by the president; justices serve until retirement at age 67
subordinate courts: civil courts include: Assistant Judge's Court; Joint District Judge's Court; Additional District Judge's Court; District Judge's Court; criminal courts include: Court of Sessions; Court of Metropolitan Sessions; Metropolitan Magistrate Courts; Magistrate Court; special courts/tribunals
Political parties and leaders: Awami League or AL [Sheikh HASINA]
Bangladesh Nationalist Front or BNF [Abdul Kalam AZADI]
Bangladesh Nationalist Party or BNP [Khaleda ZIA]
Bangladesh Tariqat Federation or BTF [Syed Nozibul Bashar MAIZBHANDARI]
Jamaat-i-Islami Bangladesh or JIB (Makbul AHMAD)
Jatiya Party or JP (Ershad faction) [Hussain Mohammad ERSHAD]
Jatiya Party or JP (Manju faction) [Anwar Hossain MANJU]
Liberal Democratic Party or LDP [Oli AHMED]
National Socialist Party or JSD [KHALEQUZZAMAN]
Workers Party or WP [Rashed Khan MENON]
International organization participation: ADB, ARF, BIMSTEC, C, CD, CICA (observer), CP, D-8, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, IMSO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, MINURSO, MINUSMA, MONUSCO, NAM, OIC, OPCW, PCA, SAARC, SACEP, UN, UNAMID, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNISFA, UNIFIL, UNMIL, UNMISS, UNOCI, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador M Shahidul ISLAM (since 17 February 2021)
chancery: 3510 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 244-0183
FAX: [1] (202) 244-2771; [1] (202) 244 7830
email address and website:
mission.washington@mofa.gov.bd
http://www.bdembassyusa.org/
consulate(s) general: Los Angeles, New York
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Earl Robert MILLER (since 29 November 2018)
embassy: Madani Avenue, Baridhara, Dhaka - 1212
mailing address: 6120 Dhaka Place, Washington DC 20521-6120
telephone: [880] (2) 5566-2000
FAX: [880] (2) 5566-2907
email address and website:
DhakaACS@state.gov
https://bd.usembassy.gov/
Flag description: green field with a large red disk shifted slightly to the hoist side of center; the red disk represents the rising sun and the sacrifice to achieve independence; the green field symbolizes the lush vegetation of Bangladesh
National symbol(s): Bengal tiger, water lily; national colors: green, red
National anthem: name: "Amar Shonar Bangla" (My Golden Bengal)
lyrics/music: Rabindranath TAGORE
note: adopted 1971; Rabindranath TAGORE, a Nobel laureate, also wrote India's national anthem
National heritage: total World Heritage Sites: 3 (2 cultural, 1 natural)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Bagerhat Historic Mosque (c), Ruins of the Buddhist Vihara at Paharpur (c), Sundarbans (n)
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Bangladesh's economy has grown roughly 6% per year since 2005 despite prolonged periods of political instability, poor infrastructure, endemic corruption, insufficient power supplies, and slow implementation of economic reforms. Although more than half of GDP is generated through the services sector, almost half of Bangladeshis are employed in the agriculture sector, with rice as the single-most-important product. Garments, the backbone of Bangladesh's industrial sector, accounted for more than 80% of total exports in FY 2016-17. The industrial sector continues to grow, despite the need for improvements in factory safety conditions. Steady export growth in the garment sector, combined with $13 billion in remittances from overseas Bangladeshis, contributed to Bangladesh's rising foreign exchange reserves in FY 2016-17. Recent improvements to energy infrastructure, including the start of liquefied natural gas imports in 2018, represent a major step forward in resolving a key growth bottleneck.Bangladesh's economy has grown roughly 6% per year since 2005 despite prolonged periods of political instability, poor infrastructure, endemic corruption, insufficient power supplies, and slow implementation of economic reforms. Although more than half of GDP is generated through the services sector, almost half of Bangladeshis are employed in the agriculture sector, with rice as the single-most-important product. Garments, the backbone of Bangladesh's industrial sector, accounted for more than 80% of total exports in FY 2016-17. The industrial sector continues to grow, despite the need for improvements in factory safety conditions. Steady export growth in the garment sector, combined with $13 billion in remittances from overseas Bangladeshis, contributed to Bangladesh's rising foreign exchange reserves in FY 2016-17. Recent improvements to energy infrastructure, including the start of liquefied natural gas imports in 2018, represent a major step forward in resolving a key growth bottleneck.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $793.49 billion (2020 est.)
$775.08 billion (2019 est.)
$716.65 billion (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 7.4% (2017 est.)
7.2% (2016 est.)
6.8% (2015 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $4,800 (2020 est.)
$4,800 (2019 est.)
$4,400 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $329.545 billion (2020 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 5.5% (2019 est.)
5.5% (2018 est.)
5.6% (2017 est.)
Credit ratings: Fitch rating: BB- (2014)
Moody's rating: Ba3 (2012)
Standard & Poors rating: BB- (2010)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 14.2% (2017 est.)
industry: 29.3% (2017 est.)
services: 56.5% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 68.7% (2017 est.)
government consumption: 6% (2017 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 30.5% (2017 est.)
investment in inventories: 1% (2017 est.)
exports of goods and services: 15% (2017 est.)
imports of goods and services: -20.3% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: rice, potatoes, maize, sugar cane, milk, vegetables, onions, jute, mangoes/guavas, wheat
Industries: jute, cotton, garments, paper, leather, fertilizer, iron and steel, cement, petroleum products, tobacco, pharmaceuticals, ceramics, tea, salt, sugar, edible oils, soap and detergent, fabricated metal products, electricity, natural gas
Industrial production growth rate: 10.2% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 66.64 million (2017 est.)
note: extensive migration of labor to Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, UAE, Oman, Qatar, and Malaysia
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 42.7%
industry: 20.5%
services: 36.9% (2016 est.)
Unemployment rate: 4.4% (2017 est.)
4.4% (2016 est.)
note: about 40% of the population is underemployed; many persons counted as employed work only a few hours a week and at low wages
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 12.8%
male: 10.8%
female: 16.8% (2017 est.)
Population below poverty line: 24.3% (2016 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 32.4 (2016 est.)
33.2 (2005)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: 4%
highest 10%: 27% (2010 est.)
Budget: revenues: 25.1 billion (2017 est.)
expenditures: 33.5 billion (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): -3.2% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 33.1% of GDP (2017 est.)
33.3% of GDP (2016 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 9.6% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: 1 July - 30 June
Current account balance: -$5.322 billion (2017 est.)
$1.391 billion (2016 est.)
Exports: $38.78 billion (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$44.96 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$44.13 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Exports - partners: United States 15%, Germany 14%, United Kingdom 8%, Spain 7%, France 7% (2019)
Exports - commodities: clothing, knitwear, leather footwear (2019)
Imports: $57.26 billion (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$64.23 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$65.59 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Imports - partners: China 31%, India 15%, Singapore 5% (2019)
Imports - commodities: refined petroleum, cotton, natural gas, scrap iron, wheat (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $33.42 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
$32.28 billion (31 December 2016 est.)
Debt - external: $50.26 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
$41.85 billion (31 December 2016 est.)
Exchange rates: taka (BDT) per US dollar -
84.75 (2020 est.)
85 (2019 est.)
83.715 (2018 est.)
77.947 (2014 est.)
77.614 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 83% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 93% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 77% (2019)
Electricity - production: 60.51 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 53.65 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - imports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 11.9 million kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 97% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 2% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 2% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 3,000 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 21,860 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 28 million bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 26,280 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 106,000 bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 901 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 81,570 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 29.53 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 29.53 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 185.8 billion cu m (1 January 2018 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 1,390,048 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 1 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 176,279,465 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 107 (2020 est.)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: Bangladesh’s economic constraints hinder network infrastructure, resulting in the lowest fixed-line penetration rate in South Asia and a very low fixed broadband rate; most consumers utilize mobile broadband for data on LTE networks but rates are still well below that of most other Asian countries; the government approved a modernization project to support investment and prepare for 5G launches; 2020 test of 5G technology in Dhaka; government directive allows IoT for smart buildings and automation industries; government project aims to provide network to services and schools; importer of broadcasting equipment from China (2020)
domestic: fixed-line teledensity remains less than 1 per 100 persons; mobile-cellular telephone subscribership has been increasing rapidly and now exceeds 103 telephones per 100 persons; mobile subscriber growth is anticipated over the next five years to 2023; strong local competition (2020)
international: country code - 880; landing points for the SeaMeWe-4 and SeaMeWe-5 fiber-optic submarine cable system that provides links to Europe, the Middle East, and Asia; satellite earth stations - 6; international radiotelephone communications and landline service to neighboring countries (2019)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: state-owned Bangladesh Television (BTV) broadcasts throughout the country. Some channels, such as BTV World, operate via satellite. The government also owns a medium wave radio channel and some private FM radio broadcast news channels. Of the 41 Bangladesh approved TV stations, 26 are currently being used to broadcast. Of those, 23 operate under private management via cable distribution. Collectively, TV channels can reach more than 50 million people across the country.
Internet country code: .bd
Internet users: total: 41,172,346 (2020 est.)
percent of population: 25% (2020 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 10,052,819 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 6 (2020 est.)
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 6 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 30
annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 5,984,155 (2018)
annual freight traffic on registered air carriers: 63.82 million (2018) mt-km
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: S2
Airports: total: 18 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 16
over 3,047 m: 2
2,438 to 3,047 m: 2
1,524 to 2,437 m: 6
914 to 1,523 m: 1
under 914 m: 5 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 2
1,524 to 2,437 m: 1
under 914 m: 1 (2021)
Heliports: 3 (2021)
Pipelines: 2950 km gas (2013)
Railways: total: 2,460 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 1,801 km (2014) 1.000-m gauge
broad gauge: 659 km (2014) 1.676-m gauge
Roadways: total: 369,105 km (2018)
paved: 110,311 km (2018)
unpaved: 258,794 km (2018)
Waterways: 8,370 km (2011) (includes up to 3,060 km of main cargo routes; network reduced to 5,200 km in the dry season)
Merchant marine: total: 468
by type: bulk carrier 48, container ship 6, general cargo 140, oil tanker 144, other 130 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Chattogram (Chittagong)
container port(s) (TEUs): Chattogram (Chittagong) (3,088,187) (2019)
river port(s): Mongla Port (Sela River)
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: Bangladesh Defense Force: Bangladesh Army, Bangladesh Navy, Bangladesh Air Force; Ministry of Home Affairs: Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), Bangladesh Coast Guard, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), Ansars, Village Defense Party (VDP) (2022)
note(s) - the RAB, Ansars, and VDP are paramilitary organizations for internal security; the RAB is a joint task force founded in 2004 and composed of members of the police, army, navy, air force, and border guards seconded to the RAB from their respective units; its mandate includes internal security, intelligence gathering related to criminal activities, and government-directed investigations
Military expenditures: 1.2% of GDP (2021 est.)
1.3% of GDP (2020 est.)
1.4% of GDP (2019) (approximately $5.12 billion)
1.4% of GDP (2018) (approximately $4.57 billion)
1.3% of GDP (2017) (approximately $4.21 billion)
Military and security service personnel strengths: information varies; approximately 165,000 total active personnel (135,000 Army; 15,000 Navy; 15,000 Air Force) (2021)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: much of the military's inventory is comprised of Chinese- and Russian-origin equipment, with a smaller mix from a variety of other suppliers; since 2010, China is the leading provider of arms to Bangladesh; as of 2022, Bangladesh was undertaking a large defense modernization program, with a focus on naval acquisitions (2022)
Military service age and obligation: 16-21 years of age for voluntary military service; Bangladeshi nationality and 10th grade education required; officers: 17-21 years of age, Bangladeshi nationality, and 12th grade education required (2021)
Military deployments: Bangladesh has been one of the leading contributors to UN peacekeeping missions since it joined the UN in 1974; as of early 2022, it had approximately 6,400 personnel deployed, including about 5,800 troops, including: 1,375 Central African Republic (MINUSCA); 1,625 Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO; plus about 175 police); 125 Lebanon (UNIFIL); 1,100 Mali (MINUSMA; plus about 280 police); 1,600 South Sudan (UNMISS) (Jan 2022)
Military - note: as of 2022, the military’s chief areas of focus were border, economic exclusion zone, and domestic security; the Army maintained a large domestic security presence in the Chittagong Hills area where it conducted counterinsurgency operations against tribal guerrillas from the 1970s until the late 1990s; since 2009, the military has been in a force-wide expansion and modernization program known as Forces Goal 2030as of 2022, the military’s chief areas of focus were border, economic exclusion zone, and domestic security; the Army maintained a large domestic security presence in the Chittagong Hills area where it conducted counterinsurgency operations against tribal guerrillas from the 1970s until the late 1990s; since 2009, the military has been in a force-wide expansion and modernization program known as Forces Goal 2030
Maritime threats: the International Maritime Bureau reports the territorial waters of Bangladesh remain a risk for armed robbery against ships; there were no attacks reported in 2021 as opposed to four ships that were boarded in 2020
Topic: Terrorism
Terrorist group(s): Harakat ul-Jihad-i-Islami/Bangladesh; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham in Bangladesh; al-Qa'ida; al-Qa'ida in the Indian Subcontinent
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: Bangladesh-Burma: Burmese border authorities are constructing a 200 km (124 mi) wire fence designed to deter illegal cross-border transit and tensions from the military build-up along border.
Bangladesh-India: Bangladesh referred its maritime boundary claims with Burma and India to the International Tribunal on the Law of the Sea; Indian Prime Minister Singh's September 2011 visit to Bangladesh resulted in the signing of a Protocol to the 1974 Land Boundary Agreement between India and Bangladesh, which had called for the settlement of longstanding boundary disputes over un-demarcated areas and the exchange of territorial enclaves, but which had never been implemented.Bangladesh-Burma: Burmese border authorities are constructing a 200 km (124 mi) wire fence designed to deter illegal cross-border transit and tensions from the military build-up along border.
Bangladesh-India: Bangladesh referred its maritime boundary claims with Burma and India to the International Tribunal on the Law of the Sea; Indian Prime Minister Singh's September 2011 visit to Bangladesh resulted in the signing of a Protocol to the 1974 Land Boundary Agreement between India and Bangladesh, which had called for the settlement of longstanding boundary disputes over un-demarcated areas and the exchange of territorial enclaves, but which had never been implemented.
Refugees and internally displaced persons: refugees (country of origin): 925,380 (Burma) (2022) (includes an estimated 773,972 Rohingya refugees who have fled conflict since 25 August 2017)
IDPs: 427,000 (conflict, development, human rights violations, religious persecution, natural disasters) (2020)
stateless persons: 889,704 (mid-year 2021)
Illicit drugs: transit country for illegal drugs produced in neighboring countries; does not manufacture precursor chemicals with the exception of sulphuric acid, hydrochloric acid, and toluenetransit country for illegal drugs produced in neighboring countries; does not manufacture precursor chemicals with the exception of sulphuric acid, hydrochloric acid, and toluene |
20220601 | countries-saint-pierre-and-miquelon |
Topic: Photos of Saint Pierre and Miquelon
Topic: Introduction
Background: First settled by the French in the early 17th century, the islands represent the sole remaining vestige of France's once vast North American possessions. They attained the status of an overseas collectivity in 2003.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Northern North America, islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, south of Newfoundland (Canada)
Geographic coordinates: 46 50 N, 56 20 W
Map references: North America
Area: total: 242 sq km
land: 242 sq km
water: 0 sq km
note: includes eight small islands in the Saint Pierre and the Miquelon groups
Area - comparative: one and half times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries: total: 0 km
Coastline: 120 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
Climate: cold and wet, with considerable mist and fog; spring and autumn are often windy
Terrain: mostly barren rock
Elevation: highest point: Morne de la Grande Montagne 240 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Natural resources: fish, deepwater ports
Land use: agricultural land: 8.7% (2018 est.)
arable land: 8.7% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 0% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 0% (2018 est.)
forest: 12.5% (2018 est.)
other: 78.8% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 0 sq km (2012)
Population distribution: most of the population is found on Saint Pierre Island; a small settlement is located on the north end of Miquelon Island
Natural hazards: persistent fog throughout the year can be a maritime hazard
Geography - note: vegetation scanty; the islands are actually part of the northern Appalachians along with Newfoundland
Map description: Saint Pierre and Miquelon map showing the two islands that make up this French territorial overseas collectivity in the Gulf of St. Lawrence.Saint Pierre and Miquelon map showing the two islands that make up this French territorial overseas collectivity in the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 5,257 (2022 est.)
Nationality: noun: Frenchman(men), Frenchwoman(women)
adjective: French
Ethnic groups: Basques and Bretons (French fishermen)
Languages: French (official)
major-language sample(s):
The World Factbook, une source indispensable d'informations de base. (French)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Religions: Roman Catholic 99%, other 1%
Age structure: 0-14 years: 13.68% (male 370/female 349)
15-24 years: 8.71% (male 240/female 218)
25-54 years: 40% (male 1,039/female 1,100)
55-64 years: 15.52% (male 419/female 397)
65 years and over: 24.1% (2022 est.) (male 556/female 711)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: NA
youth dependency ratio: NA
elderly dependency ratio: NA
potential support ratio: NA
Median age: total: 48.5 years
male: 47.9 years
female: 49 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: -1.2% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 6.47 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 11.22 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: -7.23 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: most of the population is found on Saint Pierre Island; a small settlement is located on the north end of Miquelon Island
Urbanization: urban population: 90% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 0.75% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 6,000 SAINT-PIERRE (capital) (2018)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.06 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.11 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 0.93 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 1.05 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.62 male(s)/female
total population: 0.94 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 8.16 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 10.12 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 6.09 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 81.41 years
male: 79.05 years
female: 83.9 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 1.59 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: NA
Drinking water source: improved: urban: NA
rural: NA
total: 91.4% of population
unimproved: urban: NA
rural: NA
total: 8.6% of population (2017 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: NA
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: NA
rural: NA
total: 100% of population
unimproved: urban: NA
rural: NA
total: 0% of population (2020)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: NA
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: NA
HIV/AIDS - deaths: NA
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: NA
Education expenditures: NA
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: overfishing; recent test drilling for oil in waters around Saint Pierre and Miquelon may bring future development that would impact the environment
Climate: cold and wet, with considerable mist and fog; spring and autumn are often windy
Land use: agricultural land: 8.7% (2018 est.)
arable land: 8.7% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 0% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 0% (2018 est.)
forest: 12.5% (2018 est.)
other: 78.8% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 90% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 0.75% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Territorial Collectivity of Saint Pierre and Miquelon
conventional short form: Saint Pierre and Miquelon
local long form: Departement de Saint-Pierre et Miquelon
local short form: Saint-Pierre et Miquelon
etymology: Saint-Pierre is named after Saint PETER, the patron saint of fishermen; Miquelon may be a corruption of the Basque name Mikelon
Government type: parliamentary democracy (Territorial Council); overseas collectivity of France
Dependency status: overseas collectivity of France
Capital: name: Saint-Pierre
geographic coordinates: 46 46 N, 56 11 W
time difference: UTC-3 (2 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins second Sunday in March; ends first Sunday in November
etymology: named after Saint Peter, the patron saint of fisherman
Administrative divisions: none (territorial overseas collectivity of France); note - there are no first-order administrative divisions as defined by the US Government, but there are 2 communes at the second order - Saint Pierre, Miquelon
Independence: none (overseas collectivity collectivity of France; has been under French control since 1763)
National holiday: Fete de la Federation, 14 July (1790)
Constitution: history: 4 October 1958 (French Constitution)
amendments: amendment procedures of France's constitution apply
Legal system: French civil law
Citizenship: see France
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: President Emmanuel MACRON (since 14 May 2017); represented by Prefect Christian POUGET (since 6 January 2021)
head of government: President of Territorial Council Bernard BRIAND (since 13 October 2020)
cabinet: Le Cabinet du Prefet
elections/appointments: French president directly elected by absolute majority popular vote in 2 rounds if needed for a 5-year term (eligible for a second term); election last held on 23 April and 6 May 2017 (next to be held in 2022); prefect appointed by French president on the advice of French Ministry of Interior; Territorial Council president elected by Territorial Council councillors by absolute majority vote; term NA; election last held on 13 October 2020; next election NA
election results: Bernard BRIAND elected President of Territorial Council; Territorial Council vote - 17 for, 2 abstentions
Legislative branch: description: unicameral Territorial Council or Conseil Territorial (19 seats - Saint Pierre 15, Miquelon 4; members directly elected in single-seat constituencies by absolute majority vote in 2 rounds if needed to serve 6-year terms);
Saint Pierre and Miquelon indirectly elects 1 senator to the French Senate by an electoral college to serve a 6-year term and directly elects 1 deputy to the French National Assembly by absolute majority vote to serve a 5-year term
elections: Territorial Council - first round held on 20 March 2022 (next to be held in March 2028); second round held on 27 March 2022
French Senate - last held on 24 September 2017 (next to be held no later than September 2023)
French National Assembly - last held on 11 and 18 June 2017 (next to be held by June 2022)
election results: Territorial Council - percent of vote by party (first round) - AD 45.9%, Focus on the Future 37%, Together to Build 17.1%; percent of vote by party (second round) - AD 51.8%, Focus on the Future 38.1%, Together to Build 10.1%, seats by party - AD 15, Focus on the Future 4; composition - men NA, women NA, percent of women NA%
French Senate - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - PS 1 (affiliated with UMP)
French National Assembly - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - Ensemble pour l'Avenir 1 (affiliated with PRG); the Republicans (LR) 1
Judicial branch: highest courts: Superior Tribunal of Appeals or Tribunal Superieur d'Appel (composition NA)
judge selection and term of office: judge selection and tenure NA
subordinate courts: NA
Political parties and leaders: Archipelago Tomorrow (Archipel Domain) or AD (affiliated with The Republicans)
Focus on the Future (Cap sur l'Avenir) [Annick GIRARDIN] (affiliated with Left Radical Party)
Together to Build (Ensemble pour Construire) [Karine CLAIREAUX]
International organization participation: UPU, WFTU (NGOs)
Diplomatic representation in the US: none (territorial overseas collectivity of France)
Diplomatic representation from the US: embassy: none (territorial overseas collectivity of France)
Flag description: a yellow three-masted sailing ship facing the hoist side rides on a blue background with scattered, white, wavy lines under the ship; a continuous black-over-white wavy line divides the ship from the white wavy lines; on the hoist side, a vertical band is divided into three parts: the top part (called ikkurina) is red with a green diagonal cross extending to the corners overlaid by a white cross dividing the rectangle into four sections; the middle part has a white background with an ermine pattern; the third part has a red background with two stylized yellow lions outlined in black, one above the other; these three heraldic arms represent settlement by colonists from the Basque Country (top), Brittany, and Normandy; the blue on the main portion of the flag symbolizes the Atlantic Ocean and the stylized ship represents the Grande Hermine in which Jacques Cartier "discovered" the islands in 1536
note: the flag of France used for official occasions
National symbol(s): 16th-century sailing ship
National anthem: note: as a collectivity of France, "La Marseillaise" is official (see France)note: as a collectivity of France, "La Marseillaise" is official (see France)
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: The inhabitants have traditionally earned their livelihood by fishing and by servicing fishing fleets operating off the coast of Newfoundland. The economy has been declining, however, because of disputes with Canada over fishing quotas and a steady decline in the number of ships stopping at Saint Pierre. The services sector accounted for 86% of GDP in 2010, the last year data is available for. Government employment accounts for than 46% of the GDP, and 78% of the population is working age. The government hopes an expansion of tourism will boost economic prospects. Fish farming, crab fishing, and agriculture are being developed to diversify the local economy. Recent test drilling for oil may pave the way for development of the energy sector. Trade is the second largest sector in terms of value added created, where it contributes significantly to economic activity. The extractive industries and energy sector is the third largest sector of activity in the archipelago, attributable in part to the construction of a new thermal power plant in 2015.The inhabitants have traditionally earned their livelihood by fishing and by servicing fishing fleets operating off the coast of Newfoundland. The economy has been declining, however, because of disputes with Canada over fishing quotas and a steady decline in the number of ships stopping at Saint Pierre. The services sector accounted for 86% of GDP in 2010, the last year data is available for. Government employment accounts for than 46% of the GDP, and 78% of the population is working age. The government hopes an expansion of tourism will boost economic prospects. Fish farming, crab fishing, and agriculture are being developed to diversify the local economy. Recent test drilling for oil may pave the way for development of the energy sector. Trade is the second largest sector in terms of value added created, where it contributes significantly to economic activity. The extractive industries and energy sector is the third largest sector of activity in the archipelago, attributable in part to the construction of a new thermal power plant in 2015.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $261.3 million (2015 est.)
$215.3 million (2006 est.)
note: supplemented by annual payments from France of about $60 million
Real GDP growth rate: NANA
Real GDP per capita: $46,200 (2006 est.)
$34,900 (2005)
GDP (official exchange rate): $261.3 million (2015 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 1.5% (2015)
4.5% (2010)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 2% (2006 est.)
industry: 15% (2006 est.)
services: 83% (2006 est.)
Agricultural products: vegetables; poultry, cattle, sheep, pigs; fish
Industries: fish processing and supply base for fishing fleets; tourism
Industrial production growth rate: NA
Labor force: 4,429 (2015)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 18%
industry: 41%
services: 41% (1996 est.)
Unemployment rate: 8.7% (2015 est.)
9.9% (2008 est.)
Population below poverty line: NA
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Budget: revenues: 70 million (1996 est.)
expenditures: 60 million (1996 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): 3.8% (of GDP) (1996 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 26.8% (of GDP) (1996 est.)
Fiscal year: calendar year
Exports: $6.641 million (2010 est.)
$5.5 million (2005 est.)
Exports - partners: Canada 79%, France 8%, Belgium 6% (2019)
Exports - commodities: crustaceans, fish, medical instruments, electrical parts, pasta (2019)
Imports: $95.35 million (2010 est.)
$68.2 million (2005 est.)
Imports - partners: France 69%, Canada 22% (2019)
Imports - commodities: food preparation, packaged medicines, low-voltage protection equipment, cars, computers, iron structures (2019)
Debt - external: NANA
Exchange rates: euros (EUR) per US dollar -
0.885 (2017 est.)
0.903 (2016 est.)
0.9214 (2015 est.)
0.885 (2014 est.)
0.7634 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity - production: 46 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 42.78 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - imports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 27,600 kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 96% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 4% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 0 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 0 bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 660 bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 650 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 0 cu m (1 January 2014 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 4,800 (2015 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 76 (2015 est.)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: adequate (2019)
domestic: fixed-line teledensity 76 per 100 persons (2019)
international: country code - 508; landing point for the St Pierre and Miquelon Cable connecting Saint Pierre & Miquelon and Canada; radiotelephone communication with most countries in the world; satellite earth station - 1 in French domestic satellite system (2019)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: 8 TV stations, all part of the French Overseas Network, and local cable provided by SPM Telecom; 3 of 4 radio stations on St. Pierre and on Miquelon are part of the French Overseas Network (2021)
Internet country code: .pm
Internet users: total: 4,500 (2016 est.)
percent of population: 79.5% (2016 est.)
Topic: Transportation
Airports: total: 2 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 2
1,524 to 2,437 m: 1
914 to 1,523 m: 1 (2021)
Roadways: total: 117 km (2009)
paved: 80 km (2009)
unpaved: 37 km (2009)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Saint-Pierre
Topic: Military and Security
Military - note: defense is the responsibility of France
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: nonenone |
20220601 | countries-mauritius |
Topic: Photos of Mauritius
Topic: Introduction
Background: Although known to Arab and European sailors since at least the early 1500s, the island of Mauritius was uninhabited until 1638 when the Dutch established a settlement named in honor of Prince Maurits van NASSAU. Their presence led to the rapid disappearance of the flightless dodo bird that has since become one of the most well-known examples of extinction in modern times. The Dutch abandoned their financially distressed settlement in 1710, although a number of formerly enslaved people remained. In 1722, the French established what would become a highly profitable settlement focused on sugar cane plantations that were reliant on the labor of enslaved people brought to Mauritius from other parts of Africa. In the 1790s, the island had a brief period of autonomous rule when plantation owners rejected French control because of laws ending slavery that were temporarily in effect during the French Revolution. Britain captured the Island in 1810 as part of the Napoleonic Wars, but kept most of the French administrative structure which remains to this day in the form of the country’s legal codes and widespread use of French Creole language. The abolition of slavery in 1835 - later than most other British colonies - led to increased reliance on contracted laborers from the Indian subcontinent to work on plantations. Today their descendants form the majority of the population. Mauritius remained a strategically important British naval base, and later an air station, playing a role during World War II for anti-submarine and convoy operations, as well as for the collection of signals intelligence. Mauritius gained independence from the UK in 1968 as a Parliamentary Republic and has remained a stable democracy with regular free elections and a positive human rights record. The country also attracted considerable foreign investment and now has one of Africa's highest per capita incomes. Mauritius’ often fractious coalition politics has been dominated by two prominent families each of which has had father-son pairs who have been prime minister over multiple, often nonconsecutive, terms. Seewoosagur Ramgoolam (1968-76) was Mauritius’ first prime minister and he was succeeded by Anerood Jugnauth (1982-95, 2000-03, 2014-17); his son Navin Ramgoolam (1995-2000, 2005-14); and Paul Raymond Berenger (2003-05), the only non-Hindu prime minister of post-independence Mauritius. In 2017, Pravind Jugnauth became prime minister after his father stepped down short of completing his term, and he was elected in his own right in 2019. Mauritius claims the French island of Tromelin and the British Chagos Archipelago (British Indian Ocean Territory). Since 2017, Mauritius has secured favorable UN General Assembly (UNGA) resolutions and an International Court of Justice (ICJ) advisory opinion relating to its sovereignty dispute with the UK.Although known to Arab and European sailors since at least the early 1500s, the island of Mauritius was uninhabited until 1638 when the Dutch established a settlement named in honor of Prince Maurits van NASSAU. Their presence led to the rapid disappearance of the flightless dodo bird that has since become one of the most well-known examples of extinction in modern times. The Dutch abandoned their financially distressed settlement in 1710, although a number of formerly enslaved people remained. In 1722, the French established what would become a highly profitable settlement focused on sugar cane plantations that were reliant on the labor of enslaved people brought to Mauritius from other parts of Africa. In the 1790s, the island had a brief period of autonomous rule when plantation owners rejected French control because of laws ending slavery that were temporarily in effect during the French Revolution. Britain captured the Island in 1810 as part of the Napoleonic Wars, but kept most of the French administrative structure which remains to this day in the form of the country’s legal codes and widespread use of French Creole language. The abolition of slavery in 1835 - later than most other British colonies - led to increased reliance on contracted laborers from the Indian subcontinent to work on plantations. Today their descendants form the majority of the population. Mauritius remained a strategically important British naval base, and later an air station, playing a role during World War II for anti-submarine and convoy operations, as well as for the collection of signals intelligence.Mauritius gained independence from the UK in 1968 as a Parliamentary Republic and has remained a stable democracy with regular free elections and a positive human rights record. The country also attracted considerable foreign investment and now has one of Africa's highest per capita incomes. Mauritius’ often fractious coalition politics has been dominated by two prominent families each of which has had father-son pairs who have been prime minister over multiple, often nonconsecutive, terms. Seewoosagur Ramgoolam (1968-76) was Mauritius’ first prime minister and he was succeeded by Anerood Jugnauth (1982-95, 2000-03, 2014-17); his son Navin Ramgoolam (1995-2000, 2005-14); and Paul Raymond Berenger (2003-05), the only non-Hindu prime minister of post-independence Mauritius. In 2017, Pravind Jugnauth became prime minister after his father stepped down short of completing his term, and he was elected in his own right in 2019. Mauritius claims the French island of Tromelin and the British Chagos Archipelago (British Indian Ocean Territory). Since 2017, Mauritius has secured favorable UN General Assembly (UNGA) resolutions and an International Court of Justice (ICJ) advisory opinion relating to its sovereignty dispute with the UK.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Southern Africa, island in the Indian Ocean, about 800 km (500 mi) east of Madagascar
Geographic coordinates: 20 17 S, 57 33 E
Map references: Africa
Area: total: 2,040 sq km
land: 2,030 sq km
water: 10 sq km
note: includes Agalega Islands, Cargados Carajos Shoals (Saint Brandon), and Rodrigues
Area - comparative: almost 11 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries: total: 0 km
Coastline: 177 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
measured from claimed archipelagic straight baselines
Climate: tropical, modified by southeast trade winds; warm, dry winter (May to November); hot, wet, humid summer (November to May)
Terrain: small coastal plain rising to discontinuous mountains encircling central plateau
Elevation: highest point: Mont Piton 828 m
lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m
Natural resources: arable land, fish
Land use: agricultural land: 43.8% (2018 est.)
arable land: 38.4% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 2% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 3.4% (2018 est.)
forest: 17.3% (2018 est.)
other: 38.9% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 190 sq km (2012)
Population distribution: population density is one of the highest in the world; urban cluster are found throught the main island, with a greater density in and around Port Luis; population on Rodrigues Island is spread across the island with a slightly denser cluster on the north coast as shown in this population distribution map
Natural hazards: cyclones (November to April); almost completely surrounded by reefs that may pose maritime hazards
Geography - note: the main island, from which the country derives its name, is of volcanic origin and is almost entirely surrounded by coral reefs; former home of the dodo, a large flightless bird related to pigeons, driven to extinction by the end of the 17th century through a combination of hunting and the introduction of predatory species
Map description: Mauritius map showing major population centers on this island nation in the Indian Ocean.Mauritius map showing major population centers on this island nation in the Indian Ocean.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 1,308,222 (2022 est.)
Nationality: noun: Mauritian(s)
adjective: Mauritian
Ethnic groups: Indo-Mauritian (compose approximately two thirds of the total population), Creole, Sino-Mauritian, Franco-Mauritian
note: Mauritius has not had a question on ethnicity on its national census since 1972
Languages: Creole 86.5%, Bhojpuri 5.3%, French 4.1%, two languages 1.4%, other 2.6% (includes English, one of the two official languages of the National Assembly, which is spoken by less than 1% of the population), unspecified 0.1% (2011 est.)
Religions: Hindu 48.5%, Roman Catholic 26.3%, Muslim 17.3%, other Christian 6.4%, other 0.6%, none 0.7%, unspecified 0.1% (2011 est.)
Demographic profile: Mauritius has transitioned from a country of high fertility and high mortality rates in the 1950s and mid-1960s to one with among the lowest population growth rates in the developing world today. After World War II, Mauritius’ population began to expand quickly due to increased fertility and a dramatic drop in mortality rates as a result of improved health care and the eradication of malaria. This period of heightened population growth – reaching about 3% a year – was followed by one of the world’s most rapid birth rate declines.The total fertility rate fell from 6.2 children per women in 1963 to 3.2 in 1972 – largely the result of improved educational attainment, especially among young women, accompanied by later marriage and the adoption of family planning methods. The family planning programs’ success was due to support from the government and eventually the traditionally pronatalist religious communities, which both recognized that controlling population growth was necessary because of Mauritius’ small size and limited resources. Mauritius’ fertility rate has consistently been below replacement level since the late 1990s, a rate that is substantially lower than nearby countries in southern Africa.With no indigenous population, Mauritius’ ethnic mix is a product of more than two centuries of European colonialism and continued international labor migration. Sugar production relied on slave labor mainly from Madagascar, Mozambique, and East Africa from the early 18th century until its abolition in 1835, when slaves were replaced with indentured Indians. Most of the influx of indentured labor – peaking between the late 1830s and early 1860 – settled permanently creating massive population growth of more than 7% a year and reshaping the island’s social and cultural composition. While Indians represented about 12% of Mauritius’ population in 1837, they and their descendants accounted for roughly two-thirds by the end of the 19th century. Most were Hindus, but the majority of the free Indian traders were Muslims.Mauritius again turned to overseas labor when its success in clothing and textile exports led to a labor shortage in the mid-1980s. Clothing manufacturers brought in contract workers (increasingly women) from China, India, and, to a lesser extent Bangladesh and Madagascar, who worked longer hours for lower wages under poor conditions and were viewed as more productive than locals. Downturns in the sugar and textile industries in the mid-2000s and a lack of highly qualified domestic workers for Mauritius’ growing services sector led to the emigration of low-skilled workers and a reliance on skilled foreign labor. Since 2007, Mauritius has pursued a circular migration program to enable citizens to acquire new skills and savings abroad and then return home to start businesses and to invest in the country’s development.Mauritius has transitioned from a country of high fertility and high mortality rates in the 1950s and mid-1960s to one with among the lowest population growth rates in the developing world today. After World War II, Mauritius’ population began to expand quickly due to increased fertility and a dramatic drop in mortality rates as a result of improved health care and the eradication of malaria. This period of heightened population growth – reaching about 3% a year – was followed by one of the world’s most rapid birth rate declines.The total fertility rate fell from 6.2 children per women in 1963 to 3.2 in 1972 – largely the result of improved educational attainment, especially among young women, accompanied by later marriage and the adoption of family planning methods. The family planning programs’ success was due to support from the government and eventually the traditionally pronatalist religious communities, which both recognized that controlling population growth was necessary because of Mauritius’ small size and limited resources. Mauritius’ fertility rate has consistently been below replacement level since the late 1990s, a rate that is substantially lower than nearby countries in southern Africa.With no indigenous population, Mauritius’ ethnic mix is a product of more than two centuries of European colonialism and continued international labor migration. Sugar production relied on slave labor mainly from Madagascar, Mozambique, and East Africa from the early 18th century until its abolition in 1835, when slaves were replaced with indentured Indians. Most of the influx of indentured labor – peaking between the late 1830s and early 1860 – settled permanently creating massive population growth of more than 7% a year and reshaping the island’s social and cultural composition. While Indians represented about 12% of Mauritius’ population in 1837, they and their descendants accounted for roughly two-thirds by the end of the 19th century. Most were Hindus, but the majority of the free Indian traders were Muslims.Mauritius again turned to overseas labor when its success in clothing and textile exports led to a labor shortage in the mid-1980s. Clothing manufacturers brought in contract workers (increasingly women) from China, India, and, to a lesser extent Bangladesh and Madagascar, who worked longer hours for lower wages under poor conditions and were viewed as more productive than locals. Downturns in the sugar and textile industries in the mid-2000s and a lack of highly qualified domestic workers for Mauritius’ growing services sector led to the emigration of low-skilled workers and a reliance on skilled foreign labor. Since 2007, Mauritius has pursued a circular migration program to enable citizens to acquire new skills and savings abroad and then return home to start businesses and to invest in the country’s development.
Age structure: 0-14 years: 19.44% (male 137,010/female 131,113)
15-24 years: 14.06% (male 98,480/female 95,472)
25-54 years: 43.11% (male 297,527/female 297,158)
55-64 years: 12.31% (male 80,952/female 88,785)
65 years and over: 11.08% (2020 est.) (male 63,230/female 89,638)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 41.5
youth dependency ratio: 23.7
elderly dependency ratio: 17.7
potential support ratio: 5.6 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 36.3 years
male: 35 years
female: 37.6 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 0.1% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 9.86 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 8.86 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: population density is one of the highest in the world; urban cluster are found throught the main island, with a greater density in and around Port Luis; population on Rodrigues Island is spread across the island with a slightly denser cluster on the north coast as shown in this population distribution map
Urbanization: urban population: 40.8% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 0.28% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 149,000 PORT LOUIS (capital) (2018)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.07 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.05 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.03 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 1 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 0.9 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.47 male(s)/female
total population: 0.95 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Maternal mortality ratio: 61 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 12.08 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 13.63 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 10.43 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 74.86 years
male: 72.04 years
female: 77.88 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 1.35 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: 63.8% (2014)
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 99.9% of population
rural: 99.8% of population
total: 99.9% of population
unimproved: urban: 0.1% of population
rural: 0.2% of population
total: 0.1% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 6.2% (2019)
Physicians density: 2.6 physicians/1,000 population (2019)
Hospital bed density: 3.7 beds/1,000 population (2020)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 99.9% of population
rural: NA
total: NA
unimproved: urban: 0.1% of population
rural: NA
total: (2020 est.) NA
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: 1.7% (2020)
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: 14,000 (2020)
HIV/AIDS - deaths: (2020) <1000
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 10.8% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: NA
Education expenditures: 4.6% of GDP (2020)
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 91.3%
male: 93.4%
female: 89.4% (2018)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 15 years
male: 14 years
female: 16 years (2017)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 21.8%
male: 16.8%
female: 28.4% (2019 est.)
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: water pollution, degradation of coral reefs; soil erosion; wildlife preservation; solid waste disposal
Environment - international agreements: party to: Antarctic-Marine Living Resources, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 13.54 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 4.35 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 2.06 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: tropical, modified by southeast trade winds; warm, dry winter (May to November); hot, wet, humid summer (November to May)
Land use: agricultural land: 43.8% (2018 est.)
arable land: 38.4% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 2% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 3.4% (2018 est.)
forest: 17.3% (2018 est.)
other: 38.9% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 40.8% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 0.28% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 0% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0% of GDP (2018 est.)
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 438,000 tons (2016 est.)
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 260 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 12 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 344 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 2.751 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Republic of Mauritius
conventional short form: Mauritius
local long form: Republic of Mauritius
local short form: Mauritius
etymology: island named after Prince Maurice VAN NASSAU, stadtholder of the Dutch Republic, in 1598
note: pronounced mah-rish-us
Government type: parliamentary republic
Capital: name: Port Louis
geographic coordinates: 20 09 S, 57 29 E
time difference: UTC+4 (9 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: named after Louis XV, who was king of France in 1736 when the port became the administrative center of Mauritius and a major reprovisioning stop for French ships traveling between Europe and Asia
Administrative divisions: 9 districts and 3 dependencies*; Agalega Islands*, Black River, Cargados Carajos Shoals*, Flacq, Grand Port, Moka, Pamplemousses, Plaines Wilhems, Port Louis, Riviere du Rempart, Rodrigues*, Savanne
Independence: 12 March 1968 (from the UK)
National holiday: Independence and Republic Day, 12 March (1968 & 1992); note - became independent and a republic on the same date in 1968 and 1992 respectively
Constitution: history: several previous; latest adopted 12 March 1968
amendments: proposed by the National Assembly; passage of amendments affecting constitutional articles, including the sovereignty of the state, fundamental rights and freedoms, citizenship, or the branches of government, requires approval in a referendum by at least three-fourths majority of voters followed by a unanimous vote by the Assembly; passage of other amendments requires only two-thirds majority vote by the Assembly; amended many times, last in 2016
Legal system: civil legal system based on French civil law with some elements of English common law
International law organization participation: accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction with reservations; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: yes
citizenship by descent only: yes
dual citizenship recognized: yes
residency requirement for naturalization: 5 out of the previous 7 years including the last 12 months
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: President Pritivirajsing ROOPUN (since December 2019); Vice President Marie Cyril Eddy Boissézon (2 December 2019) note - President Ameenah GURIB-FAKIM (since 5 June 2015), the country's first female president, resigned on 23 March 2018 amid a credit card scandal
head of government: Prime Minister Pravind JUGNAUTH (since 23 January 2017, remains PM after parliamentary election 7 Nov 2019); note - Prime Minister Sir Anerood JUGNAUTH (since 17 December 2014) stepped down on 23 January 2017 in favor of his son, Pravind Kumar JUGNAUTH, who was then appointed prime minister; 7 Nov 2019 Pravind Jugnauth remains prime minister and home affairs minister and also becomes defense minister (2019)
cabinet: Cabinet of Ministers (Council of Ministers) appointed by the president on the recommendation of the prime minister
elections/appointments: president and vice president indirectly elected by the National Assembly for 5-year renewable terms; election last held on 7 Nov 2019 (next to be held in 2024); prime minister and deputy prime minister appointed by the president, responsible to the National Assembly (2019)
election results: seats by party as of 7/11/2019 - (MSM) 38, (PTR) 14, (MMM) 8, (OPR) 2 (2018)
Legislative branch: description: unicameral National Assembly or Assemblee Nationale (70 seats maximum; 62 members directly elected multi-seat constituencies by simple majority vote and up to 8 seats allocated to non-elected party candidates by the Office of Electoral Commissioner; members serve a 5-year term)
elections: last held on 7 November 2019 (next to be held by late 2024)
election results: percent of vote by party - MSM 61%, Mauritius Labour Party 23%, MMM 13%, OPR 3%; elected seats by party as of - the Militant Socialist Movement (MSM) wins 38 seats, the Mauritius Labour Party (PTR) or (MLP) 14, Mauritian Militant Movement (MMM) 8 and the Rodrigues People's Organization (OPR) 2; composition - men 49, women 13; percent of women 20% (2019)
Judicial branch: highest courts: Supreme Court of Mauritius (consists of the chief justice, a senior puisne judge, and 24 puisne judges); note - the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council (in London) serves as the final court of appeal
judge selection and term of office: chief justice appointed by the president after consultation with the prime minister; senior puisne judge appointed by the president with the advice of the chief justice; other puisne judges appointed by the president with the advice of the Judicial and Legal Commission, a 4-member body of judicial officials including the chief justice; all judges serve until retirement at age 67
subordinate courts: lower regional courts known as District Courts, Court of Civil Appeal; Court of Criminal Appeal; Public Bodies Appeal Tribunal
Political parties and leaders: Alliance Morisien (Mauritian Alliance 2019; coalition includes MSM, ML, Patriotic Movement, and Militant Platform) [Pravind JUGNAUTH]
Mauritius Labor Party (Parti Travailliste) or PTR or MLP [Navinchandra RAMGOOLAM]
Mauritian Militant Movement (Mouvement Militant Mauricien) or MMM [Paul BERENGER]
Mauritian People's Union (Linion Pep Morisien) [Bruneau LAURETTE and Dev SUNNASY]
Mauritian Rally (Rassemblement Mauricien) [Nando BODHA]
Mauritian Social Democratic Party (Parti Mauricien Social Democrate) or PMSD [Xavier Luc DUVAL]
Militant Platform (Plateforme Militante) [Steven OBEEGADOO]
Militant Socialist Movement (Mouvement Socialist Mauricien) or MSM [Pravind JUGNAUTH]
Muvman Liberater or ML [Ivan COLLENDAVELLOO]
Patriotic Movement (Mouvement Patriotic) [Alan GANOO]
Rodrigues Peoples Organization (Organisation du Peuple Rodriguais) or OPR [Serge CLAIR]
International organization participation: ACP, AfDB, AOSIS, AU, C, CD, COMESA, CPLP (associate), FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (NGOs), ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, IMSO, InOC, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, NAM, OIF, OPCW, PCA, SAARC (observer), SADC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Purmanund JHUGROO (since 7 July 2021)
chancery: 1709 N Street NW, Washington, DC 20036; administrative offices at 3201 Connecticut Avenue NW, Suite 441, Washington, DC 20036
telephone: [1] (202) 244-1491; [1] (202) 244-1492
FAX: [1] (202) 966-0983
email address and website:
mauritius.embassy@verizon.net; washingtonemb@govmu.org
https://mauritius-washington.govmu.org/Pages/index.aspx
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Judes E. DEBAERE (since June 2019); note - also accredited to Seychelles
embassy: 4th Floor, Rogers House, John Kennedy Avenue, Port Louis
mailing address: 2450 Port Louis Place, Washington, DC 20521-2450
telephone: [230] 202-4400
FAX: [230] 208-9534
email address and website:
PTLConsular@state.gov
https://mu.usembassy.gov/
Flag description: four equal horizontal bands of red (top), blue, yellow, and green; red represents self-determination and independence, blue the Indian Ocean surrounding the island, yellow has been interpreted as the new light of independence, golden sunshine, or the bright future, and green can symbolize either agriculture or the lush vegetation of the island
note: while many national flags consist of three - and in some cases five - horizontal bands of color, the flag of Mauritius is the world's only national flag to consist of four horizontal color bands
National symbol(s): dodo bird, Trochetia Boutoniana flower; national colors: red, blue, yellow, green
National anthem: name: Motherland
lyrics/music: Jean Georges PROSPER/Philippe GENTIL
note: adopted 1968
National heritage: total World Heritage Sites: 2 (both cultural)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Aapravasi Ghat, Le Morne Cultural Landscape
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Since independence in 1968, Mauritius has undergone a remarkable economic transformation from a low-income, agriculturally based economy to a diversified, upper middle-income economy with growing industrial, financial, and tourist sectors. Mauritius has achieved steady growth over the last several decades, resulting in more equitable income distribution, increased life expectancy, lowered infant mortality, and a much-improved infrastructure. The economy currently depends on sugar, tourism, textiles and apparel, and financial services, but is expanding into fish processing, information and communications technology, education, and hospitality and property development. Sugarcane is grown on about 90% of the cultivated land area but sugar makes up only around 3-4% of national GDP. Authorities plan to emphasize services and innovation in the coming years. After several years of slow growth, government policies now seek to stimulate economic growth in five areas: serving as a gateway for international investment into Africa; increasing the use of renewable energy; developing smart cities; growing the ocean economy; and upgrading and modernizing infrastructure, including public transportation, the port, and the airport. Mauritius has attracted more than 32,000 offshore entities, many aimed at commerce in India, South Africa, and China. The Mauritius International Financial Center is under scrutiny by international bodies promoting fair tax competition and Mauritius has been cooperating with the European Union and the United states in the automatic exchange of account information. Mauritius is also a member of the OECD/G20’s Inclusive Framework on Base Erosion and Profit Shifting and is under pressure to review its Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements. The offshore sector is vulnerable to changes in the tax framework and authorities have been working on a Financial Services Sector Blueprint to enable Mauritius to transition to a jurisdiction of higher value added. Mauritius’ textile sector has taken advantage of the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act, a preferential trade program that allows duty free access to the US market, with Mauritian exports to the US growing by 35.6 % from 2000 to 2014. However, lack of local labor as well as rising labor costs eroding the competitiveness of textile firms in Mauritius. Mauritius' sound economic policies and prudent banking practices helped mitigate negative effects of the global financial crisis in 2008-09. GDP grew in the 3-4% per year range in 2010-17, and the country continues to expand its trade and investment outreach around the globe. Growth in the US and Europe fostered goods and services exports, including tourism, while lower oil prices kept inflation low. Mauritius continues to rank as one of the most business-friendly environments on the continent and passed a Business Facilitation Act to improve competitiveness and long-term growth prospects. A new National Economic Development Board was set up in 2017-2018 to spearhead efforts to promote exports and attract inward investment.Since independence in 1968, Mauritius has undergone a remarkable economic transformation from a low-income, agriculturally based economy to a diversified, upper middle-income economy with growing industrial, financial, and tourist sectors. Mauritius has achieved steady growth over the last several decades, resulting in more equitable income distribution, increased life expectancy, lowered infant mortality, and a much-improved infrastructure. The economy currently depends on sugar, tourism, textiles and apparel, and financial services, but is expanding into fish processing, information and communications technology, education, and hospitality and property development. Sugarcane is grown on about 90% of the cultivated land area but sugar makes up only around 3-4% of national GDP. Authorities plan to emphasize services and innovation in the coming years. After several years of slow growth, government policies now seek to stimulate economic growth in five areas: serving as a gateway for international investment into Africa; increasing the use of renewable energy; developing smart cities; growing the ocean economy; and upgrading and modernizing infrastructure, including public transportation, the port, and the airport. Mauritius has attracted more than 32,000 offshore entities, many aimed at commerce in India, South Africa, and China. The Mauritius International Financial Center is under scrutiny by international bodies promoting fair tax competition and Mauritius has been cooperating with the European Union and the United states in the automatic exchange of account information. Mauritius is also a member of the OECD/G20’s Inclusive Framework on Base Erosion and Profit Shifting and is under pressure to review its Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements. The offshore sector is vulnerable to changes in the tax framework and authorities have been working on a Financial Services Sector Blueprint to enable Mauritius to transition to a jurisdiction of higher value added. Mauritius’ textile sector has taken advantage of the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act, a preferential trade program that allows duty free access to the US market, with Mauritian exports to the US growing by 35.6 % from 2000 to 2014. However, lack of local labor as well as rising labor costs eroding the competitiveness of textile firms in Mauritius. Mauritius' sound economic policies and prudent banking practices helped mitigate negative effects of the global financial crisis in 2008-09. GDP grew in the 3-4% per year range in 2010-17, and the country continues to expand its trade and investment outreach around the globe. Growth in the US and Europe fostered goods and services exports, including tourism, while lower oil prices kept inflation low. Mauritius continues to rank as one of the most business-friendly environments on the continent and passed a Business Facilitation Act to improve competitiveness and long-term growth prospects. A new National Economic Development Board was set up in 2017-2018 to spearhead efforts to promote exports and attract inward investment.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $24.64 billion (2020 est.)
$28.95 billion (2019 est.)
$28.1 billion (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 3.8% (2017 est.)
3.8% (2016 est.)
3.6% (2015 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $19,500 (2020 est.)
$22,900 (2019 est.)
$22,200 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $14.004 billion (2019 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 0.4% (2019 est.)
3.2% (2018 est.)
3.6% (2017 est.)
Credit ratings: Moody's rating: Baa1 (2012)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 4% (2017 est.)
industry: 21.8% (2017 est.)
services: 74.1% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 81% (2017 est.)
government consumption: 15.1% (2017 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 17.3% (2017 est.)
investment in inventories: -0.4% (2017 est.)
exports of goods and services: 42.1% (2017 est.)
imports of goods and services: -55.1% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: sugar cane, poultry, pumpkins, gourds, potatoes, eggs, tomatoes, pineapples, bananas, fruit
Industries: food processing (largely sugar milling), textiles, clothing, mining, chemicals, metal products, transport equipment, nonelectrical machinery, tourism
Industrial production growth rate: 3.2% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 554,000 (2020 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 8%
industry: 29.8%
services: 62.2% (2014 est.)
Unemployment rate: 6.65% (2019 est.)
6.84% (2018 est.)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 21.8%
male: 16.8%
female: 28.4% (2019 est.)
Population below poverty line: 10.3% (2017 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 36.8 (2017 est.)
39 (2006 est.)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Budget: revenues: 2.994 billion (2017 est.)
expenditures: 3.038 billion (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): -0.3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 64% of GDP (2017 est.)
66.1% of GDP (2016 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 22.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: 1 July - 30 June
Current account balance: -$875 million (2017 est.)
-$531 million (2016 est.)
Exports: $5.17 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$5.59 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Exports - partners: France 10%, South Africa 10%, United States 10%, United Kingdom 8%, Zambia 7%, Madagascar 6% (2019)
Exports - commodities: fish products, raw sugar, clothing and apparel, diamonds, refined petroleum (2019)
Imports: $7.41 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$7.53 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Imports - partners: China 15%, India 13%, France 10%, South Africa 8%, United Arab Emirates 7% (2019)
Imports - commodities: refined petroleum, cars, fish products, aircraft, packaged medicines (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $5.984 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
$4.967 billion (31 December 2016 est.)
Debt - external: $226.799 billion (2019 est.)
$232.17 billion (2018 est.)
Exchange rates: Mauritian rupees (MUR) per US dollar -
39.65 (2020 est.)
36.51 (2019 est.)
34.4 (2018 est.)
35.057 (2014 est.)
30.622 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Electricity - production: 2.898 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 2.726 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - imports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 894,000 kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 79% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 7% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 14% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 0 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 0 bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 27,000 bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 26,960 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 0 cu m (1 January 2014 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 478,700 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 38 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 1,912,900 (2019)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 150.4 (2019 est.)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: Mauritius is successfully pursuing a policy to make telecommunications a pillar of economic growth, and to have a fully digital-based smart infrastructure; the island nation is a pioneer in the telecom sector, with the first market in greater Africa to launch mobile networks and provide 3G, the first in the world to develop a nationwide WiMAX wireless broadband network, and one of the first to launch IPTV; LTE and fiber broadband are nationally available, and the government supports national Wi-Fi; international cable connectivity has improved, increasing bandwidth capacity; submarine cable provides connectivity to South Africa and beyond; major importer of broadcasting equipment from China (2020)
domestic: fixed-line teledensity over 37 per 100 persons and mobile-cellular services teledensity roughly 150 per 100 persons (2020)
international: country code - 230; landing points for the SAFE, MARS, IOX Cable System, METISS and LION submarine cable system that provides links to Asia, Africa, Southeast Asia, Indian Ocean Islands of Reunion, Madagascar, and Mauritius; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean); new microwave link to Reunion; HF radiotelephone links to several countries (2019)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: the government maintains control over TV broadcasting through the Mauritius Broadcasting Corporation (MBC), which only operates digital TV stations since June 2015; MBC is a shareholder in a local company that operates 2 pay-TV stations; the state retains the largest radio broadcast network with multiple stations; several private radio broadcasters have entered the market since 2001; transmissions of at least 2 international broadcasters are available (2019)
Internet country code: .mu
Internet users: total: 822,731 (2020 est.)
percent of population: 65% (2020 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 323,200 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 25 (2020 est.)
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 1 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 13
annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 1,745,291 (2018)
annual freight traffic on registered air carriers: 233.72 million (2018) mt-km
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: 3B
Airports: total: 5 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 2
over 3,047 m: 1
914 to 1,523 m: 1 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 3
914 to 1,523 m: 2
under 914 m: 1 (2021)
Roadways: total: 2,428 km (2015)
paved: 2,379 km (2015) (includes 99 km of expressways)
unpaved: 49 km (2015)
Merchant marine: total: 29
by type: general cargo 1, oil tanker 4, other 24 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Port Louis
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: no regular military forces; the Mauritius Police Force (MPF) includes a paramilitary unit known as the Special Mobile Force, which includes a motorized infantry battalion and 2 light armored squadrons; the MPF also has a Police Helicopter Squadron, a Special Support Unit (riot police), and the National Coast Guard (also includes an air squadron) (2021)
Military expenditures: 0.2% of GDP (2021 est.)
0.2% of GDP (2020 est.)
0.3% of GDP (2019 est.) (approximately $80 million)
0.3% of GDP (2018 est.) (approximately $80 million)
0.3% of GDP (2017 est.) (approximately $80 million)
Military and security service personnel strengths: approximately 1,700 Special Mobile Force; approximately 800 National Coast Guard (2021)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the MPF's inventory is comprised of mostly second-hand equipment from Western European countries and India; since 2010, India has been the primary supplier (2021)
Military service age and obligation: service is voluntary (2021)
Military - note: as of 2021, the country’s primary security partner was India, and Indian naval vessels often patrol Mauritian waters; the MPF has also received assistance and training from France, the UK, and the US; the MPF’s chief security concerns are piracy and narcotics trafficking the paramilitary Special Mobile Force was created in 1960 following the withdrawal of the British garrisonas of 2021, the country’s primary security partner was India, and Indian naval vessels often patrol Mauritian waters; the MPF has also received assistance and training from France, the UK, and the US; the MPF’s chief security concerns are piracy and narcotics traffickingthe paramilitary Special Mobile Force was created in 1960 following the withdrawal of the British garrison
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: Mauritius and Seychelles claim the Chagos Islands (UK-administered British Indian Ocean Territory); claims French-administered Tromelin IslandMauritius and Seychelles claim the Chagos Islands (UK-administered British Indian Ocean Territory); claims French-administered Tromelin Island
Trafficking in persons: current situation: Mauritius is a source, transit, and destination country for men, women, and children subjected to forced labor and sex trafficking; Mauritian girls are induced or sold into prostitution, often by peers, family members, or businessmen offering other forms of employment; Mauritian adults have been identified as labor trafficking victims in the UK, Belgium, and Canada, while Mauritian women from Rodrigues Island are also subject to domestic servitude in Mauritius; Malagasy women transit Mauritius en route to the Middle East for jobs as domestic servants and subsequently are subjected to forced labor; Cambodian men are victims of forced labor on foreign fishing vessels in Mauritius’ territorial waters; other migrant workers from East and South Asia and Madagascar are also subject to forced labor in Mauritius’ manufacturing and construction sectors
tier rating: Tier 2 Watch List – Mauritius does not fully comply with the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking; however, it is making significant efforts to do so; in 2014, the government made modest efforts to address child sex trafficking but none related to adult forced labor; law enforcement lacks an understanding of trafficking crimes outside of child sex trafficking, despite increasing evidence of other forms of human trafficking; authorities made no trafficking prosecutions or convictions and made modest efforts to assist a couple of child sex trafficking victims; officials sustained an extensive public awareness campaign to prevent child sex trafficking, but no efforts were made to raise awareness or reduce demand for forced adult or child labor (2015)
Illicit drugs: consumer and transshipment point for heroin from South Asia; small amounts of cannabis produced and consumed locally; significant offshore financial industry creates potential for money launderingconsumer and transshipment point for heroin from South Asia; small amounts of cannabis produced and consumed locally; significant offshore financial industry creates potential for money laundering |
20220601 | countries-eswatini |
Topic: Photos of Eswatini
Topic: Introduction
Background: Autonomy for Eswatini was guaranteed by the British in the late 19th century; independence was granted in 1968. A new constitution came into effect in 2006, which included provisions for a more independent parliament and judiciary, but the legal status of political parties remains unclear. King MSWATI III renamed the country from Swaziland to Eswatini in April 2018. Despite its classification as a lower-middle income country, Eswatini suffers from severe poverty and high unemployment. Eswatini has the world's highest HIV/AIDS prevalence rate, although recent years have shown marked declines in new infections. Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Southern Africa, between Mozambique and South Africa
Geographic coordinates: 26 30 S, 31 30 E
Map references: Africa
Area: total: 17,364 sq km
land: 17,204 sq km
water: 160 sq km
Area - comparative: slightly smaller than New Jersey
Land boundaries: total: 546 km
border countries (2): Mozambique 108 km; South Africa 438 km
Coastline: 0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims: none (landlocked)
Climate: varies from tropical to near temperate
Terrain: mostly mountains and hills; some moderately sloping plains
Elevation: highest point: Emlembe 1,862 m
lowest point: Great Usutu River 21 m
mean elevation: 305 m
Natural resources: asbestos, coal, clay, cassiterite, hydropower, forests, small gold and diamond deposits, quarry stone, and talc
Land use: agricultural land: 68.3% (2018 est.)
arable land: 9.8% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 0.8% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 57.7% (2018 est.)
forest: 31.7% (2018 est.)
other: 0% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 500 sq km (2012)
Population distribution: because of its mountainous terrain, the population distribution is uneven throughout the country, concentrating primarily in valleys and plains as shown in this population distribution map
Natural hazards: drought
Geography - note: landlocked; almost completely surrounded by South Africa
Map description: Eswatini map showing major population centers as well as parts of surrounding countries.Eswatini map showing major population centers as well as parts of surrounding countries.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 1,121,761 (2022 est.)
note: estimates for this country explicitly taken into account the impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic
Nationality: noun: liSwati (singular), emaSwati (plural); note - former term, Swazi(s), still used among English speakers
adjective: Swati; note - former term, Swazi, still used among English speakers
Ethnic groups: predominantly Swazi; smaller populations of other African ethnic groups, including the Zulu, as well as people of European ancestrypredominantly Swazi; smaller populations of other African ethnic groups, including the Zulu, as well as people of European ancestry
Languages: English (official, used for government business), siSwati (official)
Religions: Christian 90% (Zionist - a blend of Christianity and indigenous ancestral worship - 40%, Roman Catholic 20%, other 30% - includes Anglican, Methodist, Church of Jesus Christ, Jehovah's Witness), Muslim 2%, other 8% (includes Baha'i, Buddhist, Hindu, indigenous, Jewish) (2015 est.)
Demographic profile: Eswatini, a small, predominantly rural, landlocked country surrounded by South Africa and Mozambique, suffers from severe poverty and the world’s highest HIV/AIDS prevalence rate. A weak and deteriorating economy, high unemployment, rapid population growth, and an uneven distribution of resources all combine to worsen already persistent poverty and food insecurity, especially in rural areas. Erratic weather (frequent droughts and intermittent heavy rains and flooding), overuse of small plots, the overgrazing of cattle, and outdated agricultural practices reduce crop yields and further degrade the environment, exacerbating Eswatini's poverty and subsistence problems. Eswatini's extremely high HIV/AIDS prevalence rate – more than 28% of adults have the disease – compounds these issues. Agricultural production has declined due to HIV/AIDS, as the illness causes households to lose manpower and to sell livestock and other assets to pay for medicine and funerals.Swazis, mainly men from the country’s rural south, have been migrating to South Africa to work in coal, and later gold, mines since the late 19th century. Although the number of miners abroad has never been high in absolute terms because of Eswatini's small population, the outflow has had important social and economic repercussions. The peak of mining employment in South Africa occurred during the 1980s. Cross-border movement has accelerated since the 1990s, as increasing unemployment has pushed more Swazis to look for work in South Africa (creating a "brain drain" in the health and educational sectors); southern Swazi men have continued to pursue mining, although the industry has downsized. Women now make up an increasing share of migrants and dominate cross-border trading in handicrafts, using the proceeds to purchase goods back in Eswatini. Much of today’s migration, however, is not work-related but focuses on visits to family and friends, tourism, and shopping.Eswatini, a small, predominantly rural, landlocked country surrounded by South Africa and Mozambique, suffers from severe poverty and the world’s highest HIV/AIDS prevalence rate. A weak and deteriorating economy, high unemployment, rapid population growth, and an uneven distribution of resources all combine to worsen already persistent poverty and food insecurity, especially in rural areas. Erratic weather (frequent droughts and intermittent heavy rains and flooding), overuse of small plots, the overgrazing of cattle, and outdated agricultural practices reduce crop yields and further degrade the environment, exacerbating Eswatini's poverty and subsistence problems. Eswatini's extremely high HIV/AIDS prevalence rate – more than 28% of adults have the disease – compounds these issues. Agricultural production has declined due to HIV/AIDS, as the illness causes households to lose manpower and to sell livestock and other assets to pay for medicine and funerals.Swazis, mainly men from the country’s rural south, have been migrating to South Africa to work in coal, and later gold, mines since the late 19th century. Although the number of miners abroad has never been high in absolute terms because of Eswatini's small population, the outflow has had important social and economic repercussions. The peak of mining employment in South Africa occurred during the 1980s. Cross-border movement has accelerated since the 1990s, as increasing unemployment has pushed more Swazis to look for work in South Africa (creating a "brain drain" in the health and educational sectors); southern Swazi men have continued to pursue mining, although the industry has downsized. Women now make up an increasing share of migrants and dominate cross-border trading in handicrafts, using the proceeds to purchase goods back in Eswatini. Much of today’s migration, however, is not work-related but focuses on visits to family and friends, tourism, and shopping.
Age structure: 0-14 years: 33.63% (male 185,640/female 185,808)
15-24 years: 18.71% (male 98,029/female 108,654)
25-54 years: 39.46% (male 202,536/female 233,275)
55-64 years: 4.36% (male 20,529/female 27,672)
65 years and over: 3.83% (2020 est.) (male 15,833/female 26,503)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 70.8
youth dependency ratio: 64
elderly dependency ratio: 6.9
potential support ratio: 14.6 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 23.7 years
male: 22.5 years
female: 24.7 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 0.75% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 23.35 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 9.71 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: -6.16 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: because of its mountainous terrain, the population distribution is uneven throughout the country, concentrating primarily in valleys and plains as shown in this population distribution map
Urbanization: urban population: 24.6% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 2.42% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 68,000 MBABANE (capital) (2018)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 0.91 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 0.87 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 0.73 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.48 male(s)/female
total population: 0.9 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Maternal mortality ratio: 437 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 39.63 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 43.89 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 35.25 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 59.69 years
male: 57.62 years
female: 61.81 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 2.44 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: 66.1% (2014)
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 97.5% of population
rural: 74.8% of population
total: 80.3% of population
unimproved: urban: 2.5% of population
rural: 25.2% of population
total: 19.7% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 6.8% (2019)
Physicians density: 0.33 physicians/1,000 population (2016)
Hospital bed density: 2.1 beds/1,000 population (2011)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 92.3% of population
rural: 83.9% of population
total: 85.9% of population
unimproved: urban: 7.7% of population
rural: 16.1% of population
total: 14.1% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: 26.8% (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: 200,000 (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - deaths: 2,400 (2020 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: intermediate (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial diarrhea, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever
vectorborne diseases: malaria
water contact diseases: schistosomiasis
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 16.5% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: 5.8% (2014)
Education expenditures: 5.3% of GDP (2020)
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 88.4%
male: 88.3%
female: 88.5% (2018)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 13 years
male: 13 years
female: 12 years (2013)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 47.1%
male: 44.2%
female: 50% (2016)
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: limited supplies of potable water; wildlife populations being depleted because of excessive hunting; population growth, deforestation, and overgrazing lead to soil erosion and soil degradation
Environment - international agreements: party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 16.26 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 1.16 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 1.9 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: varies from tropical to near temperate
Land use: agricultural land: 68.3% (2018 est.)
arable land: 9.8% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 0.8% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 57.7% (2018 est.)
forest: 31.7% (2018 est.)
other: 0% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 24.6% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 2.42% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 2.25% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0.1% of GDP (2018 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: intermediate (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial diarrhea, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever
vectorborne diseases: malaria
water contact diseases: schistosomiasis
Food insecurity: severe localized food insecurity: due to economic downturn - nearly 336,000 people were assessed to be food insecure at least until March 2022, prior to the main harvest period, primarily due to food access constraints, underpinned by the negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the economy (2022)
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 218,199 tons (2016 est.)
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 41.3 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 20.7 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 1.006 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 4.51 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Kingdom of Eswatini
conventional short form: Eswatini
local long form: Umbuso weSwatini
local short form: eSwatini
former: Swaziland
etymology: the country name derives from 19th century King MSWATI II, under whose rule Swati territory was expanded and unified
note: pronounced ay-swatini or eh-swatini
Government type: absolute monarchy
Capital: name: Mbabane (administrative capital); Lobamba (royal and legislative capital)
geographic coordinates: 26 19 S, 31 08 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: named after a Swati chief, Mbabane Kunene, who lived in the area at the onset of British settlement
Administrative divisions: 4 regions; Hhohho, Lubombo, Manzini, Shiselweni
Independence: 6 September 1968 (from the UK)
National holiday: Independence Day (Somhlolo Day), 6 September (1968)
Constitution: history: previous 1968, 1978; latest signed by the king 26 July 2005, effective 8 February 2006
amendments: proposed at a joint sitting of both houses of Parliament; passage requires majority vote by both houses and/or majority vote in a referendum, and assent of the king; passage of amendments affecting "specially entrenched" constitutional provisions requires at least three-fourths majority vote by both houses, passage by simple majority vote in a referendum, and assent of the king; passage of "entrenched" provisions requires at least two-thirds majority vote of both houses, passage in a referendum, and assent of the king
Legal system: mixed legal system of civil, common, and customary law
International law organization participation: accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction with reservations; non-party state to the ICCt
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: no
citizenship by descent only: both parents must be citizens of Eswatini
dual citizenship recognized: no
residency requirement for naturalization: 5 years
Suffrage: 18 years of age
Executive branch: chief of state: King MSWATI III (since 25 April 1986)
head of government: Prime Minister Cleopas DLAMINI (since since 19 July 2021); Deputy Prime Minister Themba MASUKU (since 6 November 2018)
cabinet: Cabinet recommended by the prime minister, confirmed by the monarch; at least one-half of the cabinet membership must be appointed from among elected members of the House of Assembly
elections/appointments: the monarchy is hereditary; prime minister appointed by the monarch from among members of the House of Assembly
Legislative branch: description: bicameral Parliament (Libandla) consists of:
Senate (30 seats; 20 members appointed by the monarch and 10 indirectly elected by simple majority vote by the House of Assembly; members serve 5-year terms)
House of Assembly (70 seats statutory, current 74; 59 members directly elected in single-seat constituencies or tinkhundla by absolute majority vote in 2 rounds if needed, 10 members appointed by the monarch, 4 women elected by the members if representation of elected women is less than 30%, and 1 ex-officio member - the attorney general; members serve 5-year terms)
elections: Senate - last held on 23 October 2018 (next to be held - 31 October 2023)
House of Assembly - last held on 21 September 2018 (next to be held in 2023)
election results: Senate - percent of seats by party - NA; seats by party - NA; composition - men 18, women 12, percent of women 40%
House of Assembly - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - independent 59; composition - men 65, women 9, percent of women 12.2%; note - total Parliament percent of women 20.2%
Judicial branch: highest courts: Supreme Court (consists of the chief justice and at least 4 justices) and the High Court (consists of the chief justice - ex officio - and 4 justices); note - the Supreme Court has jurisdiction in all constitutional matters
judge selection and term of office: justices of the Supreme Court and High Court appointed by the monarch on the advice of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), a judicial advisory body consisting of the Supreme Court Chief Justice, 4 members appointed by the monarch, and the chairman of the Civil Service Commission; justices of both courts eligible for retirement at age 65 with mandatory retirement at age 75
subordinate courts: magistrates' courts; National Swazi Courts for administering customary/traditional laws (jurisdiction restricted to customary law for Swazi citizens)
Political parties and leaders: political parties exist, but conditions for their operations, particularly in elections, are undefined, legally unclear, or culturally restricted; the following are considered political associations:
African United Democratic Party or AUDP [Sibusiso DLAMINI]
Ngwane National Liberatory Congress or NNLC [Sibongile MAZIBUKO]
People's United Democratic Movement or PUDEMO [Mlungisi MAKHANYA]
Swazi Democratic Party or SWADEPA [Vacant]
International organization participation: ACP, AfDB, AU, C, COMESA, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ISO (correspondent), ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, NAM, OPCW, PCA, SACU, SADC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Njabuliso Busisiwe Sikhulile GWEBU (since 24 April 2017)
chancery: 1712 New Hampshire Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20009
telephone: [1] (202) 234-5002
FAX: [1] (202) 234-8254
email address and website:
embassy@swaziland-usa.com; swaziland@compuserve.com
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Jeanne M. MALONEY (since 4 March 2021)
embassy: Corner of MR 103 and Cultural Center Drive, Ezulwini, P.O. Box D202, The Gables, H106
mailing address: 2350 Mbabane Place, Washington DC 20521-2350
telephone: (268) 2417-9000
FAX: [268] 2416-3344
email address and website:
ConsularMbabane@state.gov
https://sz.usembassy.gov/
Flag description: three horizontal bands of blue (top), red (triple width), and blue; the red band is edged in yellow; centered in the red band is a large black and white shield covering two spears and a staff decorated with feather tassels, all placed horizontally; blue stands for peace and stability, red represents past struggles, and yellow the mineral resources of the country; the shield, spears, and staff symbolize protection from the country's enemies, while the black and white of the shield are meant to portray black and white people living in peaceful coexistence
National symbol(s): lion, elephant; national colors: blue, yellow, red
National anthem: name: "Nkulunkulu Mnikati wetibusiso temaSwati" (Oh God, Bestower of the Blessings of the Swazi)
lyrics/music: Andrease Enoke Fanyana SIMELANE/David Kenneth RYCROFT
note: adopted 1968; uses elements of both ethnic Swazi and Western music styles
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: A small, landlocked kingdom, Eswatini is bordered in the north, west and south by the Republic of South Africa and by Mozambique in the east. Eswatini depends on South Africa for a majority of its exports and imports. Eswatini's currency is pegged to the South African rand, effectively relinquishing Eswatini's monetary policy to South Africa. The government is dependent on customs duties from the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) for almost half of its revenue. Eswatini is a lower middle income country. As of 2017, more than one-quarter of the adult population was infected by HIV/AIDS; Eswatini has the world’s highest HIV prevalence rate, a financial strain and source of economic instability. The manufacturing sector diversified in the 1980s and 1990s, but manufacturing has grown little in the last decade. Sugar and soft drink concentrate are the largest foreign exchange earners, although a drought in 2015-16 decreased sugar production and exports. Overgrazing, soil depletion, drought, and floods are persistent problems. Mining has declined in importance in recent years. Coal, gold, diamond, and quarry stone mines are small scale, and the only iron ore mine closed in 2014. With an estimated 28% unemployment rate, Eswatini's need to increase the number and size of small and medium enterprises and to attract foreign direct investment is acute. Eswatini's national development strategy, which expires in 2022, prioritizes increases in infrastructure, agriculture production, and economic diversification, while aiming to reduce poverty and government spending. Eswatini's revenue from SACU receipts are likely to continue to decline as South Africa pushes for a new distribution scheme, making it harder for the government to maintain fiscal balance without introducing new sources of revenue.A small, landlocked kingdom, Eswatini is bordered in the north, west and south by the Republic of South Africa and by Mozambique in the east. Eswatini depends on South Africa for a majority of its exports and imports. Eswatini's currency is pegged to the South African rand, effectively relinquishing Eswatini's monetary policy to South Africa. The government is dependent on customs duties from the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) for almost half of its revenue. Eswatini is a lower middle income country. As of 2017, more than one-quarter of the adult population was infected by HIV/AIDS; Eswatini has the world’s highest HIV prevalence rate, a financial strain and source of economic instability. The manufacturing sector diversified in the 1980s and 1990s, but manufacturing has grown little in the last decade. Sugar and soft drink concentrate are the largest foreign exchange earners, although a drought in 2015-16 decreased sugar production and exports. Overgrazing, soil depletion, drought, and floods are persistent problems. Mining has declined in importance in recent years. Coal, gold, diamond, and quarry stone mines are small scale, and the only iron ore mine closed in 2014. With an estimated 28% unemployment rate, Eswatini's need to increase the number and size of small and medium enterprises and to attract foreign direct investment is acute. Eswatini's national development strategy, which expires in 2022, prioritizes increases in infrastructure, agriculture production, and economic diversification, while aiming to reduce poverty and government spending. Eswatini's revenue from SACU receipts are likely to continue to decline as South Africa pushes for a new distribution scheme, making it harder for the government to maintain fiscal balance without introducing new sources of revenue.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $9.74 billion (2020 est.)
$9.9 billion (2019 est.)
$9.68 billion (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 1.6% (2017 est.)
1.4% (2016 est.)
0.4% (2015 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $8,400 (2020 est.)
$8,600 (2019 est.)
$8,500 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $4.484 billion (2019 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 6.2% (2017 est.)
7.8% (2016 est.)
Credit ratings: Moody's rating: B3 (2020)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 6.5% (2017 est.)
industry: 45% (2017 est.)
services: 48.6% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 64% (2017 est.)
government consumption: 21.3% (2017 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 13.4% (2017 est.)
investment in inventories: -0.1% (2017 est.)
exports of goods and services: 47.9% (2017 est.)
imports of goods and services: -46.3% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: sugar cane, maize, roots/tubers nes, grapefruit, oranges, milk, beef, potatoes, vegetables, bananas
Industries: soft drink concentrates, coal, forestry, sugar processing, textiles, and apparel
Industrial production growth rate: 5.6% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 427,900 (2016 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 10.7%
industry: 30.4%
services: 58.9% (2014 est.)
Unemployment rate: 28% (2014 est.)
28% (2013 est.)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 47.1%
male: 44.2%
female: 50% (2016)
Population below poverty line: 58.9% (2016 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 54.6 (2016 est.)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: 1.7%
highest 10%: 40.1% (2010 est.)
Budget: revenues: 1.263 billion (2017 est.)
expenditures: 1.639 billion (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): -8.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 28.4% of GDP (2017 est.)
25.5% of GDP (2016 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 28.6% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March
Current account balance: $604 million (2017 est.)
$642 million (2016 est.)
Exports: $1.81 billion (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$2.07 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$1.9 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Exports - partners: South Africa 94% (2017)
Exports - commodities: soft drink concentrates, sugar, timber, cotton yarn, refrigerators, citrus, and canned fruit
Imports: $1.7 billion (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$1.93 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$2.07 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Imports - partners: South Africa 81.6%, China 5.2% (2017)
Imports - commodities: motor vehicles, machinery, transport equipment, foodstuffs, petroleum products, chemicals
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $563.1 million (31 December 2017 est.)
$564.4 million (31 December 2016 est.)
Debt - external: $535 million (2019 est.)
$456 million (2018 est.)
Exchange rates: emalangeni per US dollar -
14.44 (2017 est.)
14.6924 (2016 est.)
14.6924 (2015 est.)
12.7581 (2014 est.)
10.8469 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 90% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 98% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 87% (2019)
Electricity - production: 381 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 1.431 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 0 kWh (2016)
Electricity - imports: 1.077 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 295,900 kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 39% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 20% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 41% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 0 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 0 bbl (1 January 2018)
Refined petroleum products - production: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 5,300 bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 5,279 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 0 cu m (1 January 2014 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 39,000 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 3 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 1.243 million (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 107 (2020 est.)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: earlier government monopoly in telecom market hindered growth; liberalized regulators aided expansion in the telecom sector; lack of fixed-line infrastructure and competition stymies development of DSL and backbone network; 2G, 3G, 4G, and LTE services with coverage to most of the population; landlocked country depends on neighbors for international bandwidth; operator completed terrestrial cable linking Maputo through Eswatini to Johannesburg; importer of broadcasting equipment from South Africa (2019)
domestic: Eswatini has 2 mobile-cellular providers; communication infrastructure has a geographic coverage of about 90% and a rising subscriber base; fixed-line stands at nearly 4 per 100 and mobile-cellular teledensity roughly 94 telephones per 100 persons; telephone system consists of carrier-equipped, open-wire lines and low-capacity, microwave radio relay (2019)
international: country code - 268; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: 1 state-owned TV station; satellite dishes are able to access South African providers; state-owned radio network with 3 channels; 1 private radio station (2019)
Internet country code: .sz
Internet users: total: 539,623 (2019 est.)
percent of population: 47% (2019 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 12,000 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 1 (2020 est.)
Topic: Transportation
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: 3DC
Airports: total: 14 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 2
over 3,047 m: 1
2,438 to 3,047 m: 1 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 12
914 to 1,523 m: 5
under 914 m: 7 (2021)
Railways: total: 301 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 301 km (2014) 1.067-m gauge
Roadways: total: 3,769 km (2019)
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: Umbutfo Eswatini Defense Force (UEDF): Army (includes a small air wing) (2022)
Military expenditures: 1.7% of GDP (2021 est.)
1.8% of GDP (2020 est.)
1.9% of GDP (2019 est.) (approximately $140 million)
2.1% of GDP (2018 est.) (approximately $150 million)
2.1% of GDP (2017 est.) (approximately $140 million)
Military and security service personnel strengths: approximately 3,000 active personnel (2021)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the UEDF is lightly armed with mostly South African material; it has received small amounts of secondhand equipment since 2010 (2021)
Military service age and obligation: 18-30 years of age for male and female voluntary military service; no conscription (2021)
Military - note: the UEDF was originally created in 1973 as the Royal Swaziland Defense Force; the UEDF’s primary mission is external security but it also has domestic security responsibilities, including protecting members of the royal family; the king is the UEDF commander in chief and holds the position of minister of defense, although the UEDF reports to the Army commander and principal undersecretary of defense for day-to-day operations; the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) is responsible for maintaining internal security as well as migration and border crossing enforcement; it is under the prime minister, although the king is the force’s titular commissioner in chief (2022)the UEDF was originally created in 1973 as the Royal Swaziland Defense Force; the UEDF’s primary mission is external security but it also has domestic security responsibilities, including protecting members of the royal family; the king is the UEDF commander in chief and holds the position of minister of defense, although the UEDF reports to the Army commander and principal undersecretary of defense for day-to-day operations; the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) is responsible for maintaining internal security as well as migration and border crossing enforcement; it is under the prime minister, although the king is the force’s titular commissioner in chief
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: in 2006, Swati king advocated resorting to ICJ to claim parts of Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal from South Africain 2006, Swati king advocated resorting to ICJ to claim parts of Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal from South Africa |
20220601 | field-hiv-aids-people-living-with-hiv-aids-country-comparison | |
20220601 | countries-iraq-travel-facts |
US State Dept Travel Advisory: The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens DO NOT TRAVEL to Iraq due to terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict, civil unrest, and Mission Iraq’s limited capacity to provide support to U.S. citizens. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws and special circumstances in this country.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements: US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. They should also make sure they have at least 1 blank page in their passport for any entry stamp and or visa that will be required. A visa is required. US citizens will need to get in touch with the country’s embassy or nearest consulate to obtain a visa prior to visiting the country.
US Embassy/Consulate: 0760-030-3000; US Embassy in Baghdad, Al-Kindi Street, International Zone, Baghdad, Iraq; BaghdadACS@state.gov; https://iq.usembassy.gov/
Telephone Code: 964
Local Emergency Phone: Local numbers only
Vaccinations: An International Certificate of Vaccination for yellow fever is required for travelers arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission and for travelers having transited through the airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. See WHO recommendations.
http://www.who.int/
Climate: Mostly desert; mild to cool winters with dry, hot, cloudless summers; northern mountainous regions along Iranian and Turkish borders experience cold winters with occasionally heavy snows that melt in early spring, sometimes causing extensive flooding in central and southern Iraq
Currency (Code): Iraqi dinars (IQD)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s): 230 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): C, D, G
Major Languages: Arabic, Kurdish, Turkmen, Syriac, and Armenian are official in areas where native speakers of these languages constitute a majority of the population
Major Religions: Muslim 95-98% (Shia 64-69%, Sunni 29-34%), Christian 1%
Time Difference: UTC+3 (8 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Potable Water: Opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit: required
Road Driving Side: Right
Tourist Destinations: Erbil; Ziggurat of Ur; Iraq Museum (Baghdad); Basra; Karbala; Hatra; Samarra Archaeological City; Babylon
Major Sports: Soccer, basketball, kickboxing, wrestling
Cultural Practices: If meals are served on the floor, sit cross legged or kneel. It is impolite to let your food touch the floor.
Tipping Guidelines: If no service charge is included in the bill, a 10-15% tip is appropriate in nicer restaurants.Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444
Page last updated: Monday, April 18, 2022 |
20220601 | field-capital | This entry gives the name of the seat of government, its geographic coordinates, the time difference relative to Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) and the time observed in Washington, DC, and, if applicable, information on daylight saving time (DST). Where appropriate, a special time zone note has been added to highlight those countries that have multiple time zones. Finally, etymology explains how the capital acquired its name.
Topic: Afghanistanname: Kabul
geographic coordinates: 34 31 N, 69 11 E
time difference: UTC+4.5 (9.5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: does not observe daylight savings time
etymology: named for the Kabul River, but the river's name is of unknown origin
Topic: Akrotiriname: Episkopi Cantonment (base administrative center for Akrotiri and Dhekelia)
geographic coordinates: 34 40 N, 32 51 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: "Episkopi" means "episcopal" in Greek and stems from the fact that the site previously served as the bishop's seat of an Orthodox diocese
Topic: Albanianame: Tirana (Tirane)
geographic coordinates: 41 19 N, 19 49 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: the name Tirana first appears in a 1418 Venetian document; the origin of the name is unclear, but may derive from Tirkan Fortress, whose ruins survive on the slopes of Dajti mountain and which overlooks the city
Topic: Algerianame: Algiers
geographic coordinates: 36 45 N, 3 03 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: name derives from the Arabic "al-Jazair" meaning "the islands" and refers to the four islands formerly off the coast but joined to the mainland since 1525
Topic: American Samoaname: Pago Pago
geographic coordinates: 14 16 S, 170 42 W
time difference: UTC-11 (6 hours behind Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
note: pronounced pahn-go pahn-go
Topic: Andorraname: Andorra la Vella
geographic coordinates: 42 30 N, 1 31 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: translates as "Andorra the Old" in Catalan
Topic: Angolaname: Luanda
geographic coordinates: 8 50 S, 13 13 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: does not observe daylight savings time
etymology: originally named "Sao Paulo da Assuncao de Loanda" (Saint Paul of the Assumption of Loanda), which over time was shortened and corrupted to just Luanda
Topic: Anguillaname: The Valley
geographic coordinates: 18 13 N, 63 03 W
time difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: name derives from the capital's location between several hills
Topic: Antigua and Barbudaname: Saint John's
geographic coordinates: 17 07 N, 61 51 W
time difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: named after Saint John the Apostle
Topic: Argentinaname: Buenos Aires
geographic coordinates: 34 36 S, 58 22 W
time difference: UTC-3 (2 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name translates as "fair winds" in Spanish and derives from the original designation of the settlement that would become the present-day city, "Santa Maria del Buen Aire" (Saint Mary of the Fair Winds)
Topic: Armenianame: Yerevan
geographic coordinates: 40 10 N, 44 30 E
time difference: UTC+4 (9 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: name likely derives from the ancient Urartian fortress of Erebuni established on the current site of Yerevan in 782 B.C. and whose impressive ruins still survive
Topic: Arubaname: Oranjestad
geographic coordinates: 12 31 N, 70 02 W
time difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: translates as "orange town" in Dutch; the city is named after William I (1533-1584), Prince of Orange, the first ruler of the Netherlands
Topic: Australianame: Canberra
geographic coordinates: 35 16 S, 149 08 E
time difference: UTC+10 (14 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins first Sunday in October; ends first Sunday in April
time zone note: Australia has four time zones, including Lord Howe Island (UTC+10:30)
etymology: the name is claimed to derive from either Kambera or Camberry, which are names corrupted from the original native designation for the area "Nganbra" or "Nganbira"
Topic: Austrianame: Vienna
geographic coordinates: 48 12 N, 16 22 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: the origin of the name is disputed but may derive from early Celtic settlements of the area; a possible reconstructed Celtic name from several centuries B.C. is *Vedunia (meaning "forest stream"); under Roman settlement, beginning around 15 B.C., the name became Vindobona (likely from the Celtic "windo," meaning "white, fair, or bright" and "bona" meaning "base, fortification, or settlement" to give a connotation of "white settlement" or "white fort"); archeological remains of the latter survive at many sites in the center of Vienna
Topic: Azerbaijanname: Baku (Baki, Baky)
geographic coordinates: 40 23 N, 49 52 E
time difference: UTC+4 (9 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: does not observe daylight savings time
etymology: the name derives from the Persian designation of the city "bad-kube" meaning "wind-pounded city" and refers to the harsh winds and severe snow storms that can hit the city
note: at approximately 28 m below sea level, Baku's elevation makes it the lowest capital city in the world
Topic: Bahamas, Thename: Nassau
geographic coordinates: 25 05 N, 77 21 W
time difference: UTC-5 (same time as Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins second Sunday in March; ends first Sunday in November
etymology: named after William III (1650-1702), king of England, Scotland, and Ireland, who was a member of the House of Nassau
Topic: Bahrainname: Manama
geographic coordinates: 26 14 N, 50 34 E
time difference: UTC+3 (8 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: name derives from the Arabic "al-manama" meaning "place of rest" or "place of dreams"
Topic: Bangladeshname: Dhaka
geographic coordinates: 23 43 N, 90 24 E
time difference: UTC+6 (11 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the origins of the name are unclear, but some sources state that the city's site was originally called "dhakka," meaning "watchtower," and that the area served as a watch-station for Bengal rulers
Topic: Barbadosname: Bridgetown
geographic coordinates: 13 06 N, 59 37 W
time difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: named after a bridge constructed over the swampy area (known as the Careenage) around the Constitution River that flows through the center of Bridgetown
Topic: Belarusname: Minsk
geographic coordinates: 53 54 N, 27 34 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the origin of the name is disputed; Minsk may originally have been located 16 km to the southwest, on the banks of Menka River; remnants of a 10th-century settlement on the banks of the Menka have been found
Topic: Belgiumname: Brussels
geographic coordinates: 50 50 N, 4 20 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: may derive from the Old Dutch "bruoc/broek," meaning "marsh" and "sella/zele/sel" signifying "home" to express the meaning "home in the marsh"
Topic: Belizename: Belmopan
geographic coordinates: 17 15 N, 88 46 W
time difference: UTC-6 (1 hour behind Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the decision to move the capital of the country inland to higher and more stable land was made in the 1960s; the name chosen for the new city was formed from the union of two words: "Belize," the name of the longest river in the country, and "Mopan," one of the rivers in the area of the new capital that empties into the Belize River
Topic: Beninname: Porto-Novo (constitutional capital); Cotonou (seat of government)
geographic coordinates: 6 29 N, 2 37 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name Porto-Novo is Portuguese for "new port"; Cotonou means "by the river of death" in the native Fon language
Topic: Bermudaname: Hamilton
geographic coordinates: 32 17 N, 64 47 W
time difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins second Sunday in March; ends first Sunday in November
etymology: named after Henry HAMILTON (ca. 1734-1796) who served as governor of Bermuda from 1788-1794
Topic: Bhutanname: Thimphu
geographic coordinates: 27 28 N, 89 38 E
time difference: UTC+6 (11 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the origins of the name are unclear; the traditional explanation, dating to the 14th century, is that "thim" means "dissolve" and "phu" denotes "high ground" to express the meaning of "dissolving high ground," in reference to a local deity that dissolved before a traveler's eyes, becoming a part of the rock on which the present city stands
Topic: Bolivianame: La Paz (administrative capital); Sucre (constitutional [legislative and judicial] capital)
geographic coordinates: 16 30 S, 68 09 W
time difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: La Paz is a shortening of the original name of the city, Nuestra Senora de La Paz (Our Lady of Peace); Sucre is named after Antonio Jose de Sucre (1795-1830), military hero in the independence struggle from Spain and the second president of Bolivia
note: at approximately 3,630 m above sea level, La Paz's elevation makes it the highest capital city in the world
Topic: Bosnia and Herzegovinaname: Sarajevo
geographic coordinates: 43 52 N, 18 25 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: the name derives from the Turkish noun "saray," meaning "palace" or "mansion," and the term "ova," signifying "plain(s)," to give a meaning of "palace plains" or "the plains about the palace"
Topic: Botswananame: Gaborone
geographic coordinates: 24 38 S, 25 54 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: named after GABORONE (ca. 1825-1931), a revered kgosi (chief) of the Tlokwa tribe, part of the larger Tswana ethnic group
Topic: Brazilname: Brasilia
geographic coordinates: 15 47 S, 47 55 W
time difference: UTC-3 (2 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
time zone note: Brazil has four time zones, including one for the Fernando de Noronha Islands
etymology: name bestowed on the new capital of Brazil upon its inauguration in 1960; previous Brazilian capitals had been Salvador from 1549 to 1763 and Rio de Janeiro from 1763 to 1960
Topic: British Virgin Islandsname: Road Town
geographic coordinates: 18 25 N, 64 37 W
time difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: name refers to the nautical term "roadstead" or "roads," a body of water less sheltered than a harbor but where where ships can lie reasonably safely at anchor sheltered from rip currents, spring tides, or ocean swells
Topic: Bruneiname: Bandar Seri Begawan
geographic coordinates: 4 53 N, 114 56 E
time difference: UTC+8 (13 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: named in 1970 after Sultan Omar Ali SAIFUDDIEN III (1914-1986; "The Father of Independence") who adopted the title of "Seri Begawan" (approximate meaning "honored lord") upon his abdication in 1967; "bandar" in Malay means "town" or "city"; the capital had previously been called Bandar Brunei (Brunei Town)
Topic: Bulgarianame: Sofia
geographic coordinates: 42 41 N, 23 19 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: named after the Saint Sofia Church in the city, parts of which date back to the 4th century A.D.
Topic: Burkina Fasoname: Ouagadougou
geographic coordinates: 12 22 N, 1 31 W
time difference: UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: Ouagadougou is a Francophone spelling of the native name "Wogodogo," meaning "where people get honor and respect"
Topic: Burmaname: Nay Pyi Taw (note - Yangon, aka Rangoon, is the former capital)
geographic coordinates: 19 74 N, 96 12 E
time difference: UTC+6.5 (11.5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: Nay Pyi Taw translates as: "Great City of the Sun" or "Abode of Kings"
Topic: Burundiname: Gitega (political capital), Bujumbura (commercial capital); note - in January 2019, the Burundian parliament voted to make Gitega the political capital of the country while Bujumbura would remain its economic capital; all branches of the government are expected to have moved from Bujumbura to Gitega by 2022
geographic coordinates: 3 25 S, 29 55 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the naming origins for both Gitega and Bujumbura are obscure; Bujumbura's name prior to independence in 1962 was Usumbura
Topic: Cabo Verdename: Praia
geographic coordinates: 14 55 N, 23 31 W
time difference: UTC-1 (4 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the earlier Portuguese name was Villa de Praia ("Village of the Beach"); it became just Praia in 1974 (prior to full independence in 1975)
Topic: Cambodianame: Phnom Penh
geographic coordinates: 11 33 N, 104 55 E
time difference: UTC+7 (12 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: Phnom Penh translates as "Penh's Hill" in Khmer; the city takes its name from the present Wat Phnom (Hill Temple), the tallest religious structure in the city, whose establishment, according to legend, was inspired in the 14th century by a pious nun, Daun PENH
Topic: Cameroonname: Yaounde
geographic coordinates: 3 52 N, 11 31 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: founded as a German colonial settlement of Jaunde in 1888 and named after the local Yaunde (Ewondo) people
Topic: Canadaname: Ottawa
geographic coordinates: 45 25 N, 75 42 W
time difference: UTC-5 (same time as Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins second Sunday in March; ends first Sunday in November
time zone note: Canada has six time zones
etymology: the city lies on the south bank of the Ottawa River, from which it derives its name; the river name comes from the Algonquin word "adawe" meaning "to trade" and refers to the indigenous peoples who used the river as a trade highway
Topic: Cayman Islandsname: George Town (on Grand Cayman)
geographic coordinates: 19 18 N, 81 23 W
time difference: UTC-5 (same time as Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: named after English King George III (1738-1820)
Topic: Central African Republicname: Bangui
geographic coordinates: 4 22 N, 18 35 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: established as a French settlement in 1889 and named after its location on the northern bank of the Ubangi River; the Ubangi itself was named from the native word for the "rapids" located beside the outpost, which marked the end of navigable water north from from Brazzaville
Topic: Chadname: N'Djamena
geographic coordinates: 12 06 N, 15 02 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: name taken from the Arab name of a nearby village, Nijamina, meaning "place of rest"
Topic: Chilename: Santiago; note - Valparaiso is the seat of the national legislature
geographic coordinates: 33 27 S, 70 40 W
time difference: UTC-3 (2 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins second Sunday in August; ends second Sunday in May; note - Punta Arenas observes DST throughout the year
time zone note: Chile has three time zones: the continental portion at UTC-3; the southern Magallanes region, which does not use daylight savings time and remains at UTC-3 for the summer months; and Easter Island at UTC-5
etymology: Santiago is named after the biblical figure Saint James (ca. A.D. 3-44), patron saint of Spain, but especially revered in Galicia; "Santiago" derives from the local Galician evolution of the Vulgar Latin "Sanctu Iacobu"; Valparaiso derives from the Spanish "Valle Paraiso" meaning "Paradise Valley"
Topic: Chinaname: Beijing
geographic coordinates: 39 55 N, 116 23 E
time difference: UTC+8 (13 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
time zone note: China is the largest country (in terms of area) with just one time zone; before 1949 it was divided into five
etymology: the Chinese meaning is "Northern Capital"
Topic: Christmas Islandname: The Settlement (Flying Fish Cove)
geographic coordinates: 10 25 S, 105 43 E
time difference: UTC+7 (12 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: self-descriptive name for the main locus of population
Topic: Cocos (Keeling) Islandsname: West Island
geographic coordinates: 12 10 S, 96 50 E
time difference: UTC+6.5 (11.5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Topic: Colombianame: Bogota
geographic coordinates: 4 36 N, 74 05 W
time difference: UTC-5 (same time as Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: originally referred to as "Bacata," meaning "enclosure outside of the farm fields," by the indigenous Muisca
Topic: Comorosname: Moroni
geographic coordinates: 11 42 S, 43 14 E
time difference: UTC+3 (8 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: Moroni derives from "mroni," which means "at the river" in Shingazidja, the Comorian language spoken on Grande Comore (N'gazidja)
Topic: Congo, Democratic Republic of thename: Kinshasa
geographic coordinates: 4 19 S, 15 18 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
time zone note: the DRC has two time zones
etymology: founded as a trading post in 1881 and named Leopoldville in honor of King Leopold II of the Belgians, who controlled the Congo Free State, the vast central African territory that became the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 1960; in 1966, Leopoldville was renamed Kinshasa, after a village of that name that once stood near the site
Topic: Congo, Republic of thename: Brazzaville
geographic coordinates: 4 15 S, 15 17 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: named after the Italian-born French explorer and humanitarian, Pierre Savorgnan de BRAZZA (1852-1905), who promoted French colonial interests in central Africa and worked against slavery and the abuse of African laborers
Topic: Cook Islandsname: Avarua
geographic coordinates: 21 12 S, 159 46 W
time difference: UTC-10 (5 hours behind Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: translates as "two harbors" in Maori
Topic: Costa Ricaname: San Jose
geographic coordinates: 9 56 N, 84 05 W
time difference: UTC-6 (1 hour behind Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: named in honor of Saint Joseph
Topic: Cote d'Ivoirename: Yamoussoukro (legislative capital), Abidjan (administrative capital); note - although Yamoussoukro has been the official capital since 1983, Abidjan remains the administrative capital as well as the officially designated economic capital; the US, like other countries, maintains its Embassy in Abidjan
geographic coordinates: 6 49 N, 5 16 W
time difference: UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: Yamoussoukro is named after Queen YAMOUSSOU, who ruled in the village of N'Gokro in 1929 at the time of French colonization; the village was renamed Yamoussoukro, the suffix "-kro" meaning "town" in the native Baoule language; Abidjan's name supposedly comes from a misunderstanding; tradition states that an old man carrying branches met a European explorer who asked for the name of the nearest village; the man, not understanding and terrified by this unexpected encounter, fled shouting "min-chan m’bidjan," which in the Ebrie language means: "I return from cutting leaves"; the explorer, thinking that his question had been answered, recorded the name of the locale as Abidjan; a different version has the first colonists asking native women the name of the place and getting a similar response
Topic: Croatianame: Zagreb
geographic coordinates: 45 48 N, 16 00 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: the name seems to be related to "digging"; archeologists suggest that the original settlement was established beyond a water-filled hole or "graba" and that the name derives from this; "za" in Slavic means "beyond"; the overall meaning may be "beyond the trench (fault, channel, ditch)"
Topic: Cubaname: Havana
geographic coordinates: 23 07 N, 82 21 W
time difference: UTC-5 (same time as Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins second Sunday in March; ends first Sunday in November; note - Cuba has been known to alter the schedule of DST on short notice in an attempt to conserve electricity for lighting
etymology: the sites of Spanish colonial cities often retained their original Taino names; Habana, the Spanish name for the city, may be based on the name of a local Taino chief, HABAGUANEX
Topic: Curacaoname: Willemstad
geographic coordinates: 12 06 N, 68 55 W
time difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: named after Prince William II of Orange (1626-1650), who served as stadtholder (Dutch head of state) from 1647 to 1650, shortly after the the Dutch captured Curacao from the Spanish in 1634
Topic: Cyprusname: Nicosia (Lefkosia/Lefkosa)
geographic coordinates: 35 10 N, 33 22 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: a mispronunciation of the city's Greek name Lefkosia and its Turkish name Lefkosa, both of which mean "White City"; the Greek name may derive from the Greek phrase "leuke ousia" ("white estate")
Topic: Czechianame: Prague
geographic coordinates: 50 05 N, 14 28 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: the name may derive from an old Slavic root "praga" or "prah", meaning "ford", and refer to the city's origin at a crossing point of the Vltava (Moldau) River
Topic: Denmarkname: Copenhagen
geographic coordinates: 55 40 N, 12 35 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October; note - applies to continental Denmark only, not to its North Atlantic components
etymology: name derives from the city's Danish appellation Kobenhavn, meaning "Merchant's Harbor"
Topic: Dhekelianame: Episkopi Cantonment (base administrative center for Akrotiri and Dhekelia); located in Akrotiri
geographic coordinates: 34 40 N, 32 51 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: "Episkopi" means "episcopal" in Greek and stems from the fact that the site previously served as the bishop's seat of an Orthodox diocese
Topic: Djiboutiname: Djibouti
geographic coordinates: 11 35 N, 43 09 E
time difference: UTC+3 (8 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the origin of the name is disputed; multiple descriptions, possibilities, and theories have been proposed
Topic: Dominicaname: Roseau
geographic coordinates: 15 18 N, 61 24 W
time difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name is French for "reed"; the first settlement was named after the river reeds that grew in the area
Topic: Dominican Republicname: Santo Domingo
geographic coordinates: 18 28 N, 69 54 W
time difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: named after Saint Dominic de Guzman (1170-1221), founder of the Dominican Order
Topic: Ecuadorname: Quito
geographic coordinates: 0 13 S, 78 30 W
time difference: UTC-5 (same time as Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
time zone note: Ecuador has two time zones, including the Galapagos Islands (UTC-6)
etymology: named after the Quitus, a Pre-Columbian indigenous people credited with founding the city
Topic: Egyptname: Cairo
geographic coordinates: 30 03 N, 31 15 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: from the Arabic "al-Qahira," meaning "the victorious"
Topic: El Salvadorname: San Salvador
geographic coordinates: 13 42 N, 89 12 W
time difference: UTC-6 (1 hour behind Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: Spanish for "Holy Savior" (referring to Jesus Christ)
Topic: Equatorial Guineaname: Malabo; note - a new capital of Cuidad de la Paz (formerly referred to as Oyala) is being built on the mainland near Djibloho; Malabo is on the island of Bioko
geographic coordinates: 3 45 N, 8 47 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: named after Malabo Lopelo Melaka (1837–1937), the last king of the Bubi, the ethnic group indigenous to the island of Bioko; the name of the new capital, Cuidad de la Paz, translates to "City of Peace" in Spanish
Topic: Eritreaname: Asmara
geographic coordinates: 15 20 N, 38 56 E
time difference: UTC+3 (8 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name means "they [women] made them unite," which according to Tigrinya oral tradition refers to the women of the four clans in the Asmara area who persuaded their menfolk to unite and defeat their common enemy; the name has also been translated as "live in peace"
Topic: Estonianame: Tallinn
geographic coordinates: 59 26 N, 24 43 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: the Estonian name is generally believed to be derived from "Taani-linn" (originally meaning "Danish castle", now "Danish town") after a stronghold built in the area by the Danes; it could also have come from "tali-linn" ("winter castle" or "winter town") or "talu-linn" ("home castle" or "home town")
Topic: Eswatininame: Mbabane (administrative capital); Lobamba (royal and legislative capital)
geographic coordinates: 26 19 S, 31 08 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: named after a Swati chief, Mbabane Kunene, who lived in the area at the onset of British settlement
Topic: Ethiopianame: Addis Ababa
geographic coordinates: 9 02 N, 38 42 E
time difference: UTC+3 (8 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name in Amharic means "new flower" and was bestowed on the city in 1889, three years after its founding
Topic: European Unionname: Brussels (Belgium), Strasbourg (France), Luxembourg, Frankfurt (Germany); note - the European Council, a gathering of the EU heads of state and/or government, and the Council of the European Union, a ministerial-level body of 10 formations, meet in Brussels, Belgium, except for Council meetings held in Luxembourg in April, June, and October; the European Parliament meets in Brussels and Strasbourg, France, and has administrative offices in Luxembourg; the Court of Justice of the European Union is located in Luxembourg; and the European Central Bank is located in Frankfurt, Germany
geographic coordinates: (Brussels) 50 50 N, 4 20 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
time zone note: the 27 European Union countries spread across three time zones; a proposal has been put forward to do away with daylight savings time in all EU member states
Topic: Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)name: Stanley
geographic coordinates: 51 42 S, 57 51 W
time difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: named after Edward SMITH-STANLEY (1799-1869), the 14th Earl of Derby, a British statesman and three-time prime minister of the UK who never visited the islands
Topic: Faroe Islandsname: Torshavn
geographic coordinates: 62 00 N, 6 46 W
time difference: UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: the meaning in Danish is Thor's harbor
Topic: Fijiname: Suva (on Viti Levu)
geographic coordinates: 18 08 S, 178 25 E
time difference: UTC+12 (17 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name means "little hill" in the native Fijian (iTaukei) language and refers to a mound where a temple once stood
Topic: Finlandname: Helsinki
geographic coordinates: 60 10 N, 24 56 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: the name may derive from the Swedish "helsing," an archaic name for "neck" ("hals"), and which may refer to a narrowing of the Vantaa River that flows into the Gulf of Finland at Helsinki; "fors" refers to "rapids," so "helsing fors" meaning becomes "the narrows' rapids"
Topic: Francename: Paris
geographic coordinates: 48 52 N, 2 20 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
time zone note: applies to metropolitan France only; for its overseas regions the time difference is UTC-4 for Guadeloupe and Martinique, UTC-3 for French Guiana, UTC+3 for Mayotte, and UTC+4 for Reunion
etymology: name derives from the Parisii, a Celtic tribe that inhabited the area from the 3rd century B.C., but who were conquered by the Romans in the 1st century B.C.; the Celtic settlement became the Roman town of Lutetia Parisiorum (Lutetia of the Parisii); over subsequent centuries it became Parisium and then just Paris
Topic: French Polynesianame: Papeete (located on Tahiti)
geographic coordinates: 17 32 S, 149 34 W
time difference: UTC-10 (5 hours behind Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name means "water basket" and refers to the fact that the islanders originally used calabashes enclosed in baskets to fetch water at a spring in the area
Topic: Gabonname: Libreville
geographic coordinates: 0 23 N, 9 27 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: original site settled by freed slaves and the name means "free town" in French; named in imitation of Freetown, the capital of Sierra Leone
Topic: Gambia, Thename: Banjul
geographic coordinates: 13 27 N, 16 34 W
time difference: UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: Banjul is located on Saint Mary's Island at the mouth of the Gambia River; the Mandinka used to gather fibrous plants on the island for the manufacture of ropes; "bang julo" is Mandinka for "rope fiber"; mispronunciation over time caused the term became the word Banjul
Topic: Georgianame: Tbilisi
geographic coordinates: 41 41 N, 44 50 E
time difference: UTC+4 (9 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name in Georgian means "warm place," referring to the numerous sulfuric hot springs in the area
Topic: Germanyname: Berlin
geographic coordinates: 52 31 N, 13 24 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: the origin of the name is unclear but may be related to the old West Slavic (Polabian) word "berl" or "birl," meaning "swamp"
Topic: Ghananame: Accra
geographic coordinates: 5 33 N, 0 13 W
time difference: UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name derives from the Akan word "nkran" meaning "ants," and refers to the numerous anthills in the area around the capital
Topic: Gibraltarname: Gibraltar
geographic coordinates: 36 08 N, 5 21 W
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: from the Spanish derivation of the Arabic "Jabal Tariq," which means "Mountain of Tariq" and which refers to the Rock of Gibraltar
Topic: Greecename: Athens
geographic coordinates: 37 59 N, 23 44 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: Athens is the oldest European capital city; according to tradition, the city is named after Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom; in actuality, the appellation probably derives from a lost name in a pre-Hellenic language
Topic: Greenlandname: Nuuk (Godthaab)
geographic coordinates: 64 11 N, 51 45 W
time difference: UTC-3 (2 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
time zone note: Greenland has four time zones
etymology: "nuuk" is the Inuit word for "cape" and refers to the city's position at the end of the Nuup Kangerlua fjord
Topic: Grenadaname: Saint George's
geographic coordinates: 12 03 N, 61 45 W
time difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the 1763 Treaty of Paris transferred possession of Grenada from France to Great Britain; the new administration renamed Ville de Fort Royal (Fort Royal Town) to Saint George's Town, after the patron saint of England; eventually the name became simply Saint George's
Topic: Guamname: Hagatna (Agana)
geographic coordinates: 13 28 N, 144 44 E
time difference: UTC+10 (15 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name is derived from the Chamoru word "haga," meaning "blood", and may refer to the bloodlines of the various families that established the original settlement
Topic: Guatemalaname: Guatemala City
geographic coordinates: 14 37 N, 90 31 W
time difference: UTC-6 (1 hour behind Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the Spanish conquistadors used many native Americans as allies in their conquest of Guatemala; the site of their first capital (established in 1524), a former Maya settlement, was called "Quauhtemallan" by their Nahuatl-speaking Mexican allies, a name that means "land of trees" or "forested land", but which the Spanish pronounced "Guatemala"; the Spanish applied that name to a re-founded capital city three years later and eventually it became the name of the country
Topic: Guernseyname: Saint Peter Port
geographic coordinates: 49 27 N, 2 32 W
time difference: UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: Saint Peter Port is the name of the town and its surrounding parish; the "port" distinguishes this parish from that of Saint Peter on the other side of the island
Topic: Guineaname: Conakry
geographic coordinates: 9 30 N, 13 42 W
time difference: UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: according to tradition, the name derives from the fusion of the name "Cona," a Baga wine and cheese producer who lived on Tombo Island (the original site of the present-day capital), and the word "nakiri," which in Susu means "the other bank" or "the other side"; supposedly, Baga's palm grove produced the best wine on the island and people traveling to sample his vintage, would say: "I am going to Cona, on the other bank (Cona-nakiri)," which over time became Conakry
Topic: Guinea-Bissauname: Bissau
geographic coordinates: 11 51 N, 15 35 W
time difference: UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the meaning of Bissau is uncertain, it might be an alternative name for the Papel people who live in the area of the city of Bissau
Topic: Guyananame: Georgetown
geographic coordinates: 6 48 N, 58 09 W
time difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: when the British took possession of the town from the Dutch in 1812, they renamed it Georgetown in honor of King George III (1738-1820)
Topic: Haitiname: Port-au-Prince
geographic coordinates: 18 32 N, 72 20 W
time difference: UTC-5 (same time as Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins second Sunday in March; ends first Sunday in November
etymology: according to tradition, in 1706, a Captain de Saint-Andre named the bay and its surrounding area after his ship Le Prince; the name of the town that grew there means, "the Port of The Prince"
Topic: Holy See (Vatican City)name: Vatican City
geographic coordinates: 41 54 N, 12 27 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
Topic: Hondurasname: Tegucigalpa; note - article eight of the Honduran constitution states that the twin cities of Tegucigalpa and Comayaguela, jointly, constitute the capital of the Republic of Honduras; however, virtually all governmental institutions are on the Tegucigalpa side, which in practical terms makes Tegucigalpa the capital
geographic coordinates: 14 06 N, 87 13 W
time difference: UTC-6 (1 hour behind Washington, DC during Standard Time)
etymology: while most sources agree that Tegucigalpa is of Nahuatl derivation, there is no consensus on its original meaning
Topic: Hungaryname: Budapest
geographic coordinates: 47 30 N, 19 05 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: the Hungarian capital city was formed in 1873 from the merger of three cities on opposite banks of the Danube: Buda and Obuda (Old Buda) on the western shore and Pest on the eastern; the origins of the original names are obscure, but according to the second century A.D. geographer, Ptolemy, the settlement that would become Pest was called "Pession" in ancient times; "Buda" may derive from either a Slavic or Turkic personal name
Topic: Icelandname: Reykjavik
geographic coordinates: 64 09 N, 21 57 W
time difference: UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name means "smoky bay" in Icelandic and refers to the steamy, smoke-like vapors discharged by hot springs in the area
Topic: Indianame: New Delhi
geographic coordinates: 28 36 N, 77 12 E
time difference: UTC+5.5 (10.5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the city's name is associated with various myths and legends; the original name for the city may have been Dhilli or Dhillika; alternatively, the name could be a corruption of the Hindustani words "dehleez" or "dehali" - both terms meaning "threshold" or "gateway" - and indicative of the city as a gateway to the Gangetic Plain; after the British decided to move the capital of their Indian Empire from Calcutta to Delhi in 1911, they created a new governmental district south of the latter designated as New Delhi; the new capital was not formally inaugurated until 1931
Topic: Indonesianame: Jakarta; note - Indonesian lawmakers on 18 January 2022 approved the relocation of the country’s capital from Jakarta to a site in East Kalimantan, a jungle area of Borneo; the move to Nusantara, the name of the new capital, will take several years
geographic coordinates: 6 10 S, 106 49 E
time difference: UTC+7 (12 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
time zone note: Indonesia has three time zones
etymology: "Jakarta" derives from the Sanscrit "Jayakarta" meaning "victorious city" and refers to a successful defeat and expulsion of the Portuguese in 1527; previously the port had been named "Sunda Kelapa"
Topic: Iranname: Tehran
geographic coordinates: 35 42 N, 51 25 E
time difference: UTC+3.5 (8.5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins fourth Wednesday in March; ends fourth Friday in September
etymology: various explanations of the city's name have been proffered, but the most plausible states that it derives from the Persian words "tah" meaning "end or bottom" and "ran" meaning "[mountain] slope" to signify "bottom of the mountain slope"; Tehran lies at the bottom slope of the Elburz Mountains
Topic: Iraqname: Baghdad
geographic coordinates: 33 20 N, 44 24 E
time difference: UTC+3 (8 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: although the origin of the name is disputed, it likely has compound Persian roots with "bagh" and "dad" meaning "god" and "given" respectively to create the meaning of "bestowed by God"
Topic: Irelandname: Dublin
geographic coordinates: 53 19 N, 6 14 W
time difference: UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: derived from Irish "dubh" and "lind" meaning respectively "black, dark" and "pool" and which referred to the dark tidal pool where the River Poddle entered the River Liffey; today the area is the site of the castle gardens behind Dublin Castle
Topic: Isle of Manname: Douglas
geographic coordinates: 54 09 N, 4 29 W
time difference: UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: name derives from the Dhoo and Glass Rivers, which flow through the valley in which the town is located and which in Manx mean the "dark" and the "light" rivers respectively
Topic: Israelname: Jerusalem; note - the US recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s capital in December 2017 without taking a position on the specific boundaries of Israeli sovereignty
geographic coordinates: 31 46 N, 35 14 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, Friday before the last Sunday in March; ends the last Sunday in October
etymology: Jerusalem's settlement may date back to 2800 B.C.; it is named Urushalim in Egyptian texts of the 14th century B.C.; "uru-shalim" likely means "foundation of [by] the god Shalim", and derives from Hebrew/Semitic "yry", "to found or lay a cornerstone", and Shalim, the Canaanite god of dusk and the nether world; Shalim was associated with sunset and peace and the name is based on the same S-L-M root from which Semitic words for "peace" are derived (Salam or Shalom in modern Arabic and Hebrew); this confluence has thus led to naming interpretations such as "The City of Peace" or "The Abode of Peace"
Topic: Italyname: Rome
geographic coordinates: 41 54 N, 12 29 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: by tradition, named after Romulus, one of the legendary founders of the city and its first king
Topic: Jamaicaname: Kingston
geographic coordinates: 18 00 N, 76 48 W
time difference: UTC-5 (same time as Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name is a blending of the words "king's" and "town"; the English king at the time of the city's founding in 1692 was William III (r. 1689-1702)
Topic: Japanname: Tokyo
geographic coordinates: 35 41 N, 139 45 E
time difference: UTC+9 (14 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: originally known as Edo, meaning "estuary" in Japanese, the name was changed to Tokyo, meaning "eastern capital," in 1868
Topic: Jerseyname: Saint Helier
geographic coordinates: 49 11 N, 2 06 W
time difference: UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: named after Saint Helier, the patron saint of Jersey, who was reputedly martyred on the island in A.D. 555
Topic: Jordanname: Amman
geographic coordinates: 31 57 N, 35 56 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Friday in February; ends last Friday in October
etymology: in the 13th century B.C., the Ammonites named their main city "Rabbath Ammon"; "rabbath" designated "capital," so the name meant "The Capital of [the] Ammon[ites]"; over time, the "Rabbath" came to be dropped and the city became known simply as "Ammon" and then "Amman"
Topic: Kazakhstanname: Nur-Sultan
geographic coordinates: 51 10 N, 71 25 E
time difference: UTC+6 (11 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
time zone note: Kazakhstan has two time zones
etymology: on 20 March 2019, Kazakhstan changed the name of its capital city from Astana to Nur-Sultan in honor of its long-serving, recently retired president, Nursultan NAZARBAYEV; this was not the first time the city had its name changed; founded in 1830 as Akmoly, it became Akmolinsk in 1832, Tselinograd in 1961, Akmola (Aqmola) in 1992, and Astana in 1998
Topic: Kenyaname: Nairobi
geographic coordinates: 1 17 S, 36 49 E
time difference: UTC+3 (8 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name derives from the Maasai expression meaning "cool waters" and refers to a cold water stream that flowed through the area in the late 19th century
Topic: Kiribatiname: Tarawa
geographic coordinates: 1 21 N, 173 02 E
time difference: UTC+12 (17 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
time zone note: Kiribati has three time zones: the Gilbert Islands group at UTC+12, the Phoenix Islands at UTC+13, and the Line Islands at UTC+14
etymology: in Kiribati creation mythology, "tarawa" was what the spider Nareau named the land to distinguish it from "karawa" (the sky) and "marawa" (the ocean)
Topic: Korea, Northname: Pyongyang
geographic coordinates: 39 01 N, 125 45 E
time difference: UTC+9 (14 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
time zone note: on 5 May 2018, North Korea reverted to UTC+9, the same time zone as South Korea
etymology: the name translates as "flat land" in Korean
Topic: Korea, Southname: Seoul; note - Sejong, located some 120 km (75 mi) south of Seoul, is serving as an administrative capital for segments of the South Korean Government
geographic coordinates: 37 33 N, 126 59 E
time difference: UTC+9 (14 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name originates from the Korean word meaning "capital city" and which is believed to be derived from Seorabeol, the name of the capital of the ancient Korean Kingdom of Silla
Topic: Kosovoname: Pristina (Prishtine, Prishtina)
geographic coordinates: 42 40 N, 21 10 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: the name may derive from a Proto-Slavic word reconstructed as "pryshchina," meaning "spring (of water)"
Topic: Kuwaitname: Kuwait City
geographic coordinates: 29 22 N, 47 58 E
time difference: UTC+3 (8 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name derives from Arabic "al-Kuwayt" a diminutive of "kut" meaning "fortress," possibly a reference to a small castle built on the current location of Kuwait City by the Beni Khaled tribe in the 17th century
Topic: Kyrgyzstanname: Bishkek
geographic coordinates: 42 52 N, 74 36 E
time difference: UTC+6 (11 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: founded in 1868 as a Russian settlement on the site of a previously destroyed fortress named "Pishpek"; the name was retained and overtime became "Bishkek"
Topic: Laosname: Vientiane (Viangchan)
geographic coordinates: 17 58 N, 102 36 E
time difference: UTC+7 (12 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the meaning in Pali, a Buddhist liturgical language, is "city of sandalwood"
Topic: Latvianame: Riga
geographic coordinates: 56 57 N, 24 06 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: of the several theories explaining the name's origin, the one relating to the city's role in Baltic and North Sea commerce is the most probable; the name is likely related to the Latvian word "rija," meaning "warehouse," where the 'j' became a 'g' under the heavy German influence in the city from the late Middle Ages to the early 20th century
Topic: Lebanonname: Beirut
geographic coordinates: 33 52 N, 35 30 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: derived from the Canaanite or Phoenician word "ber'ot," meaning "the wells" or "fountain," which referred to the site's accessible water table
Topic: Lesothoname: Maseru
geographic coordinates: 29 19 S, 27 29 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: in the Sesotho language the name means "[place of] red sandstones"
Topic: Liberianame: Monrovia
geographic coordinates: 6 18 N, 10 48 W
time difference: UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: named after James Monroe (1758-1831), the fifth president of the United States and supporter of the colonization of Liberia by freed slaves; one of two national capitals named for a US president, the other is Washington, D.C.
Topic: Libyaname: Tripoli (Tarabulus)
geographic coordinates: 32 53 N, 13 10 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: originally founded by the Phoenicians as Oea in the 7th century B.C., the city changed rulers many times over the successive centuries; by the beginning of the 3rd century A.D. the region around the city was referred to as Regio Tripolitana by the Romans, meaning "region of the three cities" - namely Oea (i.e., modern Tripoli), Sabratha (to the west), and Leptis Magna (to the east); over time, the shortened name of "Tripoli" came to refer to just Oea, which derives from the Greek words "tria" and "polis" meaning "three cities"
Topic: Liechtensteinname: Vaduz
geographic coordinates: 47 08 N, 9 31 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: may be a conflation from the Latin "vallis" (valley) and the High German "diutisk" (meaning "German") to produce "Valdutsch" (German valley), which over time simplified and came to refer specifically to Vaduz, the town
Topic: Lithuanianame: Vilnius
geographic coordinates: 54 41 N, 25 19 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: named after the Vilnia River, which flows into the Neris River at Vilnius; the river name derives from the Lithuanian word "vilnis" meaning "a surge"
Topic: Luxembourgname: Luxembourg
geographic coordinates: 49 36 N, 6 07 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: the name derives from the Celtic "lucilem" (little) and the German "burg" (castle or fortress) to produce the meaning of the "little castle"; the name is actually ironic, since for centuries the Fortress of Luxembourg was one of Europe's most formidable fortifications; the name passed to the city that grew around the fortress
Topic: Madagascarname: Antananarivo
geographic coordinates: 18 55 S, 47 31 E
time difference: UTC+3 (8 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name, which means "City of the Thousand," was bestowed by 17th century King Adrianjakaking to honor the soldiers assigned to guard the city
Topic: Malawiname: Lilongwe
geographic coordinates: 13 58 S, 33 47 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: named after the Lilongwe River that flows through the city
Topic: Malaysianame: Kuala Lumpur; note - nearby Putrajaya is referred to as a federal government administrative center but not the capital; Parliament meets in Kuala Lumpur
geographic coordinates: 3 10 N, 101 42 E
time difference: UTC+8 (13 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the Malay word for "river junction or estuary" is "kuala" and "lumpur" means "mud"; together the words render the meaning of "muddy confluence"
Topic: Maldivesname: Male
geographic coordinates: 4 10 N, 73 30 E
time difference: UTC+5 (10 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: derived from the Sanskrit word "mahaalay" meaning "big house"
Topic: Maliname: Bamako
geographic coordinates: 12 39 N, 8 00 W
time difference: UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name in the Bambara language can mean either "crocodile tail" or "crocodile river" and three crocodiles appear on the city seal
Topic: Maltaname: Valletta
geographic coordinates: 35 53 N, 14 30 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: named in honor of Jean de Valette, the Grand Master of the Order of Saint John (crusader knights), who successfully led a defense of the island from an Ottoman invasion in 1565
Topic: Marshall Islandsname: Majuro; note - the capital is an atoll of 64 islands; governmental buildings are housed on three fused islands on the eastern side of the atoll: Djarrit, Uliga, and Delap
geographic coordinates: 7 06 N, 171 23 E
time difference: UTC+12 (17 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: Majuro means "two openings" or "two eyes" and refers to the two major northern passages through the atoll into the Majuro lagoon
Topic: Mauritanianame: Nouakchott
geographic coordinates: 18 04 N, 15 58 W
time difference: UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: may derive from the Berber "nawakshut" meaning "place of the winds"
Topic: Mauritiusname: Port Louis
geographic coordinates: 20 09 S, 57 29 E
time difference: UTC+4 (9 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: named after Louis XV, who was king of France in 1736 when the port became the administrative center of Mauritius and a major reprovisioning stop for French ships traveling between Europe and Asia
Topic: Mexiconame: Mexico City (Ciudad de Mexico)
geographic coordinates: 19 26 N, 99 08 W
time difference: UTC-6 (1 hour behind Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins first Sunday in April; ends last Sunday in October
time zone note: Mexico has four time zones
etymology: named after the Mexica, the largest and most powerful branch of the Aztecs; the meaning of the name is uncertain
Topic: Micronesia, Federated States ofname: Palikir
geographic coordinates: 6 55 N, 158 09 E
time difference: UTC+11 (16 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
time zone note: Micronesia has two time zones
note: Palikir became the new capital of the country in 1989, three years after independence; Kolonia, the former capital, remains the site for many foreign embassies; it also serves as the Pohnpei state capital
Topic: Moldovaname: Chisinau in Moldovan (Kishinev in Russian)
geographic coordinates: 47 00 N, 28 51 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: origin unclear but may derive from the archaic Romanian word "chisla" ("spring" or "water source") and "noua" ("new") because the original settlement was built at the site of a small spring
note: pronounced KEE-shee-now (KIH-shi-nyov)
Topic: Monaconame: Monaco
geographic coordinates: 43 44 N, 7 25 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
Topic: Mongolianame: Ulaanbaatar
geographic coordinates: 47 55 N, 106 55 E
time difference: UTC+8 (13 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Saturday in March; ends last Saturday in September
time zone note: Mongolia has two time zones - Ulaanbaatar Time (8 hours in advance of UTC) and Hovd Time (7 hours in advance of UTC)
etymology: the name means "red hero" in Mongolian and honors national hero Damdin Sukhbaatar, leader of the partisan army that with Soviet Red Army help, liberated Mongolia from Chinese occupation in the early 1920s
Topic: Montenegroname: Podgorica; note - Cetinje retains the status of "Old Royal Capital"
geographic coordinates: 42 26 N, 19 16 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1 hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: the name translates as "beneath Gorica"; the meaning of Gorica is "hillock"; the reference is to the small hill named Gorica that the city is built around
Topic: Montserratname: Plymouth; note - Plymouth was abandoned in 1997 because of volcanic activity; interim government buildings have been built at Brades Estate, the de facto capital, in the Carr's Bay/Little Bay vicinity at the northwest end of Montserrat
geographic coordinates: 16 42 N, 62 13 W
time difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: now entirely deserted because of volcanic activity, the city was originally named after Plymouth, England; de jure, Plymouth remains the capital city of Montserrat; it is therefore the only ghost town that serves as the capital of a political entity
Topic: Morocconame: Rabat
geographic coordinates: 34 01 N, 6 49 W
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: name derives from the Arabic title "Ribat el-Fath," meaning "stronghold of victory," applied to the newly constructed citadel in 1170
Topic: Mozambiquename: Maputo
geographic coordinates: 25 57 S, 32 35 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: reputedly named after the Maputo River, which drains into Maputo Bay south of the city
Topic: Namibianame: Windhoek
geographic coordinates: 22 34 S, 17 05 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins first Sunday in September; ends first Sunday in April
etymology: may derive from the Afrikaans word "wind-hoek" meaning "windy corner"
Topic: Nauruname: no official capital; government offices in the Yaren District
time difference: UTC+12 (17 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Topic: Nepalname: Kathmandu
geographic coordinates: 27 43 N, 85 19 E
time difference: UTC+5.75 (10.75 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: name derives from the Kasthamandap temple that stood in Durbar Square; in Sanskrit, "kastha" means "wood" and "mandapa" means "pavilion"; the three-story structure was made entirely of wood, without iron nails or supports, and dated to the late 16th century; it collapsed during a 2015 earthquake
Topic: Netherlandsname: Amsterdam; note - The Hague is the seat of government
geographic coordinates: 52 21 N, 4 55 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
time zone note: time descriptions apply to the continental Netherlands only, for the constituent countries in the Caribbean, the time difference is UTC-4
etymology: the original Dutch name, Amstellerdam, meaning "a dam on the Amstel River," dates to the 13th century; over time the name simplified to Amsterdam
Topic: New Caledonianame: Noumea
geographic coordinates: 22 16 S, 166 27 E
time difference: UTC+11 (16 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: established in 1854 as Port-de-France, the settlement was renamed Noumea in 1866, in order to avoid any confusion with Fort-de-France in Martinique; the New Caledonian language of Ndrumbea (also spelled Ndumbea, Dubea, and Drubea) spoken in the area gave its name to the capital city, Noumea, as well as to the neighboring town (suburb) of Dumbea
Topic: New Zealandname: Wellington
geographic coordinates: 41 18 S, 174 47 E
time difference: UTC+12 (17 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in September; ends first Sunday in April
time zone note: New Zealand has two time zones: New Zealand standard time (UTC+12) and Chatham Islands time (45 minutes in advance of New Zealand standard time; UTC+12:45)
etymology: named in 1840 after Arthur Wellesley, the first Duke of Wellington and victorious general at the Battle of Waterloo
Topic: Nicaraguaname: Managua
geographic coordinates: 12 08 N, 86 15 W
time difference: UTC-6 (1 hour behind Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: may derive from the indigenous Nahuatl term "mana-ahuac," which translates as "adjacent to the water" or a site "surrounded by water"; the city is situated on the southwestern shore of Lake Managua
Topic: Nigername: Niamey
geographic coordinates: 13 31 N, 2 07 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: according to tradition, the site was originally a fishing village named after a prominent local tree referred to as "nia niam"
Topic: Nigerianame: Abuja
geographic coordinates: 9 05 N, 7 32 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: Abuja is a planned capital city, it replaced Lagos in 1991; situated in the center of the country, Abuja takes its name from a nearby town, now renamed Suleja
Topic: Niuename: Alofi
geographic coordinates: 19 01 S, 169 55 W
time difference: UTC-11 (6 hours behind Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Topic: Norfolk Islandname: Kingston
geographic coordinates: 29 03 S, 167 58 E
time difference: UTC+11 (16 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins first Sunday in October; ends first Sunday in April
etymology: the name is a blending of the words "king's" and "town"; the British king at the time of the town's settlement in the late 18th century was George III
Topic: North Macedonianame: Skopje
geographic coordinates: 42 00 N, 21 26 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: Skopje derives from its ancient name Scupi, the Latin designation of a classical era Greco-Roman frontier fortress town; the name may go back even further to a pre-Greek, Illyrian name
Topic: Northern Mariana Islandsname: Saipan
geographic coordinates: 15 12 N, 145 45 E
time difference: UTC+10 (15 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the entire island of Saipan is organized as a single municipality and serves as the capital; according to legend, when the first native voyagers arrived in their outrigger canoes they found an uninhabited island; to them it was like an empty voyage, so they named the island "saay" meaning "a voyage," and "peel" meaning "empty"; over time Saaypeel - "island of the empty voyage" - became Saipan
Topic: Norwayname: Oslo
geographic coordinates: 59 55 N, 10 45 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: the medieval name was spelt "Aslo"; the "as" component refered either to the Ekeberg ridge southeast of the town ("as" in modern Norwegian), or to the Aesir (Norse gods); "lo" refered to "meadow," so the most likely interpretations would have been either "the meadow beneath the ridge" or "the meadow of the gods"; both explanations are considered equally plausible
Topic: Omanname: Muscat
geographic coordinates: 23 37 N, 58 35 E
time difference: UTC+4 (9 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name, whose meaning is uncertain, traces back almost two millennia; two 2nd century A.D. scholars, the geographer Ptolemy and the historian Arrian, both mention an Arabian Sea coastal town of Moscha, which most likely referred to Muscat
Topic: Pakistanname: Islamabad
geographic coordinates: 33 41 N, 73 03 E
time difference: UTC+5 (10 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: derived from two words: "Islam," an Urdu word referring to the religion of Islam, and "-abad," a Persian suffix indicating an "inhabited place" or "city," to render the meaning "City of Islam"
Topic: Palauname: Ngerulmud
geographic coordinates: 7 30 N, 134 37 E
time difference: UTC+9 (14 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the Palauan meaning is "place of fermented 'mud'" ('mud' being the native name for the keyhole angelfish); the site of the new capitol (established in 2006) had been a large hill overlooking the ocean, Ngerulmud, on which women would communally gather to offer fermented angelfish to the gods
note: Ngerulmud, on Babeldaob Island, is the smallest national capital on earth by population, with only a few hundred people; the name is pronounced en-jer-al-mud; Koror, on Koror Island, with over 11,000 residents is by far the largest settlement in Palau; it served as the country's capital from independence in 1994 to 2006
Topic: Panamaname: Panama City
geographic coordinates: 8 58 N, 79 32 W
time difference: UTC-5 (same time as Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: according to tradition, the name derives from a former fishing area near the present capital - an indigenous village and its adjacent beach - that were called "Panama" meaning "an abundance of fish"
Topic: Papua New Guineaname: Port Moresby
geographic coordinates: 9 27 S, 147 11 E
time difference: UTC+10 (15 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
time zone note: Papua New Guinea has two time zones, including Bougainville (UTC+11)
etymology: named in 1873 by Captain John Moresby (1830-1922) in honor of his father, British Admiral Sir Fairfax Moresby (1786-1877)
Topic: Paraguayname: Asuncion
geographic coordinates: 25 16 S, 57 40 W
time difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins first Sunday in October; ends last Sunday in March
etymology: the name means "assumption" and derives from the original name given to the city at its founding in 1537, Nuestra Senora Santa Maria de la Asuncion (Our Lady Saint Mary of the Assumption)
Topic: Peruname: Lima
geographic coordinates: 12 03 S, 77 03 W
time difference: UTC-5 (same time as Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the word "Lima" derives from the Spanish pronunciation of "Limaq," the native name for the valley in which the city was founded in 1535; "limaq" means "talker" in coastal Quechua and referred to an oracle that was situated in the valley but which was eventually destroyed by the Spanish and replaced with a church
Topic: Philippinesname: Manila
geographic coordinates: 14 36 N, 120 58 E
time difference: UTC+8 (13 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: derives from the Tagalog "may-nila" meaning "where there is indigo" and refers to the presence of indigo-yielding plants growing in the area surrounding the original settlement
Topic: Pitcairn Islandsname: Adamstown
geographic coordinates: 25 04 S, 130 05 W
time difference: UTC-9 (4 hours behind Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: named after John Adams (1767–1829), the last survivor of the Bounty mutineers who settled on Pitcairn Island in January 1790
Topic: Polandname: Warsaw
geographic coordinates: 52 15 N, 21 00 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: the origin of the name is unknown; the Polish designation "Warszawa" was the name of a fishing village and several legends/traditions link the city's founding to a man named Wars or Warsz
Topic: Portugalname: Lisbon
geographic coordinates: 38 43 N, 9 08 W
time difference: UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
time zone note: Portugal has two time zones, including the Azores (UTC-1)
etymology: Lisbon is one of Europe's oldest cities (the second oldest capital city after Athens) and the origin of the name is lost in time; it may have been founded as an ancient Celtic settlement that subsequently maintained close commercial relations with the Phoenicians (beginning about 1200 B.C.); the name of the settlement may have been derived from the pre-Roman appellation for the Tagus River that runs through the city, Lisso or Lucio; the Romans named the city "Olisippo" when they took it from the Carthaginians in 205 B.C.; under the Visigoths the city name became "Ulixbona," under the Arabs it was "al-Ushbuna"; the medieval version of "Lissabona" became today's Lisboa
Topic: Puerto Riconame: San Juan
geographic coordinates: 18 28 N, 66 07 W
time difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name dates to 1521 and the founding of the city under the name "Ciudad de San Juan Bautista de Puerto Rico" (City of Saint John the Baptist of Puerto Rico)
Topic: Qatarname: Doha
geographic coordinates: 25 17 N, 51 32 E
time difference: UTC+3 (8 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: derives from the Arabic term "dohat," meaning "roundness," and refers to the small rounded bays along the area's coastline
Topic: Romanianame: Bucharest
geographic coordinates: 44 26 N, 26 06 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: related to the Romanian word "bucura" that is believed to be of Dacian origin and whose meaning is "to be glad (happy)"; Bucharest's meaning is thus akin to "city of joy"
Topic: Russianame: Moscow
geographic coordinates: 55 45 N, 37 36 E
time difference: UTC+3 (8 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: does not observe daylight savings time
time zone note: Russia has 11 time zones, the largest number of contiguous time zones of any country in the world; in 2014, two time zones were added and DST dropped
etymology: named after the Moskva River; the origin of the river's name is obscure but may derive from the appellation "Mustajoki" given to the river by the Finno-Ugric people who originally inhabited the area and whose meaning may have been "dark" or "turbid"
Topic: Rwandaname: Kigali
geographic coordinates: 1 57 S, 30 03 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the city takes its name from nearby Mount Kigali; the name "Kigali" is composed of the Bantu prefix "ki" and the Rwandan "gali" meaning "broad" and likely refers to the broad, sprawling hill that has been dignified with the title of "mount"
Topic: Saint Barthelemyname: Gustavia
geographic coordinates: 17 53 N, 62 51 W
time difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: named in honor of King Gustav III (1746-1792) of Sweden during whose reign the island was obtained from France in 1784; the name was retained when in 1878 the island was sold back to France
Topic: Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunhaname: Jamestown
geographic coordinates: 15 56 S, 5 43 W
time difference: UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: founded in 1659 and named after James, Duke of York, who would become King James II of England (r. 1785-1788)
Topic: Saint Kitts and Nevisname: Basseterre
geographic coordinates: 17 18 N, 62 43 W
time difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the French name translates as "low land" in English; the reference is to the city's low-lying location within a valley, as well as to the fact that the city is on the leeward (downwind) part of the island, and is thus a safe anchorage
Topic: Saint Lucianame: Castries
geographic coordinates: 14 00 N, 61 00 W
time difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: in 1785, the village of Carenage was renamed Castries, after Charles Eugene Gabriel de La Croix de Castries (1727-1801), who was then the French Minister of the Navy and Colonies
Topic: Saint Martinname: Marigot
geographic coordinates: 18 04 N, 63 05 W
time difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: marigot is a French term referring to a body of water, a watercourse, a side-stream, or a tributary rivulet; the name likely refers to a stream at the site of the city's original founding
Topic: Saint Pierre and Miquelonname: Saint-Pierre
geographic coordinates: 46 46 N, 56 11 W
time difference: UTC-3 (2 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins second Sunday in March; ends first Sunday in November
etymology: named after Saint Peter, the patron saint of fisherman
Topic: Saint Vincent and the Grenadinesname: Kingstown
geographic coordinates: 13 08 N, 61 13 W
time difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: an earlier French settlement was renamed Kingstown by the British in 1763 when they assumed control of the island; the king referred to in the name is George III (r. 1760-1820)
Topic: Samoaname: Apia
geographic coordinates: 13 49 S, 171 46 W
time difference: UTC+13 (18 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: name derives from the native village around which the capital was constructed in the 1850s; the village still exists within the larger modern capital
Topic: San Marinoname: San Marino (city)
geographic coordinates: 43 56 N, 12 25 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: named after Saint MARINUS, who in A.D. 301 founded a monastic settlement around which the city and later the state of San Marino coalesced
Topic: Sao Tome and Principename: Sao Tome
geographic coordinates: 0 20 N, 6 44 E
time difference: UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: named after Saint Thomas the Apostle
Topic: Saudi Arabianame: Riyadh
geographic coordinates: 24 39 N, 46 42 E
time difference: UTC+3 (8 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name derives from the Arabic word "riyadh," meaning "gardens," and refers to various oasis towns in the area that merged to form the city
Topic: Senegalname: Dakar
geographic coordinates: 14 44 N, 17 38 W
time difference: UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the Atlantic coast trading settlement of Ndakaaru came to be called "Dakar" by French colonialists
Topic: Serbianame: Belgrade (Beograd)
geographic coordinates: 44 50 N, 20 30 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: the Serbian "Beograd" means "white fortress" or "white city" and dates back to the 9th century; the name derives from the white fortress wall that once enclosed the city
Topic: Seychellesname: Victoria
geographic coordinates: 4 37 S, 55 27 E
time difference: UTC+4 (9 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: founded as L'etablissement in 1778 by French colonists, the town was renamed in 1841 by the British after Queen Victoria (1819-1901); "victoria" is the Latin word for "victory"
Topic: Sierra Leonename: Freetown
geographic coordinates: 8 29 N, 13 14 W
time difference: UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: name derived from the fact that the original settlement served as a haven for free-born and freed African Americans, as well as for liberated Africans rescued from slave ships
Topic: Singaporename: Singapore
geographic coordinates: 1 17 N, 103 51 E
time difference: UTC+8 (13 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: name derives from the Sanskrit words "simha" (lion) and "pura" (city), thus creating the city's epithet "lion city"
Topic: Sint Maartenname: Philipsburg
geographic coordinates: 18 1 N, 63 2 W
time difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: founded and named in 1763 by John PHILIPS, a Scottish captain in the Dutch navy
Topic: Slovakianame: Bratislava
geographic coordinates: 48 09 N, 17 07 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: the name was adopted in 1919 after Czechoslovakia gained its independence and may derive from later transliterations of the 9th century military commander, Braslav, or the 11th century Bohemian Duke Bretislav I; alternatively, the name may derive from the Slovak words "brat" (brother) and "slava" (glory)
Topic: Slovenianame: Ljubljana
geographic coordinates: 46 03 N, 14 31 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: likely related to the Slavic root "ljub", meaning "to like" or "to love"; by tradition, the name is related to the Slovene word "ljubljena" meaning "beloved"
Topic: Solomon Islandsname: Honiara
geographic coordinates: 9 26 S, 159 57 E
time difference: UTC+11 (16 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name derives from "nagho ni ara," which in one of the Guadalcanal languages roughly translates as "facing the eastern wind"
Topic: Somalianame: Mogadishu
geographic coordinates: 2 04 N, 45 20 E
time difference: UTC+3 (8 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: several theories attempt to explain the city's name; one of the more plausible is that it derives from "maq'ad-i-shah" meaning "the seat of the shah," reflecting the city's links with Persia
Topic: South Africaname: Pretoria (administrative capital); Cape Town (legislative capital); Bloemfontein (judicial capital)
geographic coordinates: 25 42 S, 28 13 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: Pretoria is named in honor of Andries PRETORIUS, the father of voortrekker (pioneer) leader Marthinus PRETORIUS; Cape Town reflects its location on the Cape of Good Hope; Bloemfontein is a combination of the Dutch words "bloem" (flower) and "fontein" (fountain) meaning "fountain of flowers"
Topic: South Sudanname: Juba
geographic coordinates: 04 51 N, 31 37 E
time difference: UTC+2 (8 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name derives from Djouba, another name for the Bari people of South Sudan
Topic: Spainname: Madrid
geographic coordinates: 40 24 N, 3 41 W
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
time zone note: Spain has two time zones, including the Canary Islands (UTC 0)
etymology: the Romans named the original settlement "Matrice" after the river that ran through it; under Arab rule it became "Majerit," meaning "source of water"; in medieval Romance dialects (Mozarabic) it became "Matrit," which over time changed to "Madrid"
Topic: Sri Lankaname: Colombo (commercial capital); Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte (legislative capital)
geographic coordinates: 6 55 N, 79 50 E
time difference: UTC+5.5 (10.5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: Colombo may derive from the Sinhala "kolon thota," meaning "port on the river" (referring to the Kelani River that empties into the Indian Ocean at Colombo); alternatively, the name may derive from the Sinhala "kola amba thota" meaning "harbor with mango trees"; it is also possible that the Portuguese named the city after Christopher COLUMBUS, who lived in Portugal for many years (as Cristovao COLOMBO) before discovering the Americas for the Spanish crown in 1492 - not long before the Portuguese made their way to Sri Lanka in 1505; Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte translates as "Resplendent City of Growing Victory" in Sinhala
Topic: Sudanname: Khartoum
geographic coordinates: 15 36 N, 32 32 E
time difference: UTC+3 (8 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: several explanations of the name exist; two of the more plausible are that it is derived from Arabic "al-jartum" meaning "elephant's trunk" or "hose," and likely referring to the narrow strip of land extending between the Blue and White Niles; alternatively, the name could derive from the Dinka words "khar-tuom," indicating a "place where rivers meet"
Topic: Surinamename: Paramaribo
geographic coordinates: 5 50 N, 55 10 W
time difference: UTC-3 (2 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name may be the corruption of a Carib (Kalina) village or tribe named Parmirbo
Topic: Svalbardname: Longyearbyen
geographic coordinates: 78 13 N, 15 38 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: the name in Norwegian means Longyear Town; the site was established by and named after John LONGYEAR, whose Arctic Coal Company began mining operations there in 1906
Topic: Swedenname: Stockholm
geographic coordinates: 59 20 N, 18 03 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: "stock" and "holm" literally mean "log" and "islet" in Swedish, but there is no consensus as to what the words refer to
Topic: Switzerlandname: Bern
geographic coordinates: 46 55 N, 7 28 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: origin of the name is uncertain, but may derive from a 2nd century B.C. Celtic place name, possibly "berna" meaning "cleft," that was subsequently adopted by a Roman settlement
Topic: Syrianame: Damascus
geographic coordinates: 33 30 N, 36 18 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins midnight on the last Friday in March; ends at midnight on the last Friday in October
etymology: Damascus is a very old city; its earliest name, Temeseq, first appears in an Egyptian geographical list of the 15th century B.C., but the meaning is uncertain
Topic: Taiwanname: Taipei
geographic coordinates: 25 02 N, 121 31 E
time difference: UTC+8 (13 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the Chinese meaning is "Northern Taiwan," reflecting the city's position in the far north of the island
Topic: Tajikistanname: Dushanbe
geographic coordinates: 38 33 N, 68 46 E
time difference: UTC+5 (10 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: today's city was originally at the crossroads where a large bazaar occurred on Mondays, hence the name Dushanbe, which in Persian means Monday, i.e., the second day (du) after Saturday (shambe)
Topic: Tanzanianame: Dar es Salaam (de facto administrative capital), Dodoma (national capital); note - Dodoma, designated the national capital in 1996, serves as the meeting place for the National Assembly and is thus the legislative capital; Dar es Salaam (the original national capital) remains the de facto capital, the country's largest city and commercial center, and the site of the executive branch offices and diplomatic representation
geographic coordinates: 6 48 S, 39 17 E
time difference: UTC+3 (8 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: Dar es Salaam was the name given by Majid bin Said, the first sultan of Zanzibar, to the new city he founded on the Indian Ocean coast; the Arabic name is commonly translated as "abode/home of peace"; Dodoma, in the native Gogo language, means "it has sunk"; supposedly, one day during the rainy season, an elephant drowned in the area; the villagers in that place were so struck by what had occurred, that ever since the locale has been referred to as the place where "it (the elephant) sunk"
Topic: Thailandname: Bangkok
geographic coordinates: 13 45 N, 100 31 E
time difference: UTC+7 (12 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: Bangkok was likely originally a colloquial name, but one that was widely adopted by foreign visitors; the name may derive from "bang ko," where "bang" is the Thai word for "village on a stream" and "ko" means "island," both referencing the area's landscape, which was carved by rivers and canals; alternatively, the name may come from "bang makok," where "makok" is the name of the Java plum, a plant bearing olive-like fruit; this possibility is supported by the former name of Wat Arun, a historic temple in the area, that used to be called Wat Makok;
Krung Thep, the city's Thai name, means "City of the Deity" and is a shortening of the full ceremonial name: Krungthepmahanakhon Amonrattanakosin Mahintharayutthaya Mahadilokphop Noppharatratchathaniburirom Udomratchaniwetmahasathan Amonphimanawatansathit Sakkathattiyawitsanukamprasit; translated the meaning is: City of angels, great city of immortals, magnificent city of the nine gems, seat of the king, city of royal palaces, home of gods incarnate, erected by Vishvakarman at Indra's behest; it holds the world's record as the longest place name (169 letters)
Topic: Timor-Lestename: Dili
geographic coordinates: 8 35 S, 125 36 E
time difference: UTC+9 (14 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Topic: Togoname: Lome
geographic coordinates: 6 07 N, 1 13 E
time difference: UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: Lome comes from "alotime" which in the native Ewe language means "among the alo plants"; alo trees dominated the city's original founding site
Topic: Tokelautime difference: UTC+13 (18 hours ahead of Washington, DC during Standard Time)
note: there is no designated, official capital for Tokelau; the location of the capital rotates among the three atolls along with the head of government or Ulu o Tokelau
Topic: Tonganame: Nuku'alofa
geographic coordinates: 21 08 S, 175 12 W
time difference: UTC+13 (18 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins first Sunday in November; ends second Sunday in January
etymology: composed of the words "nuku," meaning "residence or abode," and "alofa," meaning "love," to signify "abode of love"
Topic: Trinidad and Tobagoname: Port of Spain
geographic coordinates: 10 39 N, 61 31 W
time difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name dates to the period of Spanish colonial rule (16th to late 18th centuries) when the city was referred to as "Puerto de Espana"; the name was anglicized following the British capture of Trinidad in 1797
Topic: Tunisianame: Tunis
geographic coordinates: 36 48 N, 10 11 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: three possibilities exist for the derivation of the name; originally a Berber settlement (earliest reference 4th century B.C.), the strategic site fell to the Carthaginians (Phoenicians) and the city could be named after the Punic goddess Tanit, since many ancient cities were named after patron deities; alternatively, the Berber root word "ens," which means "to lie down" or "to pass the night," may indicate that the site was originally a camp or rest stop; finally, the name may be the same as the city of Tynes, mentioned in the writings of some ancient authors
Topic: Turkeyname: Ankara
geographic coordinates: 39 56 N, 32 52 E
time difference: UTC+3 (8 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: Ankara has been linked with a second millennium B.C. Hittite cult center of Ankuwash, although this connection is uncertain; in classical and medieval times, the city was known as Ankyra (meaning "anchor" in Greek and reflecting the city's position as a junction for multiple trade and military routes); by about the 13th century the city began to be referred to as Angora; following the establishment of the Republic of Turkey in 1923, the city's name became Ankara
Topic: Turkmenistanname: Ashgabat (Ashkhabad)
geographic coordinates: 37 57 N, 58 23 E
time difference: UTC+5 (10 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: derived from the Persian words "eshq" meaning "love" and "abad" meaning "inhabited place" or "city," and so loosely translates as "the city of love"
Topic: Turks and Caicos Islandsname: Grand Turk (Cockburn Town)
geographic coordinates: 21 28 N, 71 08 W
time difference: UTC-5 (same time as Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: named after Sir Francis Cockburn, who served as governor of the Bahamas from 1837 to 1844
Topic: Tuvaluname: Funafuti; note - the capital is an atoll of some 29 islets; administrative offices are in Vaiaku Village on Fongafale Islet
geographic coordinates: 8 31 S, 179 13 E
time difference: UTC+12 (17 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the atoll is named after a founding ancestor chief, Funa, from the island of Samoa
Topic: Ugandaname: Kampala
geographic coordinates: 0 19 N, 32 33 E
time difference: UTC+3 (8 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the site of the original British settlement was referred to by its native name as Akasozi ke'Empala ("hill of the impala" [plural]); over time this designation was shortened to K'empala and finally Kampala
Topic: Ukrainename: Kyiv (Kiev)
geographic coordinates: 50 26 N, 30 31 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
etymology: the name is associated with that of Kyi, who along with his brothers Shchek and Khoryv, and their sister Lybid, are the legendary founders of the medieval city of Kyiv; Kyi being the eldest brother, the city was named after him
note: pronounced KAY-yiv
Topic: United Arab Emiratesname: Abu Dhabi
geographic coordinates: 24 28 N, 54 22 E
time difference: UTC+4 (9 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: in Arabic, "abu" means "father" and "dhabi" refers to "gazelle"; the name may derive from an abundance of gazelles that used to live in the area, as well as a folk tale involving the "Father of the Gazelle," Shakhbut bin Dhiyab al Nahyan, whose hunting party tracked a gazelle to a spring on the island where Abu Dhabi was founded
Topic: United Kingdomname: London
geographic coordinates: 51 30 N, 0 05 W
time difference: UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
time zone note: the time statements apply to the United Kingdom proper, not to its crown dependencies or overseas territories
etymology: the name derives from the Roman settlement of Londinium, established on the current site of London around A.D. 43; the original meaning of the name is uncertain
Topic: United Statesname: Washington, DC
geographic coordinates: 38 53 N, 77 02 W
time difference: UTC-5 (during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins second Sunday in March; ends first Sunday in November
time zone note: the 50 United States cover six time zones
etymology: named after George Washington (1732-1799), the first president of the United States
Topic: Uruguayname: Montevideo
geographic coordinates: 34 51 S, 56 10 W
time difference: UTC-3 (2 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name "Montevidi" was originally applied to the hill that overlooked the bay upon which the city of Montevideo was founded; the earliest meaning may have been "[the place where we] saw the hill"
Topic: Uzbekistanname: Tashkent (Toshkent)
geographic coordinates: 41 19 N, 69 15 E
time difference: UTC+5 (10 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: "tash" means "stone" and "kent" means "city" in Turkic languages, so the name simply denotes "stone city"
Topic: Vanuatuname: Port-Vila (on Efate)
geographic coordinates: 17 44 S, 168 19 E
time difference: UTC+11 (16 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: there are two possibilities for the origin of the name: early European settlers were Portuguese and "vila" means "village or town" in Portuguese, hence "Port-Vila" would mean "Port Town"; alternatively, the site of the capital is referred to as "Efil" or "Ifira" in native languages, "Vila" is a likely corruption of these names
Topic: Venezuelaname: Caracas
geographic coordinates: 10 29 N, 66 52 W
time difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: named for the native Caracas tribe that originally settled in the city's valley site near the Caribbean coast
Topic: Vietnamname: Hanoi (Ha Noi)
geographic coordinates: 21 02 N, 105 51 E
time difference: UTC+7 (12 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the city has had many names in its history going back to A.D. 1010 when it first became the capital of imperial Vietnam; in 1831, it received its current name of Ha Noi, meaning "between the rivers," which refers to its geographic location
Topic: Virgin Islandsname: Charlotte Amalie
geographic coordinates: 18 21 N, 64 56 W
time difference: UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: originally called Taphus in Danish - meaning "tap house" or "beer house" because of its many beer halls - the town received a more dignified name in 1691 when it was named Charlotte Amalie in honor of Danish King Christian V’s wife, Charlotte Amalie of Hesse-Kassel (1650–1714)
Topic: Wallis and Futunaname: Mata-Utu (on Ile Uvea)
geographic coordinates: 13 57 S, 171 56 W
time difference: UTC+12 (17 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Topic: Worldtime difference: there are 21 World entities (20 countries and 1 dependency) with multiple time zones: Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ecuador, France, Greenland (part of the Danish Kingdom), Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kiribati, Mexico, Micronesia, Mongolia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Portugal, Russia, Spain, United States
note 1: in some instances, the time zones pertain to portions of a country that lie overseas
note 2: in 1851, the British set their prime meridian (0° longitude) through the Royal Observatory at Greenwich, England; this meridian became the international standard in 1884 and thus the basis for the standard time zones of the world; today, GMT is officially known as Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) and is also referred to as "Zulu time"; UTC is the basis for all civil time, with the world divided into time zones expressed as positive or negative differences from UTC
note 3: each time zone is based on 15° starting from the prime meridian; in theory, there are 24 time zones based on the solar day, but there are now upward of 40 because of fractional hour offsets that adjust for various political and physical geographic realities; see the Standard Time Zones of the World map included with the Reference Maps
daylight saving time: some 67 countries - including most of the world's leading industrialized nations - use daylight savings time (DST) in at least a portion of the country; China, Japan, India, and Russia are major industrialized countries that do not use DST; Asia and Africa generally do not observe DST and it is generally not observed near the equator, where sunrise and sunset times do not vary enough to justify it; some countries observe DST only in certain regions; for example, only southeastern Australia observes it; in fact, only a minority of the world's population - about 20% - uses DST
Topic: Yemenname: Sanaa
geographic coordinates: 15 21 N, 44 12 E
time difference: UTC+3 (8 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name is reputed to mean "well-fortified" in Sabaean, the South Arabian language that went extinct in Yemen in the 6th century A.D.
Topic: Zambianame: Lusaka; note - a proposal to build a new capital city in Ngabwe was announced in May 2017
geographic coordinates: 15 25 S, 28 17 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: named after a village called Lusaka, located at Manda Hill, near where Zambia's National Assembly building currently stands; the village was named after a headman (chief) Lusakasa
Topic: Zimbabwename: Harare
geographic coordinates: 17 49 S, 31 02 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: named after a village of Harare at the site of the present capital; the village name derived from a Shona chieftain, Ne-harawa, whose name meant "he who does not sleep" |
20220601 | countries-philippines |
Topic: Photos of Philippines
Topic: Introduction
Background: The Philippine Islands became a Spanish colony during the 16th century; they were ceded to the US in 1898 following the Spanish-American War. In 1935 the Philippines became a self-governing commonwealth. Manuel QUEZON was elected president and was tasked with preparing the country for independence after a 10-year transition. In 1942 the islands fell under Japanese occupation during World War II, and US forces and Filipinos fought together during 1944-45 to regain control. On 4 July 1946 the Republic of the Philippines attained its independence. A 21-year rule by Ferdinand MARCOS ended in 1986, when a "people power" movement in Manila ("EDSA 1") forced him into exile and installed Corazon AQUINO as president. Her presidency was hampered by several coup attempts that prevented a return to full political stability and economic development. Fidel RAMOS was elected president in 1992. His administration was marked by increased stability and by progress on economic reforms. In 1992, the US closed its last military bases on the islands. Joseph ESTRADA was elected president in 1998. He was succeeded by his vice-president, Gloria MACAPAGAL-ARROYO, in January 2001 after ESTRADA's stormy impeachment trial on corruption charges broke down and another "people power" movement ("EDSA 2") demanded his resignation. MACAPAGAL-ARROYO was elected to a six-year term as president in May 2004. Her presidency was marred by several corruption allegations but the Philippine economy was one of the few to avoid contraction following the 2008 global financial crisis, expanding each year of her administration. Benigno AQUINO III was elected to a six-year term as president in May 2010 and was succeeded by Rodrigo DUTERTE in May 2016. The Philippine Government faces threats from several groups, some of which are on the US Government's Foreign Terrorist Organization list. Manila has waged a decades-long struggle against ethnic Moro insurgencies in the southern Philippines, which led to a peace accord with the Moro National Liberation Front and a separate agreement with a break away faction, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. The decades-long Maoist-inspired New People's Army insurgency also operates through much of the country. In 2017, Philippine armed forces battled an ISIS-East Asia siege in Marawi City, driving DUTERTE to declare martial law in the region. The Philippines faces increased tension with China over disputed territorial and maritime claims in the South China Sea.The Philippine Islands became a Spanish colony during the 16th century; they were ceded to the US in 1898 following the Spanish-American War. In 1935 the Philippines became a self-governing commonwealth. Manuel QUEZON was elected president and was tasked with preparing the country for independence after a 10-year transition. In 1942 the islands fell under Japanese occupation during World War II, and US forces and Filipinos fought together during 1944-45 to regain control. On 4 July 1946 the Republic of the Philippines attained its independence. A 21-year rule by Ferdinand MARCOS ended in 1986, when a "people power" movement in Manila ("EDSA 1") forced him into exile and installed Corazon AQUINO as president. Her presidency was hampered by several coup attempts that prevented a return to full political stability and economic development. Fidel RAMOS was elected president in 1992. His administration was marked by increased stability and by progress on economic reforms. In 1992, the US closed its last military bases on the islands. Joseph ESTRADA was elected president in 1998. He was succeeded by his vice-president, Gloria MACAPAGAL-ARROYO, in January 2001 after ESTRADA's stormy impeachment trial on corruption charges broke down and another "people power" movement ("EDSA 2") demanded his resignation. MACAPAGAL-ARROYO was elected to a six-year term as president in May 2004. Her presidency was marred by several corruption allegations but the Philippine economy was one of the few to avoid contraction following the 2008 global financial crisis, expanding each year of her administration. Benigno AQUINO III was elected to a six-year term as president in May 2010 and was succeeded by Rodrigo DUTERTE in May 2016.The Philippine Government faces threats from several groups, some of which are on the US Government's Foreign Terrorist Organization list. Manila has waged a decades-long struggle against ethnic Moro insurgencies in the southern Philippines, which led to a peace accord with the Moro National Liberation Front and a separate agreement with a break away faction, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. The decades-long Maoist-inspired New People's Army insurgency also operates through much of the country. In 2017, Philippine armed forces battled an ISIS-East Asia siege in Marawi City, driving DUTERTE to declare martial law in the region. The Philippines faces increased tension with China over disputed territorial and maritime claims in the South China Sea.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Southeastern Asia, archipelago between the Philippine Sea and the South China Sea, east of Vietnam
Geographic coordinates: 13 00 N, 122 00 E
Map references: Southeast Asia
Area: total: 300,000 sq km
land: 298,170 sq km
water: 1,830 sq km
Area - comparative: slightly less than twice the size of Georgia; slightly larger than Arizona
Land boundaries: total: 0 km
Coastline: 36,289 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: irregular polygon extending up to 100 nm from coastline as defined by 1898 treaty; since late 1970s has also claimed polygonal-shaped area in South China Sea as wide as 285 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
continental shelf: to the depth of exploitation
Climate: tropical marine; northeast monsoon (November to April); southwest monsoon (May to October)
Terrain: mostly mountains with narrow to extensive coastal lowlands
Elevation: highest point: Mount Apo 2,954 m
lowest point: Philippine Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 442 m
Natural resources: timber, petroleum, nickel, cobalt, silver, gold, salt, copper
Land use: agricultural land: 41% (2018 est.)
arable land: 18.2% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 17.8% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 5% (2018 est.)
forest: 25.9% (2018 est.)
other: 33.1% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 16,270 sq km (2012)
Major lakes (area sq km): Salt water lake(s): Laguna de Bay - 890 sq km
Population distribution: population concentrated where good farmlands lie; highest concentrations are northwest and south-central Luzon, the southeastern extension of Luzon, and the islands of the Visayan Sea, particularly Cebu and Negros; Manila is home to one-eighth of the entire national population
Natural hazards: astride typhoon belt, usually affected by 15 and struck by five to six cyclonic storms each year; landslides; active volcanoes; destructive earthquakes; tsunamisvolcanism: significant volcanic activity; Taal (311 m), which has shown recent unrest and may erupt in the near future, has been deemed a Decade Volcano by the International Association of Volcanology and Chemistry of the Earth's Interior, worthy of study due to its explosive history and close proximity to human populations; Mayon (2,462 m), the country's most active volcano, erupted in 2009 forcing over 33,000 to be evacuated; other historically active volcanoes include Biliran, Babuyan Claro, Bulusan, Camiguin, Camiguin de Babuyanes, Didicas, Iraya, Jolo, Kanlaon, Makaturing, Musuan, Parker, Pinatubo, and Ragang; see note 2 under "Geography - note"astride typhoon belt, usually affected by 15 and struck by five to six cyclonic storms each year; landslides; active volcanoes; destructive earthquakes; tsunamisvolcanism: significant volcanic activity; Taal (311 m), which has shown recent unrest and may erupt in the near future, has been deemed a Decade Volcano by the International Association of Volcanology and Chemistry of the Earth's Interior, worthy of study due to its explosive history and close proximity to human populations; Mayon (2,462 m), the country's most active volcano, erupted in 2009 forcing over 33,000 to be evacuated; other historically active volcanoes include Biliran, Babuyan Claro, Bulusan, Camiguin, Camiguin de Babuyanes, Didicas, Iraya, Jolo, Kanlaon, Makaturing, Musuan, Parker, Pinatubo, and Ragang; see note 2 under "Geography - note"
Geography - note: note 1: for decades, the Philippine archipelago was reported as having 7,107 islands; in 2016, the national mapping authority reported that hundreds of new islands had been discovered and increased the number of islands to 7,641 - though not all of the new islands have been verified; the country is favorably located in relation to many of Southeast Asia's main water bodies: the South China Sea, Philippine Sea, Sulu Sea, Celebes Sea, and Luzon Strait note 2: Philippines is one of the countries along the Ring of Fire, a belt of active volcanoes and earthquake epicenters bordering the Pacific Ocean; up to 90% of the world's earthquakes and some 75% of the world's volcanoes occur within the Ring of Fire note 3: the Philippines sits astride the Pacific typhoon belt and an average of 9 typhoons make landfall on the islands each year - with about 5 of these being destructive; the country is the most exposed in the world to tropical stormsnote 1: for decades, the Philippine archipelago was reported as having 7,107 islands; in 2016, the national mapping authority reported that hundreds of new islands had been discovered and increased the number of islands to 7,641 - though not all of the new islands have been verified; the country is favorably located in relation to many of Southeast Asia's main water bodies: the South China Sea, Philippine Sea, Sulu Sea, Celebes Sea, and Luzon Straitnote 2: Philippines is one of the countries along the Ring of Fire, a belt of active volcanoes and earthquake epicenters bordering the Pacific Ocean; up to 90% of the world's earthquakes and some 75% of the world's volcanoes occur within the Ring of Firenote 3: the Philippines sits astride the Pacific typhoon belt and an average of 9 typhoons make landfall on the islands each year - with about 5 of these being destructive; the country is the most exposed in the world to tropical storms
Map description: Philippines map showing the major islands of this archipelago in the western Pacific Ocean.Philippines map showing the major islands of this archipelago in the western Pacific Ocean.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 114,597,229 (2022 est.)
Nationality: noun: Filipino(s)
adjective: Philippine
Ethnic groups: Tagalog 24.4%, Bisaya/Binisaya 11.4%, Cebuano 9.9%, Ilocano 8.8%, Hiligaynon/Ilonggo 8.4%, Bikol/Bicol 6.8%, Waray 4%, other local ethnicity 26.1%, other foreign ethnicity 0.1% (2010 est.)
Languages: unspecified Filipino (official; based on Tagalog) and English (official); eight major dialects - Tagalog, Cebuano, Ilocano, Hiligaynon or Ilonggo, Bicol, Waray, Pampango, and Pangasinan
major-language sample(s):
Ang World Factbook, ang mapagkukunan ng kailangang impormasyon. (Tagalog)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Religions: Roman Catholic 79.5%, Muslim 6%, Iglesia ni Cristo 2.6%, Evangelical 2.4%, National Council of Churches in the Philippines 1.1%, other 7.4%, none <0.1% (2015 est.)
Demographic profile: The Philippines is an ethnically diverse country that is in the early stages of demographic transition. Its fertility rate has dropped steadily since the 1950s. The decline was more rapid after the introduction of a national population program in the 1970s in large part due to the increased use of modern contraceptive methods, but fertility has decreased more slowly in recent years. The country’s total fertility rate (TFR) – the average number of births per woman – dropped below 5 in the 1980s, below 4 in the 1990s, and below 3 in the 2010s. TFR continues to be above replacement level at 2.9 and even higher among the poor, rural residents, and the less-educated. Significant reasons for elevated TFR are the desire for more than two children, in part because children are a means of financial assistance and security for parents as they age, particularly among the poor. The Philippines are the source of one of the world’s largest emigrant populations, much of which consists of legal temporary workers known as Overseas Foreign Workers or OFWs. As of 2019, there were 2.2 million OFWs. They work in a wide array of fields, most frequently in services (such as caregivers and domestic work), skilled trades, and construction but also in professional fields, including nursing and engineering. OFWs most often migrate to Middle Eastern countries, but other popular destinations include Hong Kong, China, and Singapore, as well as employment on ships. Filipino seafarers make up 35-40% of the world’s seafarers, as of 2014. Women OFWs, who work primarily in domestic services and entertainment, have outnumbered men since 1992. Migration and remittances have been a feature of Philippine culture for decades. The government has encouraged and facilitated emigration, regulating recruitment agencies and adopting legislation to protect the rights of migrant workers. Filipinos began emigrating to the US and Hawaii early in the 20th century. In 1934, US legislation limited Filipinos to 50 visas per year except during labor shortages, causing emigration to plummet. It was not until the 1960s, when the US and other destination countries – Canada, Australia, and New Zealand – loosened their immigration policies, that Filipino emigration expanded and diversified. The government implemented an overseas employment program in the 1970s, promoting Filipino labor to Gulf countries needing more workers for their oil industries. Filipino emigration increased rapidly. The government had intended for international migration to be temporary, but a lack of jobs and poor wages domestically, the ongoing demand for workers in the Gulf countries, and new labor markets in Asia continue to spur Philippine emigration.The Philippines is an ethnically diverse country that is in the early stages of demographic transition. Its fertility rate has dropped steadily since the 1950s. The decline was more rapid after the introduction of a national population program in the 1970s in large part due to the increased use of modern contraceptive methods, but fertility has decreased more slowly in recent years. The country’s total fertility rate (TFR) – the average number of births per woman – dropped below 5 in the 1980s, below 4 in the 1990s, and below 3 in the 2010s. TFR continues to be above replacement level at 2.9 and even higher among the poor, rural residents, and the less-educated. Significant reasons for elevated TFR are the desire for more than two children, in part because children are a means of financial assistance and security for parents as they age, particularly among the poor.The Philippines are the source of one of the world’s largest emigrant populations, much of which consists of legal temporary workers known as Overseas Foreign Workers or OFWs. As of 2019, there were 2.2 million OFWs. They work in a wide array of fields, most frequently in services (such as caregivers and domestic work), skilled trades, and construction but also in professional fields, including nursing and engineering. OFWs most often migrate to Middle Eastern countries, but other popular destinations include Hong Kong, China, and Singapore, as well as employment on ships. Filipino seafarers make up 35-40% of the world’s seafarers, as of 2014. Women OFWs, who work primarily in domestic services and entertainment, have outnumbered men since 1992. Migration and remittances have been a feature of Philippine culture for decades. The government has encouraged and facilitated emigration, regulating recruitment agencies and adopting legislation to protect the rights of migrant workers. Filipinos began emigrating to the US and Hawaii early in the 20th century. In 1934, US legislation limited Filipinos to 50 visas per year except during labor shortages, causing emigration to plummet. It was not until the 1960s, when the US and other destination countries – Canada, Australia, and New Zealand – loosened their immigration policies, that Filipino emigration expanded and diversified. The government implemented an overseas employment program in the 1970s, promoting Filipino labor to Gulf countries needing more workers for their oil industries. Filipino emigration increased rapidly. The government had intended for international migration to be temporary, but a lack of jobs and poor wages domestically, the ongoing demand for workers in the Gulf countries, and new labor markets in Asia continue to spur Philippine emigration.
Age structure: 0-14 years: 32.42% (male 18,060,976/female 17,331,781)
15-24 years: 19.16% (male 10,680,325/female 10,243,047)
25-54 years: 37.37% (male 20,777,741/female 20,027,153)
55-64 years: 6.18% (male 3,116,485/female 3,633,301)
65 years and over: 4.86% (2020 est.) (male 2,155,840/female 3,154,166)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 55.2
youth dependency ratio: 46.6
elderly dependency ratio: 8.6
potential support ratio: 11.7 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 24.1 years
male: 23.6 years
female: 24.6 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 1.6% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 22.28 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 6.41 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: 0.13 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: population concentrated where good farmlands lie; highest concentrations are northwest and south-central Luzon, the southeastern extension of Luzon, and the islands of the Visayan Sea, particularly Cebu and Negros; Manila is home to one-eighth of the entire national population
Urbanization: urban population: 48% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 2.04% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 14.406 million MANILA (capital), 1.908 million Davao, 1.009 million Cebu City, 931,000 Zamboanga, 925,000 Antipolo, 786,000 Cagayan de Oro City (2022)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.04 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.04 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 1.03 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 0.9 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.46 male(s)/female
total population: 1 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth: 23.5 years (2017 est.)
note: median age at first birth among women 25-49
Maternal mortality ratio: 121 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 22.23 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 24.51 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 19.84 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 70.14 years
male: 66.6 years
female: 73.86 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 2.78 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: 54.1% (2017)
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 99.1% of population
rural: 95% of population
total: 97% of population
unimproved: urban: 0.9% of population
rural: 5% of population
total: 3% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 4.1% (2019)
Physicians density: 0.6 physicians/1,000 population (2017)
Hospital bed density: 1 beds/1,000 population (2014)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 96% of population
rural: 91% of population
total: 93.4% of population
unimproved: urban: 4% of population
rural: 9% of population
total: 6.6% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: 0.2% (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: 120,000 (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - deaths: 1,600 (2020 est.) <1,000
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial diarrhea, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever
vectorborne diseases: dengue fever and malaria
water contact diseases: leptospirosis
note: on 8 October 2019, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a Travel Health Notice regarding a polio outbreak in the Philippines; CDC recommends that all travelers to the Philippines be vaccinated fully against polio; before traveling to the Philippines, adults who completed their routine polio vaccine series as children should receive a single, lifetime adult booster dose of polio vaccine
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 6.4% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: 19.1% (2018)
Child marriage: women married by age 15: 2.2% (2017)
women married by age 18: 16.5% (2017 est.)
Education expenditures: 3.2% of GDP (2019)
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 96.3%
male: 95.7%
female: 96.9% (2019)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 13 years
male: 13 years
female: 13 years (2017)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 7%
male: 6.1%
female: 8.5% (2020 est.)
People - note: one of only two predominantly Christian nations in Southeast Asia, the other being Timor-Leste
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: uncontrolled deforestation especially in watershed areas; illegal mining and logging; soil erosion; air and water pollution in major urban centers; coral reef degradation; increasing pollution of coastal mangrove swamps that are important fish breeding grounds; coastal erosion; dynamite fishing; wildlife extinction
Environment - international agreements: party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping-London Convention, Marine Dumping-London Protocol, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 2006, Wetlands
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 18.38 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 122.29 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 51.32 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: tropical marine; northeast monsoon (November to April); southwest monsoon (May to October)
Land use: agricultural land: 41% (2018 est.)
arable land: 18.2% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 17.8% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 5% (2018 est.)
forest: 25.9% (2018 est.)
other: 33.1% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 48% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 2.04% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 0.18% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0.07% of GDP (2018 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial diarrhea, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever
vectorborne diseases: dengue fever and malaria
water contact diseases: leptospirosis
note: on 8 October 2019, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a Travel Health Notice regarding a polio outbreak in the Philippines; CDC recommends that all travelers to the Philippines be vaccinated fully against polio; before traveling to the Philippines, adults who completed their routine polio vaccine series as children should receive a single, lifetime adult booster dose of polio vaccine
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 14,631,923 tons (2016 est.)
municipal solid waste recycled annually: 4,096,938 tons (2014 est.)
percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 28% (2014 est.)
Major lakes (area sq km): Salt water lake(s): Laguna de Bay - 890 sq km
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 8.929 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 15.85 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 67.97 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 479 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Republic of the Philippines
conventional short form: Philippines
local long form: Republika ng Pilipinas
local short form: Pilipinas
etymology: named in honor of King PHILLIP II of Spain by Spanish explorer Ruy LOPEZ de VILLALOBOS, who visited some of the islands in 1543
Government type: presidential republic
Capital: name: Manila
geographic coordinates: 14 36 N, 120 58 E
time difference: UTC+8 (13 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: derives from the Tagalog "may-nila" meaning "where there is indigo" and refers to the presence of indigo-yielding plants growing in the area surrounding the original settlement
Administrative divisions: 81 provinces and 38 chartered cities provinces: Abra, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Aklan, Albay, Antique, Apayao, Aurora, Basilan, Bataan, Batanes, Batangas, Biliran, Benguet, Bohol, Bukidnon, Bulacan, Cagayan, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Camiguin, Capiz, Catanduanes, Cavite, Cebu, Cotabato, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao de Oro, Davao Occidental, Davao Oriental, Dinagat Islands, Eastern Samar, Guimaras, Ifugao, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Iloilo, Isabela, Kalinga, Laguna, Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, La Union, Leyte, Maguindanao, Marinduque, Masbate, Mindoro Occidental, Mindoro Oriental, Misamis Occidental, Misamis Oriental, Mountain, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Northern Samar, Nueva Ecija, Nueva Vizcaya, Palawan, Pampanga, Pangasinan, Quezon, Quirino, Rizal, Romblon, Samar, Sarangani, Siquijor, Sorsogon, South Cotabato, Southern Leyte, Sultan Kudarat, Sulu, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Tarlac, Tawi-Tawi, Zambales, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay; chartered cities: Angeles, Bacolod, Baguio, Butuan, Cagayan de Oro, Caloocan, Cebu, Cotabato, Dagupan, Davao, General Santos, Iligan, Iloilo, Lapu-Lapu, Las Pinas, Lucena, Makati, Malabon, Mandaluyong, Mandaue, Manila, Marikina, Muntinlupa, Naga, Navotas, Olongapo, Ormoc, Paranaque, Pasay, Pasig, Puerto Princesa, Quezon, San Juan, Santiago, Tacloban, Taguig, Valenzuela, Zamboanga81 provinces and 38 chartered citiesprovinces: Abra, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Aklan, Albay, Antique, Apayao, Aurora, Basilan, Bataan, Batanes, Batangas, Biliran, Benguet, Bohol, Bukidnon, Bulacan, Cagayan, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Camiguin, Capiz, Catanduanes, Cavite, Cebu, Cotabato, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao de Oro, Davao Occidental, Davao Oriental, Dinagat Islands, Eastern Samar, Guimaras, Ifugao, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Iloilo, Isabela, Kalinga, Laguna, Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, La Union, Leyte, Maguindanao, Marinduque, Masbate, Mindoro Occidental, Mindoro Oriental, Misamis Occidental, Misamis Oriental, Mountain, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Northern Samar, Nueva Ecija, Nueva Vizcaya, Palawan, Pampanga, Pangasinan, Quezon, Quirino, Rizal, Romblon, Samar, Sarangani, Siquijor, Sorsogon, South Cotabato, Southern Leyte, Sultan Kudarat, Sulu, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Tarlac, Tawi-Tawi, Zambales, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay;chartered cities: Angeles, Bacolod, Baguio, Butuan, Cagayan de Oro, Caloocan, Cebu, Cotabato, Dagupan, Davao, General Santos, Iligan, Iloilo, Lapu-Lapu, Las Pinas, Lucena, Makati, Malabon, Mandaluyong, Mandaue, Manila, Marikina, Muntinlupa, Naga, Navotas, Olongapo, Ormoc, Paranaque, Pasay, Pasig, Puerto Princesa, Quezon, San Juan, Santiago, Tacloban, Taguig, Valenzuela, Zamboanga
Independence: 4 July 1946 (from the US)
National holiday: Independence Day, 12 June (1898); note - 12 June 1898 was date of declaration of independence from Spain; 4 July 1946 was date of independence from the US
Constitution: history: several previous; latest ratified 2 February 1987, effective 11 February 1987
amendments: proposed by Congress if supported by three fourths of the membership, by a constitutional convention called by Congress, or by public petition; passage by either of the three proposal methods requires a majority vote in a national referendum; note - the constitution has not been amended since its enactment in 1987
Legal system: mixed legal system of civil, common, Islamic (sharia), and customary law
International law organization participation: accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction with reservations; withdrew from the ICCt in March 2019
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: no
citizenship by descent only: at least one parent must be a citizen of the Philippines
dual citizenship recognized: no
residency requirement for naturalization: 10 years
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: President Rodrigo DUTERTE (since 30 June 2016); Vice President Leni ROBREDO (since 30 June 2016); note - the president is both chief of state and head of government
head of government: President Rodrigo DUTERTE (since 30 June 2016); Vice President Leni ROBREDO (since 30 June 2016)
cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the president with the consent of the Commission of Appointments, an independent body of 25 Congressional members including the Senate president (ex officio chairman), appointed by the president
elections/appointments: president and vice president directly elected on separate ballots by simple majority popular vote for a single 6-year term; election last held on 9 May 2016 (next to be held on 9 May 2022)
election results: Rodrigo DUTERTE elected president; percent of vote - Rodrigo DUTERTE (PDP-Laban) 39%, Manuel "Mar" ROXAS (LP) 23.5%, Grace POE (independent) 21.4%, Jejomar BINAY (UNA) 12.7%, Miriam Defensor SANTIAGO (PRP) 3.4%; Leni ROBREDO elected vice president; percent of vote Leni ROBREDO (LP) 35.1%, Bongbong MARCOS (independent) 34.5%, Alan CAYETANO 14.4%, Francis ESCUDERO (independent) 12%, Antonio TRILLANES (independent) 2.1%, Gregorio HONASAN (UNA) 1.9%
Legislative branch: description: bicameral Congress or Kongreso consists of:
Senate or Senado (24 seats; members directly elected in multi-seat constituencies by majority vote; members serve 6-year terms with one-half of the membership renewed every 3 years)
House of Representatives or Kapulungan Ng Mga Kinatawan (304 seats; 243 members directly elected in single-seat constituencies by simple majority vote and 61 representing minorities directly elected by party-list proportional representation vote; members serve 3-year terms)
elections:
Senate - elections last held on 13 May 2019 (next to be held on 9 May 2022)
House of Representatives - elections last held on 13 May 2019 (next to be held on 9 May 2022)
election results:
Senate - percent of vote by party - PDP-Laban 21.4%, NP 16.8%, LP 11.6%, NPC 8.64%, other 26.3%, independent 14.9%; seats by party - PDP-Laban 5, NP 4, LP 4, NPC 3, other 4, independent 4; composition - men 17, women 7, percent of women 29%
House of Representatives - percent of vote by party - PDP-Laban 21.2%, NP 16.1%, PNG 14.3%, NUP 9.5%, LP 5.7%, independent 5.0%, others 18.2%; seats by party - PDP-Laban 82, NP 42, PNG 37, NUP 25, LP 18, other 98, independent 2, party-list 61; composition - men 217, women 87, percent of women 28.6%
Judicial branch: highest courts: Supreme Court (consists of a chief justice and 14 associate justices)
judge selection and term of office: justices are appointed by the president on the recommendation of the Judicial and Bar Council, a constitutionally created, 6-member body that recommends Supreme Court nominees; justices serve until age 70
subordinate courts: Court of Appeals; Sandiganbayan (special court for corruption cases of government officials); Court of Tax Appeals; regional, metropolitan, and municipal trial courts; sharia courts
Political parties and leaders: Aksyon Demokratiko [Francisco "Isko Moreno" DOMAGOSO]
Lakas ng EDSA-Christian Muslim Democrats or Lakas-CMD [Ramon "Bong" REVILLA Jr ]
Liberal Party or LP [Leni ROBREDO]
Nacionalista Party or NP [Manuel "Manny" VILLAR]
National Unity Party or NUP [Ronaldo V. PUNO]
Partido Federal ng Pilipinas [Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.]
Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan or PDP-Laban [Aquilino PIMENTEL III]
International organization participation: ADB, APEC, ARF, ASEAN, BIS, CD, CICA (observer), CP, EAS, FAO, G-24, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, IMSO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, MINUSTAH, NAM, OAS (observer), OPCW, PCA, PIF (partner), UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, Union Latina, UNMIL, UNMOGIP, UNOCI, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Jose Manuel del Gallego ROMUALDEZ (since 29 November 2017)
chancery: 1600 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
telephone: [1] (202) 467-9300
FAX: [1] (202) 328-7614
email address and website:
washington.pe@dfa.gov.ph; consular@phembassy-us.org
consulate(s) general: Chicago, Honolulu, Los Angeles, New York, Saipan (Northern Mariana Islands), San Francisco, Tamuning (Guam)
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Heather VARIAVA (since 17 September 2021)
embassy: 1201 Roxas Boulevard, Manila 1000
mailing address: 8600 Manila Place, Washington DC 20521-8600
telephone: [63] (2) 5301-2000
FAX: [63] (2) 5301-2017
email address and website:
acsinfomanila@state.gov
https://ph.usembassy.gov/
Flag description: two equal horizontal bands of blue (top) and red; a white equilateral triangle is based on the hoist side; the center of the triangle displays a yellow sun with eight primary rays; each corner of the triangle contains a small, yellow, five-pointed star; blue stands for peace and justice, red symbolizes courage, the white equal-sided triangle represents equality; the rays recall the first eight provinces that sought independence from Spain, while the stars represent the three major geographical divisions of the country: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao; the design of the flag dates to 1897
note: in wartime the flag is flown upside down with the red band at the top
National symbol(s): three stars and sun, Philippine eagle; national colors: red, white, blue, yellow
National anthem: name: "Lupang Hinirang" (Chosen Land)
lyrics/music: Jose PALMA (revised by Felipe PADILLA de Leon)/Julian FELIPE
note: music adopted 1898, original Spanish lyrics adopted 1899, Filipino (Tagalog) lyrics adopted 1956; although the original lyrics were written in Spanish, later English and Filipino versions were created; today, only the Filipino version is used
National heritage: total World Heritage Sites: 6 (3 cultural, 3 natural)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Baroque Churches of the Philippines (c), Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park (n), Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras (c), Historic Vigan (c), Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park (n), Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary (n)
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: The economy has been relatively resilient to global economic shocks due to less exposure to troubled international securities, lower dependence on exports, relatively resilient domestic consumption, large remittances from about 10 million overseas Filipino workers and migrants, and a rapidly expanding services industry. During 2017, the current account balance fell into the negative range, the first time since the 2008 global financial crisis, in part due to an ambitious new infrastructure spending program announced this year. However, international reserves remain at comfortable levels and the banking system is stable. Efforts to improve tax administration and expenditures management have helped ease the Philippines' debt burden and tight fiscal situation. The Philippines received investment-grade credit ratings on its sovereign debt under the former AQUINO administration and has had little difficulty financing its budget deficits. However, weak absorptive capacity and implementation bottlenecks have prevented the government from maximizing its expenditure plans. Although it has improved, the low tax-to-GDP ratio remains a constraint to supporting increasingly higher spending levels and sustaining high and inclusive growth over the longer term. Economic growth has accelerated, averaging over 6% per year from 2011 to 2017, compared with 4.5% under the MACAPAGAL-ARROYO government; and competitiveness rankings have improved. Although 2017 saw a new record year for net foreign direct investment inflows, FDI to the Philippines has continued to lag regional peers, in part because the Philippine constitution and other laws limit foreign investment and restrict foreign ownership in important activities/sectors - such as land ownership and public utilities. Although the economy grew at a rapid pace under the AQUINO government, challenges to achieving more inclusive growth remain. Wealth is concentrated in the hands of the rich. The unemployment rate declined from 7.3% to 5.7% between 2010 and 2017; while there has been some improvement, underemployment remains high at around 17% to 18% of the employed population. At least 40% of the employed work in the informal sector. Poverty afflicts more than a fifth of the total population but is as high as 75% in some areas of the southern Philippines. More than 60% of the poor reside in rural areas, where the incidence of poverty (about 30%) is more severe - a challenge to raising rural farm and non-farm incomes. Continued efforts are needed to improve governance, the judicial system, the regulatory environment, the infrastructure, and the overall ease of doing business. 2016 saw the election of President Rodrigo DUTERTE, who has pledged to make inclusive growth and poverty reduction his top priority. DUTERTE believes that illegal drug use, crime and corruption are key barriers to economic development. The administration wants to reduce the poverty rate to 17% and graduate the economy to upper-middle income status by the end of President DUTERTE’s term in 2022. Key themes under the government’s Ten-Point Socioeconomic Agenda include continuity of macroeconomic policy, tax reform, higher investments in infrastructure and human capital development, and improving competitiveness and the overall ease of doing business. The administration sees infrastructure shortcomings as a key barrier to sustained economic growth and has pledged to spend $165 billion on infrastructure by 2022. Although the final outcome has yet to be seen, the current administration is shepherding legislation for a comprehensive tax reform program to raise revenues for its ambitious infrastructure spending plan and to promote a more equitable and efficient tax system. However, the need to finance rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts in the southern region of Mindanao following the 2017 Marawi City siege may compete with other spending on infrastructure.The economy has been relatively resilient to global economic shocks due to less exposure to troubled international securities, lower dependence on exports, relatively resilient domestic consumption, large remittances from about 10 million overseas Filipino workers and migrants, and a rapidly expanding services industry. During 2017, the current account balance fell into the negative range, the first time since the 2008 global financial crisis, in part due to an ambitious new infrastructure spending program announced this year. However, international reserves remain at comfortable levels and the banking system is stable. Efforts to improve tax administration and expenditures management have helped ease the Philippines' debt burden and tight fiscal situation. The Philippines received investment-grade credit ratings on its sovereign debt under the former AQUINO administration and has had little difficulty financing its budget deficits. However, weak absorptive capacity and implementation bottlenecks have prevented the government from maximizing its expenditure plans. Although it has improved, the low tax-to-GDP ratio remains a constraint to supporting increasingly higher spending levels and sustaining high and inclusive growth over the longer term. Economic growth has accelerated, averaging over 6% per year from 2011 to 2017, compared with 4.5% under the MACAPAGAL-ARROYO government; and competitiveness rankings have improved. Although 2017 saw a new record year for net foreign direct investment inflows, FDI to the Philippines has continued to lag regional peers, in part because the Philippine constitution and other laws limit foreign investment and restrict foreign ownership in important activities/sectors - such as land ownership and public utilities. Although the economy grew at a rapid pace under the AQUINO government, challenges to achieving more inclusive growth remain. Wealth is concentrated in the hands of the rich. The unemployment rate declined from 7.3% to 5.7% between 2010 and 2017; while there has been some improvement, underemployment remains high at around 17% to 18% of the employed population. At least 40% of the employed work in the informal sector. Poverty afflicts more than a fifth of the total population but is as high as 75% in some areas of the southern Philippines. More than 60% of the poor reside in rural areas, where the incidence of poverty (about 30%) is more severe - a challenge to raising rural farm and non-farm incomes. Continued efforts are needed to improve governance, the judicial system, the regulatory environment, the infrastructure, and the overall ease of doing business. 2016 saw the election of President Rodrigo DUTERTE, who has pledged to make inclusive growth and poverty reduction his top priority. DUTERTE believes that illegal drug use, crime and corruption are key barriers to economic development. The administration wants to reduce the poverty rate to 17% and graduate the economy to upper-middle income status by the end of President DUTERTE’s term in 2022. Key themes under the government’s Ten-Point Socioeconomic Agenda include continuity of macroeconomic policy, tax reform, higher investments in infrastructure and human capital development, and improving competitiveness and the overall ease of doing business. The administration sees infrastructure shortcomings as a key barrier to sustained economic growth and has pledged to spend $165 billion on infrastructure by 2022. Although the final outcome has yet to be seen, the current administration is shepherding legislation for a comprehensive tax reform program to raise revenues for its ambitious infrastructure spending plan and to promote a more equitable and efficient tax system. However, the need to finance rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts in the southern region of Mindanao following the 2017 Marawi City siege may compete with other spending on infrastructure.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $871.56 billion (2020 est.)
$963.83 billion (2019 est.)
$908.26 billion (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 6.04% (2019 est.)
6.34% (2018 est.)
6.94% (2017 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $8,000 (2020 est.)
$8,900 (2019 est.)
$8,500 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $377.205 billion (2019 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 2.4% (2019 est.)
5.2% (2018 est.)
2.8% (2017 est.)
Credit ratings: Fitch rating: BBB (2017)
Moody's rating: Baa2 (2014)
Standard & Poors rating: BBB+ (2019)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 9.6% (2017 est.)
industry: 30.6% (2017 est.)
services: 59.8% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 73.5% (2017 est.)
government consumption: 11.3% (2017 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 25.1% (2017 est.)
investment in inventories: 0.1% (2017 est.)
exports of goods and services: 31% (2017 est.)
imports of goods and services: -40.9% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: sugar cane, rice, coconuts, maize, bananas, vegetables, tropical fruit, plantains, pineapples, cassava
Industries: semiconductors and electronics assembly, business process outsourcing, food and beverage manufacturing, construction, electric/gas/water supply, chemical products, radio/television/communications equipment and apparatus, petroleum and fuel, textile and garments, non-metallic minerals, basic metal industries, transport equipment
Industrial production growth rate: 7.2% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 41.533 million (2020 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 25.4%
industry: 18.3%
services: 56.3% (2017 est.)
Unemployment rate: 5.11% (2019 est.)
5.29% (2018 est.)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 7%
male: 6.1%
female: 8.5% (2020 est.)
Population below poverty line: 16.7% (2018 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 44.4 (2015 est.)
46 (2012 est.)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: 3.2%
highest 10%: 29.5% (2015 est.)
Budget: revenues: 49.07 billion (2017 est.)
expenditures: 56.02 billion (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): -2.2% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 39.9% of GDP (2017 est.)
39% of GDP (2016 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 15.6% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: calendar year
Current account balance: -$3.386 billion (2019 est.)
-$8.877 billion (2018 est.)
Exports: $78.82 billion (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$94.74 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$90.37 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Exports - partners: China 16%, United States 15%, Japan 13%, Hong Kong 12%, Singapore 7%, Germany 5% (2019)
Exports - commodities: integrated circuits, office machinery/parts, insulated wiring, semiconductors, transformers (2019)
Imports: $97.58 billion (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$131.01 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$129.74 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Imports - partners: China 29%, Japan 8%, South Korea 7%, United States 6%, Singapore 6%, Indonesia 6%, Thailand 5%, Taiwan 5% (2019)
Imports - commodities: integrated circuits, refined petroleum, cars, crude petroleum, broadcasting equipment (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $81.57 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
$80.69 billion (31 December 2016 est.)
Debt - external: $81.995 billion (2019 est.)
$75.192 billion (2018 est.)
Exchange rates: Philippine pesos (PHP) per US dollar -
48.055 (2020 est.)
50.81 (2019 est.)
52.71 (2018 est.)
45.503 (2014 est.)
44.395 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 96% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 100% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 93% (2019)
Electricity - production: 86.59 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 78.3 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 0 kWh (2017 est.)
Electricity - imports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 22.13 million kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 67% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 17% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 16% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 13,000 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 16,450 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 211,400 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 138.5 million bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 215,500 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 424,000 bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 26,710 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 211,400 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 3.058 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 3.143 billion cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 98.54 billion cu m (1 January 2018 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 4,731,196 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 4 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 16,732,200 (2019)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 154.76 (2019 est.)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: high unemployment and rural population impede investment in fixed infrastructure; dominance in the mobile segment and rapid development of mobile broadband; investment focused on fiber infrastructure in urban areas with 4G available in most areas; national broadband plan to improve connectivity in rural areas underway; data center and smart city pilot in Manila; submarine cable link and satellite improves telecom for the region; major exporter of integrated circuits to China, and importer of circuits and broadcasting equipment from China (2020)
domestic: telecommunications infrastructure includes the following platforms: fixed line, mobile cellular, cable TV, over-the-air TV, radio and (very small aperture terminal) VSAT, fiber-optic cable, and satellite for redundant international connectivity; fixed-line nearly 4 per 100 and mobile-cellular nearly 155 per 100 (2019)
international: country code - 63; landing points for the NDTN, TGN-IA, AAG, PLCN, EAC-02C, DFON, SJC, APCN-2, SeaMeWe, Boracay-Palawan Submarine Cable System, Palawa-Illoilo Cable System, NDTN, SEA-US, SSSFOIP, ASE and JUPITAR submarine cables that together provide connectivity to the US, Southeast Asia, Asia, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Australia (2019)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: multiple national private TV and radio networks; multi-channel satellite and cable TV systems available; more than 400 TV stations; about 1,500 cable TV providers with more than 2 million subscribers, and some 1,400 radio stations; the Philippines adopted Japan’s Integrated Service Digital Broadcast – Terrestrial standard for digital terrestrial television in November 2013 and is scheduled to complete the switch from analog to digital broadcasting by the end of 2023 (2019)
Internet country code: .ph
Internet users: total: 54,790,543 (2020 est.)
percent of population: 50% (2020 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 7,936,574 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 7 (2020 est.)
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 13 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 200
annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 43,080,118 (2018)
annual freight traffic on registered air carriers: 835.9 million (2018) mt-km
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: RP
Airports: total: 247 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 89
over 3,047 m: 4
2,438 to 3,047 m: 8
1,524 to 2,437 m: 33
914 to 1,523 m: 34
under 914 m: 10 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 158
1,524 to 2,437 m: 3
914 to 1,523 m: 56
under 914 m: 99 (2021)
Heliports: 2 (2021)
Pipelines: 530 km gas, 138 km oil (non-operational), 185 km refined products (2017)
Railways: total: 77 km (2017)
standard gauge: 49 km (2017) 1.435-m gauge
narrow gauge: 28 km (2017) 1.067-m gauge
Roadways: total: 216,387 km (2014)
paved: 61,093 km (2014)
unpaved: 155,294 km (2014)
Waterways: 3,219 km (2011) (limited to vessels with draft less than 1.5 m)
Merchant marine: total: 1,805
by type: bulk carrier 62, container ship 44, general cargo 716, oil tanker 205, other 778 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Batangas, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Liman, Manila
container port(s) (TEUs): Manila (5,315,500) (2019)
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP): Army, Navy (includes Marine Corps), Air Force (2021)
note(s) - the Philippine Coast Guard is an armed and uniformed service under the Department of Transportation; it would be attached to the AFP in wartime; the Philippine National Police Force (PNP) falls under the Ministry of Interior and Local Government
the Philippine Government also arms and supports civilian militias; the AFP controls Civilian Armed Force Geographical Units, while the Civilian Volunteer Organizations fall under PNP command
Military expenditures: 1.1% of GDP (2021 est.)
1.1% of GDP (2020)
1.1% of GDP (2019) (approximately $6.19 billion)
1% of GDP (2018) (approximately $5.31 billion)
1.3% of GDP (2017) (approximately $6.21 billion)
Military and security service personnel strengths: the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) have approximately 120,000 active duty personnel (80,000 Army; 25,000 Navy, including about 9,000 marines; 15,000 Air Force) (2021)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the AFP is equipped with a mix of imported weapons systems, particularly second-hand equipment from the US; since 2014, its top weapons suppliers include South Korea and the US (2021)
Military service age and obligation: 18-23 years of age (officers 21-29; 21-26 for women officers) for voluntary military service (men and women); no conscription (2021)
note - as of 2020, women made up about 6% of the active military; women were allowed to enter the Philippine Military Academy and train as combat soldiers in 1993
Military - note: the US and Philippines agreed to a mutual defense treaty in 1951; the Philippines has Major Non-NATO Ally (MNNA) status with the US; MNNA is a designation under US law that provides foreign partners with certain benefits in the areas of defense trade and security cooperation; while MNNA status provides military and economic privileges, it does not entail any security commitments as of 2021, the AFP's primary operational focus was on internal security duties, particularly in the south, where several insurgent and terrorist groups operated and up to 60% of the armed forces were deployed; additional combat operations were being conducted against the Communist Peoples Party/New People’s Army, which was active mostly on Luzon, the Visayas, and areas of Mindanao
in addition to its typical roles of patrolling and defending the country's maritime claims, the Navy conducts interdiction operations against terrorist, insurgent, and criminal groups around the southern islands; in 2017, the Philippines began conducting joint maritime patrols with Indonesia and Malaysia to counter regional terrorist activities, particularly in the Sulu Sea; the Philippine Marine Corps assists the Army in counterinsurgency operations
the Philippines National Police (PNP) also has an active role in counterinsurgency and counter-terrorism operations alongside the AFP, particularly the Special Action Force, a PNP commando unit that specializes in counter-terrorism operationsthe US and Philippines agreed to a mutual defense treaty in 1951; the Philippines has Major Non-NATO Ally (MNNA) status with the US; MNNA is a designation under US law that provides foreign partners with certain benefits in the areas of defense trade and security cooperation; while MNNA status provides military and economic privileges, it does not entail any security commitments
Maritime threats: the International Maritime Bureau reports the territorial waters of littoral states and offshore waters in the South China Sea as high risk for piracy and armed robbery against ships; an emerging threat area lies in the Celebes and Sulu Seas between the Philippines and Malaysia where 11 ships were attacked in 2021; numerous commercial vessels have been attacked and hijacked both at anchor and while underway; hijacked vessels are often disguised and cargoes stolenthe International Maritime Bureau reports the territorial waters of littoral states and offshore waters in the South China Sea as high risk for piracy and armed robbery against ships; an emerging threat area lies in the Celebes and Sulu Seas between the Philippines and Malaysia where 11 ships were attacked in 2021; numerous commercial vessels have been attacked and hijacked both at anchor and while underway; hijacked vessels are often disguised and cargoes stolen
Topic: Terrorism
Terrorist group(s): Abu Sayyaf Group; Communist Party of the Philippines/New People's Army; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham – East Asia (ISIS-EA) in the Philippines
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: Philippines claims sovereignty over Scarborough Reef (also claimed by China together with Taiwan) and over certain of the Spratly Islands, known locally as the Kalayaan (Freedom) Islands, also claimed by China, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Vietnam; the 2002 "Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea," has eased tensions in the Spratly Islands but falls short of a legally binding "code of conduct" desired by several of the disputants; in March 2005, the national oil companies of China, the Philippines, and Vietnam signed a joint accord to conduct marine seismic activities in the Spratly Islands; Philippines retains a dormant claim to Malaysia's Sabah State in northern Borneo based on the Sultanate of Sulu's granting the Philippines Government power of attorney to pursue a sovereignty claim on his behalf; maritime delimitation negotiations continue with PalauPhilippines claims sovereignty over Scarborough Reef (also claimed by China together with Taiwan) and over certain of the Spratly Islands, known locally as the Kalayaan (Freedom) Islands, also claimed by China, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Vietnam; the 2002 "Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea," has eased tensions in the Spratly Islands but falls short of a legally binding "code of conduct" desired by several of the disputants; in March 2005, the national oil companies of China, the Philippines, and Vietnam signed a joint accord to conduct marine seismic activities in the Spratly Islands; Philippines retains a dormant claim to Malaysia's Sabah State in northern Borneo based on the Sultanate of Sulu's granting the Philippines Government power of attorney to pursue a sovereignty claim on his behalf; maritime delimitation negotiations continue with Palau
Refugees and internally displaced persons: IDPs: 153,000 (government troops fighting the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, the Abu Sayyaf Group, and the New People's Army; clan feuds; armed attacks, political violence, and communal tensions in Mindanao) (2020)
stateless persons: 392 (mid-year 2021); note - stateless persons are descendants of Indonesian migrants
Illicit drugs: cannabis products, methamphetamine hydrochloride (locally known as "shabu"), and MDMA (ecstasy) are locally used; Chinese Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs) are the main source of methamphetamine; precursor chemicals are in transit from China to Burma |
20220601 | references-weights-and-measures | Note: At this time, only three countries - Burma, Liberia, and the US - have not adopted the International System of Units (SI, or metric system) as their official system of weights and measures. Although use of the metric system has been sanctioned by law in the US since 1866, it has been slow in displacing the American adaptation of the British Imperial System known as the US Customary System. The US is the only industrialized nation that does not mainly use the metric system in its commercial and standards activities, but there is increasing acceptance in science, medicine, government, and many sectors of industry. |
20220601 | countries-honduras |
Topic: Photos of Honduras
Topic: Introduction
Background: Once part of Spain's vast empire in the New World, Honduras became an independent nation in 1821. After two and a half decades of mostly military rule, a freely elected civilian government came to power in 1982. During the 1980s, Honduras proved a haven for anti-Sandinista contras fighting the Marxist Nicaraguan Government and an ally to Salvadoran Government forces fighting leftist guerrillas. The country was devastated by Hurricane Mitch in 1998, which killed about 5,600 people and caused approximately $2 billion in damage. Since then, the economy has slowly rebounded, despite COVID and severe storm-related setbacks in 2020 and 2021.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Central America, bordering the Caribbean Sea, between Guatemala and Nicaragua and bordering the Gulf of Fonseca (North Pacific Ocean), between El Salvador and Nicaragua
Geographic coordinates: 15 00 N, 86 30 W
Map references: Central America and the Caribbean
Area: total: 112,090 sq km
land: 111,890 sq km
water: 200 sq km
Area - comparative: slightly larger than Tennessee
Land boundaries: total: 1,575 km
border countries (3): Guatemala 244 km; El Salvador 391 km; Nicaragua 940 km
Coastline: 823 km (Caribbean Sea 669 km, Gulf of Fonseca 163 km)
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
continental shelf: natural extension of territory or to 200 nm
Climate: subtropical in lowlands, temperate in mountains
Terrain: mostly mountains in interior, narrow coastal plains
Elevation: highest point: Cerro Las Minas 2,870 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 684 m
Natural resources: timber, gold, silver, copper, lead, zinc, iron ore, antimony, coal, fish, hydropower
Land use: agricultural land: 28.8% (2018 est.)
arable land: 9.1% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 4% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 15.7% (2018 est.)
forest: 45.3% (2018 est.)
other: 25.9% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 900 sq km (2012)
Major lakes (area sq km): Salt water lake(s): Laguna de Caratasca - 1,110 sq km
Population distribution: most residents live in the mountainous western half of the country; unlike other Central American nations, Honduras is the only one with an urban population that is distributed between two large centers - the capital of Tegucigalpa and the city of San Pedro Sula; the Rio Ulua valley in the north is the only densely populated lowland area
Natural hazards: frequent, but generally mild, earthquakes; extremely susceptible to damaging hurricanes and floods along the Caribbean coast
Geography - note: has only a short Pacific coast but a long Caribbean shoreline, including the virtually uninhabited eastern Mosquito Coast
Map description: Honduras map showing major cities as well as parts of surrounding countries and the Caribbean Sea and North Atlantic Ocean.Honduras map showing major cities as well as parts of surrounding countries and the Caribbean Sea and North Atlantic Ocean.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 9,459,440 (2022 est.)
note: estimates for this country explicitly taken into account the impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic
Nationality: noun: Honduran(s)
adjective: Honduran
Ethnic groups: Mestizo (mixed Amerindian and European) 90%, Amerindian 7%, African descent 2%, White 1%
Languages: Spanish (official), Amerindian dialects
major-language sample(s):
La Libreta Informativa del Mundo, la fuente indispensable de información básica. (Spanish)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Religions: Evangelical/Protestant 48%, Roman Catholic 34%, other 1%, none 17% (2020 est.)
Demographic profile: Honduras is one of the poorest countries in Latin America and has one of the world's highest murder rates. More than half of the population lives in poverty and per capita income is one of the lowest in the region. Poverty rates are higher among rural and indigenous people and in the south, west, and along the eastern border than in the north and central areas where most of Honduras' industries and infrastructure are concentrated. The increased productivity needed to break Honduras' persistent high poverty rate depends, in part, on further improvements in educational attainment. Although primary-school enrollment is near 100%, educational quality is poor, the drop-out rate and grade repetition remain high, and teacher and school accountability is low. Honduras' population growth rate has slowed since the 1990s and is now 1.2% annually with a birth rate that averages 2.1 children per woman and more among rural, indigenous, and poor women. Honduras' young adult population - ages 15 to 29 - is projected to continue growing rapidly for the next three decades and then stabilize or slowly shrink. Population growth and limited job prospects outside of agriculture will continue to drive emigration. Remittances represent about a fifth of GDP.Honduras is one of the poorest countries in Latin America and has one of the world's highest murder rates. More than half of the population lives in poverty and per capita income is one of the lowest in the region. Poverty rates are higher among rural and indigenous people and in the south, west, and along the eastern border than in the north and central areas where most of Honduras' industries and infrastructure are concentrated. The increased productivity needed to break Honduras' persistent high poverty rate depends, in part, on further improvements in educational attainment. Although primary-school enrollment is near 100%, educational quality is poor, the drop-out rate and grade repetition remain high, and teacher and school accountability is low.Honduras' population growth rate has slowed since the 1990s and is now 1.2% annually with a birth rate that averages 2.1 children per woman and more among rural, indigenous, and poor women. Honduras' young adult population - ages 15 to 29 - is projected to continue growing rapidly for the next three decades and then stabilize or slowly shrink. Population growth and limited job prospects outside of agriculture will continue to drive emigration. Remittances represent about a fifth of GDP.
Age structure: 0-14 years: 30.2% (male 1,411,537/female 1,377,319)
15-24 years: 21.03% (male 969,302/female 972,843)
25-54 years: 37.79% (male 1,657,260/female 1,832,780)
55-64 years: 5.58% (male 233,735/female 281,525)
65 years and over: 5.4% (2020 est.) (male 221,779/female 277,260)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 55.2
youth dependency ratio: 47.5
elderly dependency ratio: 7.7
potential support ratio: 13 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 24.4 years
male: 23.5 years
female: 25.2 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 1.19% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 17.92 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 4.68 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: -1.34 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: most residents live in the mountainous western half of the country; unlike other Central American nations, Honduras is the only one with an urban population that is distributed between two large centers - the capital of Tegucigalpa and the city of San Pedro Sula; the Rio Ulua valley in the north is the only densely populated lowland area
Urbanization: urban population: 59.6% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 2.48% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 1.527 million TEGUCIGALPA (capital), 956,000 San Pedro Sula (2022)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.03 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 0.9 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 0.83 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.71 male(s)/female
total population: 0.95 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth: 20.3 years (2011/12 est.)
note: median age a first birth among women 25-49
Maternal mortality ratio: 65 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 15.08 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 17.2 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 12.89 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 75.17 years
male: 71.63 years
female: 78.82 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 2.01 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: 73.2% (2011/12)
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 100% of population
rural: 90.7% of population
total: 96.1% of population
unimproved: urban: 0% of population
rural: 9.3% of population
total: 3.9% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 7.3% (2019)
Physicians density: 0.31 physicians/1,000 population (2017)
Hospital bed density: 0.6 beds/1,000 population (2017)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 96.7% of population
rural: 87.9% of population
total: 93% of population
unimproved: urban: 3.3% of population
rural: 12.1% of population
total: 7% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: 0.2% (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: 22,000 (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - deaths: (2020 est.) <1000
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial diarrhea, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever
vectorborne diseases: dengue fever and malaria
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 21.4% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: 7.1% (2011/12)
Education expenditures: 4.9% of GDP (2019)
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 88.5%
male: 88.2%
female: 88.7% (2019)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 10 years
male: 10 years
female: 11 years (2019)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 17.8%
male: 11.1%
female: 27.7% (2020 est.)
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: urban population expanding; deforestation results from logging and the clearing of land for agricultural purposes; further land degradation and soil erosion hastened by uncontrolled development and improper land use practices such as farming of marginal lands; mining activities polluting Lago de Yojoa (the country's largest source of fresh water), as well as several rivers and streams, with heavy metals
Environment - international agreements: party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping-London Convention, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 2006, Wetlands
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 20.12 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 9.81 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 7.72 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: subtropical in lowlands, temperate in mountains
Land use: agricultural land: 28.8% (2018 est.)
arable land: 9.1% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 4% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 15.7% (2018 est.)
forest: 45.3% (2018 est.)
other: 25.9% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 59.6% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 2.48% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 0.91% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0% of GDP (2018 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial diarrhea, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever
vectorborne diseases: dengue fever and malaria
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 2,162,028 tons (2016 est.)
Major lakes (area sq km): Salt water lake(s): Laguna de Caratasca - 1,110 sq km
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 315 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 114 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 1.178 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 92.164 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Republic of Honduras
conventional short form: Honduras
local long form: Republica de Honduras
local short form: Honduras
etymology: the name means "depths" in Spanish and refers to the deep anchorage in the northern Bay of Trujillo
Government type: presidential republic
Capital: name: Tegucigalpa; note - article eight of the Honduran constitution states that the twin cities of Tegucigalpa and Comayaguela, jointly, constitute the capital of the Republic of Honduras; however, virtually all governmental institutions are on the Tegucigalpa side, which in practical terms makes Tegucigalpa the capital
geographic coordinates: 14 06 N, 87 13 W
time difference: UTC-6 (1 hour behind Washington, DC during Standard Time)
etymology: while most sources agree that Tegucigalpa is of Nahuatl derivation, there is no consensus on its original meaning
Administrative divisions: 18 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento); Atlantida, Choluteca, Colon, Comayagua, Copan, Cortes, El Paraiso, Francisco Morazan, Gracias a Dios, Intibuca, Islas de la Bahia, La Paz, Lempira, Ocotepeque, Olancho, Santa Barbara, Valle, Yoro
Independence: 15 September 1821 (from Spain)
National holiday: Independence Day, 15 September (1821)
Constitution: history: several previous; latest approved 11 January 1982, effective 20 January 1982
amendments: proposed by the National Congress with at least two-thirds majority vote of the membership; passage requires at least two-thirds majority vote of Congress in its next annual session; constitutional articles, such as the form of government, national sovereignty, the presidential term, and the procedure for amending the constitution, cannot be amended; amended several times, last in 2021
Legal system: civil law system
International law organization participation: accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction with reservations; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: yes
citizenship by descent only: yes
dual citizenship recognized: yes
residency requirement for naturalization: 1 to 3 years
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal and compulsory
Executive branch: chief of state: President Iris Xiomara CASTRO de Zelaya (since 27 January 2022); Vice Presidents Salvador NASRALLA, Doris GUTIERREZ, and Renato FLORENTINO (since 27 January 2022); note - the president is both chief of state and head of government; CASTRO is Honduras' first female president
head of government: President Iris Xiomara CASTRO de Zelaya (since 27 January 2022); Vice Presidents Salvador NASRALLA, Doris GUTIERREZ, and Renato FLORENTINO (since 27 January 2022)
cabinet: Cabinet appointed by president
elections/appointments: president directly elected by simple majority popular vote for a 4-year term; election last held on 28 November 2021 (next to be held in 30 November 2025); note - in 2015, the Constitutional Chamber of the Honduran Supreme Court struck down the constitutional provisions on presidential term limits
election results:
2021: Iris Xiomara CASTRO de Zelaya elected president; percent of vote - Iris Xiomara CASTRO de Zelaya (LIBRE) 51.1%, Nasry Juan ASFURA Zablah (PNH) 36.9%, Yani Benjamin ROSENTHAL Hidalgo (PL) 10%, other 2%
2017: Juan Orlando HERNANDEZ Alvarado reelected president; percent of vote - Juan Orlando HERNANDEZ Alvarado (PNH) 43%, Salvador NASRALLA (Alianza de Oposicion contra la Dictadura) 41.4%, Luis Orlando ZELAYA Medrano (PL) 14.7%, other 0.9%
Legislative branch: description: unicameral National Congress or Congreso Nacional (128 seats; members directly elected in 18 multi-seat constituencies by closed party-list proportional representation vote; members serve 4-year terms)
elections: last held on 28 November 2021 (next to be held on 30 November 2025)
election results: percent of vote by party - LIBRE 39.8%, PNH 31.3%, PL 16.4%, PSH 10.9%, DC 0.8%, PAC 0.8%; seats by bloc or party - LIBRE 51, PNH 40, PL 21, PSH 14, DC 1, PAC 1; composition - men 93, women 35, percent of women 27.3%
Judicial branch: highest courts: Supreme Court of Justice or Corte Suprema de Justicia (15 principal judges, including the court president, and 7 alternates; court organized into civil, criminal, constitutional, and labor chambers); note - the court has both judicial and constitutional jurisdiction
judge selection and term of office: court president elected by his peers; judges elected by the National Congress from candidates proposed by the Nominating Board, a diverse 7-member group of judicial officials and other government and non-government officials nominated by each of their organizations; judges elected by Congress for renewable, 7-year terms
subordinate courts: courts of appeal; courts of first instance; justices of the peace
Political parties and leaders: Anti-Corruption Party or PAC [Julio LOPEZ]
Christian Democratic Party or DC [Carlos PORTILLO]
Democratic Liberation of Honduras or Liderh [Lempira VIANA]
Democratic Unification Party or UD [Alfonso DIAZ]
The Front or El Frente [Kelin PEREZ]
Honduran Patriotic Alliance or AP [Romeo VASQUEZ Velasquez]
Innovation and Unity Party or PINU [Guillermo VALLE]
Liberal Party or PL [Yani Benjamin ROSENTHAL Hidalgo]
Liberty and Refoundation Party or LIBRE [Jose Manuel ZELAYA Rosales]
National Party of Honduras or PNH [Juan Nasry ASFURA]
New Route or NR [Esdras Amado LOPEZ]
Opposition Alliance against the Dictatorship or Alianza de Oposicion contra la Dictadura [Salvador NASRALLA] (electoral coalition)
Savior Party of Honduras or PSH [Salvador Alejandro Cesar NASRALLA Salum]
Vamos or Let’s Go [Jose COTO]
We Are All Hondurans (Todos Somos Honduras) or TSH [Marlon Oniel ESCOTO Valerio]
International organization participation: BCIE, CACM, CD, CELAC, EITI (candidate country), FAO, G-11, G-77, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC (suspended), IOM, IPU, ISO (subscriber), ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), LAES, LAIA (observer), MIGA, MINURSO, MINUSTAH, NAM, OAS, OPANAL, OPCW, Pacific Alliance (observer), PCA, Petrocaribe, SICA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, Union Latina, UNWTO, UPU, WCO (suspended), WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Luis Fernando SUAZO BARAHONA (since 17 September 2020)
chancery: 1220 19th Street NW, Suite #320, Washington, DC 20036
telephone: [1] (202) 966-7702
FAX: [1] (202) 966-9751
email address and website:
https://hondurasembusa.org/
consulate(s) general: Atlanta, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, San Francisco
consulate(s): Dallas, McAllen (TX)
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Laura F. DOGU (since 12 April 2022)
embassy: Avenida La Paz, Tegucigalpa M.D.C.
mailing address: 3480 Tegucigalpa Place, Washington DC 20521-3480
telephone: [504] 2236-9320,
FAX: [504] 2236-9037
email address and website:
usahonduras@state.gov
https://hn.usembassy.gov/
Flag description: three equal horizontal bands of cerulean blue (top), white, and cerulean blue, with five cerulean, five-pointed stars arranged in an X pattern centered in the white band; the stars represent the members of the former Federal Republic of Central America: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua; the blue bands symbolize the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea; the white band represents the land between the two bodies of water and the peace and prosperity of its people
note: similar to the flag of El Salvador, which features a round emblem encircled by the words REPUBLICA DE EL SALVADOR EN LA AMERICA CENTRAL centered in the white band; also similar to the flag of Nicaragua, which features a triangle encircled by the words REPUBLICA DE NICARAGUA on top and AMERICA CENTRAL on the bottom, centered in the white band
National symbol(s): scarlet macaw, white-tailed deer; national colors: blue, white
National anthem: name: "Himno Nacional de Honduras" (National Anthem of Honduras)
lyrics/music: Augusto Constancio COELLO/Carlos HARTLING
note: adopted 1915; the anthem's seven verses chronicle Honduran history; on official occasions, only the chorus and last verse are sung
National heritage: total World Heritage Sites: 2 (1 cultural, 1 natural)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Maya Site of Copan (c), Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve (n)
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Honduras, the second poorest country in Central America, suffers from extraordinarily unequal distribution of income, as well as high underemployment. While historically dependent on the export of bananas and coffee, Honduras has diversified its export base to include apparel and automobile wire harnessing. Honduras’s economy depends heavily on US trade and remittances. The US-Central America-Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement came into force in 2006 and has helped foster foreign direct investment, but physical and political insecurity, as well as crime and perceptions of corruption, may deter potential investors; about 15% of foreign direct investment is from US firms. The economy registered modest economic growth of 3.1%-4.0% from 2010 to 2017, insufficient to improve living standards for the nearly 65% of the population in poverty. In 2017, Honduras faced rising public debt, but its economy has performed better than expected due to low oil prices and improved investor confidence. Honduras signed a three-year standby arrangement with the IMF in December 2014, aimed at easing Honduras’s poor fiscal position.Honduras, the second poorest country in Central America, suffers from extraordinarily unequal distribution of income, as well as high underemployment. While historically dependent on the export of bananas and coffee, Honduras has diversified its export base to include apparel and automobile wire harnessing. Honduras’s economy depends heavily on US trade and remittances. The US-Central America-Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement came into force in 2006 and has helped foster foreign direct investment, but physical and political insecurity, as well as crime and perceptions of corruption, may deter potential investors; about 15% of foreign direct investment is from US firms. The economy registered modest economic growth of 3.1%-4.0% from 2010 to 2017, insufficient to improve living standards for the nearly 65% of the population in poverty. In 2017, Honduras faced rising public debt, but its economy has performed better than expected due to low oil prices and improved investor confidence. Honduras signed a three-year standby arrangement with the IMF in December 2014, aimed at easing Honduras’s poor fiscal position.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $50.89 billion (2020 est.)
$55.91 billion (2019 est.)
$54.46 billion (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 4.8% (2017 est.)
3.8% (2016 est.)
3.8% (2015 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $5,100 (2020 est.)
$5,700 (2019 est.)
$5,700 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $25.145 billion (2019 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 4.3% (2019 est.)
4.3% (2018 est.)
3.9% (2017 est.)
Credit ratings: Moody's rating: B1 (2017)
Standard & Poors rating: BB- (2017)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 14.2% (2017 est.)
industry: 28.8% (2017 est.)
services: 57% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 77.7% (2017 est.)
government consumption: 13.8% (2017 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 23.1% (2017 est.)
investment in inventories: 0.7% (2017 est.)
exports of goods and services: 43.6% (2017 est.)
imports of goods and services: -58.9% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: sugarcane, oil palm fruit, milk, bananas, maize, coffee, melons, oranges, poultry, beans
Industries: sugar processing, coffee, woven and knit apparel, wood products, cigars
Industrial production growth rate: 4.5% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 3.735 million (2017 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 39.2%
industry: 20.9%
services: 39.8% (2005 est.)
Unemployment rate: 5.6% (2017 est.)
6.3% (2016 est.)
note: about one-third of the people are underemployed
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 17.8%
male: 11.1%
female: 27.7% (2020 est.)
Population below poverty line: 48.3% (2018 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 52.1 (2018 est.)
45.7 (2009)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: 1.2%
highest 10%: 38.4% (2014)
Budget: revenues: 4.658 billion (2017 est.)
expenditures: 5.283 billion (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): -2.7% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 39.5% of GDP (2017 est.)
38.5% of GDP (2016 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 20.3% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: calendar year
Current account balance: -$380 million (2017 est.)
-$587 million (2016 est.)
Exports: $7.16 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$7.14 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Exports - partners: United States 53%, El Salvador 8%, Guatemala 5%, Nicaragua 5% (2019)
Exports - commodities: clothing and apparel, coffee, insulated wiring, bananas, palm oil (2019)
Imports: $11.5 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$11.78 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Imports - partners: United States 42%, China 10%, Guatemala 8%, El Salvador 8%, Mexico 6% (2019)
Imports - commodities: refined petroleum, clothing and apparel, packaged medicines, broadcasting equipment, insulated wiring (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $4.708 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
$3.814 billion (31 December 2016 est.)
Debt - external: $9.137 billion (2019 est.)
$8.722 billion (2018 est.)
Exchange rates: lempiras (HNL) per US dollar -
23.74 (2017 est.)
22.995 (2016 est.)
22.995 (2015 est.)
22.098 (2014 est.)
21.137 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 81% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 91% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 68% (2019)
Electricity - production: 8.501 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 7.22 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 536 million kWh (2015 est.)
Electricity - imports: 195 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 2.546 million kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 40% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 25% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 34% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 0 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 0 bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 59,000 bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 12,870 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 56,120 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 0 cu m (1 January 2014 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 531,763 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 5 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 6,960,654 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 70 (2020 est.)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: among the poorest countries in Central America, Honduras has a neglected telecom sector complicated by political stalemate and geographic challenges; mobile subscribership is growing; DSL and cable Internet available in urban areas but expensive; government proposed ICT master plan to boost e-government and business, including free Internet to households; US based network ready to deploy 5G
(2020)
domestic: private sub-operators allowed to provide fixed lines in order to expand telephone coverage contributing to a fixed-line teledensity of slightly over 5 per 100; mobile-cellular subscribership is roughly 70 per 100 persons (2020)
international: country code - 504; landing points for both the ARCOS and the MAYA-1 fiber-optic submarine cable systems that together provide connectivity to South and Central America, parts of the Caribbean, and the US; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean); connected to Central American Microwave System (2019)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governmentsamong the poorest countries in Central America, Honduras has a neglected telecom sector complicated by political stalemate and geographic challenges; mobile subscribership is growing; DSL and cable Internet available in urban areas but expensive; government proposed ICT master plan to boost e-government and business, including free Internet to households; US based network ready to deploy 5G
Broadcast media: multiple privately owned terrestrial TV networks, supplemented by multiple cable TV networks; Radio Honduras is the lone government-owned radio network; roughly 300 privately owned radio stations
Internet country code: .hn
Internet users: total: 4,159,935 (2020 est.)
percent of population: 42% (2020 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 396,916 (2020)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 4 (2020 est.)
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 4 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 26
annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 251,149 (2018)
annual freight traffic on registered air carriers: 450,000 (2018) mt-km
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: HR
Airports: total: 103 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 13
2,438 to 3,047 m: 3
1,524 to 2,437 m: 3
914 to 1,523 m: 4
under 914 m: 3 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 90
1,524 to 2,437 m: 1
914 to 1,523 m: 16
under 914 m: 73 (2021)
Railways: total: 699 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 164 km (2014) 1.067-m gauge
115 km 1.057-m gauge
420 km 0.914-m gauge
Roadways: total: 14,742 km (2012)
paved: 3,367 km (2012)
unpaved: 11,375 km (2012) (1,543 km summer only)
note: an additional 8,951 km of non-official roads used by the coffee industry
Waterways: 465 km (2012) (most navigable only by small craft)
Merchant marine: total: 505
by type: bulk carrier 1, general cargo 244, oil tanker 82, other 178 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): La Ceiba, Puerto Cortes, San Lorenzo, Tela
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: Honduran Armed Forces (Fuerzas Armadas de Honduras, FFAA): Army (Ejercito), Honduran Naval Force (FNH; includes marines), Honduran Air Force (Fuerza Aerea Hondurena, FAH), Honduran Military Police of Public Order (PMOP); Security Secretariat: Public Security Forces (includes Honduran National Police paramilitary units) (2022)
note - the PMOP was created in 2013 as part of an effort by the Honduran Government to expand the military’s role in law enforcement alongside the Honduran National Police (HNP), particularly against narcotics trafficking and organized crime; since its creation, the PMOP’s role in internal security has expanded; it was used against election protesters in 2017, for example, and it has been accused of human rights violations; as of 2022, the PMOP was composed of 8 battalions of military personnel (approximately 5,000 troops) who have undergone some police training; it reported to military authorities but conducted operations sanctioned by both civilian security officials and military leaders
Military expenditures: 1.6% of GDP (2021 est.)
1.6% of GDP (2020 est.)
1.6% of GDP (2019 est.) (approximately $510 million)
1.6% of GDP (2018 est.) (approximately $500 million)
1.7% of GDP (2017 est.) (approximately $510 million)
Military and security service personnel strengths: the Honduran Armed Forces (FFAA) have approximately 16,000 active personnel (7,500 Army; 1,500 Navy, including about 1,000 marines; 2,000 Air Force; 5,000 Military Police of Public Order); approximately 18,000 National Police (2021)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the FFAA's inventory is comprised of mostly older imported equipment from Israel, the UK, and the US; since 2010, Honduras has received limited amounts of military equipment from several countries, including Colombia, Israel, and the Netherlands (2021)
Military service age and obligation: 18 years of age for voluntary 2- to 3-year military service (men and women); no conscription (2021)
note - as of 2017, women made up over 4% of the active duty military
Military - note: the armed forces, including the PMOP, are subordinate to the Secretariat of Defense, while the HNP reports to the Secretariat of Security; the National Interinstitutional Security Force is an interagency command that coordinates the overlapping responsibilities of the HNP, PMOP, National Intelligence Directorate, and Public Ministry (public prosecutor), but exercises coordination, command, and control responsibilities only during interagency operations involving those forces (2022)
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled on the delimitation of "bolsones" (disputed areas) along the El Salvador-Honduras border in 1992 with final settlement by the parties in 2006 after an Organization of American States survey and a further ICJ ruling in 2003; the 1992 ICJ ruling advised a tripartite resolution to a maritime boundary in the Gulf of Fonseca with consideration of Honduran access to the Pacific; El Salvador continues to claim tiny Conejo Island, not mentioned in the ICJ ruling, off Honduras in the Gulf of Fonseca; Honduras claims the Belizean-administered Sapodilla Cays off the coast of Belize in its constitution, but agreed to a joint ecological park around the cays should Guatemala consent to a maritime corridor in the Caribbean under the OAS-sponsored 2002 Belize-Guatemala DifferendumInternational Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled on the delimitation of "bolsones" (disputed areas) along the El Salvador-Honduras border in 1992 with final settlement by the parties in 2006 after an Organization of American States survey and a further ICJ ruling in 2003; the 1992 ICJ ruling advised a tripartite resolution to a maritime boundary in the Gulf of Fonseca with consideration of Honduran access to the Pacific; El Salvador continues to claim tiny Conejo Island, not mentioned in the ICJ ruling, off Honduras in the Gulf of Fonseca; Honduras claims the Belizean-administered Sapodilla Cays off the coast of Belize in its constitution, but agreed to a joint ecological park around the cays should Guatemala consent to a maritime corridor in the Caribbean under the OAS-sponsored 2002 Belize-Guatemala Differendum
Refugees and internally displaced persons: IDPs: 247,090 (violence, extortion, threats, forced recruitment by urban gangs between 2004 and 2018) (2021)
Illicit drugs: transshipment point for cocaine destined for the United States and precursor chemicals used to produce illicit drugs; some experimental coca cultivationtransshipment point for cocaine destined for the United States and precursor chemicals used to produce illicit drugs; some experimental coca cultivation |
20220601 | field-industrial-production-growth-rate | This entry gives the annual percentage increase in industrial production (includes manufacturing, mining, and construction).
Topic: Afghanistan-1.9% (2016 est.)
Topic: Albania6.8% (2017 est.)
Topic: Algeria0.6% (2017 est.)
Topic: American SamoaNA
Topic: AndorraNA
Topic: Angola2.5% (2017 est.)
Topic: Anguilla4% (2017 est.)
Topic: Antigua and Barbuda6.8% (2017 est.)
Topic: Argentina2.7% (2017 est.)
note: based on private sector estimates
Topic: Armenia5.4% (2017 est.)
Topic: ArubaNA
Topic: Australia1.4% (2017 est.)
Topic: Austria6.5% (2017 est.)
Topic: Azerbaijan-3.8% (2017 est.)
Topic: Bahamas, The5.8% (2017 est.)
Topic: Bahrain0.6% (2017 est.)
Topic: Bangladesh10.2% (2017 est.)
Topic: Barbados2.4% (2017 est.)
Topic: Belarus5.6% (2017 est.)
Topic: Belgium0.2% (2017 est.)
Topic: Belize-0.6% (2017 est.)
Topic: Benin3% (2017 est.)
Topic: Bermuda2% (2017 est.)
Topic: Bhutan6.3% (2017 est.)
Topic: Bolivia2.2% (2017 est.)
Topic: Bosnia and Herzegovina3% (2017 est.)
Topic: Botswana-4.2% (2017 est.)
Topic: Brazil0% (2017 est.)
Topic: British Virgin Islands1.1% (2017 est.)
Topic: Brunei1.5% (2017 est.)
Topic: Bulgaria3.6% (2017 est.)
Topic: Burkina Faso10.4% (2017 est.)
Topic: Burma8.9% (2017 est.)
Topic: Burundi-2% (2017 est.)
Topic: Cabo Verde2.9% (2017 est.)
Topic: Cambodia10.6% (2017 est.)
Topic: Cameroon3.3% (2017 est.)
Topic: Canada4.9% (2017 est.)
Topic: Cayman Islands2.2% (2017 est.)
Topic: Central African Republic3.9% (2017 est.)
Topic: Chad-4% (2017 est.)
Topic: Chile-0.4% (2017 est.)
Topic: China6.1% (2017 est.)
Topic: Colombia-2.2% (2017 est.)
Topic: Comoros1% (2017 est.)
Topic: Congo, Democratic Republic of the1.6% (2017 est.)
Topic: Congo, Republic of the-3% (2017 est.)
Topic: Cook Islands1% (2002)
Topic: Costa Rica1.3% (2017 est.)
Topic: Cote d'Ivoire4.2% (2017 est.)
Topic: Croatia1.2% (2017 est.)
Topic: Cuba-1.2% (2017 est.)
Topic: CuracaoNA
Topic: Cyprus13.4% (2017 est.)
Topic: Czechia7.5% (2017 est.)
Topic: Denmark2.5% (2017 est.)
Topic: Djibouti2.7% (2017 est.)
Topic: Dominica-13% (2017 est.)
Topic: Dominican Republic3.1% (2017 est.)
Topic: Ecuador-0.6% (2017 est.)
note: excludes oil refining
Topic: Egypt3.5% (2017 est.)
Topic: El Salvador3.6% (2017 est.)
Topic: Equatorial Guinea-6.9% (2017 est.)
Topic: Eritrea5.4% (2017 est.)
Topic: Estonia9.5% (2017 est.)
Topic: Eswatini5.6% (2017 est.)
Topic: Ethiopia10.5% (2017 est.)
Topic: European Union3.5% (2017 est.)
Topic: Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)NA
Topic: Faroe Islands3.4% (2009 est.)
Topic: Fiji2.8% (2017 est.)
Topic: Finland6.2% (2017 est.)
Topic: France2% (2017 est.)
Topic: French PolynesiaNA
Topic: Gabon1.8% (2017 est.)
Topic: Gambia, The-0.8% (2017 est.)
Topic: Gaza Strip2.2% (2017 est.)
note: see entry for the West Bank
Topic: Georgia6.7% (2017 est.)
Topic: Germany3.3% (2017 est.)
Topic: Ghana16.7% (2017 est.)
Topic: GibraltarNA
Topic: Greece3.5% (2017 est.)
Topic: GreenlandNA
Topic: Grenada10% (2017 est.)
Topic: GuamNA
Topic: Guatemala1.8% (2017 est.)
Topic: GuernseyNA
Topic: Guinea11% (2017 est.)
Topic: Guinea-Bissau2.5% (2017 est.)
Topic: Guyana-5% (2017 est.)
Topic: Haiti0.9% (2017 est.)
Topic: Honduras4.5% (2017 est.)
Topic: Hong Kong1.7% (2017 est.)
Topic: Hungary7.4% (2017 est.)
Topic: Iceland2.4% (2017 est.)
Topic: India5.5% (2017 est.)
Topic: Indonesia4.1% (2017 est.)
Topic: Iran3% (2017 est.)
Topic: Iraq0.7% (2017 est.)
Topic: Ireland7.8% (2017 est.)
Topic: Israel3.5% (2017 est.)
Topic: Italy2.1% (2017 est.)
Topic: Jamaica0.9% (2017 est.)
Topic: Japan1.4% (2017 est.)
Topic: JerseyNA
Topic: Jordan1.4% (2017 est.)
Topic: Kazakhstan5.8% (2017 est.)
Topic: Kenya3.6% (2017 est.)
Topic: Kiribati1.1% (2012 est.)
Topic: Korea, North1% (2017 est.)
Topic: Korea, South4.6% (2017 est.)
Topic: Kosovo1.2% (2016 est.)
Topic: Kuwait2.8% (2017 est.)
Topic: Kyrgyzstan10.9% (2017 est.)
Topic: Laos8% (2017 est.)
Topic: Latvia10.6% (2017 est.)
Topic: Lebanon-21.1% (2017 est.)
Topic: Lesotho12.5% (2017 est.)
Topic: Liberia9% (2017 est.)
Topic: Libya60.3% (2017 est.)
Topic: LiechtensteinNA
Topic: Lithuania5.9% (2017 est.)
Topic: Luxembourg1.9% (2017 est.)
Topic: Macau2% (2017 est.)
Topic: Madagascar5.2% (2017 est.)
Topic: Malawi1.2% (2017 est.)
Topic: Malaysia5% (2017 est.)
Topic: Maldives14% (2012 est.)
Topic: Mali6.3% (2017 est.)
Topic: Malta-3.3% (2016 est.)
Topic: Marshall IslandsNA
Topic: Mauritania1% (2017 est.)
Topic: Mauritius3.2% (2017 est.)
Topic: Mexico-0.6% (2017 est.)
Topic: Micronesia, Federated States ofNA
Topic: Moldova3% (2017 est.)
Topic: Monaco6.8% (2015)
Topic: Mongolia-1% (2017 est.)
Topic: Montenegro-4.2% (2017 est.)
Topic: Montserrat-21% (2017 est.)
Topic: Morocco2.8% (2017 est.)
Topic: Mozambique4.9% (2017 est.)
Topic: Namibia-0.4% (2017 est.)
Topic: NauruNA
Topic: Nepal12.4% (2017 est.)
Topic: Netherlands3.3% (2017 est.)
Topic: New Caledonia3.5% (2017 est.)
Topic: New Zealand1.8% (2017 est.)
Topic: Nicaragua3.5% (2017 est.)
Topic: Niger6% (2017 est.)
Topic: Nigeria2.2% (2017 est.)
Topic: NiueNA
Topic: North Macedonia-7.8% (2017 est.)
Topic: Northern Mariana IslandsNA
Topic: Norway1.5% (2017 est.)
Topic: Oman-3% (2017 est.)
Topic: Pakistan5.4% (2017 est.)
Topic: PalauNA
Topic: Panama6.3% (2017 est.)
Topic: Papua New Guinea3.3% (2017 est.)
Topic: Paraguay2% (2017 est.)
Topic: Peru2.7% (2017 est.)
Topic: Philippines7.2% (2017 est.)
Topic: Poland7.5% (2017 est.)
Topic: Portugal3.5% (2017 est.)
Topic: Puerto Rico-2.1% (2017 est.)
Topic: Qatar3% (2017 est.)
Topic: Romania5.5% (2017 est.)
Topic: Russia-1% (2017 est.)
Topic: Rwanda4.2% (2017 est.)
Topic: Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da CunhaNA
Topic: Saint Kitts and Nevis5% (2017 est.)
Topic: Saint Lucia6% (2017 est.)
Topic: Saint Pierre and MiquelonNA
Topic: Saint Vincent and the Grenadines2.5% (2017 est.)
Topic: Samoa-1.8% (2017 est.)
Topic: San Marino-1.1% (2012 est.)
Topic: Sao Tome and Principe5% (2017 est.)
Topic: Saudi Arabia-2.4% (2017 est.)
Topic: Senegal7.7% (2017 est.)
Topic: Serbia3.9% (2017 est.)
Topic: Seychelles2.3% (2017 est.)
Topic: Sierra Leone15.5% (2017 est.)
Topic: Singapore5.7% (2017 est.)
Topic: Slovakia2.7% (2017 est.)
Topic: Slovenia8.6% (2017 est.)
Topic: Solomon Islands3.6% (2017 est.)
Topic: Somalia3.5% (2014 est.)
Topic: South Africa1.2% (2017 est.)
Topic: Spain4% (2017 est.)
Topic: Sri Lanka4.6% (2017 est.)
Topic: Sudan4.5% (2017 est.)
Topic: Suriname1% (2017 est.)
Topic: Sweden4.1% (2017 est.)
Topic: Switzerland3.4% (2017 est.)
Topic: Syria4.3% (2017 est.)
Topic: Taiwan3.9% (2017 est.)
Topic: Tajikistan1% (2017 est.)
Topic: Tanzania12% (2017 est.)
Topic: Thailand1.6% (2017 est.)
Topic: Timor-Leste2% (2017 est.)
Topic: Togo5% (2017 est.)
Topic: Tonga5% (2017 est.)
Topic: Trinidad and Tobago-4.3% (2017 est.)
Topic: Tunisia0.5% (2017 est.)
Topic: Turkey9.1% (2017 est.)
Topic: Turkmenistan1% (2017 est.)
Topic: Turks and Caicos Islands3% (2017 est.)
Topic: Tuvalu-26.1% (2012 est.)
Topic: Uganda4.4% (2017 est.)
Topic: Ukraine3.1% (2017 est.)
Topic: United Arab Emirates1.8% (2017 est.)
Topic: United Kingdom3.4% (2017 est.)
Topic: United States2.3% (2017 est.)
Topic: Uruguay-3.6% (2017 est.)
Topic: Uzbekistan4.5% (2017 est.)
Topic: Vanuatu4.5% (2017 est.)
Topic: Venezuela-2% (2017 est.)
Topic: Vietnam8% (2017 est.)
Topic: Virgin IslandsNA
Topic: Wallis and FutunaNA
Topic: West Bank2.2% (2017 est.)
note: includes Gaza Strip
Topic: World3.2% (2017 est.)
Topic: Yemen8.9% (2017 est.)
Topic: Zambia4.7% (2017 est.)
Topic: Zimbabwe0.3% (2017 est.) |
20220601 | field-population-growth-rate-country-comparison | |
20220601 | countries-jamaica |
Topic: Photos of Jamaica
Topic: Introduction
Background: The island - discovered by Christopher COLUMBUS in 1494 - was settled by the Spanish early in the 16th century. The native Taino, who had inhabited Jamaica for centuries, were gradually exterminated and replaced by African slaves. England seized the island in 1655 and established a plantation economy based on sugar, cocoa, and coffee. The abolition of slavery in 1834 freed a quarter million slaves, many of whom became small farmers. Jamaica gradually increased its independence from Britain. In 1958 it joined other British Caribbean colonies in forming the Federation of the West Indies. Jamaica withdrew from the Federation in 1961 and gained full independence in 1962. Deteriorating economic conditions during the 1970s led to recurrent violence as rival gangs affiliated with the major political parties evolved into powerful organized crime networks involved in international drug smuggling and money laundering. Violent crime, drug trafficking, corruption, the COVID-19 pandemic, and poverty pose significant challenges to the government today. Nonetheless, many rural and resort areas remain relatively safe and contribute substantially to the economy.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, south of Cuba
Geographic coordinates: 18 15 N, 77 30 W
Map references: Central America and the Caribbean
Area: total: 10,991 sq km
land: 10,831 sq km
water: 160 sq km
Area - comparative: about half the size of New Jersey; slightly smaller than Connecticut
Land boundaries: total: 0 km
Coastline: 1,022 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm or to edge of the continental margin
measured from claimed archipelagic straight baselines
Climate: tropical; hot, humid; temperate interior
Terrain: mostly mountains, with narrow, discontinuous coastal plain
Elevation: highest point: Blue Mountain Peak 2,256 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 18 m
Natural resources: bauxite, alumina, gypsum, limestone
Land use: agricultural land: 41.4% (2018 est.)
arable land: 11.1% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 9.2% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 21.1% (2018 est.)
forest: 31.1% (2018 est.)
other: 27.5% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 250 sq km (2012)
Population distribution: population density is high throughout, but increases in and around Kingston, Montego Bay, and Port Esquivel
Natural hazards: hurricanes (especially July to November)
Geography - note: third largest island in the Caribbean (after Cuba and Hispaniola); strategic location between Cayman Trench and Jamaica Channel, the main sea lanes for the Panama Canal
Map description: Jamaica map showing major population centers of this island nation in the Caribbean Sea.Jamaica map showing major population centers of this island nation in the Caribbean Sea.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 2,818,596 (2022 est.)
Nationality: noun: Jamaican(s)
adjective: Jamaican
Ethnic groups: Black 92.1%, mixed 6.1%, East Indian 0.8%, other 0.4%, unspecified 0.7% (2011 est.)
Languages: English, English patois
Religions: Protestant 64.8% (includes Seventh Day Adventist 12.0%, Pentecostal 11.0%, Other Church of God 9.2%, New Testament Church of God 7.2%, Baptist 6.7%, Church of God in Jamaica 4.8%, Church of God of Prophecy 4.5%, Anglican 2.8%, United Church 2.1%, Methodist 1.6%, Revived 1.4%, Brethren 0.9%, and Moravian 0.7%), Roman Catholic 2.2%, Jehovah's Witness 1.9%, Rastafarian 1.1%, other 6.5%, none 21.3%, unspecified 2.3% (2011 est.)
Age structure: 0-14 years: 25.2% (male 360,199/female 347,436)
15-24 years: 17.95% (male 255,102/female 248,927)
25-54 years: 38.06% (male 518,583/female 550,410)
55-64 years: 9.63% (male 133,890/female 136,442)
65 years and over: 9.17% (2020 est.) (male 121,969/female 135,612)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 48
youth dependency ratio: 34.6
elderly dependency ratio: 13.4
potential support ratio: 7.4 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 29.4 years
male: 28.6 years
female: 30.1 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 0.08% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 15.91 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 7.43 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: -7.7 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: population density is high throughout, but increases in and around Kingston, Montego Bay, and Port Esquivel
Urbanization: urban population: 57% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 0.79% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 595,000 KINGSTON (capital) (2022)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.04 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.03 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 0.94 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 0.98 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.75 male(s)/female
total population: 0.98 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth: 21.2 years (2008 est.)
note: median age at first birth among women 25-29
Maternal mortality ratio: 80 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 11.17 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 12.43 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 9.84 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 75.75 years
male: 73.98 years
female: 77.6 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 2.06 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: NA
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 98.3% of population
rural: 93.9% of population
total: 96.4% of population
unimproved: urban: 1.7% of population
rural: 6.1% of population
total: 3.6% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 6.1% (2019)
Physicians density: 1.31 physicians/1,000 population (2017)
Hospital bed density: 1.7 beds/1,000 population (2017)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 98.6% of population
rural: 99.4% of population
total: 98.9% of population
unimproved: urban: 1.4% of population
rural: 0.6% of population
total: 1.1% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: 1.4% (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: 32,000 (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - deaths: (2020 est.) <1,000
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 24.7% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: 4.4% (2016)
Education expenditures: 5.4% of GDP (2020)
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over has ever attended school
total population: 88.7%
male: 84%
female: 93.1% (2015)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 12 years
male: 11 years
female: 13 years (2015)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 20.6%
male: 16.8%
female: 25.4% (2019 est.)
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: heavy rates of deforestation; coastal waters polluted by industrial waste, sewage, and oil spills; damage to coral reefs; air pollution in Kingston from vehicle emissions; land erosion
Environment - international agreements: party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping-London Convention, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 13.25 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 8.23 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 1.08 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: tropical; hot, humid; temperate interior
Land use: agricultural land: 41.4% (2018 est.)
arable land: 11.1% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 9.2% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 21.1% (2018 est.)
forest: 31.1% (2018 est.)
other: 27.5% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 57% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 0.79% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 0.15% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0% of GDP (2018 est.)
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 1,051,695 tons (2016 est.)
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 140 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 1.1 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 114 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 10.823 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: none
conventional short form: Jamaica
etymology: from the native Taino word "haymaca" meaning "Land of Wood and Water" or possibly "Land of Springs"
Government type: parliamentary democracy (Parliament) under a constitutional monarchy; a Commonwealth realm
Capital: name: Kingston
geographic coordinates: 18 00 N, 76 48 W
time difference: UTC-5 (same time as Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: the name is a blending of the words "king's" and "town"; the English king at the time of the city's founding in 1692 was William III (r. 1689-1702)
Administrative divisions: 14 parishes; Clarendon, Hanover, Kingston, Manchester, Portland, Saint Andrew, Saint Ann, Saint Catherine, Saint Elizabeth, Saint James, Saint Mary, Saint Thomas, Trelawny, Westmoreland
note: for local government purposes, Kingston and Saint Andrew were amalgamated in 1923 into the present single corporate body known as the Kingston and Saint Andrew Corporation
Independence: 6 August 1962 (from the UK)
National holiday: Independence Day, 6 August (1962)
Constitution: history: several previous (preindependence); latest drafted 1961-62, submitted to British Parliament 24 July 1962, entered into force 6 August 1962 (at independence)
amendments: proposed by Parliament; passage of amendments to "non-entrenched" constitutional sections, such as lowering the voting age, requires majority vote by the Parliament membership; passage of amendments to "entrenched" sections, such as fundamental rights and freedoms, requires two-thirds majority vote of Parliament; passage of amendments to "specially entrenched" sections such as the dissolution of Parliament or the executive authority of the monarch requires two-thirds approval by Parliament and approval in a referendum; amended many times, last in 2017
Legal system: common law system based on the English model
International law organization participation: has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; non-party state to the ICCt
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: yes
citizenship by descent only: yes
dual citizenship recognized: yes
residency requirement for naturalization: 4 out of the previous 5 years
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952); represented by Governor General Sir Patrick L. ALLEN (since 26 February 2009)
head of government: Prime Minister Andrew HOLNESS (since 3 March 2016)
cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister
elections/appointments: the monarchy is hereditary; governor general appointed by the monarch on the recommendation of the prime minister; following legislative elections, the leader of the majority party or majority coalition in the House of Representatives is appointed prime minister by the governor general
Legislative branch: description: bicameral Parliament consists of:
Senate (21 seats; 13 members appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister and 8 members appointed by the governor general on the advice of the opposition party leader; members serve 5-year terms (no term limits) or until Parliament is dissolved)
House of Representatives (63 seats; members directly elected in single-seat constituencies by simple majority vote to serve 5-year terms (no term limits) or until Parliament is dissolved)
elections: Senate - last full slate of appointments early on 3 September 2020 (next full slate in 2025)
House of Representatives - last held on 3 September 2020 (next to be held in 2025)
election results: Senate - percent by party - NA; seats by party - NA; composition (as of June 2021) - men 13, women 8, percent of women 38.1%
House of Representatives - percent of vote by party - JLP 57%, PNP 42.8%, independent 0.2%; seats by party - JLP 48, PNP 15; composition (as of June 2021) - men 45, women 18; percent of women 28.6%; note - total Parliament percent of women 31%
Judicial branch: highest courts: Court of Appeal (consists of president of the court and a minimum of 4 judges); Supreme Court (40 judges organized in specialized divisions); note - appeals beyond Jamaica's highest courts are referred to the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council (in London) rather than to the Caribbean Court of Justice (the appellate court for member states of the Caribbean Community)
judge selection and term of office: chief justice of the Supreme Court and president of the Court of Appeal appointed by the governor-general on the advice of the prime minister; other judges of both courts appointed by the governor-general on the advice of the Judicial Service Commission; judges of both courts serve till age 70
subordinate courts: resident magistrate courts, district courts, and petty sessions courts
Political parties and leaders: Jamaica Labor Party or JLP [Andrew Michael HOLNESS]
People's National Party or PNP [Mark GOLDING]
United Independents' Congress or UIC [Joseph PATTERSON]
Jamaica Progressive Party or JPP [Gilbert EDWARDS]Jamaica Labor Party or JLP [Andrew Michael HOLNESS]
People's National Party or PNP [Mark GOLDING]
United Independents' Congress or UIC [Joseph PATTERSON]
Jamaica Progressive Party or JPP [Gilbert EDWARDS]
International organization participation: ACP, AOSIS, C, Caricom, CDB, CELAC, FAO, G-15, G-77, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (NGOs), ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITSO, ITU, LAES, MIGA, NAM, OAS, OPANAL, OPCW, Petrocaribe, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNITAR, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Audrey Patrice MARKS (since 18 January 2017)
chancery: 1520 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
telephone: [1] (202) 452-0660
FAX: [1] (202) 452-0036
email address and website:
firstsec@jamaicaembassy.org
http://www.embassyofjamaica.org/
consulate(s) general: Miami, New York
consulate(s): Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Concord (MA), Houston, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Richmond (VA), San Francisco, Seattle
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: Ambassador N. Nickolas PERRY (since 13 May 2022)
embassy: 142 Old Hope Road, Kingston 6
mailing address: 3210 Kingston Place, Washington DC 20521-3210
telephone: (876) 702-6000 (2018)
FAX: (876) 702-6348 (2018)
email address and website:
KingstonACS@state.gov
https://jm.usembassy.gov/
Flag description: diagonal yellow cross divides the flag into four triangles - green (top and bottom) and black (hoist side and fly side); green represents hope, vegetation, and agriculture, black reflects hardships overcome and to be faced, and yellow recalls golden sunshine and the island's natural resources
National symbol(s): green-and-black streamertail (bird), Guaiacum officinale (Guaiacwood); national colors: green, yellow, black
National anthem: name: Jamaica, Land We Love
lyrics/music: Hugh Braham SHERLOCK/Robert Charles LIGHTBOURNE
note: adopted 1962
National heritage: total World Heritage Sites: 1 (mixed)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Blue and John Crow Mountains
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: The Jamaican economy is heavily dependent on services, which accounts for more than 70% of GDP. The country derives most of its foreign exchange from tourism, remittances, and bauxite/alumina. Earnings from remittances and tourism each account for 14% and 20% of GDP, while bauxite/alumina exports have declined to less than 5% of GDP. Jamaica's economy has grown on average less than 1% a year for the last three decades and many impediments remain to growth: a bloated public sector which crowds out spending on important projects; high crime and corruption; red-tape; and a high debt-to-GDP ratio. Jamaica, however, has made steady progress in reducing its debt-to-GDP ratio from a high of almost 150% in 2012 to less than 110% in 2017, in close collaboration with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The current IMF Stand-By Agreement requires Jamaica to produce an annual primary surplus of 7%, in an attempt to reduce its debt burden below 60% by 2025. Economic growth reached 1.6% in 2016, but declined to 0.9% in 2017 after intense rainfall, demonstrating the vulnerability of the economy to weather-related events. The HOLNESS administration therefore faces the difficult prospect of maintaining fiscal discipline to reduce the debt load while simultaneously implementing growth inducing policies and attacking a serious crime problem. High unemployment exacerbates the crime problem, including gang violence fueled by advanced fee fraud (lottery scamming) and the drug trade.The Jamaican economy is heavily dependent on services, which accounts for more than 70% of GDP. The country derives most of its foreign exchange from tourism, remittances, and bauxite/alumina. Earnings from remittances and tourism each account for 14% and 20% of GDP, while bauxite/alumina exports have declined to less than 5% of GDP. Jamaica's economy has grown on average less than 1% a year for the last three decades and many impediments remain to growth: a bloated public sector which crowds out spending on important projects; high crime and corruption; red-tape; and a high debt-to-GDP ratio. Jamaica, however, has made steady progress in reducing its debt-to-GDP ratio from a high of almost 150% in 2012 to less than 110% in 2017, in close collaboration with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The current IMF Stand-By Agreement requires Jamaica to produce an annual primary surplus of 7%, in an attempt to reduce its debt burden below 60% by 2025. Economic growth reached 1.6% in 2016, but declined to 0.9% in 2017 after intense rainfall, demonstrating the vulnerability of the economy to weather-related events. The HOLNESS administration therefore faces the difficult prospect of maintaining fiscal discipline to reduce the debt load while simultaneously implementing growth inducing policies and attacking a serious crime problem. High unemployment exacerbates the crime problem, including gang violence fueled by advanced fee fraud (lottery scamming) and the drug trade.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $25.89 billion (2020 est.)
$28.83 billion (2019 est.)
$28.57 billion (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 0.7% (2017 est.)
1.5% (2016 est.)
0.9% (2015 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $8,700 (2020 est.)
$9,800 (2019 est.)
$9,700 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $15.847 billion (2019 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 3.9% (2019 est.)
3.7% (2018 est.)
4.3% (2017 est.)
Credit ratings: Fitch rating: B+ (2019)
Moody's rating: B2 (2019)
Standard & Poors rating: B+ (2019)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 7% (2017 est.)
industry: 21.1% (2017 est.)
services: 71.9% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 81.9% (2017 est.)
government consumption: 13.7% (2017 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 21.3% (2017 est.)
investment in inventories: 0.1% (2017 est.)
exports of goods and services: 30.1% (2017 est.)
imports of goods and services: -47.1% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: sugar cane, goat milk, yams, poultry, coconuts, oranges, bananas, gourds, plantains, grapefruit
Industries: agriculture, mining, manufacture, construction, financial and insurance services, tourism, telecommunications
Industrial production growth rate: 0.9% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 1.113 million (2020 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 16.1%
industry: 16%
services: 67.9% (2017)
Unemployment rate: 7.72% (2019 est.)
9.13% (2018 est.)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 20.6%
male: 16.8%
female: 25.4% (2019 est.)
Population below poverty line: 17.1% (2016 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 35 (2016)
38 (2015)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: 2.6%
highest 10%: 29.3% (2015)
Budget: revenues: 4.382 billion (2017 est.)
expenditures: 4.314 billion (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): 0.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 101% of GDP (2017 est.)
113.6% of GDP (2016 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 29.7% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March
Current account balance: -$298 million (2019 est.)
-$288 million (2018 est.)
Exports: $5.92 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$5.79 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Exports - partners: United States 32%, Netherlands 11%, Germany 9%, Canada 7%, Iceland 7% (2019)
Exports - commodities: bauxite, refined petroleum, aluminum, rum, fruits, nuts (2019)
Imports: $8.25 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$7.89 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Imports - partners: United States 43%, China 11% (2019)
Imports - commodities: refined petroleum, cars, crude petroleum, natural gas, packaged medicines (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $3.781 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
$2.719 billion (31 December 2016 est.)
Debt - external: $13.876 billion (2019 est.)
$13.912 billion (2018 est.)
Exchange rates: Jamaican dollars (JMD) per US dollar -
128.36 (2017 est.)
125.14 (2016 est.)
125.126 (2015 est.)
116.898 (2014 est.)
110.935 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 99% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 100% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 97% (2019)
Electricity - production: 4.007 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 2.847 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - imports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 1.078 million kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 83% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 3% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 15% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 0 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 24,360 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 0 bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 24,250 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 55,000 bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 823 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 30,580 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 198.2 million cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 198.2 million cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 0 cu m (1 January 2014 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 436,249 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 15 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 2,873,259 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 97 (2020 est.)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: good domestic and international service; mobile sector dominates, accounting for majority of the Internet connections and half of telecom sector revenue; extensive LTE networks providing coverage to most of the island population; regulator encouraging competition with little success due to breach of license; government announced support of national broadband network to aid access to education, hospitals, police, and municipal institutions; operators provided customers with data plans to support educational platforms; US grant to fund New Kingston smart city program (2020)
domestic: fixed-line subscriptions nearly 15 per 100, cellular-mobile roughly 97 per 100 subscriptions (2020)
international: country code - 1-876 and 1-658; landing points for the ALBA-1, CFX-1, Fibralink, East-West, and Cayman-Jamaican Fiber System submarine cables providing connections to South America, parts of the Caribbean, Central America and the US; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) (2019)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: 3 free-to-air TV stations, subscription cable services, and roughly 30 radio stations (2019)
Internet country code: .jm
Internet users: total: 1,621,552 (2019 est.)
percent of population: 55% (2019 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 385,603 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 13 (2020 est.)
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 0 (2020)
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: 6Y
Airports: total: 28 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 11
2,438 to 3,047 m: 2
914 to 1,523 m: 4
under 914 m: 5 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 17
914 to 1,523 m: 1
under 914 m: 16 (2021)
Roadways: total: 22,121 km (2011) (includes 44 km of expressways)
paved: 16,148 km (2011)
unpaved: 5,973 km (2011)
Merchant marine: total: 43
by type: bulk carrier 1, container ship 5, general cargo 9, oil tanker 1, other 27 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Discovery Bay (Port Rhoades), Kingston, Montego Bay, Port Antonio, Port Esquivel, Port Kaiser, Rocky Point
container port(s) (TEUs): Kingston (1,647,609) (2019)
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: Jamaica Defense Force (JDF): Jamaica Regiment (Ground Forces), Maritime-Air-Cyber Command (includes Coast Guard, Air Wing, Military Intelligence Unit, Special Activities Regiment, and Military Cyber Corps), Support Brigade (logistics, engineers, health service, and military police); Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) (2021)
note - both the JDF and JCF are under the Ministry of National Security
Military expenditures: 1.4% of GDP (2021 est.)
1.7% of GDP (2020 est.)
1.6% of GDP (2019 est.) (approximately $300 million)
1.4% of GDP (2018 est.) (approximately $260 million)
1% of GDP (2017 est.) (approximately $190 million)
Military and security service personnel strengths: information varies; approximately 4,000 total active personnel (2021)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the Jamaica Defense Force is lightly armed with a limited inventory featuring equipment mostly from Europe and the US (2021)
Military service age and obligation: no conscription; 18-23 for voluntary military service (17 with parental consent; 18-28 for the reserves); since 2017, the JDF's standard mode of recruitment is to enroll recruits ages 18-23 through the Jamaica National Service Corps (JNSC); in the JNSC, soldiers receive basic military, vocational, and life skills training; upon completion of 1-year of service, soldiers can continue on with the JDF or seek other opportunities with law enforcement (2021)
Military - note: as of 2021, the JDF’s primary missions were maritime/border and internal security, including support to police operations to combat crime and violenceas of 2021, the JDF’s primary missions were maritime/border and internal security, including support to police operations to combat crime and violence
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: nonenone
Illicit drugs: the largest Caribbean source of marijuana which is trafficked to other Caribbean countries for illegal weapons and other contraband; transit point for cocaine trafficked from South America to North America and other international markets |
20220601 | field-elevation | This entry includes the mean elevation and elevation extremes, lowest point and highest point.
Topic: Afghanistanhighest point: Noshak 7,492 m
lowest point: Amu Darya 258 m
mean elevation: 1,884 m
Topic: Albaniahighest point: Maja e Korabit (Golem Korab) 2,764 m
lowest point: Adriatic Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 708 m
Topic: Algeriahighest point: Tahat 2,908 m
lowest point: Chott Melrhir -40 m
mean elevation: 800 m
Topic: American Samoahighest point: Lata Mountain 964 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
Topic: Andorrahighest point: Pic de Coma Pedrosa 2,946 m
lowest point: Riu Runer 840 m
mean elevation: 1,996 m
Topic: Angolahighest point: Moca 2,620 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 1,112 m
Topic: Anguillahighest point: Crocus Hill 73 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
Topic: Antarcticahighest point: Vinson Massif 4,892 m
lowest point: Denman Glacier more than -3,500 m (-11,500 ft) below sea level
mean elevation: 2,300 m
note: the lowest known land point in Antarctica is hidden in the Denman Glacier; at its surface is the deepest ice yet discovered and the world's lowest elevation not under seawater
Topic: Antigua and Barbudahighest point: Mount Obama 402 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
Topic: Arctic Oceanhighest point: sea level
lowest point: Molloy Deep -5,577 m
mean depth: -1,205 m
ocean zones: Composed of water and in a fluid state, the oceans are delimited differently than the solid continents. Oceans are divided into three zones based on depth and light level. Although some sea creatures depend on light to live, others can do without it. Sunlight entering the water may travel about 1,000 m into the oceans under the right conditions, but there is rarely any significant light beyond 200 m.
The upper 200 m (656 ft) of oceans is called the euphotic, or "sunlight," zone. This zone contains the vast majority of commercial fisheries and is home to many protected marine mammals and sea turtles. Only a small amount of light penetrates beyond this depth.
The zone between 200 m (656 ft) and 1,000 m (3,280 ft) is usually referred to as the "twilight" zone, but is officially the dysphotic zone. In this zone, the intensity of light rapidly dissipates as depth increases. Such a minuscule amount of light penetrates beyond a depth of 200 m that photosynthesis is no longer possible.
The aphotic, or "midnight," zone exists in depths below 1,000 m (3,280 ft). Sunlight does not penetrate to these depths and the zone is bathed in darkness.
Topic: Argentinahighest point: Cerro Aconcagua (located in the northwestern corner of the province of Mendoza; highest point in South America) 6,962 m
lowest point: Laguna del Carbon (located between Puerto San Julian and Comandante Luis Piedra Buena in the province of Santa Cruz) -105 m
mean elevation: 595 m
Topic: Armeniahighest point: Aragats Lerrnagagat' 4,090 m
lowest point: Debed River 400 m
mean elevation: 1,792 m
Topic: Arubahighest point: Ceru Jamanota 188 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
Topic: Ashmore and Cartier Islandshighest point: Cartier Island 5 m
lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m
Topic: Atlantic Oceanhighest point: sea level
lowest point: Puerto Rico Trench -8,605 m
mean depth: -3,646 m
ocean zones: Composed of water and in a fluid state, the oceans are delimited differently than the solid continents. Oceans are divided into three zones based on depth and light level. Although some sea creatures depend on light to live, others can do without it. Sunlight entering the water may travel about 1,000 m into the oceans under the right conditions, but there is rarely any significant light beyond 200 m.
The upper 200 m (656 ft) of oceans is called the euphotic, or "sunlight," zone. This zone contains the vast majority of commercial fisheries and is home to many protected marine mammals and sea turtles. Only a small amount of light penetrates beyond this depth.
The zone between 200 m (656 ft) and 1,000 m (3,280 ft) is usually referred to as the "twilight" zone, but is officially the dysphotic zone. In this zone, the intensity of light rapidly dissipates as depth increases. Such a minuscule amount of light penetrates beyond a depth of 200 m that photosynthesis is no longer possible.
The aphotic, or "midnight," zone exists in depths below 1,000 m (3,280 ft). Sunlight does not penetrate to these depths and the zone is bathed in darkness.
Topic: Australiahighest point: Mount Kosciuszko 2,228 m
lowest point: Lake Eyre -15 m
mean elevation: 330 m
Topic: Austriahighest point: Grossglockner 3,798 m
lowest point: Neusiedler See 115 m
mean elevation: 910 m
Topic: Azerbaijanhighest point: Bazarduzu Dagi 4,466 m
lowest point: Caspian Sea -28 m
mean elevation: 384 m
Topic: Bahamas, Thehighest point: 1.3 km NE of Old Bight on Cat Island 64 m
note - the Factbook map is incorrect; it indicates the wrong high elevation point
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Topic: Bahrainhighest point: Jabal ad Dukhan 135 m
lowest point: Persian Gulf 0 m
Topic: Bangladeshhighest point: Mowdok Taung 1,060 m
note - the Factbook map is incorrect; it shows the wrong high elevation
lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 85 m
Topic: Barbadoshighest point: Mount Hillaby 336 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Topic: Belarushighest point: Dzyarzhynskaya Hara 346 m
lowest point: Nyoman River 90 m
mean elevation: 160 m
Topic: Belgiumhighest point: Botrange 694 m
lowest point: North Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 181 m
Topic: Belizehighest point: Doyle's Delight 1,124 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 173 m
Topic: Beninhighest point: unnamed elevation located 2.5 km southeast of the town of Kotopounga 675 m
note - the Factbook map is incorrect; it shows the wrong high elevation
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 273 m
Topic: Bermudahighest point: Town Hill 79 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Topic: Bhutanhighest point: Gangkar Puensum 7,570 m
lowest point: Drangeme Chhu 97 m
mean elevation: 2,220 m
Topic: Boliviahighest point: Nevado Sajama 6,542 m
lowest point: Rio Paraguay 90 m
mean elevation: 1,192 m
Topic: Bosnia and Herzegovinahighest point: Maglic 2,386 m
lowest point: Adriatic Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 500 m
Topic: Botswanahighest point: Manyelanong Hill 1,495 m
note - the Factbook map is incorrect; it shows the wrong high elevation
lowest point: junction of the Limpopo and Shashe Rivers 513 m
mean elevation: 1,013 m
Topic: Bouvet Islandhighest point: Olavtoppen (Olav Peak) 780 m
lowest point: South Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Topic: Brazilhighest point: Pico da Neblina 2,994 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 320 m
Topic: British Indian Ocean Territoryhighest point: ocean-side dunes on Diego Garcia 9 m
lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m
Topic: British Virgin Islandshighest point: Mount Sage 521 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
Topic: Bruneihighest point: Bukit Pagon 1,850 m
lowest point: South China Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 478 m
Topic: Bulgariahighest point: Musala 2,925 m
lowest point: Black Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 472 m
Topic: Burkina Fasohighest point: Tena Kourou 749 m
lowest point: Mouhoun (Black Volta) River 200 m
mean elevation: 297 m
Topic: Burmahighest point: Gamlang Razi 5,870 m
lowest point: Andaman Sea/Bay of Bengal 0 m
mean elevation: 702 m
Topic: Burundihighest point: unnamed elevation on Mukike Range 2,685 m
note - the Factbook map is incorrect; it shows the wrong high elevation
lowest point: Lake Tanganyika 772 m
mean elevation: 1,504 m
Topic: Cabo Verdehighest point: Mt. Fogo (a volcano on Fogo Island) 2,829 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Topic: Cambodiahighest point: Phnum Aoral 1,810 m
lowest point: Gulf of Thailand 0 m
mean elevation: 126 m
Topic: Cameroonhighest point: Fako on Mont Cameroun 4,045 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 667 m
Topic: Canadahighest point: Mount Logan 5,959 m
lowest point: Atlantic/Pacific/Arctic Oceans 0 m
mean elevation: 487 m
Topic: Cayman Islandshighest point: 1 km SW of The Bluff on Cayman Brac 50 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
Topic: Central African Republichighest point: Mont Ngaoui 1,410 m
lowest point: Oubangui River 335 m
mean elevation: 635 m
Topic: Chadhighest point: Emi Koussi 3,445 m
lowest point: Djourab 160 m
mean elevation: 543 m
Topic: Chilehighest point: Nevado Ojos del Salado 6,893 m (highest volcano in the world)
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 1,871 m
Topic: Chinahighest point: Mount Everest (highest peak in Asia and highest point on earth above sea level) 8,849 m
lowest point: Turpan Pendi (Turfan Depression) -154 m
mean elevation: 1,840 m
Topic: Christmas Islandhighest point: Murray Hill 361 m
lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m
Topic: Clipperton Islandhighest point: Rocher Clipperton 29 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
Topic: Cocos (Keeling) Islandshighest point: South Point on South Island 9 m
lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m
Topic: Colombiahighest point: Pico Cristobal Colon 5,730 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 593 m
Topic: Comoroshighest point: Karthala 2,360 m
lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m
Topic: Congo, Democratic Republic of thehighest point: Pic Marguerite on Mont Ngaliema (Mount Stanley) 5,110 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 726 m
Topic: Congo, Republic of thehighest point: Mont Nabeba 1,020 m
note - the Factbook map is incorrect; it shows the wrong high elevation
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 430 m
Topic: Cook Islandshighest point: Te Manga 652 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
Topic: Coral Sea Islandshighest point: unnamed location on Cato Island 9 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
Topic: Costa Ricahighest point: Cerro Chirripo 3,819 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 746 m
Topic: Cote d'Ivoirehighest point: Monts Nimba 1,752 m
lowest point: Gulf of Guinea 0 m
mean elevation: 250 m
Topic: Croatiahighest point: Dinara 1,831 m
lowest point: Adriatic Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 331 m
Topic: Cubahighest point: Pico Turquino 1,974 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 108 m
Topic: Curacaohighest point: Mt. Christoffel 372 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
Topic: Cyprushighest point: Mount Olympus 1,951 m
lowest point: Mediterranean Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 91 m
Topic: Czechiahighest point: Snezka 1,602 m
lowest point: Labe (Elbe) River 115 m
mean elevation: 433 m
Topic: Denmarkhighest point: Store Mollehoj 171 m
lowest point: Lammefjord -7 m
mean elevation: 34 m
Topic: Djiboutihighest point: Moussa Ali 2,021 m
lowest point: Lac Assal -155 m
mean elevation: 430 m
Topic: Dominicahighest point: Morne Diablotins 1,447 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
Topic: Dominican Republichighest point: Pico Duarte 3,098 m
lowest point: Lago Enriquillo -46 m
mean elevation: 424 m
Topic: Ecuadorhighest point: Chimborazo 6,267
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 1,117 m
note: because the earth is not a perfect sphere and has an equatorial bulge, the highest point on the planet farthest from its center is Mount Chimborazo not Mount Everest, which is merely the highest peak above sea level
Topic: Egypthighest point: Mount Catherine 2,629 m
lowest point: Qattara Depression -133 m
mean elevation: 321 m
Topic: El Salvadorhighest point: Cerro El Pital 2,730 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 442 m
Topic: Equatorial Guineahighest point: Pico Basile 3,008 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 577 m
Topic: Eritreahighest point: Soira 3,018 m
lowest point: near Kulul within the Danakil Depression -75 m
mean elevation: 853 m
Topic: Estoniahighest point: Suur Munamagi 318 m
lowest point: Baltic Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 61 m
Topic: Eswatinihighest point: Emlembe 1,862 m
lowest point: Great Usutu River 21 m
mean elevation: 305 m
Topic: Ethiopiahighest point: Ras Dejen 4,550 m
lowest point: Danakil Depression -125 m
mean elevation: 1,330 m
Topic: European Unionhighest point: Mont Blanc, France 4,810 m
lowest point: Zuidplaspolder, Netherlands -7 m
Topic: Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)highest point: Mount Usborne 705 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Topic: Faroe Islandshighest point: Slaettaratindur 882 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Topic: Fijihighest point: Tomanivi 1,324 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
Topic: Finlandhighest point: Halti (alternatively Haltia, Haltitunturi, Haltiatunturi) 1,328 m
lowest point: Baltic Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 164 m
Topic: Francehighest point: Mont Blanc 4,810
lowest point: Rhone River delta -2 m
mean elevation: 375 m
note: to assess the possible effects of climate change on the ice and snow cap of Mont Blanc, its surface and peak have been extensively measured in recent years; these new peak measurements have exceeded the traditional height of 4,807 m and have varied between 4,808 m and 4,811 m; the actual rock summit is 4,792 m and is 40 m away from the ice-covered summit
Topic: French Polynesiahighest point: Mont Orohena 2,241 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
Topic: French Southern and Antarctic Landshighest point: Mont de la Dives on Ile Amsterdam (Ile Amsterdam et Ile Saint-Paul) 867 m
lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m
highest points throughout the French Southern and Antarctic Lands: unnamed location on Ile Saint-Paul (Ile Amsterdam et Ile Saint-Paul) 272 m; Pic Marion-Dufresne in Iles Crozet 1090 m; Mont Ross in Iles Kerguelen 1850 m; unnamed location on Bassas de India (Iles Eparses) 2.4 m;24 unnamed location on Europa Island (Iles Eparses) 24 m; unnamed location on Glorioso Islands (Iles Eparses) 12 m; unnamed location on Juan de Nova Island (Iles Eparses) 10 m; unnamed location on Tromelin Island (Iles Eparses) 7 m
Topic: Gabonhighest point: Mont Bengoue 1,050 m
note - the Factbook map is incorrect; it shows the wrong high elevation
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 377 m
Topic: Gambia, Thehighest point: unnamed elevation 3 km southeast of the town of Sabi 63 m
note - the Factbook map is incorrect; it shows the wrong location of the high elevation
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 34 m
Topic: Gaza Striphighest point: Abu 'Awdah (Joz Abu 'Awdah) 105 m
lowest point: Mediterranean Sea 0 m
Topic: Georgiahighest point: Mt'a Shkhara 5,193 m
lowest point: Black Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 1,432 m
Topic: Germanyhighest point: Zugspitze 2,963 m
lowest point: Neuendorf bei Wilster -3.5 m
mean elevation: 263 m
Topic: Ghanahighest point: Mount Afadjato 885 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 190 m
Topic: Gibraltarhighest point: Rock of Gibraltar 426 m
lowest point: Mediterranean Sea 0 m
Topic: Greecehighest point: Mount Olympus 2,917
lowest point: Mediterranean Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 498 m
note: Mount Olympus actually has 52 peaks but its highest point, Mytikas (meaning "nose"), rises to 2,917 meters; in Greek mythology, Olympus' Mytikas peak was the home of the Greek gods
Topic: Greenlandhighest point: Gunnbjorn Fjeld 3,694 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 1,792 m
Topic: Grenadahighest point: Mount Saint Catherine 840 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
Topic: Guamhighest point: Mount Lamlam 406 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
Topic: Guatemalahighest point: Volcan Tajumulco (highest point in Central America) 4,220 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 759 m
Topic: Guernseyhighest point: Le Moulin on Sark 114 m
lowest point: English Channel 0 m
Topic: Guineahighest point: Mont Nimba 1,752 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 472 m
Topic: Guinea-Bissauhighest point: Dongol Ronde 277 m
note - the Factbook map is incorrect; it shows the wrong location of the high elevation
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 70 m
Topic: Guyanahighest point: Laberintos del Norte on Mount Roraima 2,775 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 207 m
Topic: Haitihighest point: Pic la Selle 2,674 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 470 m
Topic: Heard Island and McDonald Islandshighest point: Mawson Peak on Big Ben volcano 2,745 m
lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m
Topic: Holy See (Vatican City)highest point: Vatican Gardens (Vatican Hill) 78 m
lowest point: Saint Peter's Square 19 m
Topic: Hondurashighest point: Cerro Las Minas 2,870 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 684 m
Topic: Hong Konghighest point: Tai Mo Shan 958 m
lowest point: South China Sea 0 m
Topic: Hungaryhighest point: Kekes 1,014 m
lowest point: Tisza River 78 m
mean elevation: 143 m
Topic: Icelandhighest point: Hvannadalshnukur (at Vatnajokull Glacier) 2,110 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 557 m
Topic: Indiahighest point: Kanchenjunga 8,586 m
lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 160 m
Topic: Indian Oceanhighest point: sea level
lowest point: Java Trench -7,192 m unnamed deep
mean depth: -3,741 m
ocean zones: Composed of water and in a fluid state, the oceans are delimited differently than the solid continents. Oceans are divided into three zones based on depth and light level. Although some sea creatures depend on light to live, others can do without it. Sunlight entering the water may travel about 1,000 m into the oceans under the right conditions, but there is rarely any significant light beyond 200 m.
The upper 200 m (656 ft) of oceans is called the euphotic, or "sunlight," zone. This zone contains the vast majority of commercial fisheries and is home to many protected marine mammals and sea turtles. Only a small amount of light penetrates beyond this depth.
The zone between 200 m (656 ft) and 1,000 m (3,280 ft) is usually referred to as the "twilight" zone, but is officially the dysphotic zone. In this zone, the intensity of light rapidly dissipates as depth increases. Such a minuscule amount of light penetrates beyond a depth of 200 m that photosynthesis is no longer possible.
The aphotic, or "midnight," zone exists in depths below 1,000 m (3,280 ft). Sunlight does not penetrate to these depths and the zone is bathed in darkness.
Topic: Indonesiahighest point: Puncak Jaya 4,884 m
lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 367 m
Topic: Iranhighest point: Kuh-e Damavand 5,625 m
lowest point: Caspian Sea -28 m
mean elevation: 1,305 m
Topic: Iraqhighest point: Cheekha Dar (Kurdish for "Black Tent") 3,611 m
lowest point: Persian Gulf 0 m
mean elevation: 312 m
Topic: Irelandhighest point: Carrauntoohil 1,041 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 118 m
Topic: Isle of Manhighest point: Snaefell 621 m
lowest point: Irish Sea 0 m
Topic: Israelhighest point: Mitspe Shlagim 2,224 m; note - this is the highest named point, the actual highest point is an unnamed dome slightly to the west of Mitspe Shlagim at 2,236 m; both points are on the northeastern border of Israel, along the southern end of the Anti-Lebanon mountain range
lowest point: Dead Sea -431 m
mean elevation: 508 m note - does not include elevation data from the Golan Heights
Topic: Italyhighest point: Mont Blanc (Monte Bianco) de Courmayeur (a secondary peak of Mont Blanc) 4,748 m
lowest point: Mediterranean Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 538 m
Topic: Jamaicahighest point: Blue Mountain Peak 2,256 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 18 m
Topic: Jan Mayenhighest point: Haakon VII Toppen on Beerenberg 2,277
lowest point: Norwegian Sea 0 m
note: Beerenberg volcano has numerous peaks; the highest point on the volcano rim is named Haakon VII Toppen, after Norway's first king following the reestablishment of Norwegian independence in 1905
Topic: Japanhighest point: Mount Fuji 3,776 m
lowest point: Hachiro-gata -4 m
mean elevation: 438 m
Topic: Jerseyhighest point: Les Platons 136 m
lowest point: English Channel 0 m
Topic: Jordanhighest point: Jabal Umm ad Dami 1,854 m
lowest point: Dead Sea -431 m
mean elevation: 812 m
Topic: Kazakhstanhighest point: Pik Khan-Tengri 7,010 m
note - the northern most 7,000 meter peak in the World
lowest point: Qauyndy Oyysy -132 m
mean elevation: 387 m
Topic: Kenyahighest point: Mount Kenya 5,199 m
lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 762 m
Topic: Kiribatihighest point: unnamed elevation on Banaba 81 m m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 2 m
Topic: Korea, Northhighest point: Paektu-san 2,744 m
lowest point: Sea of Japan 0 m
mean elevation: 600 m
Topic: Korea, Southhighest point: Halla-san 1,950 m
lowest point: Sea of Japan 0 m
mean elevation: 282 m
Topic: Kosovohighest point: Gjeravica/Deravica 2,656 m
lowest point: Drini i Bardhe/Beli Drim (located on the border with Albania) 297 m
mean elevation: 450 m
Topic: Kuwaithighest point: 3.6 km W. of Al-Salmi Border Post 300 m
lowest point: Persian Gulf 0 m
mean elevation: 108 m
Topic: Kyrgyzstanhighest point: Jengish Chokusu (Pik Pobedy) 7,439 m
lowest point: Kara-Daryya (Karadar'ya) 132 m
mean elevation: 2,988 m
Topic: Laoshighest point: Phu Bia 2,817 m
lowest point: Mekong River 70 m
mean elevation: 710 m
Topic: Latviahighest point: Gaizina Kalns 312 m
lowest point: Baltic Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 87 m
Topic: Lebanonhighest point: Qornet es Saouda 3,088 m
lowest point: Mediterranean Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 1,250 m
Topic: Lesothohighest point: Thabana Ntlenyana 3,482 m
lowest point: junction of the Orange and Makhaleng Rivers 1,400 m
mean elevation: 2,161 m
Topic: Liberiahighest point: Mount Wuteve 1,447 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 243 m
Topic: Libyahighest point: Bikku Bitti 2,267 m
lowest point: Sabkhat Ghuzayyil -47 m
mean elevation: 423 m
Topic: Liechtensteinhighest point: Vorder-Grauspitz 2,599 m
lowest point: Ruggeller Riet 430 m
Topic: Lithuaniahighest point: Aukstojas 294 m
lowest point: Baltic Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 110 m
Topic: Luxembourghighest point: Buurgplaatz 559 m
lowest point: Moselle River 133 m
mean elevation: 325 m
Topic: Macauhighest point: Alto Coloane 172 m
lowest point: South China Sea 0 m
Topic: Madagascarhighest point: Maromokotro 2,876 m
lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 615 m
Topic: Malawihighest point: Sapitwa (Mount Mlanje) 3,002 m
lowest point: junction of the Shire River and international boundary with Mozambique 37 m
mean elevation: 779 m
Topic: Malaysiahighest point: Gunung Kinabalu 4,095 m
lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 419 m
Topic: Maldiveshighest point: 8th tee, golf course, Villingi Island 5 m
lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 2 m
Topic: Malihighest point: Hombori Tondo 1,155 m
lowest point: Senegal River 23 m
mean elevation: 343 m
Topic: Maltahighest point: Ta'Dmejrek on Dingli Cliffs 253 m
lowest point: Mediterranean Sea 0 m
Topic: Marshall Islandshighest point: East-central Airik Island, Maloelap Atoll 14 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 2 m
Topic: Mauritaniahighest point: Kediet Ijill 915 m
lowest point: Sebkhet Te-n-Dghamcha -5 m
mean elevation: 276 m
Topic: Mauritiushighest point: Mont Piton 828 m
lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m
Topic: Mexicohighest point: Volcan Pico de Orizaba 5,636 m
lowest point: Laguna Salada -10 m
mean elevation: 1,111 m
Topic: Micronesia, Federated States ofhighest point: Nanlaud on Pohnpei 782 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
Topic: Moldovahighest point: Dealul Balanesti 430 m
lowest point: Dniester (Nistru) 2 m
mean elevation: 139 m
Topic: Monacohighest point: Chemin des Revoires on Mont Agel 162 m
lowest point: Mediterranean Sea 0 m
Topic: Mongoliahighest point: Nayramadlin Orgil (Khuiten Peak) 4,374 m
lowest point: Hoh Nuur 560 m
mean elevation: 1,528 m
Topic: Montenegrohighest point: Zia Kolata 2,534 m
lowest point: Adriatic Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 1,086 m
Topic: Montserrathighest point: Soufriere Hills volcano pre-eruption height was 915 m; current lava dome is subject to periodic build up and collapse; estimated dome height was 1,050 m in 2015
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
Topic: Moroccohighest point: Jebel Toubkal 4,165 m
lowest point: Sebkha Tah -59 m
mean elevation: 909 m
Topic: Mozambiquehighest point: Monte Binga 2,436 m
lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 345 m
Topic: Namibiahighest point: Konigstein on Brandberg 2,573 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 1,141 m
Topic: Nauruhighest point: Command Ridge 70 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
Topic: Navassa Islandhighest point: 200 m NNW of lighthouse 85 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
Topic: Nepalhighest point: Mount Everest (highest peak in Asia and highest point on earth above sea level) 8,849 m
lowest point: Kanchan Kalan 70 m
mean elevation: 2,565 m
Topic: Netherlandshighest point: Mount Scenery (on the island of Saba in the Caribbean, now considered an integral part of the Netherlands following the dissolution of the Netherlands Antilles) 862 m
lowest point: Zuidplaspolder -7 m
mean elevation: 30 m
note: the highest point on continental Netherlands is Vaalserberg at 322 m
Topic: New Caledoniahighest point: Mont Panie 1,628 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
Topic: New Zealandhighest point: Aoraki/Mount Cook 3,724 m; note - the mountain's height was 3,764 m until 14 December 1991 when it lost about 10 m in an avalanche of rock and ice; erosion of the ice cap since then has brought the height down another 30 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 388 m
Topic: Nicaraguahighest point: Mogoton 2,085 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 298 m
Topic: Nigerhighest point: Idoukal-n-Taghes 2,022 m
lowest point: Niger River 200 m
mean elevation: 474 m
Topic: Nigeriahighest point: Chappal Waddi 2,419 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 380 m
Topic: Niuehighest point: unnamed elevation 1.4 km east of Hikutavake 80 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
Topic: Norfolk Islandhighest point: Mount Bates 319 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
Topic: North Macedoniahighest point: Golem Korab (Maja e Korabit) 2,764 m
lowest point: Vardar River 50 m
mean elevation: 741 m
Topic: Northern Mariana Islandshighest point: Agrihan Volcano 965 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
Topic: Norwayhighest point: Galdhopiggen 2,469 m
lowest point: Norwegian Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 460 m
Topic: Omanhighest point: Jabal Shams 3,004 m
lowest point: Arabian Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 310 m
Topic: Pacific Oceanhighest point: sea level
lowest point: Challenger Deep in the Mariana Trench -10,924 m
note - the Pacific Ocean is the deepest ocean basin
mean depth: -4,080 m
ocean zones: Composed of water and in a fluid state, the oceans are delimited differently than the solid continents. Oceans are divided into three zones based on depth and light level. Although some sea creatures depend on light to live, others can do without it. Sunlight entering the water may travel about 1,000 m into the oceans under the right conditions, but there is rarely any significant light beyond 200 m.
The upper 200 m (656 ft) of oceans is called the euphotic, or "sunlight," zone. This zone contains the vast majority of commercial fisheries and is home to many protected marine mammals and sea turtles. Only a small amount of light penetrates beyond this depth.
The zone between 200 m (656 ft) and 1,000 m (3,280 ft) is usually referred to as the "twilight" zone, but is officially the dysphotic zone. In this zone, the intensity of light rapidly dissipates as depth increases. Such a minuscule amount of light penetrates beyond a depth of 200 m that photosynthesis is no longer possible.
The aphotic, or "midnight," zone exists in depths below 1,000 m (3,280 ft). Sunlight does not penetrate to these depths and the zone is bathed in darkness.
Topic: Pakistanhighest point: K2 (Mt. Godwin-Austen) 8,611 m
lowest point: Arabian Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 900 m
Topic: Palauhighest point: Mount Ngerchelchuus 242 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
Topic: Panamahighest point: Volcan Baru 3,475 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 360 m
Topic: Papua New Guineahighest point: Mount Wilhelm 4,509 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 667 m
Topic: Paracel Islandshighest point: unnamed location on Rocky Island 14 m
lowest point: South China Sea 0 m
Topic: Paraguayhighest point: Cerro Pero 842 m
lowest point: junction of Rio Paraguay and Rio Parana 46 m
mean elevation: 178 m
Topic: Peruhighest point: Nevado Huascaran 6,746 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 1,555 m
Topic: Philippineshighest point: Mount Apo 2,954 m
lowest point: Philippine Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 442 m
Topic: Pitcairn Islandshighest point: Palwala Valley Point on Big Ridge 347 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
Topic: Polandhighest point: Rysy 2,499 m
lowest point: near Raczki Elblaskie -2 m
mean elevation: 173 m
Topic: Portugalhighest point: Ponta do Pico (Pico or Pico Alto) on Ilha do Pico in the Azores 2,351 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 372 m
Topic: Puerto Ricohighest point: Cerro de Punta 1,338 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 261 m
Topic: Qatarhighest point: Tuwayyir al Hamir 103 m
lowest point: Persian Gulf 0 m
mean elevation: 28 m
Topic: Romaniahighest point: Moldoveanu 2,544 m
lowest point: Black Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 414 m
Topic: Russiahighest point: Gora El'brus (highest point in Europe) 5,642 m
lowest point: Caspian Sea -28 m
mean elevation: 600 m
Topic: Rwandahighest point: Volcan Karisimbi 4,519 m
lowest point: Rusizi River 950 m
mean elevation: 1,598 m
Topic: Saint Barthelemyhighest point: Morne du Vitet 286 m
lowest point: Caribbean Ocean 0 m
Topic: Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunhahighest point: Queen Mary's Peak on Tristan da Cunha 859 m; Green Mountain on Ascension Island 818 m; Mount Actaeon on Saint Helena Island 2,060 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Topic: Saint Kitts and Nevishighest point: Mount Liamuiga 1,156 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
Topic: Saint Luciahighest point: Mount Gimie 948 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
Topic: Saint Martinhighest point: Pic du Paradis 424 m
lowest point: Caribbean Ocean 0 m
Topic: Saint Pierre and Miquelonhighest point: Morne de la Grande Montagne 240 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Topic: Saint Vincent and the Grenadineshighest point: La Soufriere 1,234 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
Topic: Samoahighest point: Mount Silisili 1,857 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
Topic: San Marinohighest point: Monte Titano 739 m
lowest point: Torrente Ausa 55 m
Topic: Sao Tome and Principehighest point: Pico de Sao Tome 2,024 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Topic: Saudi Arabiahighest point: As Sarawat range, 3,000 m
lowest point: Persian Gulf 0 m
mean elevation: 665 m
Topic: Senegalhighest point: unnamed elevation 2.8 km southeast of Nepen Diaka 648 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 69 m
Topic: Serbiahighest point: Midzor 2,169 m
lowest point: Danube and Timok Rivers 35 m
mean elevation: 442 m
Topic: Seychelleshighest point: Morne Seychellois 905 m
lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m
Topic: Sierra Leonehighest point: Loma Mansa (Bintimani) 1,948 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 279 m
Topic: Singaporehighest point: Bukit Timah 166 m
lowest point: Singapore Strait 0 m
Topic: Sint Maartenhighest point: Mount Flagstaff 383 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
Topic: Slovakiahighest point: Gerlachovsky Stit 2,655 m
lowest point: Bodrok River 94 m
mean elevation: 458 m
Topic: Sloveniahighest point: Triglav 2,864 m
lowest point: Adriatic Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 492 m
Topic: Solomon Islandshighest point: Mount Popomanaseu 2,335 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
Topic: Somaliahighest point: Mount Shimbiris 2,460 m
lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 410 m
Topic: South Africahighest point: Ntheledi (Mafadi) 3,450 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 1,034 m
Topic: South Georgia and South Sandwich Islandshighest point: Mount Paget (South Georgia) 2,934 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Topic: South Sudanhighest point: Kinyeti 3,187 m
lowest point: White Nile 381 m
Topic: Southern Oceanhighest point: sea level
lowest point: southern end of the South Sandwich Trench -7,434 m unnamed deep
mean depth: -3,270 m
ocean zones: Composed of water and in a fluid state, the oceans are delimited differently than the solid continents. Oceans are divided into three zones based on depth and light level. Although some sea creatures depend on light to live, others can do without it. Sunlight entering the water may travel about 1,000 m into the oceans under the right conditions, but there is rarely any significant light beyond 200 m.
The upper 200 m (656 ft) of oceans is called the euphotic, or "sunlight," zone. This zone contains the vast majority of commercial fisheries and is home to many protected marine mammals and sea turtles. Only a small amount of light penetrates beyond this depth.
The zone between 200 m (656 ft) and 1,000 m (3,280 ft) is usually referred to as the "twilight" zone, but is officially the dysphotic zone. In this zone, the intensity of light rapidly dissipates as depth increases. Such a minuscule amount of light penetrates beyond a depth of 200 m that photosynthesis is no longer possible.
The aphotic, or "midnight," zone exists in depths below 1,000 m (3,280 ft). Sunlight does not penetrate to these depths and the zone is bathed in darkness.
Topic: Spainhighest point: Pico de Teide (Tenerife) on Canary Islands 3,718 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 660 m
Topic: Spratly Islandshighest point: unnamed location on Southwest Cay 6 m
lowest point: South China Sea 0 m
Topic: Sri Lankahighest point: Pidurutalagala 2,524 m
lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 228 m
Topic: Sudanhighest point: Jabal Marrah 3,042 m
lowest point: Red Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 568 m
Topic: Surinamehighest point: Juliana Top 1,230 m
lowest point: unnamed location in the coastal plain -2 m
mean elevation: 246 m
Topic: Svalbardhighest point: Newtontoppen 1,717 m
lowest point: Arctic Ocean 0 m
Topic: Swedenhighest point: Kebnekaise South 2,100 m
lowest point: reclaimed bay of Lake Hammarsjon, near Kristianstad -2.4 m
mean elevation: 320 m
Topic: Switzerlandhighest point: Dufourspitze 4,634 m
lowest point: Lake Maggiore 195 m
mean elevation: 1,350 m
Topic: Syriahighest point: Mount Hermon (Jabal a-Shayk) 2,814 m
lowest point: Yarmuk River -66 m
mean elevation: 514 m
Topic: Taiwanhighest point: Yu Shan 3,952 m
lowest point: South China Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 1,150 m
Topic: Tajikistanhighest point: Qullai Somoniyon 7,495 m
lowest point: Syr Darya (Sirdaryo) 300 m
mean elevation: 3,186 m
Topic: Tanzaniahighest point: Kilimanjaro (highest point in Africa) 5,895 m
lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 1,018 m
Topic: Thailandhighest point: Doi Inthanon 2,565 m
lowest point: Gulf of Thailand 0 m
mean elevation: 287 m
Topic: Timor-Lestehighest point: Foho Tatamailau 2,963 m
lowest point: Timor Sea, Savu Sea, and Banda Sea 0 m
Topic: Togohighest point: Mont Agou 986 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 236 m
Topic: Tokelauhighest point: unnamed location 5 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
Topic: Tongahighest point: Kao Volcano on Kao Island 1,046 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
Topic: Trinidad and Tobagohighest point: El Cerro del Aripo 940 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 83 m
Topic: Tunisiahighest point: Jebel ech Chambi 1,544 m
lowest point: Shatt al Gharsah -17 m
mean elevation: 246 m
Topic: Turkeyhighest point: Mount Ararat 5,137 m
lowest point: Mediterranean Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 1,132 m
Topic: Turkmenistanhighest point: Gora Ayribaba 3,139 m
lowest point: Vpadina Akchanaya (Sarygamysh Koli is a lake in northern Turkmenistan with a water level that fluctuates above and below the elevation of Vpadina Akchanaya, the lake has dropped as low as -110 m) -81 m
mean elevation: 230 m
Topic: Turks and Caicos Islandshighest point: Blue Hill on Providenciales and Flamingo Hill on East Caicos 48 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
Topic: Tuvaluhighest point: unnamed location 5 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 2 m
Topic: Ugandahighest point: Margherita Peak on Mount Stanley 5,110 m
lowest point: Albert Nile 614 m
Topic: Ukrainehighest point: Hora Hoverla 2,061 m
lowest point: Black Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 175 m
Topic: United Arab Emirateshighest point: Jabal Bil 'Ays 1,905 m
note - the Factbook map is incorrect; it shows the wrong location of the high elevation
lowest point: Persian Gulf 0 m
mean elevation: 149 m
Topic: United Kingdomhighest point: Ben Nevis 1,345 m
lowest point: The Fens -4 m
mean elevation: 162 m
Topic: United Stateshighest point: Denali 6,190 m (Mount McKinley) (highest point in North America)
lowest point: Death Valley (lowest point in North America) -86 m
mean elevation: 760 m
note: Denali is one of the most striking features on the entire planet; at 20,310 feet, it is the crowning peak of the Alaska Range and the highest mountain on North America; it towers three and one-half vertical miles above its base, making it a mile taller from base to summit than Mt. Everest; Denali's base sits at about 2,000 feet above sea level and rises over three and one-half miles to its 20,310 foot summit; Everest begins on a 14,000-foot high plain, then summits at 29,028 feet.
note: the peak of Mauna Kea (4,207 m above sea level) on the island of Hawaii rises about 10,200 m above the Pacific Ocean floor; by this measurement, it is the world's tallest mountain - higher than Mount Everest (8,850 m), which is recognized as the tallest mountain above sea level
Topic: United States Pacific Island Wildlife Refugeshighest point: Baker Island, unnamed location 8 m; Howland Island, unnamed location 3 m; Jarvis Island, unnamed location 7 m; Johnston Atoll, Sand Island 10 m; Kingman Reef, unnamed location 2 m; Midway Islands, unnamed location less than 13 m; Palmyra Atoll, unnamed location 3 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
Topic: Uruguayhighest point: Cerro Catedral 514 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 109 m
Topic: Uzbekistanhighest point: Xazrat Sulton Tog' 4,643 m
note - the Factbook map is incorrect; it shows the wrong location and name of the high elevation
lowest point: Sariqamish Kuli -12 m
Topic: Vanuatuhighest point: Tabwemasana 1,877 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
Topic: Venezuelahighest point: Pico Bolivar 4,978 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 450 m
Topic: Vietnamhighest point: Fan Si Pan 3,144 m
lowest point: South China Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 398 m
Topic: Virgin Islandshighest point: Crown Mountain 474 m
lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m
Topic: Wake Islandhighest point: unnamed location 8 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
Topic: Wallis and Futunahighest point: Mont Singavi (on Futuna) 522 m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
Topic: West Bankhighest point: Khallat al Batrakh 1,020 m
lowest point: Dead Sea -431 m
Topic: Worldhighest point: Mount Everest 8,849 m
lowest point: Denman Glacier (Antarctica) more than -3,500 m (in the oceanic realm, Challenger Deep in the Mariana Trench is the lowest point, lying -10,924 m below the surface of the Pacific Ocean)
mean elevation: 840 m
top ten highest mountains (measured from sea level): Mount Everest (China-Nepal) 8,849 m; K2 (Pakistan) 8,611 m; Kanchenjunga (India-Nepal) 8,598 m; Lhotse (Nepal) 8,516 m; Makalu (China-Nepal) 8,463 m; Cho Oyu (China-Nepal) 8,201 m; Dhaulagiri (Nepal) 8,167 m; Manaslu (Nepal) 8,163 m; Nanga Parbat (Pakistan) 8,125 m; Anapurna (Nepal) 8,091 m; note - Mauna Kea (United States) is the world's tallest mountain as measured from base to summit; the peak of this volcanic colossus lies on the island of Hawaii, but its base begins more than 70 km offshore and at a depth of about 6,000 m; total height estimates range from 9,966 m to 10,203 m
top ten highest island peaks: Puncak Jaya (New Guinea) 4,884 m (Indonesia)*; Mauna Kea (Hawaii) 4,207 m (United States); Gunung Kinabalu (Borneo) 4,095 m (Malaysia)*; Yu Shan (Taiwan) 3,952 (Taiwan)*; Mount Kerinci (Sumatra) 3,805 m (Indonesia); Mount Erebus (Ross Island) 3,794 (Antarctica); Mount Fuji (Honshu) 3,776 m (Japan)*; Mount Rinjani (Lombok) 3,726 m (Indonesia); Aoraki-Mount Cook (South Island) 3,724 m (New Zealand)*; Pico de Teide (Tenerife) 3,718 m (Spain)*; note - * indicates the highest peak for that Factbook entry
highest point on each continent: Asia - Mount Everest (China-Nepal) 8,849 m; South America - Cerro Aconcagua (Argentina) 6,960 m; North America - Denali (Mount McKinley) (United States) 6,190 m; Africa - Kilimanjaro (Tanzania) 5,895 m; Europe - El'brus (Russia) 5,633 m; Antarctica - Vinson Massif 4,897 m; Australia - Mount Kosciuszko 2,229 m
highest capital on each continent: South America - La Paz (Bolivia) 3,640 m; Africa - Addis Ababa (Ethiopia) 2,355 m; Asia - Thimphu (Bhutan) 2,334 m; North America - Mexico City (Mexico) 2,240 m; Europe - Andorra la Vella (Andorra) 1,023 m; Australia - Canberra (Australia) 605 m
lowest point on each continent: Antarctica - Denman Glacier more than -3,500 m; Asia - Dead Sea (Israel-Jordan) -431 m; Africa - Lac Assal (Djibouti) -155 m; South America - Laguna del Carbon (Argentina) -105 m; North America - Death Valley (United States) -86 m; Europe - Caspian Sea (Azerbaijan-Kazakhstan-Russia) -28 m; Australia - Lake Eyre -15
lowest capital on each continent: Asia - Baku (Azerbaijan) -28 m; Europe - Amsterdam (Netherlands) -2 m; Africa - Banjul (Gambia); Bissau (Guinea-Bissau), Conakry (Guinea), Djibouti (Djibouti), Libreville (Gabon), Male (Maldives), Monrovia (Liberia), Tunis (Tunisia), Victoria (Seychelles) 0 m; North America - Basseterre (Saint Kitts and Nevis), Kingstown (Saint Vincent and the Grenadines), Panama City (Panama), Port of Spain (Trinidad and Tobago), Roseau (Dominica), Saint John's (Antigua and Barbuda), Santo Domingo (Dominican Republic) 0 m; South America - Georgetown (Guyana) 0 m; Australia - Canberra (Australia) 605 m
Topic: Yemenhighest point: Jabal an Nabi Shu'ayb 3,666 m
lowest point: Arabian Sea 0 m
mean elevation: 999 m
Topic: Zambiahighest point: Mafinga Central 2,330 m
lowest point: Zambezi river 329 m
mean elevation: 1,138 m
Topic: Zimbabwehighest point: Inyangani 2,592 m
lowest point: junction of the Runde and Save Rivers 162 m
mean elevation: 961 m |
20220601 | countries-kiribati |
Topic: Photos of Kiribati
Topic: Introduction
Background: Kiribati is made up of three distinct island groups - the Gilbert Islands, the Line Islands, and the Phoenix Islands. The first Austronesian voyagers arrived in the Gilbert Islands as early as 3000 B.C., but these islands were not widely settled until about A.D. 200 by Micronesians. Around 1300, Samoans and Tongans invaded the southern Gilbert Islands, bringing Polynesian cultural elements with them. Later arrivals by Fijians brought Melanesian elements to the Gilbert Islands, and extensive intermarriage between the Micronesian, Polynesian, and Melanesian people led to the creation of what would become Gilbertese cultural traditions by the time Europeans spotted the islands in the 1600s. The Phoenix Islands and Line Islands were both visited by various Melanesian and Polynesian peoples, but their isolation and lack of natural resources meant that long-term settlements were not possible and both island groups were uninhabited by the time of European contact.
Kiribati experienced sustained European contact by the 1760s; all three island groups were named and charted by 1826. American whaling ships frequently passed through the islands, and the UK declared a protectorate over the Gilbert and nearby Ellice Islands in 1892 to block growing US influence. Phosphate-rich Banaba Island was annexed to the protectorate in 1900. In 1916, the protectorate became a colony, and some Line Islands were added in 1916 and 1919, with the final ones added in 1972. The Phoenix Islands were added to the colony in 1937, and the UK agreed to share jurisdiction of some of them with the US because of their strategic location for aviation. Japan occupied the northern Gilbert Islands in 1941; the islands of Makin and Tarawa were the sites of major US amphibious victories over entrenched Japanese garrisons in 1943. The UK continued to rule the colony after World War II. The Ellice Islands became its own colony in 1974. The Gilbert Islands became fully self-governing in 1977 and independent in 1979 as Kiribati, the Gilbertese spelling of Gilberts. The US relinquished all claims to the sparsely inhabited Phoenix and Line Islands in a 1979 treaty of friendship.
In 1994, Kiribati adjusted the international date line to the east of the Line Islands, bringing all islands in the country to the same day and giving Kiribati the earliest time zone in the world. Kiribati is a leading climate change and marine protection advocate. The Phoenix Islands Protected Area was established in 2008; in 2010, it became the world's largest (and deepest) UNESCO World Heritage site. In 2012, Kiribati purchased a 22 sq km (8.5 sq mi) plot of land in Fiji for potential eventual resettlement of its population because of climate change.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Oceania, group of 32 coral atolls and one raised coral island in the Pacific Ocean, straddling the Equator; the capital Tarawa is about halfway between Hawaii and Australia
Geographic coordinates: 1 25 N, 173 00 E
Map references: Oceania
Area: total: 811 sq km
land: 811 sq km
water: 0 sq km
note: includes three island groups - Gilbert Islands, Line Islands, and Phoenix Islands - dispersed over about 3.5 million sq km (1.35 million sq mi)
Area - comparative: four times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries: total: 0 km
Coastline: 1,143 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
Climate: tropical; marine, hot and humid, moderated by trade winds
Terrain: mostly low-lying coral atolls surrounded by extensive reefs
Elevation: highest point: unnamed elevation on Banaba 81 m m
lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
mean elevation: 2 m
Natural resources: phosphate (production discontinued in 1979), coconuts (copra), fish
Land use: agricultural land: 42% (2018 est.)
arable land: 2.5% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 39.5% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 0% (2018 est.)
forest: 15% (2018 est.)
other: 43% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 0 sq km (2012)
Population distribution: consists of three achipelagos spread out over an area roughly the size of India; the eastern Line Islands and central Phoenix Islands are sparsely populated, but the western Gilbert Islands are some of the most densely settled places on earth, with the main island of South Tarawa boasting a population density similar to Tokyo or Hong Kong
Natural hazards: typhoons can occur any time, but usually November to March; occasional tornadoes; low level of some of the islands make them sensitive to changes in sea level
Geography - note: 21 of the 33 islands are inhabited; Banaba (Ocean Island) in Kiribati is one of the three great phosphate rock islands in the Pacific Ocean - the others are Makatea in French Polynesia, and Nauru; Kiribati is the only country in the world to fall into all four hemispheres (northern, southern, eastern, and western)
Map description: Kiribati map showing the extent of the three island groups that comprise Kiribati and that straddle both sides of the Equator.Kiribati map showing the extent of the three island groups that comprise Kiribati and that straddle both sides of the Equator.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 114,189 (2022 est.)
Nationality: noun: I-Kiribati (singular and plural)
adjective: I-Kiribati
Ethnic groups: I-Kiribati 95.78%, I-Kiribati/mixed 3.8%, Tuvaluan 0.2%, other 1.7% (2020 est.)
Languages: I-Kiribati, English (official)
Religions: Roman Catholic 58.9%, Kiribati Uniting Church 21.2%, Kiribati Protestant Church 8.4%, Church of Jesus Christ 5.6%, Seventh Day Adventist 2.1%, Baha'i 2.1%, other 1.7% (2020 est.)
Age structure: 0-14 years: 28.47% (male 16,223/female 15,604)
15-24 years: 20.24% (male 11,171/female 11,459)
25-54 years: 40.05% (male 21,530/female 23,249)
55-64 years: 6.65% (male 3,350/female 4,084)
65 years and over: 4.59% (2020 est.) (male 2,004/female 3,122)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 67
youth dependency ratio: 60
elderly dependency ratio: 7
potential support ratio: 14.2 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 25.7 years
male: 24.8 years
female: 26.6 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 1.04% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 20.12 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 6.92 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: -2.8 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: consists of three achipelagos spread out over an area roughly the size of India; the eastern Line Islands and central Phoenix Islands are sparsely populated, but the western Gilbert Islands are some of the most densely settled places on earth, with the main island of South Tarawa boasting a population density similar to Tokyo or Hong Kong
Urbanization: urban population: 57.1% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 2.77% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 64,000 TARAWA (capital) (2018)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.04 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 0.98 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 0.92 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 0.82 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.46 male(s)/female
total population: 0.94 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth: 23.1 years (2009 est.)
note: median age at first birth among women 25-29
Maternal mortality ratio: 92 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 32.93 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 34.88 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 30.87 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 67.9 years
male: 65.3 years
female: 70.64 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 2.2 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: 33.5% (2018/19)
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 97.2% of population
rural: 63.1% of population
total: 82% of population
unimproved: urban: 2.8% of population
rural: 36.9% of population
total: 18% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 10.3% (2019)
Physicians density: 0.2 physicians/1,000 population (2013)
Hospital bed density: 1.9 beds/1,000 population (2016)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 75.4% of population
rural: 45.4% of population
total: 62.1% of population
unimproved: urban: 24.6% of population
rural: 54.6% of population
total: 37.9% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: NA
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: NA
HIV/AIDS - deaths: NA
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial diarrhea
vectorborne diseases: malaria
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 46% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: 6.9% (2018/19)
Child marriage: women married by age 15: 2.4% (2019)
women married by age 18: 18.4% (2019)
men married by age 18: 8.6% (2019 est.)
Education expenditures: 12.4% of GDP (2019) NA
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 22.5%
male: 21.2%
female: 24.6% (2019 est.)
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: heavy pollution in lagoon of south Tarawa atoll due to overcrowding mixed with traditional practices such as lagoon latrines and open-pit dumping; ground water at risk; potential for water shortages, disease; coastal erosion
Environment - international agreements: party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping-London Convention, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands, Whaling
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 10.45 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 0.07 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 0.02 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: tropical; marine, hot and humid, moderated by trade winds
Land use: agricultural land: 42% (2018 est.)
arable land: 2.5% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 39.5% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 0% (2018 est.)
forest: 15% (2018 est.)
other: 43% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 57.1% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 2.77% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 0.04% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0% of GDP (2018 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial diarrhea
vectorborne diseases: malaria
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 35,724 tons (2016 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 0 cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Republic of Kiribati
conventional short form: Kiribati
local long form: Republic of Kiribati
local short form: Kiribati
former: Gilbert Islands
etymology: the name is the local pronunciation of "Gilberts," the former designation of the islands; originally named after explorer Thomas GILBERT, who mapped many of the islands in 1788
note: pronounced keer-ree-bahss
Government type: presidential republic
Capital: name: Tarawa
geographic coordinates: 1 21 N, 173 02 E
time difference: UTC+12 (17 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
time zone note: Kiribati has three time zones: the Gilbert Islands group at UTC+12, the Phoenix Islands at UTC+13, and the Line Islands at UTC+14
etymology: in Kiribati creation mythology, "tarawa" was what the spider Nareau named the land to distinguish it from "karawa" (the sky) and "marawa" (the ocean)
Administrative divisions: 3 geographical units: Gilbert Islands, Line Islands, Phoenix Islands; note - there are no first-order administrative divisions, but there are 6 districts (Banaba, Central Gilberts, Line Islands, Northern Gilberts, Southern Gilberts, Tarawa) and 21 island councils - one for each of the inhabited islands (Abaiang, Abemama, Aranuka, Arorae, Banaba, Beru, Butaritari, Kanton, Kiritimati, Kuria, Maiana, Makin, Marakei, Nikunau, Nonouti, Onotoa, Tabiteuea, Tabuaeran, Tamana, Tarawa, Teraina)
Independence: 12 July 1979 (from the UK)
National holiday: Independence Day, 12 July (1979)
Constitution: history: The Gilbert and Ellice Islands Order in Council 1915, The Gilbert Islands Order in Council 1975 (preindependence); latest promulgated 12 July 1979 (at independence)
amendments: proposed by the House of Assembly; passage requires two-thirds majority vote by the Assembly membership; passage of amendments affecting the constitutional section on amendment procedures and parts of the constitutional chapter on citizenship requires deferral of the proposal to the next Assembly meeting where approval is required by at least two-thirds majority vote of the Assembly membership and support of the nominated or elected Banaban member of the Assembly; amendments affecting the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms also requires approval by at least two-thirds majority in a referendum; amended several times, last in 2018
Legal system: English common law supplemented by customary law
International law organization participation: has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; non-party state to the ICCt
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: no
citizenship by descent only: at least one parent must be a native-born citizen of Kiribati
dual citizenship recognized: no
residency requirement for naturalization: 7 years
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: President Taneti MAAMAU (since 11 March 2016); Vice President Teuea TOATU (since 19 June 2019); note - the president is both chief of state and head of government
head of government: President Taneti MAAMAU (since 11 March 2016); Vice President Teuea TOATU (since 19 June 2019)
cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the president from among House of Assembly members
elections/appointments: president directly elected by simple majority popular vote following nomination of candidates from among House of Assembly members; term is 4 years (eligible for 2 additional terms); election last held on 22 June 2020 (next to be held in 2024); vice president appointed by the president
election results: Taneti MAAMAU reelected president; percent of vote - Taneti MAAMAU (TKB) 59.3%, Banuera BERINA (BKM) 40.7%.
Legislative branch: description: unicameral House of Assembly or Maneaba Ni Maungatabu (46 seats; 44 members directly elected in single- and multi-seat constituencies by absolute majority vote in two-rounds if needed; 1 member appointed by the Rabi Council of Leaders - representing Banaba Island, and 1 ex officio member - the attorney general; members serve 4-year terms)
elections: legislative elections originally scheduled to be held in two rounds on 7 and 15 April 2020 but rescheduled for 14 and 21 April (next to be held in 2024)
election results: percent of vote by party (second round) - NA; seats by party (second round) - TKB 22, BKM 22, 1 independent
Judicial branch: highest courts: High Court (consists of a chief justice and other judges as prescribed by the president); note - the High Court has jurisdiction on constitutional issues
judge selection and term of office: chief justice appointed by the president on the advice of the cabinet in consultation with the Public Service Commission (PSC); other judges appointed by the president on the advice of the chief justice along with the PSC
subordinate courts: Court of Appeal; magistrates' courts
Political parties and leaders: Boutokaan Kiribati Moa Party (BKM) [Tessie LAMBOURNE]
Tobwaan Kiribati Party or TKP [Taneti MAAMAU]
International organization participation: ABEDA, ACP, ADB, AOSIS, C, FAO, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, IOC, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), OPCW, PIF, Sparteca, SPC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Teburoro TITO (since 24 January 2018)
chancery: 685 Third Avenue, Suite 1109, New York, NY 10017
telephone: [1] (212) 867-3310
FAX: [1] (212) 867-3320
email address and website:
Kimission.newyork@mfa.gov.ki
note - the Kiribati Permanent Mission to the UN serves as the embassyAmbassador Teburoro TITO (since 24 January 2018)
Diplomatic representation from the US: embassy: the US does not have an embassy in Kiribati; the US Ambassador to Fiji is accredited to Kiribati
Flag description: the upper half is red with a yellow frigatebird flying over a yellow rising sun, and the lower half is blue with three horizontal wavy white stripes to represent the Pacific ocean; the white stripes represent the three island groups - the Gilbert, Line, and Phoenix Islands; the 17 rays of the sun represent the 16 Gilbert Islands and Banaba (formerly Ocean Island); the frigatebird symbolizes authority and freedom
National symbol(s): frigatebird; national colors: red, white, blue, yellow
National anthem: name: "Teirake kaini Kiribati" (Stand Up, Kiribati)
lyrics/music: Urium Tamuera IOTEBA
note: adopted 1979
National heritage: total World Heritage Sites: 1 (natural)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Phoenix Islands Protected Area
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: A remote country of 33 scattered coral atolls, Kiribati has few natural resources and is one of the least developed Pacific Island countries. Commercially viable phosphate deposits were exhausted by the time of independence from the United Kingdom in 1979. Earnings from fishing licenses and seafarer remittances are important sources of income. Although the number of seafarers employed declined due to changes in global shipping demands, remittances are expected to improve with more overseas temporary and seasonal work opportunities for Kiribati nationals. Economic development is constrained by a shortage of skilled workers, weak infrastructure, and remoteness from international markets. The public sector dominates economic activity, with ongoing capital projects in infrastructure including road rehabilitation, water and sanitation projects, and renovations to the international airport, spurring some growth. Public debt increased from 23% of GDP at the end of 2015 to 25.8% in 2016. Kiribati is dependent on foreign aid, which was estimated to have contributed over 32.7% in 2016 to the government’s finances. The country’s sovereign fund, the Revenue Equalization Reserve Fund (RERF), which is held offshore, had an estimated balance of $855.5 million in late July 2016. The RERF seeks to avoid exchange rate risk by holding investments in more than 20 currencies, including the Australian dollar, US dollar, the Japanese yen, and the Euro. Drawdowns from the RERF helped finance the government’s annual budget.A remote country of 33 scattered coral atolls, Kiribati has few natural resources and is one of the least developed Pacific Island countries. Commercially viable phosphate deposits were exhausted by the time of independence from the United Kingdom in 1979. Earnings from fishing licenses and seafarer remittances are important sources of income. Although the number of seafarers employed declined due to changes in global shipping demands, remittances are expected to improve with more overseas temporary and seasonal work opportunities for Kiribati nationals. Economic development is constrained by a shortage of skilled workers, weak infrastructure, and remoteness from international markets. The public sector dominates economic activity, with ongoing capital projects in infrastructure including road rehabilitation, water and sanitation projects, and renovations to the international airport, spurring some growth. Public debt increased from 23% of GDP at the end of 2015 to 25.8% in 2016. Kiribati is dependent on foreign aid, which was estimated to have contributed over 32.7% in 2016 to the government’s finances. The country’s sovereign fund, the Revenue Equalization Reserve Fund (RERF), which is held offshore, had an estimated balance of $855.5 million in late July 2016. The RERF seeks to avoid exchange rate risk by holding investments in more than 20 currencies, including the Australian dollar, US dollar, the Japanese yen, and the Euro. Drawdowns from the RERF helped finance the government’s annual budget.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $270 million (2020 est.)
$270 million (2019 est.)
$260 million (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 3.1% (2017 est.)
1.1% (2016 est.)
10.3% (2015 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $2,300 (2020 est.)
$2,300 (2019 est.)
$2,300 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $197 million (2017 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 0.4% (2017 est.)
1.9% (2016 est.)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 23% (2016 est.)
industry: 7% (2016 est.)
services: 70% (2016 est.)
Agricultural products: coconuts, roots/tubers nes, bananas, vegetables, taro, tropical fruit, poultry, pork, nuts, eggs
Industries: fishing, handicrafts
Industrial production growth rate: 1.1% (2012 est.)
Labor force: 39,000 (2010 est.)
note: economically active, not including subsistence farmers
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 15%
industry: 10%
services: 75% (2010)
Unemployment rate: 30.6% (2010 est.)
6.1% (2005)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 22.5%
male: 21.2%
female: 24.6% (2019 est.)
Population below poverty line: NA
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Budget: revenues: 151.2 million (2017 est.)
expenditures: 277.5 million (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): -64.1% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 26.3% of GDP (2017 est.)
22.9% of GDP (2016 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 76.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: NA
Current account balance: $18 million (2017 est.)
$35 million (2016 est.)
Exports: $30 million (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$20 million (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Exports - partners: Thailand 53%, Philippines 17%, South Korea 10%, Japan 9% (2019)
Exports - commodities: fish and fish produces, ships, coconut oil, copra (2019)
Imports: $180 million (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$170 million (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Imports - partners: China 20%, Fiji 19%, Australia 12%, Taiwan 11%, South Korea 11%, New Zealand 7%, Japan 5% (2019)
Imports - commodities: refined petroleum, netting, raw sugar, rice, poultry meats (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $0 (31 December 2017 est.)
$8.37 million (31 December 2010 est.)
Debt - external: $40.9 million (2016 est.)
$32.3 million (2015 est.)
Exchange rates: Australian dollars (AUD) per US dollar -
1.31 (2017 est.)
1.34 (2016 est.)
1.34 (2015 est.)
1.33 (2014 est.)
1.11 (2013 est.)
note: the Australian dollar circulates as legal tender
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Electricity - production: 29 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 26.97 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - imports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 11,000 kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 73% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 27% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 0 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 0 bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 400 bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 420 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 0 cu m (1 January 2014 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 33 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 0 (2020 est.) less than 1
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 54,661 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 46 (2020 est.)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: generally good national and international service; wireline service available on Tarawa and Kiritimati (Christmas Island); connections to outer islands by HF/VHF radiotelephone; recently formed (mobile network operator) MNO is implementing the first phase of improvements with 3G and 4G upgrades on some islands; islands are connected to each other and the rest of the world via satellite; launch of Kacific-1 in December 2019 will improve telecommunication for Kiribati (2020)
domestic: fixed-line less than 1 per 100 and mobile-cellular approximately 46 per 100 subscriptions (2020)
international: country code - 686; landing point for the Southern Cross NEXT submarine cable system from Australia, 7 Pacific Ocean island countries to the US; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean) (2019)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: multi-channel TV packages provide access to Australian and US stations; 1 government-operated radio station broadcasts on AM, FM, and shortwave (2017)
Internet country code: .ki
Internet users: total: 45,390 (2020 est.)
percent of population: 38% (2020 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 185 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 0.2 (2020 est.) less than 1
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 2 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 8
annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 66,567 (2018)
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: T3
Airports: total: 19 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 4
1,524 to 2,437 m: 4 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 15
914 to 1,523 m: 10
under 914 m: 5 (2021)
Roadways: total: 670 km (2017)
Waterways: 5 km (2012) (small network of canals in Line Islands)
Merchant marine: total: 88
by type: bulk carrier 3, general cargo 35, oil tanker 12, other 38 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Betio (Tarawa Atoll), Canton Island, English Harbor
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: no regular military forces; Kiribati Police and Prison Service (Ministry of Justice)
Military - note: defense assistance is provided by Australia and NZ
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: nonenone |
20220601 | field-environment-current-issues | This entry lists the most pressing and important environmental problems. The following terms and abbreviations are used throughout the entry:
Acidification - the lowering of soil and water pH due to acid precipitation and deposition usually through precipitation; this process disrupts ecosystem nutrient flows and may kill freshwater fish and plants dependent on more neutral or alkaline conditions (see acid rain).
Acid rain - characterized as containing harmful levels of sulfur dioxide or nitrogen oxide; acid rain is damaging and potentially deadly to the earth's fragile ecosystems; acidity is measured using the pH scale where 7 is neutral, values greater than 7 are considered alkaline, and values below 5.6 are considered acid precipitation; note - a pH of 2.4 (the acidity of vinegar) has been measured in rainfall in New England.
Aerosol - a collection of airborne particles dispersed in a gas, smoke, or fog.
Afforestation - converting a bare or agricultural space by planting trees and plants; reforestation involves replanting trees on areas that have been cut or destroyed by fire.
Asbestos - a naturally occurring soft fibrous mineral commonly used in fireproofing materials and considered to be highly carcinogenic in particulate form.
Biodiversity - also biological diversity; the relative number of species, diverse in form and function, at the genetic, organism, community, and ecosystem level; loss of biodiversity reduces an ecosystem's ability to recover from natural or man-induced disruption.
Bio-indicators - a plant or animal species whose presence, abundance, and health reveal the general condition of its habitat.
Biomass - the total weight or volume of living matter in a given area or volume.
Carbon cycle - the term used to describe the exchange of carbon (in various forms, e.g., as carbon dioxide) between the atmosphere, ocean, terrestrial biosphere, and geological deposits.
Catchments - assemblages used to capture and retain rainwater and runoff; an important water management technique in areas with limited freshwater resources, such as Gibraltar.
DDT (dichloro-diphenyl-trichloro-ethane) - a colorless, odorless insecticide that has toxic effects on most animals; the use of DDT was banned in the US in 1972.
Defoliants - chemicals which cause plants to lose their leaves artificially; often used in agricultural practices for weed control, and may have detrimental impacts on human and ecosystem health.
Deforestation - the destruction of vast areas of forest (e.g., unsustainable forestry practices, agricultural and range land clearing, and the over exploitation of wood products for use as fuel) without planting new growth.
Desertification - the spread of desert-like conditions in arid or semi-arid areas, due to overgrazing, loss of agriculturally productive soils, or climate change.
Dredging - the practice of deepening an existing waterway; also, a technique used for collecting bottom-dwelling marine organisms (e.g., shellfish) or harvesting coral, often causing significant destruction of reef and ocean-floor ecosystems.
Drift-net fishing - done with a net, miles in extent, that is generally anchored to a boat and left to float with the tide; often results in an over harvesting and waste of large populations of non-commercial marine species (by-catch) by its effect of "sweeping the ocean clean."
Ecosystems - ecological units comprised of complex communities of organisms and their specific environments.
Effluents - waste materials, such as smoke, sewage, or industrial waste which are released into the environment, subsequently polluting it.
Endangered species - a species that is threatened with extinction either by direct hunting or habitat destruction.
Freshwater - water with very low soluble mineral content; sources include lakes, streams, rivers, glaciers, and underground aquifers.
Greenhouse gas - a gas that "traps" infrared radiation in the lower atmosphere causing surface warming; water vapor, carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, methane, hydrofluorocarbons, and ozone are the primary greenhouse gases in the Earth's atmosphere.
Groundwater - water sources found below the surface of the earth often in naturally occurring reservoirs in permeable rock strata; the source for wells and natural springs.
Highlands Water Project - a series of dams constructed jointly by Lesotho and South Africa to redirect Lesotho's abundant water supply into a rapidly growing area in South Africa; while it is the largest infrastructure project in southern Africa, it is also the most costly and controversial; objections to the project include claims that it forces people from their homes, submerges farmlands, and squanders economic resources.
Inuit Circumpolar Conference (ICC) - represents the roughly 150,000 Inuits of Alaska, Canada, Greenland, and Russia in international environmental issues; a General Assembly convenes every three years to determine the focus of the ICC; the most current concerns are long-range transport of pollutants, sustainable development, and climate change.
Metallurgical plants - industries which specialize in the science, technology, and processing of metals; these plants produce highly concentrated and toxic wastes which can contribute to pollution of ground water and air when not properly disposed.
Noxious substances - injurious, very harmful to living beings.
Overgrazing - the grazing of animals on plant material faster than it can naturally regrow leading to the permanent loss of plant cover, a common effect of too many animals grazing limited range land.
Ozone shield - a layer of the atmosphere composed of ozone gas (O3) that resides approximately 25 miles above the Earth's surface and absorbs solar ultraviolet radiation that can be harmful to living organisms.
Poaching - the illegal killing of animals or fish, a great concern with respect to endangered or threatened species.
Pollution - the contamination of a healthy environment by man-made waste.
Potable water - water that is drinkable, safe to be consumed.
Salination - the process through which fresh (drinkable) water becomes salt (undrinkable) water; hence, desalination is the reverse process; also involves the accumulation of salts in topsoil caused by evaporation of excessive irrigation water, a process that can eventually render soil incapable of supporting crops.
Siltation - occurs when water channels and reservoirs become clotted with silt and mud, a side effect of deforestation and soil erosion.
Slash-and-burn agriculture - a rotating cultivation technique in which trees are cut down and burned in order to clear land for temporary agriculture; the land is used until its productivity declines at which point a new plot is selected and the process repeats; this practice is sustainable while population levels are low and time is permitted for regrowth of natural vegetation; conversely, where these conditions do not exist, the practice can have disastrous consequences for the environment.
Soil degradation - damage to the land's productive capacity because of poor agricultural practices such as the excessive use of pesticides or fertilizers, soil compaction from heavy equipment, or erosion of topsoil, eventually resulting in reduced ability to produce agricultural products.
Soil erosion - the removal of soil by the action of water or wind, compounded by poor agricultural practices, deforestation, overgrazing, and desertification.
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation - a portion of the electromagnetic energy emitted by the sun and naturally filtered in the upper atmosphere by the ozone layer; UV radiation can be harmful to living organisms and has been linked to increasing rates of skin cancer in humans.
Waterborne diseases - those in which bacteria survive in, and are transmitted through, water; always a serious threat in areas with an untreated water supply.
Topic: Afghanistanlimited natural freshwater resources; inadequate supplies of potable water; soil degradation; overgrazing; deforestation (much of the remaining forests are being cut down for fuel and building materials); desertification; air and water pollution in overcrowded urban areas
Topic: Akrotirihunting around the salt lake; note - breeding place for loggerhead and green turtles; only remaining colony of griffon vultures is on the base
Topic: Albaniadeforestation; soil erosion; water pollution from industrial and domestic effluents; air pollution from industrial and power plants; loss of biodiversity due to lack of resources for sound environmental management
Topic: Algeriaair pollution in major cities; soil erosion from overgrazing and other poor farming practices; desertification; dumping of raw sewage, petroleum refining wastes, and other industrial effluents is leading to the pollution of rivers and coastal waters; Mediterranean Sea, in particular, becoming polluted from oil wastes, soil erosion, and fertilizer runoff; inadequate supplies of potable water
Topic: American Samoalimited supply of drinking water; pollution; waste disposal; coastal and stream alteration; soil erosion
Topic: Andorradeforestation; overgrazing of mountain meadows contributes to soil erosion; air pollution; wastewater treatment and solid waste disposal
Topic: Angolaoveruse of pastures and subsequent soil erosion attributable to population pressures; desertification; deforestation of tropical rain forest, in response to both international demand for tropical timber and to domestic use as fuel, resulting in loss of biodiversity; soil erosion contributing to water pollution and siltation of rivers and dams; inadequate supplies of potable water
Topic: Anguillasupplies of potable water sometimes cannot meet increasing demand largely because of poor distribution system
Topic: Antarcticathe discovery of a large Antarctic ozone hole in the earth's stratosphere (the ozone layer) - first announced in 1985 - spurred the signing of the Montreal Protocol in 1987, an international agreement phasing out the use of ozone-depleting chemicals; the ozone layer prevents most harmful wavelengths of ultra-violet (UV) light from passing through the earth's atmosphere; ozone depletion has been shown to harm a variety of Antarctic marine plants and animals (plankton); in 2016, a gradual trend toward "healing" of the ozone hole was reported; since the 1990s, satellites have shown accelerating ice loss driven by ocean change; although considerable uncertainty remains, scientists are increasing our understanding and ability to model potential impacts of ice loss
Topic: Antigua and Barbudawater management - a major concern because of limited natural freshwater resources - is further hampered by the clearing of trees to increase crop production, causing rainfall to run off quickly
Topic: Arctic Oceanclimate change; changes in biodiversity; use of toxic chemicals; endangered marine species include walruses and whales; fragile ecosystem slow to change and slow to recover from disruptions or damage; thinning polar icepack
Topic: Argentinaenvironmental problems (urban and rural) typical of an industrializing economy such as deforestation, soil degradation (erosion, salinization), desertification, air pollution, and water pollution
Topic: Armeniasoil pollution from toxic chemicals such as DDT; deforestation; pollution of Hrazdan and Aras Rivers; the draining of Sevana Lich (Lake Sevan), a result of its use as a source for hydropower, threatens drinking water supplies; restart of Metsamor nuclear power plant in spite of its location in a seismically active zone
Topic: Arubadifficulty in properly disposing of waste produced by large numbers of tourists; waste burning that occurs in the landfill causes air pollution and poses an environmental and health risk; ocean environmental damage due to plastic pollution
Topic: Ashmore and Cartier Islandsillegal killing of protected wildlife by traditional Indonesian fisherman, as well as fishing by non-traditional Indonesian vessels, are ongoing problems; sea level rise, changes in sea temperature, and ocean acidification are concerns; marine debris
Topic: Atlantic Oceanendangered marine species include the manatee, seals, sea lions, turtles, and whales; unsustainable exploitation of fisheries (over fishing, bottom trawling, drift net fishing, discards, catch of non-target species); pollution (maritime transport, discharges, offshore drilling, oil spills); municipal sludge pollution off eastern US, southern Brazil, and eastern Argentina; oil pollution in Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, Lake Maracaibo, Mediterranean Sea, and North Sea; industrial waste and municipal sewage pollution in Baltic Sea, North Sea, and Mediterranean Sea
Topic: Australiasoil erosion from overgrazing, deforestation, industrial development, urbanization, and poor farming practices; limited natural freshwater resources; soil salinity rising due to the use of poor quality water; drought, desertification; clearing for agricultural purposes threatens the natural habitat of many unique animal and plant species; disruption of the fragile ecosystem has resulted in significant floral extinctions; the Great Barrier Reef off the northeast coast, the largest coral reef in the world, is threatened by increased shipping and its popularity as a tourist site; overfishing, pollution, and invasive species are also problems
Topic: Austriasome forest degradation caused by air and soil pollution; soil pollution results from the use of agricultural chemicals; air pollution results from emissions by coal- and oil-fired power stations and industrial plants and from trucks transiting Austria between northern and southern Europe; water pollution; the Danube, as well as some of Austria’s other rivers and lakes, are threatened by pollution
Topic: Azerbaijanlocal scientists consider the Abseron Yasaqligi (Apsheron Peninsula) (including Baku and Sumqayit) and the Caspian Sea to be the ecologically most devastated area in the world because of severe air, soil, and water pollution; soil pollution results from oil spills, from the use of DDT pesticide, and from toxic defoliants used in the production of cotton; surface and underground water are polluted by untreated municipal and industrial wastewater and agricultural run-off
Topic: Bahamas, Thecoral reef decay; solid waste disposal
Topic: Bahraindesertification resulting from the degradation of limited arable land, periods of drought, and dust storms; coastal degradation (damage to coastlines, coral reefs, and sea vegetation) resulting from oil spills and other discharges from large tankers, oil refineries, and distribution stations; lack of freshwater resources (groundwater and seawater are the only sources for all water needs); lowered water table leaves aquifers vulnerable to saline contamination; desalinization provides some 90% of the country's freshwater
Topic: Bangladeshmany people are landless and forced to live on and cultivate flood-prone land; waterborne diseases prevalent in surface water; water pollution, especially of fishing areas, results from the use of commercial pesticides; ground water contaminated by naturally occurring arsenic; intermittent water shortages because of falling water tables in the northern and central parts of the country; soil degradation and erosion; deforestation; destruction of wetlands; severe overpopulation with noise pollution
Topic: Barbadospollution of coastal waters from waste disposal by ships; soil erosion; illegal solid waste disposal threatens contamination of aquifers
Topic: Belarussoil pollution from pesticide use; southern part of the country contaminated with fallout from 1986 nuclear reactor accident at Chornobyl' in northern Ukraine
Topic: Belgiumintense pressures from human activities: urbanization, dense transportation network, industry, extensive animal breeding and crop cultivation; air and water pollution also have repercussions for neighboring countries
Topic: Belizedeforestation; water pollution, including pollution of Belize's Barrier Reef System, from sewage, industrial effluents, agricultural runoff; inability to properly dispose of solid waste
Topic: Benininadequate supplies of potable water; water pollution; poaching threatens wildlife populations; deforestation; desertification (the spread of the desert into agricultural lands in the north is accelerated by regular droughts)
Topic: Bermudadense population and heavy vehicle traffic create serious congestion and air pollution problems; water resources scarce (most obtained as rainwater or from wells); solid waste disposal; hazardous waste disposal; sewage disposal; overfishing; oil spills
Topic: Bhutansoil erosion; limited access to potable water; wildlife conservation; industrial pollution; waste disposal
Topic: Boliviathe clearing of land for agricultural purposes and the international demand for tropical timber are contributing to deforestation; soil erosion from overgrazing and poor cultivation methods (including slash-and-burn agriculture); desertification; loss of biodiversity; industrial pollution of water supplies used for drinking and irrigation
Topic: Bosnia and Herzegovinaair pollution; deforestation and illegal logging; inadequate wastewater treatment and flood management facilities; sites for disposing of urban waste are limited; land mines left over from the 1992-95 civil strife are a hazard in some areas
Topic: Botswanaovergrazing; desertification; limited freshwater resources; air pollution
Topic: Bouvet Islandnone; almost entirely ice covered
Topic: Brazildeforestation in Amazon Basin destroys the habitat and endangers a multitude of plant and animal species indigenous to the area; illegal wildlife trade; illegal poaching; air and water pollution in Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, and several other large cities; land degradation and water pollution caused by improper mining activities; wetland degradation; severe oil spills
Topic: British Indian Ocean Territorywastewater discharge into the lagoon on Diego Garcia
Topic: British Virgin Islandslimited natural freshwater resources except for a few seasonal streams and springs on Tortola; most of the islands' water supply comes from desalination plants; sewage and mining/industry waste contribute to water pollution, threatening coral reefs
Topic: Bruneino major environmental problems, but air pollution control is becoming a concern; seasonal trans-boundary haze from forest fires in Indonesia
Topic: Bulgariaair pollution from industrial emissions; rivers polluted from raw sewage, heavy metals, detergents; deforestation; forest damage from air pollution and resulting acid rain; soil contamination from heavy metals from metallurgical plants and industrial wastes
Topic: Burkina Fasorecent droughts and desertification severely affecting agricultural activities, population distribution, and the economy; overgrazing; soil degradation; deforestation (2019)
Topic: Burmadeforestation; industrial pollution of air, soil, and water; inadequate sanitation and water treatment contribute to disease; rapid depletion of the country's natural resources
Topic: Burundisoil erosion as a result of overgrazing and the expansion of agriculture into marginal lands; deforestation (little forested land remains because of uncontrolled cutting of trees for fuel); habitat loss threatens wildlife populations
Topic: Cabo Verdedeforestation due to demand for firewood; water shortages; prolonged droughts and improper use of land (overgrazing, crop cultivation on hillsides lead to desertification and erosion); environmental damage has threatened several species of birds and reptiles; illegal beach sand extraction; overfishing
Topic: Cambodiaillegal logging activities throughout the country and strip mining for gems in the western region along the border with Thailand have resulted in habitat loss and declining biodiversity (in particular, destruction of mangrove swamps threatens natural fisheries); soil erosion; in rural areas, most of the population does not have access to potable water; declining fish stocks because of illegal fishing and overfishing; coastal ecosystems choked by sediment washed loose from deforested areas inland
Topic: Cameroonwaterborne diseases are prevalent; deforestation and overgrazing result in erosion, desertification, and reduced quality of pastureland; poaching; overfishing; overhunting
Topic: Canadametal smelting, coal-burning utilities, and vehicle emissions impacting agricultural and forest productivity; air pollution and resulting acid rain severely affecting lakes and damaging forests; ocean waters becoming contaminated due to agricultural, industrial, mining, and forestry activities
Topic: Cayman Islandsno natural freshwater resources; drinking water supplies are met by reverse osmosis desalination plants and rainwater catchment; trash washing up on the beaches or being deposited there by residents; no recycling or waste treatment facilities; deforestation (trees being cut down to create space for commercial use)
Topic: Central African Republicwater pollution; tap water is not potable; poaching and mismanagement have diminished the country's reputation as one of the last great wildlife refuges; desertification; deforestation; soil erosion
Topic: Chadinadequate supplies of potable water; improper waste disposal in rural areas and poor farming practices contribute to soil and water pollution; desertification
Topic: Chileair pollution from industrial and vehicle emissions; water pollution from raw sewage; noise pollution; improper garbage disposal; soil degradation; widespread deforestation and mining threaten the environment; wildlife conservation
Topic: Chinaair pollution (greenhouse gases, sulfur dioxide particulates) from reliance on coal produces acid rain; China is the world's largest single emitter of carbon dioxide from the burning of fossil fuels; water shortages, particularly in the north; water pollution from untreated wastes; coastal destruction due to land reclamation, industrial development, and aquaculture; deforestation and habitat destruction; poor land management leads to soil erosion, landslides, floods, droughts, dust storms, and desertification; trade in endangered species
Topic: Christmas Islandloss of rainforest; impact of phosphate mining
Topic: Clipperton Islandno natural resources, guano deposits depleted; the ring-shaped atoll encloses a stagnant fresh-water lagoon
Topic: Cocos (Keeling) Islandsfreshwater resources are limited to rainwater accumulations in natural underground reservoirs; illegal fishing a concern
Topic: Colombiadeforestation resulting from timber exploitation in the jungles of the Amazon and the region of Chocó; illicit drug crops grown by peasants in the national parks; soil erosion; soil and water quality damage from overuse of pesticides; air pollution, especially in Bogota, from vehicle emissions
Topic: Comorosdeforestation; soil degradation and erosion results from forest loss and from crop cultivation on slopes without proper terracing; marine biodiversity affected as soil erosion leads to the silting of coral reefs
Topic: Congo, Democratic Republic of thepoaching threatens wildlife populations; water pollution; deforestation (forests endangered by fires set to clean the land for agricultural purposes; forests also used as a source of fuel); soil erosion; mining (diamonds, gold, coltan - a mineral used in creating capacitors for electronic devices) causing environmental damage
Topic: Congo, Republic of theair pollution from vehicle emissions; water pollution from raw sewage; tap water is not potable; deforestation; wildlife protection
Topic: Cook Islandslimited land presents solid and liquid waste disposal problems; soil destruction and deforestation; environmental degradation due to indiscriminant use of pesticides; improper disposal of pollutants; overfishing and destructive fishing practices; over dredging of lagoons and coral rubble beds; unregulated building
Topic: Coral Sea Islandsno permanent freshwater resources; damaging activities include coral mining, destructive fishing practices (overfishing, blast fishing)
Topic: Costa Ricadeforestation and land use change, largely a result of the clearing of land for cattle ranching and agriculture; soil erosion; coastal marine pollution; fisheries protection; solid waste management; air pollution
Topic: Cote d'Ivoiredeforestation (most of the country's forests - once the largest in West Africa - have been heavily logged); water pollution from sewage, and from industrial, mining, and agricultural effluents
Topic: Croatiaair pollution improving but still a concern in urban settings and in emissions arriving from neighboring countries; surface water pollution in the Danube River Basin
Topic: Cubasoil degradation and desertification (brought on by poor farming techniques and natural disasters) are the main environmental problems; biodiversity loss; deforestation; air and water pollution
Topic: Curacaoproblems in waste management that threaten environmental sustainability on the island include pollution of marine areas from domestic sewage, inadequate sewage treatment facilities, industrial effluents and agricultural runoff, the mismanagement of toxic substances, and ineffective regulations; the refinery in Sint Anna Bay, at the eastern edge of Willemstad’s large natural harbor, processes heavy crude oil from Venezuela; it has caused significant environmental damage to the surrounding area because of neglect and a lack of strict environmental controls; the release of noxious fumes and potentially hazardous particles causes schools downwind to regularly closeproblems in waste management that threaten environmental sustainability on the island include pollution of marine areas from domestic sewage, inadequate sewage treatment facilities, industrial effluents and agricultural runoff, the mismanagement of toxic substances, and ineffective regulations; the refinery in Sint Anna Bay, at the eastern edge of Willemstad’s large natural harbor, processes heavy crude oil from Venezuela; it has caused significant environmental damage to the surrounding area because of neglect and a lack of strict environmental controls; the release of noxious fumes and potentially hazardous particles causes schools downwind to regularly close
Topic: Cypruswater resource problems (no natural reservoir catchments, seasonal disparity in rainfall, sea water intrusion to island's largest aquifer, increased salination in the north); water pollution from sewage, industrial wastes, and pesticides; coastal degradation; erosion; loss of wildlife habitats from urbanization
Topic: Czechiaair and water pollution in areas of northwest Bohemia and in northern Moravia around Ostrava present health risks; acid rain damaging forests; land pollution caused by industry, mining, and agriculture
Topic: Denmarkair pollution, principally from vehicle and power plant emissions; nitrogen and phosphorus pollution of the North Sea; drinking and surface water becoming polluted from animal wastes and pesticides; much of country's household and industrial waste is recycled
Topic: Dhekelianetting and trapping of small migrant songbirds in the spring and autumn
Topic: Djiboutiinadequate supplies of potable water; water pollution; limited arable land; deforestation (forests threatened by agriculture and the use of wood for fuel); desertification; endangered species
Topic: Dominicawater shortages a continuing concern; pollution from agrochemicals and from untreated sewage; forests endangered by the expansion of farming; soil erosion; pollution of the coastal zone by agricultural and industrial chemicals, and untreated sewage
Topic: Dominican Republicwater shortages; soil eroding into the sea damages coral reefs; deforestation
Topic: Ecuadordeforestation; soil erosion; desertification; water pollution; pollution from oil production wastes in ecologically sensitive areas of the Amazon Basin and Galapagos Islands
Topic: Egyptagricultural land being lost to urbanization and windblown sands; increasing soil salination below Aswan High Dam; desertification; oil pollution threatening coral reefs, beaches, and marine habitats; other water pollution from agricultural pesticides, raw sewage, and industrial effluents; limited natural freshwater resources away from the Nile, which is the only perennial water source; rapid growth in population overstraining the Nile and natural resources
Topic: El Salvadordeforestation; soil erosion; water pollution; contamination of soils from disposal of toxic wastes
Topic: Equatorial Guineadeforestation (forests are threatened by agricultural expansion, fires, and grazing); desertification; water pollution (tap water is non-potable); wildlife preservation
Topic: Eritreadeforestation; desertification; soil erosion; overgrazing
Topic: Estoniaair polluted with sulfur dioxide from oil-shale burning power plants in northeast; however, the amounts of pollutants emitted to the air have fallen dramatically and the pollution load of wastewater at purification plants has decreased substantially due to improved technology and environmental monitoring; Estonia has more than 1,400 natural and manmade lakes, the smaller of which in agricultural areas need to be monitored; coastal seawater is polluted in certain locations
Topic: Eswatinilimited supplies of potable water; wildlife populations being depleted because of excessive hunting; population growth, deforestation, and overgrazing lead to soil erosion and soil degradation
Topic: Ethiopiadeforestation; overgrazing; soil erosion; desertification; loss of biodiversity; water shortages in some areas from water-intensive farming and poor management; industrial pollution and pesticides contribute to air, water, and soil pollution
Topic: European Unionvarious forms of air, soil, and water pollution; see individual country entries
Topic: Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)overfishing by unlicensed vessels is a problem; reindeer - introduced to the islands in 2001 from South Georgia - are part of a farming effort to produce specialty meat and diversify the islands' economy; this is the only commercial reindeer herd in the world unaffected by the 1986 Chornobyl disaster; grazing threatens important habitats including tussac grass and its ecosystem with penguins and sea lions; soil erosion from fires
Topic: Faroe Islandscoastal erosion, landslides and rockfalls, flash flooding, wind storms; oil spills
Topic: Fijithe widespread practice of waste incineration is a major contributor to air pollution in the country, as are vehicle emissions in urban areas; deforestation and soil erosion are significant problems; a contributory factor to erosion is clearing of land by bush burning, a widespread practie that threatens biodiversity
Topic: Finlandlimited air pollution in urban centers; some water pollution from industrial wastes, agricultural chemicals; habitat loss threatens wildlife populations
Topic: Francesome forest damage from acid rain; air pollution from industrial and vehicle emissions; water pollution from urban wastes, agricultural runoff
Topic: French Polynesiasea level rise; extreme weather events (cyclones, storms, and tsunamis producing floods, landslides, erosion, and reef damage); droughts; fresh water scarcity
Topic: French Southern and Antarctic Landsintroduction of foreign species on Iles Crozet has caused severe damage to the original ecosystem; overfishing of Patagonian toothfish around Iles Crozet and Iles Kerguelen
Topic: Gabondeforestation (the forests that cover three-quarters of the country are threatened by excessive logging); burgeoning population exacerbating disposal of solid waste; oil industry contributing to water pollution; wildlife poaching
Topic: Gambia, Thedeforestation due to slash-and-burn agriculture; desertification; water pollution; water-borne diseases
Topic: Gaza Stripsoil degradation; desertification; water pollution from chemicals and pesticides; salination of fresh water; improper sewage treatment; water-borne disease; depletion and contamination of underground water resources
Topic: Georgiaair pollution, particularly in Rust'avi; heavy water pollution of Mtkvari River and the Black Sea; inadequate supplies of potable water; soil pollution from toxic chemicals; land and forest degradation; biodiversity loss; waste management
Topic: Germanyemissions from coal-burning utilities and industries contribute to air pollution; acid rain, resulting from sulfur dioxide emissions, is damaging forests; pollution in the Baltic Sea from raw sewage and industrial effluents from rivers in eastern Germany; hazardous waste disposal; government established a mechanism for ending the use of nuclear power by 2022; government working to meet EU commitment to identify nature preservation areas in line with the EU's Flora, Fauna, and Habitat directive
Topic: Ghanarecurrent drought in north severely affects agricultural activities; deforestation; overgrazing; soil erosion; poaching and habitat destruction threaten wildlife populations; water pollution; inadequate supplies of potable water
Topic: Gibraltarlimited natural freshwater resources: more than 90% of drinking water supplied by desalination, the remainder from stored rainwater; a separate supply of saltwater used for sanitary services
Topic: Greeceair pollution; air emissions from transport and electricity power stations; water pollution; degradation of coastal zones; loss of biodiversity in terrestrial and marine ecosystems; increasing municipal and industrial waste
Topic: Greenlandespecially vulnerable to climate change and disruption of the Arctic environment; preservation of the Inuit traditional way of life, including whaling and seal hunting
Topic: Grenadadeforestation causing habitat destruction and species loss; coastal erosion and contamination; pollution and sedimentation; inadequate solid waste management
Topic: Guamfresh water scarcity; reef damage; inadequate sewage treatment; extermination of native bird populations by the rapid proliferation of the brown tree snake, an exotic, invasive species
Topic: Guatemaladeforestation in the Peten rainforest; soil erosion; water pollution
Topic: Guernseycoastal erosion, coastal flooding; declining biodiversity due to land abandonment and succession to scrub or woodland
Topic: Guineadeforestation; inadequate potable water; desertification; soil contamination and erosion; overfishing, overpopulation in forest region; poor mining practices lead to environmental damage; water pollution; improper waste disposal
Topic: Guinea-Bissaudeforestation (rampant felling of trees for timber and agricultural purposes); soil erosion; overgrazing; overfishing
Topic: Guyanawater pollution from sewage and agricultural and industrial chemicals; deforestation
Topic: Haitiextensive deforestation (much of the remaining forested land is being cleared for agriculture and used as fuel); soil erosion; overpopulation leads to inadequate supplies of potable water and and a lack of sanitation; natural disasters
Topic: Heard Island and McDonald Islandsnone; uninhabited and mostly ice covered
Topic: Holy See (Vatican City)some air pollution from the surrounding city of Rome
Topic: Hondurasurban population expanding; deforestation results from logging and the clearing of land for agricultural purposes; further land degradation and soil erosion hastened by uncontrolled development and improper land use practices such as farming of marginal lands; mining activities polluting Lago de Yojoa (the country's largest source of fresh water), as well as several rivers and streams, with heavy metals
Topic: Hong Kongair and water pollution from rapid urbanization; urban waste pollution; industrial pollution
Topic: Hungaryair and water pollution are some of Hungary's most serious environmental problems; water quality in the Hungarian part of the Danube has improved but is still plagued by pollutants from industry and large-scale agriculture; soil pollution
Topic: Icelandwater pollution from fertilizer runoff
Topic: Indiadeforestation; soil erosion; overgrazing; desertification; air pollution from industrial effluents and vehicle emissions; water pollution from raw sewage and runoff of agricultural pesticides; tap water is not potable throughout the country; huge and growing population is overstraining natural resources; preservation and quality of forests; biodiversity loss
Topic: Indian Oceanmarine pollution caused by ocean dumping, waste disposal, and oil spills; deep sea mining; oil pollution in Arabian Sea, Persian Gulf, and Red Sea; coral reefs threatened due climate change, direct human pressures, and inadequate governance, awareness, and political will; loss of biodiversity; endangered marine species include the dugong, seals, turtles, and whales
Topic: Indonesialarge-scale deforestation (much of it illegal) and related wildfires cause heavy smog; over-exploitation of marine resources; environmental problems associated with rapid urbanization and economic development, including air pollution, traffic congestion, garbage management, and reliable water and waste water services; water pollution from industrial wastes, sewage
Topic: Iranair pollution, especially in urban areas, from vehicle emissions, refinery operations, and industrial effluents; deforestation; overgrazing; desertification; oil pollution in the Persian Gulf; wetland losses from drought; soil degradation (salination); inadequate supplies of potable water; water pollution from raw sewage and industrial waste; urbanization
Topic: Iraqgovernment water control projects drained most of the inhabited marsh areas east of An Nasiriyah by drying up or diverting the feeder streams and rivers; a once sizable population of Marsh Arabs, who inhabited these areas for thousands of years, has been displaced; furthermore, the destruction of the natural habitat poses serious threats to the area's wildlife populations; inadequate supplies of potable water; soil degradation (salination) and erosion; desertification; military and industrial infrastructure has released heavy metals and other hazardous substances into the air, soil, and groundwater; major sources of environmental damage are effluents from oil refineries, factory and sewage discharges into rivers, fertilizer and chemical contamination of the soil, and industrial air pollution in urban areas
Topic: Irelandwater pollution, especially of lakes, from agricultural runoff; acid rain kills plants, destroys soil fertility, and contributes to deforestation
Topic: Isle of Manair pollution, marine pollution; waste disposal (both household and industrial)
Topic: Israellimited arable land and restricted natural freshwater resources; desertification; air pollution from industrial and vehicle emissions; groundwater pollution from industrial and domestic waste, chemical fertilizers, and pesticides
Topic: Italyair pollution from industrial emissions such as sulfur dioxide; coastal and inland rivers polluted from industrial and agricultural effluents; acid rain damaging lakes; inadequate industrial waste treatment and disposal facilities
Topic: Jamaicaheavy rates of deforestation; coastal waters polluted by industrial waste, sewage, and oil spills; damage to coral reefs; air pollution in Kingston from vehicle emissions; land erosion
Topic: Jan Mayenpollutants transported from southerly latitudes by winds, ocean currents, and rivers accumulate in the food chains of native animals; climate change
Topic: Japanair pollution from power plant emissions results in acid rain; acidification of lakes and reservoirs degrading water quality and threatening aquatic life; Japan is one of the largest consumers of fish and tropical timber, contributing to the depletion of these resources in Asia and elsewhere; following the 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster, Japan originally planned to phase out nuclear power, but it has now implemented a new policy of seeking to restart nuclear power plants that meet strict new safety standards; waste management is an ongoing issue; Japanese municipal facilities used to burn high volumes of trash, but air pollution issues forced the government to adopt an aggressive recycling policy
Topic: Jerseyhabitat and species depletion due to human encroachment; water pollution; improper solid waste disposal
Topic: Jordanlimited natural freshwater resources; declining water table; salinity; deforestation; overgrazing; soil erosion; desertification; biodiversity and ecosystem damage/loss
Topic: Kazakhstanradioactive or toxic chemical sites associated with former defense industries and test ranges scattered throughout the country pose health risks for humans and animals; industrial pollution is severe in some cities; because the two main rivers that flowed into the Aral Sea have been diverted for irrigation, it is drying up and leaving behind a harmful layer of chemical pesticides and natural salts; these substances are then picked up by the wind and blown into noxious dust storms; pollution in the Caspian Sea; desertification; soil pollution from overuse of agricultural chemicals and salination from poor infrastructure and wasteful irrigation practices
Topic: Kenyawater pollution from urban and industrial wastes; water shortage and degraded water quality from increased use of pesticides and fertilizers; flooding; water hyacinth infestation in Lake Victoria; deforestation; soil erosion; desertification; poaching
Topic: Kiribatiheavy pollution in lagoon of south Tarawa atoll due to overcrowding mixed with traditional practices such as lagoon latrines and open-pit dumping; ground water at risk; potential for water shortages, disease; coastal erosion
Topic: Korea, Northwater pollution; inadequate supplies of potable water; waterborne disease; deforestation; soil erosion and degradation
Topic: Korea, Southair pollution in large cities; acid rain; water pollution from the discharge of sewage and industrial effluents; drift net fishing; solid waste disposal; transboundary pollution
Topic: Kosovoair pollution (pollution from power plants and nearby lignite mines take a toll on people's health); water scarcity and pollution; land degradation
Topic: Kuwaitlimited natural freshwater resources; some of world's largest and most sophisticated desalination facilities provide much of the water; air and water pollution; desertification; loss of biodiversity
Topic: Kyrgyzstanwater pollution; many people get their water directly from contaminated streams and wells; as a result, water-borne diseases are prevalent; increasing soil salinity from faulty irrigation practices; air pollution due to rapid increase of traffic
Topic: Laosunexploded ordnance; deforestation; soil erosion; loss of biodiversity; water pollution, most of the population does not have access to potable water
Topic: Latviawhile land, water, and air pollution are evident, Latvia's environment has benefited from a shift to service industries after the country regained independence; improvements have occurred in drinking water quality, sewage treatment, household and hazardous waste management, as well as reduction of air pollution; concerns include nature protection and the management of water resources and the protection of the Baltic Sea
Topic: Lebanondeforestation; soil deterioration, erosion; desertification; species loss; air pollution in Beirut from vehicular traffic and the burning of industrial wastes; pollution of coastal waters from raw sewage and oil spills; waste-water management
Topic: Lesothopopulation pressure forcing settlement in marginal areas results in overgrazing, severe soil erosion, and soil exhaustion; desertification; Highlands Water Project controls, stores, and redirects water to South Africa
Topic: Liberiatropical rain forest deforestation; soil erosion; loss of biodiversity; hunting of endangered species for bushmeat; pollution of coastal waters from oil residue and raw sewage; pollution of rivers from industrial run-off; burning and dumping of household waste
Topic: Libyadesertification; limited natural freshwater resources; the Great Manmade River Project, the largest water development scheme in the world, brings water from large aquifers under the Sahara to coastal cities; water pollution is a significant problem; the combined impact of sewage, oil byproducts, and industrial waste threatens Libya's coast and the Mediterranean Sea
Topic: Liechtensteinsome air pollution generated locally, some transfered from surrounding countries
Topic: Lithuaniawater pollution; air pollution; deforestation; threatened animal and plant species; chemicals and waste materials released into the environment contaminate soil and groundwater; soil degradation and erosion
Topic: Luxembourgair and water pollution in urban areas, soil pollution of farmland; unsustainable patterns of consumption (transport, energy, recreation, space) threaten biodiversity and landscapes
Topic: Macauair pollution; coastal waters pollution; insufficient policies in reducing and recycling solid wastes; increasing population density worsening noise pollution
Topic: Madagascarerosion and soil degredation results from deforestation and overgrazing; desertification; agricultural fires; surface water contaminated with raw sewage and other organic wastes; wildlife preservation (endangered species of flora and fauna unique to the island)
Topic: Malawideforestation; land degradation; water pollution from agricultural runoff, sewage, industrial wastes; siltation of spawning grounds endangers fish populations; negative effects of climate change (extreme high temperatures, changing precipatation pattens)
Topic: Malaysiaair pollution from industrial and vehicular emissions; water pollution from raw sewage; deforestation; smoke/haze from Indonesian forest fires; endangered species; coastal reclamation damaging mangroves and turtle nesting sites
Topic: Maldivesdepletion of freshwater aquifers threatens water supplies; inadequate sewage treatment; coral reef bleaching
Topic: Malideforestation; soil erosion; desertification; loss of pasture land; inadequate supplies of potable water
Topic: Maltalimited natural freshwater resources; increasing reliance on desalination; deforestation; wildlife preservation
Topic: Marshall Islandsinadequate supplies of potable water; pollution of Majuro lagoon from household waste and discharges from fishing vessels; sea level rise
Topic: Mauritaniaovergrazing, deforestation, and soil erosion aggravated by drought are contributing to desertification; limited natural freshwater resources away from the Senegal, which is the only perennial river; locust infestation
Topic: Mauritiuswater pollution, degradation of coral reefs; soil erosion; wildlife preservation; solid waste disposal
Topic: Mexicoscarcity of hazardous waste disposal facilities; rural to urban migration; natural freshwater resources scarce and polluted in north, inaccessible and poor quality in center and extreme southeast; raw sewage and industrial effluents polluting rivers in urban areas; deforestation; widespread erosion; desertification; deteriorating agricultural lands; serious air and water pollution in the national capital and urban centers along US-Mexico border; land subsidence in Valley of Mexico caused by groundwater depletion
note: the government considers the lack of clean water and deforestation national security issues
Topic: Micronesia, Federated States ofoverfishing; climate change; water pollution, toxic pollution from mining; solid waste disposal
Topic: Moldovaheavy use of agricultural chemicals, has contaminated soil and groundwater; extensive soil erosion and declining soil fertility from poor farming methods
Topic: Monacono serious issues; actively monitors pollution levels in air and water
Topic: Mongolialimited natural freshwater resources in some areas; the burning of soft coal in power plants and the lack of enforcement of environmental laws leads to air pollution in Ulaanbaatar; deforestation and overgrazing increase soil erosion from wind and rain; water pollution; desertification and mining activities have a deleterious effect on the environment
Topic: Montenegropollution of coastal waters from sewage outlets, especially in tourist-related areas such as Kotor; serious air pollution in Podgorica, Pljevlja and Niksie; air pollution in Pljevlja is caused by the nearby lignite power plant and the domestic use of coal and wood for household heating
Topic: Montserratland erosion occurs on slopes that have been cleared for cultivation
Topic: Moroccoin the north, land degradation/desertification (soil erosion resulting from farming of marginal areas, overgrazing, destruction of vegetation); water and soil pollution due to dumping of industrial wastes into the ocean and inland water sources, and onto the land; in the south, desertification; overgrazing; sparse water and lack of arable land
note: data does not include former Western Sahara
Topic: Mozambiqueincreased migration of the population to urban and coastal areas with adverse environmental consequences; desertification; soil erosion; deforestation; water pollution caused by artisanal mining; pollution of surface and coastal waters; wildlife preservation (elephant poaching for ivory)
Topic: Namibiadepletion and degradation of water and aquatic resources; desertification; land degradation; loss of biodiversity and biotic resources; wildlife poaching
Topic: Naurulimited natural freshwater resources, roof storage tanks that collect rainwater and desalination plants provide water; a century of intensive phosphate mining beginning in 1906 left the central 90% of Nauru a wasteland; cadmium residue, phosphate dust, and other contaminants have caused air and water pollution with negative impacts on health; climate change has brought on rising sea levels and inland water shortages
Topic: Navassa Islandsome coral bleaching
Topic: Nepaldeforestation (overuse of wood for fuel and lack of alternatives); forest degradation; soil erosion; contaminated water (with human and animal wastes, agricultural runoff, and industrial effluents); unmanaged solid-waste; wildlife conservation; vehicular emissions
Topic: Netherlandswater and air pollution are significant environmental problems; pollution of the country's rivers from industrial and agricultural chemicals, including heavy metals, organic compounds, nitrates, and phosphates; air pollution from vehicles and refining activities
Topic: New Caledoniapreservation of coral reefs; prevention of invasive species; limiting erosion caused by nickel mining and forest fires
Topic: New Zealandwater quality and availability; rapid urbanisation; deforestation; soil erosion and degradation; native flora and fauna hard-hit by invasive species; negative effects of climate change
Topic: Nicaraguadeforestation; soil erosion; water pollution; drought
Topic: Nigerovergrazing; soil erosion; deforestation; desertification; contaminated water; inadequate potable water; wildlife populations (such as elephant, hippopotamus, giraffe, and lion) threatened because of poaching and habitat destruction
Topic: Nigeriaserious overpopulation and rapid urbanization have led to numerous environmental problems; urban air and water pollution; rapid deforestation; soil degradation; loss of arable land; oil pollution - water, air, and soil have suffered serious damage from oil spills
Topic: Niueincreasing attention to conservationist practices to counter loss of soil fertility from traditional slash and burn agriculture
Topic: Norfolk Islandinadequate solid waste management; most freshwater obtained through rainwater catchment; preservation of unique ecosystem
Topic: North Macedoniaair pollution from metallurgical plants; Skopje has severe air pollution problems every winter as a result of industrial emissions, smoke from wood-buring stoves, and exhaust fumes from old cars
Topic: Northern Mariana Islandscontamination of groundwater on Saipan may contribute to disease; clean-up of landfill; protection of endangered species conflicts with development
Topic: Norwaywater pollution; acid rain damaging forests and adversely affecting lakes, threatening fish stocks; air pollution from vehicle emissions
Topic: Omanlimited natural freshwater resources; high levels of soil and water salinity in the coastal plains; beach pollution from oil spills; industrial effluents seeping into the water tables and aquifers; desertificaiton due to high winds driving desert sand into arable lands
Topic: Pacific Oceanpollution (such as sewage, runoff from land and toxic waste); habitat destruction; over-fishing; climate change leading to sea level rise, ocean acidification, and warming; endangered marine species include the dugong, sea lion, sea otter, seals, turtles, and whales; oil pollution in Philippine Sea and South China Sea
Topic: Pakistanwater pollution from raw sewage, industrial wastes, and agricultural runoff; limited natural freshwater resources; most of the population does not have access to potable water; deforestation; soil erosion; desertification; air pollution and noise pollution in urban areas
Topic: Palauinadequate facilities for disposal of solid waste; threats to the marine ecosystem from sand and coral dredging, illegal and destructive fishing practices, and overfishing; climate change contributes to rising sea level and coral bleaching; drought
Topic: Panamawater pollution from agricultural runoff threatens fishery resources; deforestation of tropical rain forest; land degradation and soil erosion threatens siltation of Panama Canal; air pollution in urban areas; mining threatens natural resources
Topic: Papua New Guinearain forest loss as a result of growing commercial demand for tropical timber; unsustainable logging practices result in soil erosion, water quality degredation, and loss of habitat and biodiversity; large-scale mining projects cause adverse impacts on forests and water quality (discharge of heavy metals, cyanide, and acids into rivers); severe drought; inappropriate farming practices accelerate land degradion (soil erosion, siltation, loss of soil fertility); destructive fishing practices and coastal pollution due to run-off from land-based activities and oil spills
Topic: Paracel IslandsChina's use of dredged sand and coral to build artificial islands harms reef systems; ongoing human activities, including military operations, infrastructure construction, and tourism endangers local ecosystem including birds, fish, marine mammals, and marine reptiles
Topic: Paraguaydeforestation; water pollution; rivers suffer from toxic dumping; tanneries release mercury and chromium into rivers and streams; loss of wetlands; inadequate means for waste disposal pose health risks for many urban residents
Topic: Perudeforestation (some the result of illegal logging); overgrazing of the slopes of the costa and sierra leading to soil erosion; desertification; air pollution in Lima; pollution of rivers and coastal waters from municipal and mining wastes; overfishing
Topic: Philippinesuncontrolled deforestation especially in watershed areas; illegal mining and logging; soil erosion; air and water pollution in major urban centers; coral reef degradation; increasing pollution of coastal mangrove swamps that are important fish breeding grounds; coastal erosion; dynamite fishing; wildlife extinction
Topic: Pitcairn Islandsdeforestation (only a small portion of the original forest remains because of burning and clearing for settlement)
Topic: Polanddecreased emphasis on heavy industry and increased environmental concern by post-communist governments has improved environment; air pollution remains serious because of emissions from burning low-quality coals in homes and from coal-fired power plants; the resulting acid rain causes forest damage; water pollution from industrial and municipal sources is a problem, as is disposal of hazardous wastes
Topic: Portugalsoil erosion; air pollution caused by industrial and vehicle emissions; water pollution, especially in urban centers and coastal areas
Topic: Puerto Ricosoil erosion; occasional droughts cause water shortages; industrial pollution
Topic: Qatarair, land, and water pollution are significant environmental issues; limited natural freshwater resources are increasing dependence on large-scale desalination facilities; other issues include conservation of oil supplies and preservation of the natural wildlife heritage
Topic: Romaniasoil erosion, degradation, and desertification; water pollution; air pollution in south from industrial effluents; contamination of Danube delta wetlands
Topic: Russiaair pollution from heavy industry, emissions of coal-fired electric plants, and transportation in major cities; industrial, municipal, and agricultural pollution of inland waterways and seacoasts; deforestation; soil erosion; soil contamination from improper application of agricultural chemicals; nuclear waste disposal; scattered areas of sometimes intense radioactive contamination; groundwater contamination from toxic waste; urban solid waste management; abandoned stocks of obsolete pesticides
Topic: Rwandadeforestation results from uncontrolled cutting of trees for fuel; overgrazing; land degradation; soil erosion; a decline in soil fertility (soil exhaustion); wetland degradation and loss of biodiversity; widespread poaching
Topic: Saint Barthelemyland-based pollution; urbanization; with no natural rivers or streams, fresh water is in short supply, especially in summer, and is provided by the desalination of sea water, the collection of rain water, or imported via water tanker; overfishing
Topic: Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunhadevelopment threatens unique biota on Saint Helena
Topic: Saint Kitts and Nevisdeforestation; soil erosion and silting affects marine life on coral reefs; water pollution from uncontrolled dumping of sewage
Topic: Saint Luciadeforestation; soil erosion, particularly in the northern region
Topic: Saint Martinexcessive population pressure (increasing settlement); waste management; salinity intrusions into the main land of the island; fresh water supply is dependent on desalination of sea water; over exploitation of marine resources (reef fisheries, coral and shell); indiscriminate anchoring of boats damages coral reefs,causing underwater pollution and changes the sediment dynamics of Saint Martin's Island
Topic: Saint Pierre and Miquelonoverfishing; recent test drilling for oil in waters around Saint Pierre and Miquelon may bring future development that would impact the environment
Topic: Saint Vincent and the Grenadinespollution of coastal waters and shorelines from discharges by pleasure yachts and other effluents; in some areas, pollution is severe enough to make swimming prohibitive; poor land use planning; deforestation; watershed management and squatter settlement control
Topic: Samoasoil erosion, deforestation, invasive species, overfishing
Topic: San Marinoair pollution; urbanization decreasing rural farmlands; water shortage
Topic: Sao Tome and Principedeforestation and illegal logging; soil erosion and exhaustion; inadequate sewage treatment in cities; biodiversity preservation
Topic: Saudi Arabiadesertification; depletion of underground water resources; the lack of perennial rivers or permanent water bodies has prompted the development of extensive seawater desalination facilities; coastal pollution from oil spills; air pollution; waste management
Topic: Senegaldeforestation; overgrazing; soil erosion; desertification; periodic droughts; seasonal flooding; overfishing; weak environmental protective laws; wildlife populations threatened by poaching
Topic: Serbiaair pollution around Belgrade and other industrial cities; water pollution from industrial wastes dumped into the Sava which flows into the Danube; inadequate management of domestic, industrial, and hazardous waste
Topic: Seychelleswater supply depends on catchments to collect rainwater; water pollution; biodiversity maintainance
Topic: Sierra Leonerapid population growth pressuring the environment; overharvesting of timber, expansion of cattle grazing, and slash-and-burn agriculture have resulted in deforestation, soil exhaustion, and flooding; loss of biodiversity; air pollution; water pollution; overfishing
Topic: Singaporewater pollution; industrial pollution; limited natural freshwater resources; limited land availability presents waste disposal problems; air pollution; deforestation; seasonal smoke/haze resulting from forest fires in Indonesia
Topic: Sint Maartenscarcity of potable water (increasing percentage provided by desalination); inadequate solid waste management; pollution from construction, chemical runoff, and sewage harms reefsscarcity of potable water (increasing percentage provided by desalination); inadequate solid waste management; pollution from construction, chemical runoff, and sewage harms reefs
Topic: Slovakiaair pollution and acid rain present human health risks and damage forests; land erosion caused by agricultural and mining practices; water pollution
Topic: Sloveniaair pollution from road traffic, domestic heating (wood buring), power generation, and industry; water pollution; biodiversity protection
Topic: Solomon Islandsdeforestation; soil erosion; many of the surrounding coral reefs are dead or dying; effects of climate change and rising sea levels
Topic: Somaliawater scarcity; contaminated water contributes to human health problems; improper waste disposal; deforestation; land degradation; overgrazing; soil erosion; desertification
Topic: South Africalack of important arterial rivers or lakes requires extensive water conservation and control measures; growth in water usage outpacing supply; pollution of rivers from agricultural runoff and urban discharge; air pollution resulting in acid rain; deforestation; soil erosion; land degradation; desertification; solid waste pollution; disruption of fragile ecosystem has resulted in significant floral extinctions
Topic: South Georgia and South Sandwich Islandsreindeer - introduced to the islands in the 20th century - devastated the native flora and bird species; some reindeer were translocated to the Falkland Islands in 2001, the rest were exterminated (2013-14); a parallel effort (2010-15) eradicated rats and mice that came to the islands as stowaways on ships as early as the late 18th century
Topic: South Sudanwater pollution; inadequate supplies of potable water; wildlife conservation and loss of biodiversity; deforestation; soil erosion; desertification; periodic drought
Topic: Southern Oceanchanges to the ocean's physical, chemical, and biological systems have taken place because of climate change, ocean acidification, and commercial exploitation
Topic: Spainpollution of the Mediterranean Sea from raw sewage and effluents from the offshore production of oil and gas; water quality and quantity nationwide; air pollution; deforestation; desertification
Topic: Spratly IslandsChina's use of dredged sand and coral to build artificial islands harms reef systems; illegal fishing practices indiscriminately harvest endangered species, including sea turtles and giant clams
Topic: Sri Lankadeforestation; soil erosion; wildlife populations threatened by poaching and urbanization; coastal degradation from mining activities and increased pollution; coral reef destruction; freshwater resources being polluted by industrial wastes and sewage runoff; waste disposal; air pollution in Colombo
Topic: Sudanwater pollution; inadequate supplies of potable water; water scarcity and periodic drought; wildlife populations threatened by excessive hunting; soil erosion; desertification; deforestation; loss of biodiversity water pollution; inadequate supplies of potable water; water scarcity and periodic drought; wildlife populations threatened by excessive hunting; soil erosion; desertification; deforestation; loss of biodiversity
Topic: Surinamedeforestation as timber is cut for export; pollution of inland waterways by small-scale mining activities
Topic: Svalbardice floes are a maritime hazard; past exploitation of mammal species (whale, seal, walrus, and polar bear) severely depleted the populations, but a gradual recovery seems to be occurring
Topic: Swedenmarine pollution (Baltic Sea and North Sea); acid rain damage to soils and lakes; air pollution; inappropriate timber harvesting practicesmarine pollution (Baltic Sea and North Sea); acid rain damage to soils and lakes; air pollution; inappropriate timber harvesting practices
Topic: Switzerlandair pollution from vehicle emissions; water pollution from agricultural fertilizers; chemical contaminants and erosion damage the soil and limit productivity; loss of biodiversity
Topic: Syriadeforestation; overgrazing; soil erosion; desertification; depletion of water resources; water pollution from raw sewage and petroleum refining wastes; inadequate potable water
Topic: Taiwanair pollution; water pollution from industrial emissions, raw sewage; contamination of drinking water supplies; trade in endangered species; low-level radioactive waste disposal
Topic: Tajikistanareas of high air pollution from motor vehicles and industry; water pollution from agricultural runoff and disposal of untreated industrial waste and sewage; poor management of water resources; soil erosion; increasing levels of soil salinity
Topic: Tanzaniawater polution; improper management of liquid waste; indoor air pollution caused by the burning of fuel wood or charcoal for cooking and heating is a large environmental health issue; soil degradation; deforestation; desertification; destruction of coral reefs threatens marine habitats; wildlife threatened by illegal hunting and trade, especially for ivory; loss of biodiversity; solid waste disposal
Topic: Thailandair pollution from vehicle emissions; water pollution from organic and factory wastes; water scarcity; deforestation; soil erosion; wildlife populations threatened by illegal hunting; hazardous waste disposal
Topic: Timor-Lesteair pollution and deterioration of air quality; greenhouse gas emissions; water quality, scarcity, and access; land and soil degradation; forest depletion; widespread use of slash and burn agriculture has led to deforestation and soil erosion; loss of biodiversity
Topic: Togodeforestation attributable to slash-and-burn agriculture and the use of wood for fuel; very little rain forest still present and what remains is highly degraded; desertification; water pollution presents health hazards and hinders the fishing industry; air pollution increasing in urban areas
Topic: Tokelauoverexploitation of certain fish and other marine species, coastal sand, and forest resources; pollution of freshwater lenses and coastal waters from improper disposal of chemicals
Topic: Tongadeforestation from land being cleared for agriculture and settlement; soil exhaustion; water pollution due to salinization, sewage, and toxic chemicals from farming activities; coral reefs and marine populations threatened
Topic: Trinidad and Tobagowater pollution from agricultural chemicals, industrial wastes, and raw sewage; widespread pollution of waterways and coastal areas; illegal dumping; deforestation; soil erosion; fisheries and wildlife depletion
Topic: Tunisiatoxic and hazardous waste disposal is ineffective and poses health risks; water pollution from raw sewage; limited natural freshwater resources; deforestation; overgrazing; soil erosion; desertification
Topic: Turkeywater pollution from dumping of chemicals and detergents; air pollution, particularly in urban areas; deforestation; land degradation; concern for oil spills from increasing Bosporus ship traffic; conservation of biodiversity
Topic: Turkmenistancontamination of soil and groundwater with agricultural chemicals, pesticides; salination, water logging of soil due to poor irrigation methods; Caspian Sea pollution; diversion of a large share of the flow of the Amu Darya into irrigation contributes to that river's inability to replenish the Aral Sea; soil erosion; desertification
Topic: Turks and Caicos Islandslimited natural freshwater resources, private cisterns collect rainwater
Topic: Tuvaluwater needs met by catchment systems; the use of sand as a building material has led to beachhead erosion; deforestation; damage to coral reefs from increasing ocean temperatures and acidification; rising sea levels threaten water table; in 2000, the government appealed to Australia and New Zealand to take in Tuvaluans if rising sea levels should make evacuation necessary
Topic: Ugandadraining of wetlands for agricultural use; deforestation; overgrazing; soil erosion; water pollution from industrial discharge and water hyacinth infestation in Lake Victoria; widespread poaching
Topic: Ukraineair and water pollution; land degradation; solid waste management; biodiversity loss; deforestation; radiation contamination in the northeast from 1986 accident at Chornobyl' Nuclear Power Plant
Topic: United Arab Emiratesair pollution; rapid population growth and high energy demand contribute to water scarcity; lack of natural freshwater resources compensated by desalination plants; land degradation and desertification; waste generation, beach pollution from oil spills
Topic: United Kingdomair pollution improved but remains a concern, particularly in the London region; soil pollution from pesticides and heavy metals; decline in marine and coastal habitats brought on by pressures from housing, tourism, and industry
Topic: United Statesair pollution; large emitter of carbon dioxide from the burning of fossil fuels; water pollution from runoff of pesticides and fertilizers; limited natural freshwater resources in much of the western part of the country require careful management; deforestation; mining; desertification; species conservation; invasive species (the Hawaiian Islands are particularly vulnerable)
Topic: United States Pacific Island Wildlife RefugesBaker Island: no natural freshwater resources; feral cats, introduced in 1937 during a short-lived colonization effort, ravaged the avian population and were eradicated in 1965
Howland Island: no natural freshwater resources; the island habitat has suffered from invasive exotic species; black rats, introduced in 1854, were eradicated by feral cats within a year of their introduction in 1937; the cats preyed on the bird population and were eliminated by 1985
Jarvis Island: no natural freshwater resources; feral cats, introduced in the 1930s during a short-lived colonization venture, were not completely removed until 1990
Johnston Atoll: no natural freshwater resources; the seven decades under US military administration (1934-2004) left the atoll environmentally degraded and required large-scale remediation efforts; a swarm of Anoplolepis (crazy) ants invaded the island in 2010 damaging native wildlife; eradication has been largely, but not completely, successful
Midway Islands: many exotic species introduced, 75% of the roughly 200 plant species on the island are non-native; plastic pollution harms wildlife, via entanglement, ingestion, and toxic contamination Kingman Reef: none
Palmyra Atoll: black rats, believed to have been introduced to the atoll during the US military occupation of the 1940s, severely degraded the ecosystem outcompeting native species (seabirds, crabs); following a successful rat removal project in 2011, native flora and fauna have begun to recoverBaker Island: no natural freshwater resources; feral cats, introduced in 1937 during a short-lived colonization effort, ravaged the avian population and were eradicated in 1965
Howland Island: no natural freshwater resources; the island habitat has suffered from invasive exotic species; black rats, introduced in 1854, were eradicated by feral cats within a year of their introduction in 1937; the cats preyed on the bird population and were eliminated by 1985
Jarvis Island: no natural freshwater resources; feral cats, introduced in the 1930s during a short-lived colonization venture, were not completely removed until 1990
Johnston Atoll: no natural freshwater resources; the seven decades under US military administration (1934-2004) left the atoll environmentally degraded and required large-scale remediation efforts; a swarm of Anoplolepis (crazy) ants invaded the island in 2010 damaging native wildlife; eradication has been largely, but not completely, successful
Midway Islands: many exotic species introduced, 75% of the roughly 200 plant species on the island are non-native; plastic pollution harms wildlife, via entanglement, ingestion, and toxic contaminationKingman Reef: none
Palmyra Atoll: black rats, believed to have been introduced to the atoll during the US military occupation of the 1940s, severely degraded the ecosystem outcompeting native species (seabirds, crabs); following a successful rat removal project in 2011, native flora and fauna have begun to recover
Topic: Uruguaywater pollution from meat packing/tannery industry; heavy metal pollution; inadequate solid/hazardous waste disposal; deforestation
Topic: Uzbekistanshrinkage of the Aral Sea has resulted in growing concentrations of chemical pesticides and natural salts; these substances are then blown from the increasingly exposed lake bed and contribute to desertification and respiratory health problems; water pollution from industrial wastes and the heavy use of fertilizers and pesticides is the cause of many human health disorders; increasing soil salination; soil contamination from buried nuclear processing and agricultural chemicals, including DDT
Topic: Vanuatupopulation growth; water pollution, most of the population does not have access to a reliable supply of potable water; inadequate sanitation; deforestation
Topic: Venezuelasewage pollution of Lago de Valencia; oil and urban pollution of Lago de Maracaibo; deforestation; soil degradation; urban and industrial pollution, especially along the Caribbean coast; threat to the rainforest ecosystem from irresponsible mining operations
Topic: Vietnamlogging and slash-and-burn agricultural practices contribute to deforestation and soil degradation; water pollution and overfishing threaten marine life populations; groundwater contamination limits potable water supply; air pollution; growing urban industrialization and population migration are rapidly degrading environment in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City
Topic: Virgin Islandslack of natural freshwater resources; protection of coral reefs; solid waste management; coastal development; increased boating and overfishing
Topic: Wake Islandpotable water obtained through a catchment rainwater system and a desalinization plant for brackish ground water; hazardous wastes moved to an accumulation site for storage and eventual transport off site via barge
Topic: Wallis and Futunadeforestation (only small portions of the original forests remain) largely as a result of the continued use of wood as the main fuel source; as a consequence of cutting down the forests, the mountainous terrain of Futuna is particularly prone to erosion; there are no permanent settlements on Alofi because of the lack of natural freshwater resources; lack of soil fertility on the islands of Uvea and Futuna negatively impacts agricultural productivity
Topic: West Bankadequacy of freshwater supply; sewage treatment
Topic: Worldlarge areas subject to overpopulation, industrial disasters, pollution (air, water, acid rain, toxic substances), loss of vegetation (overgrazing, deforestation, desertification), loss of biodiversity; soil degradation, soil depletion, erosion; ozone layer depletion; waste disposal; global warming becoming a greater concern
Topic: Yemenlimited natural freshwater resources; inadequate supplies of potable water; overgrazing; soil erosion; desertification
Topic: Zambiaair pollution and resulting acid rain in the mineral extraction and refining region; chemical runoff into watersheds; loss of biodiversity; poaching seriously threatens rhinoceros, elephant, antelope, and large cat populations; deforestation; soil erosion; desertification; lack of adequate water treatment presents human health risks
Topic: Zimbabwedeforestation; soil erosion; land degradation; air and water pollution; the black rhinoceros herd - once the largest concentration of the species in the world - has been significantly reduced by poaching; poor mining practices have led to toxic waste and heavy metal pollution |
20220601 | field-unemployment-rate | This entry contains the percent of the labor force that is without jobs. Substantial underemployment might be noted.
Topic: Afghanistan23.9% (2017 est.)
22.6% (2016 est.)
Topic: Albania5.83% (2019 est.)
6.32% (2018 est.)
note: these official rates may not include those working at near-subsistence farming
Topic: Algeria11.7% (2017 est.)
10.5% (2016 est.)
Topic: American Samoa29.8% (2005)
Topic: Andorra3.7% (2016 est.)
4.1% (2015 est.)
Topic: Angola6.6% (2016 est.)
Topic: Anguilla8% (2002)
Topic: Antigua and Barbuda11% (2014 est.)
Topic: Argentina9.84% (2019 est.)
9.18% (2018 est.)
Topic: Armenia18.9% (2017 est.)
18.8% (2016 est.)
Topic: Aruba7.7% (2016 est.)
Topic: Australia5.16% (2019 est.)
5.29% (2018 est.)
Topic: Austria7.35% (2019 est.)
7.7% (2018 est.)
Topic: Azerbaijan5% (2017 est.)
5% (2016 est.)
Topic: Bahamas, The10.1% (2017 est.)
12.2% (2016 est.)
Topic: Bahrain3.6% (2017 est.)
3.7% (2016 est.)
note: official estimate; actual rate is higher
Topic: Bangladesh4.4% (2017 est.)
4.4% (2016 est.)
note: about 40% of the population is underemployed; many persons counted as employed work only a few hours a week and at low wages
Topic: Barbados10.1% (2017 est.)
9.9% (2016 est.)
Topic: Belarus0.8% (2017 est.)
1% (2016 est.)
note: official registered unemployed; large number of underemployed workers
Topic: Belgium5.36% (2019 est.)
5.96% (2018 est.)
Topic: Belize9% (2017 est.)
8% (2016 est.)
Topic: Benin1% (2014 est.)
Topic: Bermuda7% (2017 est.)
7% (2016 est.)
Topic: Bhutan3.2% (2017 est.)
3.2% (2016 est.)
Topic: Bolivia4% (2017 est.)
4% (2016 est.)
note: data are for urban areas; widespread underemployment
Topic: Bosnia and Herzegovina33.28% (2019 est.)
35.97% (2018 est.)
note: official rate; actual rate is lower as many technically unemployed persons work in the gray economy
Topic: Botswana20% (2013 est.)
17.8% (2009 est.)
Topic: Brazil11.93% (2019 est.)
12.26% (2018 est.)
Topic: British Virgin Islands2.9% (2015 est.)
Topic: Brunei6.9% (2017 est.)
6.9% (2016 est.)
Topic: Bulgaria5.66% (2019 est.)
6.18% (2018 est.)
Topic: Burkina Faso77% (2004)
Topic: Burma4% (2017 est.)
4% (2016 est.)
Topic: BurundiNANA
Topic: Cabo Verde9% (2017 est.)
9% (2016 est.)
Topic: Cambodia0.3% (2017 est.)
0.2% (2016 est.)
note: high underemployment, according to official statistics
Topic: Cameroon4.3% (2014 est.)
30% (2001 est.)
Topic: Canada5.67% (2019 est.)
5.83% (2018 est.)
Topic: Cayman Islands4% (2008)
4.4% (2004)
Topic: Central African Republic6.9% (2017 est.)
Topic: ChadNANA
Topic: Chile7.22% (2019 est.)
7.33% (2018 est.)
Topic: China3.64% (2019 est.)
3.84% (2018 est.)
note: data are for registered urban unemployment, which excludes private enterprises and migrants
Topic: Cocos (Keeling) Islands0.1% (2011)
60% (2000 est.)
Topic: Colombia10.5% (2019 est.)
9.68% (2018 est.)
Topic: Comoros6.5% (2014 est.)
Topic: Congo, Democratic Republic of theNANA
Topic: Congo, Republic of the36% (2014 est.)
Topic: Cook Islands13.1% (2005)
Topic: Costa Rica8.1% (2017 est.)
9.5% (2016 est.)
Topic: Cote d'Ivoire9.4% (2013 est.)
Topic: Croatia8.07% (2019 est.)
9.86% (2018 est.)
Topic: Cuba2.6% (2017 est.)
2.4% (2016 est.)
note: data are official rates; unofficial estimates are about double
Topic: Curacao13% (2013 est.)
9.8% (2011 est.)
Topic: Cyprus7.07% (2019 est.)
8.37% (2018 est.)
Topic: Czechia2.8% (2019 est.)
3.18% (2018 est.)
Topic: Denmark3.05% (2019 est.)
3.07% (2018 est.)
Topic: Djibouti40% (2017 est.)
60% (2014 est.)
Topic: Dominica23% (2000 est.)
Topic: Dominican Republic5.1% (2017 est.)
5.5% (2016 est.)
Topic: Ecuador5.71% (2019 est.)
5.26% (2018 est.)
Topic: Egypt7.86% (2019 est.)
12.7% (2016 est.)
Topic: El Salvador7% (2017 est.)
6.9% (2016 est.)
note: data are official rates; but underemployment is high
Topic: Equatorial Guinea8.6% (2014 est.)
22.3% (2009 est.)
Topic: Eritrea5.8% (2017 est.)
10% (2016 est.)
Topic: Estonia4.94% (2019 est.)
4.73% (2018 est.)
Topic: Eswatini28% (2014 est.)
28% (2013 est.)
Topic: Ethiopia17.5% (2012 est.)
18% (2011 est.)
Topic: European Union8.6% (2016 est.)
9.4% (2015 est.)
Topic: Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)1% (2016 est.)
Topic: Faroe Islands2.2% (2017 est.)
3.4% (2016 est.)
Topic: Fiji4.5% (2017 est.)
5.5% (2016 est.)
Topic: Finland6.63% (2019 est.)
7.38% (2018 est.)
Topic: France8.12% (2019 est.)
8.69% (2018 est.)
note: includes overseas territories
Topic: French Polynesia21.8% (2012)
11.7% (2010)
Topic: Gabon28% (2015 est.)
20.4% (2014 est.)
Topic: Gambia, TheNANA
Topic: Gaza Strip27.9% (2017 est.)
27% (2016 est.)
note: data exclude the West Bank
Topic: Georgia11.8% (2016 est.)
Topic: Germany4.98% (2019 est.)
5.19% (2018 est.)
Topic: Ghana11.9% (2015 est.)
5.2% (2013 est.)
Topic: Gibraltar1% (2016 est.)
Topic: Greece17.3% (2019 est.)
19.34% (2018 est.)
Topic: Greenland9.1% (2015 est.)
10.3% (2014 est.)
Topic: Grenada24% (2017 est.)
28.2% (2016 est.)
Topic: Guam4.5% (2017 est.)
3.9% (2016 est.)
Topic: Guatemala2.3% (2017 est.)
2.4% (2016 est.)
Topic: Guernsey1.2% (2016 est.)
Topic: Guinea2.7% (2017 est.)
2.8% (2016 est.)
Topic: Guinea-BissauNANA
Topic: Guyana11.1% (2013)
11.3% (2012)
Topic: Haiti40.6% (2010 est.)
note: widespread unemployment and underemployment; more than two-thirds of the labor force do not have formal jobs
Topic: Honduras5.6% (2017 est.)
6.3% (2016 est.)
note: about one-third of the people are underemployed
Topic: Hong Kong2.93% (2019 est.)
2.83% (2018 est.)
Topic: Hungary3.45% (2019 est.)
3.71% (2018 est.)
Topic: Iceland3.62% (2019 est.)
2.73% (2018 est.)
Topic: India8.5% (2017 est.)
8.5% (2016 est.)
Topic: Indonesia5.31% (2018 est.)
5.4% (2017 est.)
Topic: Iran11.8% (2017 est.)
12.4% (2016 est.)
note: data are Iranian Government numbers
Topic: Iraq16% (2012 est.)
15% (2010 est.)
Topic: Ireland4.98% (2019 est.)
5.78% (2018 est.)
Topic: Isle of Man1.1% (2017 est.)
2% (April 2011 est.)
Topic: Israel4.4% (2020 est.)
3.81% (2019 est.)
4% (2018 est.)
Topic: Italy9.88% (2019 est.)
10.63% (2018 est.)
Topic: Jamaica7.72% (2019 est.)
9.13% (2018 est.)
Topic: Japan2.36% (2019 est.)
2.44% (2018 est.)
Topic: Jersey4% (2015 est.)
4.6% (2014 est.)
Topic: Jordan19.1% (2019 est.)
18.61% (2018 est.)
note: official rate; unofficial rate is approximately 30%
Topic: Kazakhstan4.8% (2019 est.)
4.85% (2018 est.)
Topic: Kenya40% (2013 est.)
40% (2001 est.)
Topic: Kiribati30.6% (2010 est.)
6.1% (2005)
Topic: Korea, North25.6% (2013 est.)
25.5% (2012 est.)
Topic: Korea, South3.76% (2019 est.)
3.85% (2018 est.)
Topic: Kosovo30.5% (2017 est.)
27.5% (2016 est.)
note: Kosovo has a large informal sector that may not be reflected in these data
Topic: Kuwait1.1% (2017 est.)
1.1% (2016 est.)
Topic: Kyrgyzstan3.18% (2019 est.)
2.59% (2018 est.)
Topic: Laos0.7% (2017 est.)
0.7% (2016 est.)
Topic: Latvia6.14% (2019 est.)
6.51% (2018 est.)
Topic: Lebanon9.7% (2007)
Topic: Lesotho28.1% (2014 est.)
25% (2008 est.)
Topic: Liberia2.8% (2014 est.)
Topic: Libya30% (2004 est.)
Topic: Liechtenstein2.4% (2015)
2.4% (2014)
Topic: Lithuania8.4% (2019 est.)
8.5% (2018 est.)
Topic: Luxembourg5.36% (2019 est.)
5.46% (2018 est.)
Topic: Macau2% (2017 est.)
1.9% (2016 est.)
Topic: Madagascar1.8% (2017 est.)
1.8% (2016 est.)
Topic: Malawi20.4% (2013 est.)
Topic: Malaysia3.3% (2019 est.)
3.33% (2018 est.)
Topic: Maldives2.9% (2017 est.)
3.2% (2016 est.)
Topic: Mali7.9% (2017 est.)
7.8% (2016 est.)
Topic: Malta0.78% (2019 est.)
0.89% (2018 est.)
Topic: Marshall Islands36% (2006 est.)
30.9% (2000 est.)
Topic: Mauritania10.2% (2017 est.)
10.1% (2016 est.)
Topic: Mauritius6.65% (2019 est.)
6.84% (2018 est.)
Topic: Mexico3.49% (2019 est.)
3.33% (2018 est.)
note: underemployment may be as high as 25%
Topic: Micronesia, Federated States of16.2% (2010 est.)
Topic: Moldova4.99% (2019 est.)
3.16% (2018 est.)
Topic: Monaco2% (2012)
Topic: Mongolia8% (2017 est.)
7.9% (2016 est.)
Topic: Montenegro15.82% (2019 est.)
18.8% (2018 est.)
Topic: Montserrat5.6% (2017 est.)
6% (1998 est.)
Topic: Morocco9.23% (2019 est.)
9.65% (2018 est.)
Topic: Mozambique24.5% (2017 est.)
25% (2016 est.)
Topic: Namibia34% (2016 est.)
28.1% (2014 est.)
Topic: Nauru23% (2011 est.)
90% (2004 est.)
Topic: Nepal3% (2017 est.)
3.2% (2016 est.)
Topic: Netherlands3.41% (2019 est.)
3.84% (2018 est.)
Topic: New Caledonia14.7% (2014)
14% (2009)
Topic: New Zealand4.13% (2019 est.)
4.32% (2018 est.)
Topic: Nicaragua6.4% (2017 est.)
6.2% (2016 est.)
note: underemployment was 46.5% in 2008
Topic: Niger0.3% (2017 est.)
0.3% (2016 est.)
Topic: Nigeria16.5% (2017 est.)
13.9% (2016 est.)
Topic: Niue12% (2001)
Topic: North Macedonia17.29% (2019 est.)
20.7% (2018 est.)
Topic: Northern Mariana Islands11.2% (2010 est.)
8% (2005 est.)
Topic: Norway3.72% (2019 est.)
3.89% (2018 est.)
Topic: OmanNANA
Topic: Pakistan6% (2017 est.)
6% (2016 est.)
note: Pakistan has substantial underemployment
Topic: Palau1.7% (2015 est.)
4.1% (2012)
Topic: Panama6.14% (2018 est.)
6% (2017 est.)
Topic: Papua New Guinea2.5% (2017 est.)
2.5% (2016 est.)
Topic: Paraguay5.7% (2017 est.)
6% (2016 est.)
Topic: Peru6.58% (2019 est.)
6.73% (2018 est.)
note: data are for metropolitan Lima; widespread underemployment
Topic: Philippines5.11% (2019 est.)
5.29% (2018 est.)
Topic: Poland5.43% (2019 est.)
6.08% (2018 est.)
Topic: Portugal6.55% (2019 est.)
7.05% (2018 est.)
Topic: Puerto Rico10.8% (2017 est.)
11.8% (2016 est.)
Topic: Qatar8.9% (2017 est.)
11.1% (2016 est.)
Topic: Romania3.06% (2019 est.)
3.56% (2018 est.)
Topic: Russia4.6% (2019 est.)
4.8% (2018 est.)
Topic: Rwanda2.7% (2014 est.)
Topic: Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha14% (1998 est.)
Topic: Saint Kitts and Nevis4.5% (1997)
Topic: Saint Lucia20% (2003 est.)
Topic: Saint Pierre and Miquelon8.7% (2015 est.)
9.9% (2008 est.)
Topic: Saint Vincent and the Grenadines18.8% (2008 est.)
Topic: Samoa5.2% (2017 est.)
5.5% (2016 est.)
NA
Topic: San Marino8.1% (2017 est.)
8.6% (2016 est.)
Topic: Sao Tome and Principe12.2% (2017 est.)
12.6% (2016 est.)
Topic: Saudi Arabia6% (2017 est.)
5.6% (2016 est.)
note: data are for total population; unemployment among Saudi nationals is more than double
Topic: Senegal48% (2007 est.)
Topic: Serbia14.1% (2017 est.)
15.9% (2016 est.)
Topic: Seychelles3% (2017 est.)
2.7% (2016 est.)
Topic: Sierra Leone15% (2017 est.)
17.2% (2016 est.)
Topic: Singapore2.25% (2019 est.)
2.1% (2018 est.)
Topic: Sint Maarten12% (2012 est.)
10.6% (2008 est.)
Topic: Slovakia5% (2019 est.)
5.42% (2018 est.)
Topic: Slovenia7.64% (2019 est.)
8.25% (2018 est.)
Topic: Solomon IslandsNANA
Topic: SomaliaNANA
Topic: South Africa28.53% (2019 est.)
27.09% (2018 est.)
Topic: Spain14.13% (2019 est.)
15.25% (2018 est.)
Topic: Sri Lanka4.83% (2019 est.)
4.44% (2018 est.)
Topic: Sudan19.6% (2017 est.)
20.6% (2016 est.)
Topic: Suriname8.9% (2017 est.)
9.7% (2016 est.)
Topic: Sweden6.78% (2019 est.)
6.33% (2018 est.)
Topic: Switzerland2.31% (2019 est.)
2.55% (2018 est.)
Topic: Syria50% (2017 est.)
50% (2016 est.)
Topic: Taiwan3.73% (2019 est.)
3.69% (2018 est.)
Topic: Tajikistan2.4% (2016 est.)
2.5% (2015 est.)
note: official rate; actual unemployment is much higher
Topic: Tanzania10.3% (2014 est.)
Topic: Thailand0.99% (2019 est.)
1.06% (2018 est.)
Topic: Timor-Leste4.4% (2014 est.)
3.9% (2010 est.)
Topic: Togo6.9% (2016 est.)
Topic: Tokelau2% (2015 est.)
note: Underemployment may be as high as 6.6%
Topic: Tonga1.1% (2011 est.)
1.1% (2006)
Topic: Trinidad and Tobago4.9% (2017 est.)
4% (2016 est.)
Topic: Tunisia15.5% (2017 est.)
15.5% (2016 est.)
Topic: Turkey13.68% (2019 est.)
11% (2018 est.)
Topic: Turkmenistan11% (2014 est.)
10.6% (2013)
Topic: Turks and Caicos Islands10% (1997 est.)
Topic: TuvaluNANA
Topic: Uganda9.4% (2014 est.)
Topic: Ukraine8.89% (2019 est.)
9.42% (2018 est.)
note: officially registered workers; large number of unregistered or underemployed workers
Topic: United Arab Emirates1.6% (2016 est.)
3.6% (2014 est.)
Topic: United Kingdom3.17% (2019 est.)
2.51% (2018 est.)
Topic: United States3.89% (2018 est.)
4.4% (2017 est.)
Topic: Uruguay7.6% (2017 est.)
7.9% (2016 est.)
Topic: Uzbekistan5% (2017 est.)
5.1% (2016 est.)
note: official data; another 20% are underemployed
Topic: Vanuatu1.7% (1999 est.)
Topic: Venezuela6.9% (2018 est.)
27.1% (2017 est.)
Topic: Vietnam3.11% (2018 est.)
2.2% (2017 est.)
Topic: Virgin Islands10.4% (2017 est.)
11% (2016 est.)
Topic: Wallis and Futuna8.8% (2013 est.)
12.2% (2008 est.)
Topic: West Bank27.9% (2017 est.)
27% (2016 est.)
note: excludes Gaza Strip
Topic: World7.7% (2017 est.)
7.5% (2016 est.)
note: combined unemployment and underemployment in many non-industrialized countries; developed countries typically 4%-12% unemployment (2007 est.)
Topic: Yemen27% (2014 est.)
35% (2003 est.)
Topic: Zambia15% (2008 est.)
50% (2000 est.)
Topic: Zimbabwe11.3% (2014 est.)
80% (2005 est.)
note: data include both unemployment and underemployment; true unemployment is unknown and, under current economic conditions, unknowable |
20220601 | countries-yemen-travel-facts |
US State Dept Travel Advisory: The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens DO NOT TRAVEL to this country due to COVID-19, terrorism, civil unrest, health risks, kidnapping, armed conflict, and landmines. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws and special circumstances in this country.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements: US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. They should also make sure they have at least 1 blank page in their passport for any entry stamp and or visa that will be required. A visa is required. US citizens will need to get in touch with the country’s embassy or nearest consulate to obtain a visa prior to visiting the country.
US Embassy/Consulate: No US Embassy or Consulate currently in Yemen since 2015, due to ongoing conflict; Yemen Affairs Unit currently operates out of US Embassy Riyadh, [966] 11-488-3800; (967) 1 755-2000; US Embassy in Sana’a, Sa’awan Street, PO Box 22347; YemenEmergencyUSC@state.gov;
https://ye.usembassy.gov/
Telephone Code: 967
Local Emergency Phone: Ambulance: 191; Fire: 191; Police: 194
Vaccinations: See WHO recommendations. On 21 March 2022, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Travel Alert for polio in Asia; Yemen is currently considered a high risk to travelers for polio; the CDC recommends that before any international travel, anyone unvaccinated, incompletely vaccinated, or with an unknown polio vaccination status should complete the routine polio vaccine series; before travel to any high-risk destination, CDC recommends that adults who previously completed the full, routine polio vaccine series receive a single, lifetime booster dose of polio vaccine.
http://www.who.int/
Climate: Mostly desert; hot and humid along west coast; temperate in western mountains affected by seasonal monsoon; extraordinarily hot, dry, harsh desert in east
Currency (Code): Yemeni rials (YER)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s): 230 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): A, D, G
Major Languages: Arabic
Major Religions: Muslim 99.1% (estimated 65% are Sunni and 35% are Shia), other 0.9% (includes Jewish, Baha'i, Hindu, and Christian)
Time Difference: UTC+3 (8 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Potable Water: Opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit: Suggested
Road Driving Side: Right
Tourist Destinations: Al-Saleh Mosque; Old City of Sanaa; Socotra Island; Qalansiya Beach; Al Mukalla Harbor; Gulf of Aden, Shibam, Seiyun Palace, Thula Village
Major Sports: Soccer, boxing, mountain climbing
Cultural Practices: Yemenis greatly respect titles and positions of authority. Familiarity is commonly avoided in a work-related setting.
Tipping Guidelines: Leave a 10% tip in finer restaurants; otherwise round up the bill.Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444
Page last updated: Tuesday, April 05, 2022 |
20220601 | countries-mauritania |
Topic: Photos of Mauritania
Topic: Introduction
Background: The Berber and Bafour people were among the first to settle in what is now Mauritania. Originally a nomadic people, they were among the first in recorded history to convert from a nomadic to agricultural lifestyle. These groups account for roughly one third of Mauritania’s ethnic makeup. The remainder of Mauritania’s ethnic groups derive from former enslaved peoples and sub-Saharan ethnic groups originating mainly from the Senegal River Valley. These three groups are organized according to a strict caste system with deep ethnic divides that still exist today.
A former French colony, Mauritania achieved independence from France in 1960. Mauritania initially began as a single-party, authoritarian regime and saw 49 years of dictatorships, flawed elections, failed attempts at democracy, and military coups. Ould Abdel AZIZ led the last coup in 2008, and was elected president in 2009 and reelected in 2014. Mohamed Ould Cheikh GHAZOUANI was elected president in 2019, and his inauguration marked the first peaceful transition of power from one democratically elected president to another, solidifying Mauritania’s status as an emerging democracy. International observers recognized the elections as relatively free and fair. The country is working to address a continuing practice of slavery and its vestiges. Mauritania officially abolished slavery in 1981, but the practice was not criminalized until 2007. Between 2005 and 2011, Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) launched a series of attacks killing American and foreign tourists and aid workers, attacking diplomatic and government facilities, and ambushing Mauritanian soldiers and gendarmes. Although Mauritania has not seen an attack since 2011, AQIM and similar groups remain active in the Sahel region. The Berber and Bafour people were among the first to settle in what is now Mauritania. Originally a nomadic people, they were among the first in recorded history to convert from a nomadic to agricultural lifestyle. These groups account for roughly one third of Mauritania’s ethnic makeup. The remainder of Mauritania’s ethnic groups derive from former enslaved peoples and sub-Saharan ethnic groups originating mainly from the Senegal River Valley. These three groups are organized according to a strict caste system with deep ethnic divides that still exist today.
A former French colony, Mauritania achieved independence from France in 1960. Mauritania initially began as a single-party, authoritarian regime and saw 49 years of dictatorships, flawed elections, failed attempts at democracy, and military coups. Ould Abdel AZIZ led the last coup in 2008, and was elected president in 2009 and reelected in 2014. Mohamed Ould Cheikh GHAZOUANI was elected president in 2019, and his inauguration marked the first peaceful transition of power from one democratically elected president to another, solidifying Mauritania’s status as an emerging democracy. International observers recognized the elections as relatively free and fair.The country is working to address a continuing practice of slavery and its vestiges. Mauritania officially abolished slavery in 1981, but the practice was not criminalized until 2007. Between 2005 and 2011, Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) launched a series of attacks killing American and foreign tourists and aid workers, attacking diplomatic and government facilities, and ambushing Mauritanian soldiers and gendarmes. Although Mauritania has not seen an attack since 2011, AQIM and similar groups remain active in the Sahel region. Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Senegal and Western Sahara
Geographic coordinates: 20 00 N, 12 00 W
Map references: Africa
Area: total: 1,030,700 sq km
land: 1,030,700 sq km
water: 0 sq km
Area - comparative: slightly larger than three times the size of New Mexico; about six times the size of Florida
Land boundaries: total: 5,002 km
border countries (4): Algeria 460 km; Mali 2,236 km; Morocco 1,564 km; Senegal 742 km
Coastline: 754 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
Climate: desert; constantly hot, dry, dusty
Terrain: mostly barren, flat plains of the Sahara; some central hills
Elevation: highest point: Kediet Ijill 915 m
lowest point: Sebkhet Te-n-Dghamcha -5 m
mean elevation: 276 m
Natural resources: iron ore, gypsum, copper, phosphate, diamonds, gold, oil, fish
Land use: agricultural land: 38.5% (2018 est.)
arable land: 0.4% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 0% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 38.1% (2018 est.)
forest: 0.2% (2018 est.)
other: 61.3% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 450 sq km (2012)
Major rivers (by length in km): Senegal river mouth (shared with Guinea [s], Senegal and Mali) - 1,641 km
note – [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
Major watersheds (area sq km): Atlantic Ocean drainage: Niger (2,261,741 sq km), Senegal (456,397 sq km)
Major aquifers: Senegalo-Mauritanian Basin, Taodeni-Tanzerouft Basin
Population distribution: with most of the country being a desert, vast areas of the country, particularly in the central, northern, and eastern areas, are without sizeable population clusters; half the population lives in or around the coastal capital of Nouakchott; smaller clusters are found near the southern border with Mali and Senegal as shown in this population distribution map
Natural hazards: hot, dry, dust/sand-laden sirocco wind primarily in March and April; periodic droughts
Geography - note: Mauritania is considered both a part of North Africa's Maghreb region and West Africa's Sahel region; most of the population is concentrated in the cities of Nouakchott and Nouadhibou and along the Senegal River in the southern part of the country
Map description: Mauritania map showing major population centers as well as parts of surrounding countries and the North Atlantic Ocean.Mauritania map showing major population centers as well as parts of surrounding countries and the North Atlantic Ocean.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 4,161,925 (2022 est.)
Nationality: noun: Mauritanian(s)
adjective: Mauritanian
Ethnic groups: Black Moors (Haratines - Arabic-speaking descendants of African origin who are or were enslaved by White Moors) 40%, White Moors (of Arab-Berber descent, known as Beydane) 30%, Sub-Saharan Mauritanians (non-Arabic speaking, largely resident in or originating from the Senegal River Valley, including Halpulaar, Fulani, Soninke, Wolof, and Bambara ethnic groups) 30%
Languages: Arabic (official and national), Pular, Soninke, Wolof (all national languages), French; note - the spoken Arabic in Mauritania differs considerably from the Modern Standard Arabic used for official written purposes or in the media; the Mauritanian dialect, which incorporates many Berber words, is referred to as Hassaniya
major-language sample(s):
كتاب حقائق العالم، المصدر الذي لا يمكن الاستغناء عنه للمعلومات الأساسية (Arabic)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Religions: Muslim (official) 100%
Demographic profile: With a sustained total fertility rate of about 4 children per woman and almost 60% of the population under the age of 25, Mauritania's population is likely to continue growing for the foreseeable future. Mauritania's large youth cohort is vital to its development prospects, but available schooling does not adequately prepare students for the workplace. Girls continue to be underrepresented in the classroom, educational quality remains poor, and the dropout rate is high. The literacy rate is only about 50%, even though access to primary education has improved since the mid-2000s. Women's restricted access to education and discriminatory laws maintain gender inequality - worsened by early and forced marriages and female genital cutting. The denial of education to black Moors also helps to perpetuate slavery. Although Mauritania abolished slavery in 1981 (the last country in the world to do so) and made it a criminal offense in 2007, the millenniums-old practice persists largely because anti-slavery laws are rarely enforced and the custom is so ingrained. According to a 2018 nongovernmental organization's report, a little more than 2% of Mauritania's population is enslaved, which includes individuals sujbected to forced labor and forced marriage, although many thousands of individuals who are legally free contend with discrimination, poor education, and a lack of identity papers and, therefore, live in de facto slavery. The UN and international press outlets have claimed that up to 20% of Mauritania's population is enslaved, which would be the highest rate worldwide. Drought, poverty, and unemployment have driven outmigration from Mauritania since the 1970s. Early flows were directed toward other West African countries, including Senegal, Mali, Cote d'Ivoire, and Gambia. The 1989 Mauritania-Senegal conflict forced thousands of black Mauritanians to take refuge in Senegal and pushed labor migrants toward the Gulf, Libya, and Europe in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Mauritania has accepted migrants from neighboring countries to fill labor shortages since its independence in 1960 and more recently has received refugees escaping civil wars, including tens of thousands of Tuaregs who fled Mali in 2012. Mauritania was an important transit point for Sub-Saharan migrants moving illegally to North Africa and Europe. In the mid-2000s, as border patrols increased in the Strait of Gibraltar, security increased around Spain's North African enclaves (Ceuta and Melilla), and Moroccan border controls intensified, illegal migration flows shifted from the Western Mediterranean to Spain's Canary Islands. In 2006, departure points moved southward along the West African coast from Morocco and then Western Sahara to Mauritania's two key ports (Nouadhibou and the capital Nouakchott), and illegal migration to the Canaries peaked at almost 32,000. The numbers fell dramatically in the following years because of joint patrolling off the West African coast by Frontex (the EU's border protection agency), Spain, Mauritania, and Senegal; the expansion of Spain's border surveillance system; and the 2008 European economic downturn.With a sustained total fertility rate of about 4 children per woman and almost 60% of the population under the age of 25, Mauritania's population is likely to continue growing for the foreseeable future. Mauritania's large youth cohort is vital to its development prospects, but available schooling does not adequately prepare students for the workplace. Girls continue to be underrepresented in the classroom, educational quality remains poor, and the dropout rate is high. The literacy rate is only about 50%, even though access to primary education has improved since the mid-2000s. Women's restricted access to education and discriminatory laws maintain gender inequality - worsened by early and forced marriages and female genital cutting.The denial of education to black Moors also helps to perpetuate slavery. Although Mauritania abolished slavery in 1981 (the last country in the world to do so) and made it a criminal offense in 2007, the millenniums-old practice persists largely because anti-slavery laws are rarely enforced and the custom is so ingrained. According to a 2018 nongovernmental organization's report, a little more than 2% of Mauritania's population is enslaved, which includes individuals sujbected to forced labor and forced marriage, although many thousands of individuals who are legally free contend with discrimination, poor education, and a lack of identity papers and, therefore, live in de facto slavery. The UN and international press outlets have claimed that up to 20% of Mauritania's population is enslaved, which would be the highest rate worldwide.Drought, poverty, and unemployment have driven outmigration from Mauritania since the 1970s. Early flows were directed toward other West African countries, including Senegal, Mali, Cote d'Ivoire, and Gambia. The 1989 Mauritania-Senegal conflict forced thousands of black Mauritanians to take refuge in Senegal and pushed labor migrants toward the Gulf, Libya, and Europe in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Mauritania has accepted migrants from neighboring countries to fill labor shortages since its independence in 1960 and more recently has received refugees escaping civil wars, including tens of thousands of Tuaregs who fled Mali in 2012.Mauritania was an important transit point for Sub-Saharan migrants moving illegally to North Africa and Europe. In the mid-2000s, as border patrols increased in the Strait of Gibraltar, security increased around Spain's North African enclaves (Ceuta and Melilla), and Moroccan border controls intensified, illegal migration flows shifted from the Western Mediterranean to Spain's Canary Islands. In 2006, departure points moved southward along the West African coast from Morocco and then Western Sahara to Mauritania's two key ports (Nouadhibou and the capital Nouakchott), and illegal migration to the Canaries peaked at almost 32,000. The numbers fell dramatically in the following years because of joint patrolling off the West African coast by Frontex (the EU's border protection agency), Spain, Mauritania, and Senegal; the expansion of Spain's border surveillance system; and the 2008 European economic downturn.
Age structure: 0-14 years: 37.56% (male 755,788/female 748,671)
15-24 years: 19.71% (male 387,140/female 402,462)
25-54 years: 33.91% (male 630,693/female 727,518)
55-64 years: 4.9% (male 88,888/female 107,201)
65 years and over: 3.92% (2020 est.) (male 66,407/female 90,707)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 75
youth dependency ratio: 69.5
elderly dependency ratio: 5.6
potential support ratio: 18 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 21 years
male: 20.1 years
female: 22 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 1.99% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 28.06 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 7.43 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: -0.72 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: with most of the country being a desert, vast areas of the country, particularly in the central, northern, and eastern areas, are without sizeable population clusters; half the population lives in or around the coastal capital of Nouakchott; smaller clusters are found near the southern border with Mali and Senegal as shown in this population distribution map
Urbanization: urban population: 56.9% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 3.84% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 1.432 million NOUAKCHOTT (capital) (2022)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.01 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 0.96 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 0.86 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 0.83 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.61 male(s)/female
total population: 0.93 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth: 21.4 years (2019-2021)
note: median age at first birth among women 25-29
Maternal mortality ratio: 766 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 50.99 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 56.89 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 44.91 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 65.22 years
male: 62.77 years
female: 67.75 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 3.53 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: 17.8% (2015)
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 98.7% of population
rural: 68.4% of population
total: 85.2% of population
unimproved: urban: 1.3% of population
rural: 31.6% of population
total: 14.8% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 3.3% (2019)
Physicians density: 0.19 physicians/1,000 population (2018)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 83.5% of population
rural: 25.2% of population
total: 57.5% of population
unimproved: urban: 16.5% of population
rural: 74.8% of population
total: 42.5% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: 0.3% (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: 8,500 (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - deaths: (2020 est.) <500
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: very high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial and protozoal diarrhea, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever
vectorborne diseases: malaria and dengue fever
animal contact diseases: rabies
respiratory diseases: meningococcal meningitis
note: on 21 March 2022, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Travel Alert for polio in Africa; Mauritania is currently considered a high risk to travelers for circulating vaccine-derived polioviruses (cVDPV); vaccine-derived poliovirus (VDPV) is a strain of the weakened poliovirus that was initially included in oral polio vaccine (OPV) and that has changed over time and behaves more like the wild or naturally occurring virus; this means it can be spread more easily to people who are unvaccinated against polio and who come in contact with the stool or respiratory secretions, such as from a sneeze, of an “infected” person who received oral polio vaccine; the CDC recommends that before any international travel, anyone unvaccinated, incompletely vaccinated, or with an unknown polio vaccination status should complete the routine polio vaccine series; before travel to any high-risk destination, CDC recommends that adults who previously completed the full, routine polio vaccine series receive a single, lifetime booster dose of polio vaccine
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 12.7% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: 19.2% (2018)
Education expenditures: 1.9% of GDP (2020)
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 53.5%
male: 63.7%
female: 43.4% (2017)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 9 years
male: 9 years
female: 10 years (2019)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 21.1%
male: 18.8%
female: 24.9% (2017 est.)
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: overgrazing, deforestation, and soil erosion aggravated by drought are contributing to desertification; limited natural freshwater resources away from the Senegal, which is the only perennial river; locust infestation
Environment - international agreements: party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands, Whaling
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 40.82 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 2.74 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 6.16 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: desert; constantly hot, dry, dusty
Land use: agricultural land: 38.5% (2018 est.)
arable land: 0.4% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 0% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 38.1% (2018 est.)
forest: 0.2% (2018 est.)
other: 61.3% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 56.9% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 3.84% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 1.3% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0% of GDP (2018 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: very high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial and protozoal diarrhea, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever
vectorborne diseases: malaria and dengue fever
animal contact diseases: rabies
respiratory diseases: meningococcal meningitis
note: on 21 March 2022, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Travel Alert for polio in Africa; Mauritania is currently considered a high risk to travelers for circulating vaccine-derived polioviruses (cVDPV); vaccine-derived poliovirus (VDPV) is a strain of the weakened poliovirus that was initially included in oral polio vaccine (OPV) and that has changed over time and behaves more like the wild or naturally occurring virus; this means it can be spread more easily to people who are unvaccinated against polio and who come in contact with the stool or respiratory secretions, such as from a sneeze, of an “infected” person who received oral polio vaccine; the CDC recommends that before any international travel, anyone unvaccinated, incompletely vaccinated, or with an unknown polio vaccination status should complete the routine polio vaccine series; before travel to any high-risk destination, CDC recommends that adults who previously completed the full, routine polio vaccine series receive a single, lifetime booster dose of polio vaccine
Food insecurity: severe localized food insecurity: due to poor performance of cereal production - domestic cereal production declined in 2021 due to poor weather, which is likely to worsen conditions of the most vulnerable households; in the upcoming peak of the lean season, between June and August 2022, 660,000 people are projected to face severe food insecurity (2022)
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 454,000 tons (2009 est.)
municipal solid waste recycled annually: 36,320 tons (2009 est.)
percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 8% (2009 est.)
Major rivers (by length in km): Senegal river mouth (shared with Guinea [s], Senegal and Mali) - 1,641 km
note – [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
Major watersheds (area sq km): Atlantic Ocean drainage: Niger (2,261,741 sq km), Senegal (456,397 sq km)
Major aquifers: Senegalo-Mauritanian Basin, Taodeni-Tanzerouft Basin
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 95.4 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 31.8 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 1.223 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 11.4 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Islamic Republic of Mauritania
conventional short form: Mauritania
local long form: Al Jumhuriyah al Islamiyah al Muritaniyah
local short form: Muritaniyah
etymology: named for the ancient kingdom of Mauretania (3rd century B.C. to 1st century A.D.) and the subsequent Roman province (1st-7th centuries A.D.), which existed further north in present-day Morocco; the name derives from the Mauri (Moors), the Berber-speaking peoples of northwest Africa
Government type: presidential republic
Capital: name: Nouakchott
geographic coordinates: 18 04 N, 15 58 W
time difference: UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: may derive from the Berber "nawakshut" meaning "place of the winds"
Administrative divisions: 15 regions (wilayas, singular - wilaya); Adrar, Assaba, Brakna, Dakhlet Nouadhibou, Gorgol, Guidimaka, Hodh ech Chargui, Hodh El Gharbi, Inchiri, Nouakchott Nord, Nouakchott Ouest, Nouakchott Sud, Tagant, Tiris Zemmour, Trarza
Independence: 28 November 1960 (from France)
National holiday: Independence Day, 28 November (1960)
Constitution: history: previous 1964; latest adopted 12 July 1991
amendments: proposed by the president of the republic or by Parliament; consideration of amendments by Parliament requires approval of at least one third of the membership; a referendum is held only if the amendment is approved by two-thirds majority vote; passage by referendum requires simple majority vote by eligible voters; passage of amendments proposed by the president can bypass a referendum if approved by at least three-fifths majority vote by Parliament; amended 2006, 2012, 2017
Legal system: mixed legal system of Islamic and French civil law
International law organization participation: has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; non-party state to the ICCt
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: no
citizenship by descent only: at least one parent must be a citizen of Mauritania
dual citizenship recognized: no
residency requirement for naturalization: 5 years
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: President Mohamed Ould Cheikh el GHAZOUANI (since 1 August 2019) (2019)
head of government: Prime Minister Mohamed Ould BILAL (since 6 August 2020) (2020)
cabinet: Council of Ministers - nominees suggested by the prime minister, appointed by the president
elections/appointments: president directly elected by absolute majority popular vote in 2 rounds if needed for a 5-year term (eligible for a second term); election last held on 22 June 2019 (next scheduled for 22 June 2024); prime minister appointed by the president (2019)
election results: Mohamed Ould Cheikh El GHAZOUANI elected president in first round; percent of vote - Mahamed Ould Cheikh El GHAZOUANI (UPR) 52%, Biram Dah Ould ABEID (independent) 18.6%, Sidi Mohamed Ould BOUBACAR (independent) 17.9%, other 11.55%
Legislative branch: description: unicameral Parliament or Barlamane consists of the National Assembly or Al Jamiya Al Wataniya (157 seats; 113 members in single- and multi-seat constituencies directly elected by a combination of plurality and proportional representation voting systems, 40 members in a single, nationwide constituency directly elected by proportional representation vote, and 4 members directly elected by the diaspora; all members serve 5-year terms)
elections: first held as the unicameral National Assembly in 2 rounds on 1 and 15 September 2018 (next to be held in 2023)
election results: National Assembly - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - UPR 95, Tawassoul 14, UDP 6, El Karama 6, AND 4, PUCM 4, RFD 3, UFP 3, Shura Party for Development 3, Burst of Youth for the Nation 3, SAWAB 3, APP 3, DIL 2, El Wiam 2, AJD/MR 2, Coalition of Wava Mauritanian Party 1, El Ghad 1, National Democratic Union 1, Ravah Party 1, Party of Peace and Democratic Progress 1, El Islah 1
note: a referendum held in August 2017 approved a constitutional amendment to change the Parliament structure from bicameral to unicameral by abolishing the Senate and creating Regional Councils for local development
Judicial branch: highest courts: Supreme Court or Cour Supreme (subdivided into 7 chambers: 2 civil, 2 labor, 1 commercial, 1 administrative, and 1 criminal, each with a chamber president and 2 councilors ); Constitutional Council (consists of 9 members); High Court of Justice (consists of 9 members)
judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court president appointed by the president of the republic to serve a 5-year renewable term; Constitutional Council members appointed - 3 by the president of the republic, 2 by the president of the National Assembly, 1 by the prime minister, 1 by the leader of the democratic opposition, 1 by the largest opposition party in the National Assembly, and 1 by the second largest party in the National Assembly; members serve single, 9-year terms with one-third of membership renewed every 3 years; High Court of Justice members appointed by Parliament - 6 by the ruling Coalition of Majority Parties and 3 by opposition parties
subordinate courts: Courts of Appeal; courts of first instance or wilya courts are established in the regions' headquarters and include commercial and labor courts, criminal courts, Moughataa (district) Courts, and informal/customary courts
Political parties and leaders: Alliance for Justice and Democracy/Movement for Renewal or AJD/MR [Ibrahima Moctar SARR]
Burst of Youth for the Nation [Lalla Mint CHERIF]
Coalition of Majority Parties or CPM (includes UPR, UDP) and smaller parties
El Karama Party [Cheikhna Ould Mohamed Ould HAJBOU]
El Vadila Party [Ethmane Ould Ahmed ABOULMAALY]
National Rally for Reform and Development or RNRD-TAWASSOUL [Mohamed Mahmoud Ould SEYIDI]
Party of Unity and Development or PUD [Mohamed BARO]
Popular Progressive Alliance or APP [Messaoud Ould BOULKHEIR]
Rally of Democratic Forces or RFD [Ahmed Ould DADDAH]
Ravah Party [ Mohamed Ould VALL]
Republican Party for Democracy and Renewal or PRDR [Mintata Mint HEDEID]
Union for Democracy and Progress or UDP [Naha Mint MOUKNASS]
Union of Progress Forces [Mohamed Ould MAOULOUD]
Union for the Republic or UPR [Sidi Mohamed Ould Taleb AMAR]
International organization participation: ABEDA, ACP, AfDB, AFESD, AMF, AMU, AU, CAEU (candidate), EITI (compliant country), FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (NGOs), ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IHO (pending member), ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO (correspondent), ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), LAS, MIGA, MIUSMA, NAM, OIC, OIF, OPCW, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador BOIDE Cisse (since 15 September 2021)
chancery: 2129 Leroy Place NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 232-5700
FAX: [1] (202) 319-2623
email address and website:
office@mauritaniaembassyus.com
http://mauritaniaembassyus.com/
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Cynthia KIERSCHT (since 27 January 2021)
embassy: Nouadhibou Road, Avenue Al Quds, NOT PRTZ, Nouakchott
mailing address: 2430 Nouakchott Place, Washington DC 20521-2430
telephone: [222] 4525-2660
FAX: [222] 4525-1592
email address and website:
consularnkc@state.gov
https://mr.usembassy.gov/
Flag description: green with a yellow, five-pointed star between the horns of a yellow, upward-pointing crescent moon; red stripes along the top and bottom edges; the crescent, star, and color green are traditional symbols of Islam; green also represents hope for a bright future; the yellow color stands for the sands of the Sahara; red symbolizes the blood shed in the struggle for independence
National symbol(s): five-pointed star between the horns of a horizontal crescent moon; national colors: green, yellow
National anthem: name: "Hymne National de la Republique Islamique de Mauritanie" (National Anthem of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania)
lyrics/music: Baba Ould CHEIKH/traditional, arranged by Tolia NIKIPROWETZKY
note: adopted 1960; the unique rhythm of the Mauritanian anthem makes it particularly challenging to sing; Mauritania in November 2017 adopted a new national anthem, "Bilada-l ubati-l hudati-l kiram" (The Country of Fatherhood is the Honorable Gift) composed by Rageh Daoud (sound file of the new anthem is forthcoming)
National heritage: total World Heritage Sites: 2 (1 cultural, 1 natural)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Banc d'Arguin National Park (n); Ancient Ksour (Fortified Villages) of Ouadane, Chinguetti, Tichitt, and Oualata (c)
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Mauritania's economy is dominated by extractive industries (oil and mines), fisheries, livestock, agriculture, and services. Half the population still depends on farming and raising livestock, even though many nomads and subsistence farmers were forced into the cities by recurrent droughts in the 1970s, 1980s, 2000s, and 2017. Recently, GDP growth has been driven largely by foreign investment in the mining and oil sectors. Mauritania's extensive mineral resources include iron ore, gold, copper, gypsum, and phosphate rock, and exploration is ongoing for tantalum, uranium, crude oil, and natural gas. Extractive commodities make up about three-quarters of Mauritania's total exports, subjecting the economy to price swings in world commodity markets. Mining is also a growing source of government revenue, rising from 13% to 30% of total revenue from 2006 to 2014. The nation's coastal waters are among the richest fishing areas in the world, and fishing accounts for about 15% of budget revenues, 45% of foreign currency earnings. Mauritania processes a total of 1,800,000 tons of fish per year, but overexploitation by foreign and national fleets threaten the sustainability of this key source of revenue. The economy is highly sensitive to international food and extractive commodity prices. Other risks to Mauritania's economy include its recurring droughts, dependence on foreign aid and investment, and insecurity in neighboring Mali, as well as significant shortages of infrastructure, institutional capacity, and human capital. In December 2017, Mauritania and the IMF agreed to a three year agreement under the Extended Credit Facility to foster economic growth, maintain macroeconomic stability, and reduce poverty. Investment in agriculture and infrastructure are the largest components of the country’s public expenditures.Mauritania's economy is dominated by extractive industries (oil and mines), fisheries, livestock, agriculture, and services. Half the population still depends on farming and raising livestock, even though many nomads and subsistence farmers were forced into the cities by recurrent droughts in the 1970s, 1980s, 2000s, and 2017. Recently, GDP growth has been driven largely by foreign investment in the mining and oil sectors. Mauritania's extensive mineral resources include iron ore, gold, copper, gypsum, and phosphate rock, and exploration is ongoing for tantalum, uranium, crude oil, and natural gas. Extractive commodities make up about three-quarters of Mauritania's total exports, subjecting the economy to price swings in world commodity markets. Mining is also a growing source of government revenue, rising from 13% to 30% of total revenue from 2006 to 2014. The nation's coastal waters are among the richest fishing areas in the world, and fishing accounts for about 15% of budget revenues, 45% of foreign currency earnings. Mauritania processes a total of 1,800,000 tons of fish per year, but overexploitation by foreign and national fleets threaten the sustainability of this key source of revenue. The economy is highly sensitive to international food and extractive commodity prices. Other risks to Mauritania's economy include its recurring droughts, dependence on foreign aid and investment, and insecurity in neighboring Mali, as well as significant shortages of infrastructure, institutional capacity, and human capital. In December 2017, Mauritania and the IMF agreed to a three year agreement under the Extended Credit Facility to foster economic growth, maintain macroeconomic stability, and reduce poverty. Investment in agriculture and infrastructure are the largest components of the country’s public expenditures.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $23.17 billion (2020 est.)
$23.52 billion (2019 est.)
$22.2 billion (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 3.5% (2017 est.)
1.8% (2016 est.)
0.4% (2015 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $5,000 (2020 est.)
$5,200 (2019 est.)
$5,000 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $706 million (2018 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 2.2% (2019 est.)
3.1% (2018 est.)
2.2% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 27.8% (2017 est.)
industry: 29.3% (2017 est.)
services: 42.9% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 64.9% (2017 est.)
government consumption: 21.8% (2017 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 56.1% (2017 est.)
investment in inventories: -3.2% (2017 est.)
exports of goods and services: 39% (2017 est.)
imports of goods and services: -78.6% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: rice, milk, goat milk, sheep milk, sorghum, mutton, beef, camel milk, camel meat, dates
Industries: fish processing, oil production, mining (iron ore, gold, copper)
note: gypsum deposits have never been exploited
Industrial production growth rate: 1% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 1.437 million (2017 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 50%
industry: 1.9%
services: 48.1% (2014 est.)
Unemployment rate: 10.2% (2017 est.)
10.1% (2016 est.)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 21.1%
male: 18.8%
female: 24.9% (2017 est.)
Population below poverty line: 31% (2014 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 32.6 (2014 est.)
39 (2006 est.)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: 2.5%
highest 10%: 29.5% (2000)
Budget: revenues: 1.354 billion (2017 est.)
expenditures: 1.396 billion (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): -0.8% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 96.6% of GDP (2017 est.)
100% of GDP (2016 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 27.4% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: calendar year
Current account balance: -$711 million (2017 est.)
-$707 million (2016 est.)
Exports: $2.52 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$2.06 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$302 million (2017 est.)
Exports - partners: China 32%, Switzerland 13%, Spain 9%, Japan 9%, Italy 5% (2019)
Exports - commodities: iron ore, fish products, gold, mollusks, processed crustaceans (2019)
Imports: $3.68 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$3.28 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$319 million (2017 est.)
Imports - partners: China 26%, France 6%, Spain 6%, Morocco 6%, United Arab Emirates 5% (2019)
Imports - commodities: ships, aircraft, wheat, raw sugar, refined petroleum (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $875 million (31 December 2017 est.)
$849.3 million (31 December 2016 est.)
Debt - external: $4.15 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
$3.899 billion (31 December 2016 est.)
Exchange rates: ouguiyas (MRO) per US dollar -
363.6 (2017 est.)
352.37 (2016 est.)
352.37 (2015 est.)
319.7 (2014 est.)
299.5 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 32% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 56% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 4% (2019)
Electricity - production: 1.139 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 1.059 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - imports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 558,000 kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 65% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 16% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 20% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 4,000 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 5,333 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 20 million bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 17,000 bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 17,290 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 28.32 billion cu m (1 January 2018 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 62,099 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 1 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 4,932,571 (2020)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 106.1 (2020 est.)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: Mauritania’s small population and low economic output limit sustained growth; transparency and tax burdens hinder foreign investment; World Bank and European Investment Bank support regulatory reforms to promote fixed-line broadband, improvement of the national backbone network, and connectivity to international cables; limited system of cable and open-wire lines, mobile-cellular services expanding though monopolies, and little stimulus for competition; 3G penetration high yet little development in LTE; mobile broadband access speeds are low; importer of broadcasting equipment from UAE (2020)
domestic: fixed-line teledensity roughly 1 per 100 persons; mobile-cellular network coverage extends mainly to urban areas with a teledensity of roughly 106 per 100 persons; mostly cable and open-wire lines; a domestic satellite telecommunications system links Nouakchott with regional capitals (2020)
international: country code - 222; landing point for the ACE submarine cable for connectivity to 19 West African countries and 2 European countries; satellite earth stations - 3 (1 Intelsat - Atlantic Ocean, 2 Arabsat) (2019)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: 12 TV stations: 6 government-owned and 6 private (the 6th was started in early 2022, owed by the President of Mauritanian Businessmen); in October 2017, the government suspended most private TV stations due to non-payment of broadcasting fees, but they later negotiated payment options with the government and are back since 2019. There are 19 radio broadcasters: 15 government-owned, 4 (Radio Nouakchott Libre, Radio Tenwir, Radio Kobeni and Mauritanid) private; all 4 private radio stations broadcast from Nouakchott; of the 15 government stations, 4 broadcast from Nouakchott (Radio Mauritanie, Radio Jeunesse, Radio Koran and Mauritanid) and the other 12 broadcast from each of the 12 regions outside Nouakchott; Radio Jeunesse and Radio Koran are now also being re-broadcast in all the regions. (2022)
Internet country code: .mr
Internet users: total: 1,906,360 (2020 est.)
percent of population: 41% (2020 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 18,457 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 0.4 (2020 est.) less than 1
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 1 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 6
annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 454,435 (2018)
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: 5T
Airports: total: 30 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 9
2,438 to 3,047 m: 5
1,524 to 2,437 m: 4 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 21
2,438 to 3,047 m: 1
1,524 to 2,437 m: 10
914 to 1,523 m: 8
under 914 m: 2 (2021)
Railways: total: 728 km (2014)
standard gauge: 728 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge
Roadways: total: 12,253 km (2018)
paved: 3,988 km (2018)
unpaved: 8,265 km (2018)
Waterways: (2011) (some navigation possible on the Senegal River)
Merchant marine: total: 5
by type: general cargo 2, other 3 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Nouadhibou, Nouakchott
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: Mauritanian Armed Forces: Army, Mauritanian Navy (Marine Mauritanienne), Islamic Republic of Mauritania Air Group (Groupement Aerienne Islamique de Mauritanie, GAIM); Gendarmerie (Ministry of Defense); Ministry of Interior and Decentralization: National Guard, General Group for Road Safety (2021)
note(s) - the Gendarmerie is responsible for maintaining civil order around metropolitan areas and providing law enforcement services in rural areas; the National Guard performs a limited police function in keeping with its peacetime role of providing security at government facilities, to include prisons; the General Group for Road Safety maintains security on roads and operates checkpoints throughout the country
Military expenditures: 2.4% of GDP (2021 est.)
2.5% of GDP (2020 est.)
2.1% of GDP (2019 est.) (approximately $440 million)
2.3% of GDP (2018 est.) (approximately $430 million)
2.3% of GDP (2017 est.) (approximately $440 million)
Military and security service personnel strengths: approximately 16,000 active personnel (15,000 Army; 700 Navy; 300 Air Force); est. 3,000 Gendarmerie; est. 2,000 National Guard (2021)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the Mauritanian Armed Forces' inventory is limited and made up largely of older French and Soviet-era equipment; since 2010, Mauritania has received a limited amount of mostly secondhand military equipment from a variety of suppliers, with China as the leading provider (2021)
Military service age and obligation: 18 is the legal minimum age for voluntary military service; no conscription (2021)
Military deployments: 460 (plus about 320 police) Central African Republic (MINUSCA) (Feb 2022)
note - Mauritania is part of a five-nation anti-jihadist task force known as the G5 Sahel Group, set up in 2014 with Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, and Niger; it has committed 550 troops and 100 gendarmes to the force; in early 2020, G5 Sahel military chiefs of staff agreed to allow defense forces from each of the states to pursue terrorist fighters up to 100 km into neighboring countries; the G5 force is backed by the UN, US, and France; G5 troops periodically conduct joint operations with French forces deployed to the Sahel under Operation Barkhane
Military - note: since a spate of terrorist attacks in the 2000s, including a 2008 attack on a military base in the country’s north that resulted in the deaths of 12 soldiers, the Mauritanian Government has increased the defense budget and military equipment acquisitions, enhanced military training, heightened security cooperation with its neighbors and the international community, and built up the military’s special operations and civil-military affairs forces (2021)
Topic: Terrorism
Terrorist group(s): Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM)
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: Mauritanian claims to Western Sahara remain dormantMauritanian claims to Western Sahara remain dormant
Refugees and internally displaced persons: refugees (country of origin): 26,001 (Sahrawis) (mid-year 2021); 84,526 (Mali) (2022)
Trafficking in persons: current situation: Mauritania is a source, transit, and destination country for men, women, and children subjected to conditions of forced labor and sex trafficking; adults and children from traditional slave castes are subjected to slavery-related practices rooted in ancestral master-slave relationships; Mauritanian boys are trafficked within the country by religious teachers for forced begging; Mauritanian girls, as well as girls from Mali, Senegal, The Gambia, and other West African countries, are forced into domestic servitude; Mauritanian women and girls are forced into prostitution in the country or transported to countries in the Middle East for the same purpose
tier rating: Tier 2 Watch List — Mauritania does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking but is making significant efforts to do so and was upgraded to Tier 2 Watch List; the government convicted five hereditary slaveholders, drafted new anti-trafficking legislation and a national action plan, raised awareness on child forced begging in Quranic schools with imams and religious leaders by establishing an inter-ministerial committee, published a child protection guide, and operated a cash transfer program; however, the government rarely imprisoned convicted slaveholders and did not identify any victims; government agencies lacked resources; government officials refuse to investigate or prosecute political offenders (2020) |
20220601 | field-military-equipment-inventories-and-acquisitions | This entry provides basic information on each country’s military equipment inventories, as well as how they acquire their equipment; it is intended to show broad trends in major military equipment holdings, such as tanks and other armored vehicles, air defense systems, artillery, naval ships, helicopters, and fixed-wing aircraft. Arms acquisition information is an overview of major arms suppliers over a specific period of time, including second-hand arms delivered as aid, with a focus on major weapons systems. It is based on the type and number of weapon systems ordered and delivered and the financial value of the deal. For some countries, general information on domestic defense industry capabilities is provided.
Topic: Afghanistanthe former Afghan military's inventory was mostly a mix of Soviet-era and more modern US and Russian equipment (2021)
Topic: Albaniathe Albanian military was previously equipped with mostly Soviet-era weapons that were sold or destroyed; its inventory now includes a mix of mostly donated and second-hand European and US equipment; since 2010, it has received limited amounts of equipment from France, Germany, and the US (2021)
Topic: Algeriathe ANP's inventory includes mostly Russian-sourced equipment; since 2010, Algeria has received arms from more than 15 countries, with Russia as the leading supplier (2021)
Topic: Angolamost Angolan military weapons and equipment are of Russian, Soviet, or Warsaw Pact origin; since 2010, Russia has remained the principle supplier of military hardware to Angola (2021)
Topic: Antigua and Barbudathe ABDF's equipment inventory is limited to small arms, light weapons, and soft-skin vehicles; the Coast Guard maintains ex-US patrol vessels and some smaller boats (2021)
Topic: Argentinathe inventory of Argentina's armed forces is a mix of domestically-produced and mostly older imported weapons, largely from Europe and the US; since 2010, France and the US are the leading suppliers of equipment; Argentina has an indigenous defense industry that can produce air, land, and sea systems (2022)
Topic: Armeniathe inventory of the Armenian Armed Forces includes mostly Russian and Soviet-era equipment (2022)
Topic: Australiathe Australian military's inventory includes a mix of domestically-produced and imported Western weapons systems; since 2015, the US is the largest supplier of arms; the Australian defense industry produces a variety of land and sea weapons platforms; the defense industry also participates in joint development and production ventures with other Western countries, including the US and Canada (2022)
Topic: Austriathe Austrian military's inventory includes a mix of domestically-produced and imported weapons systems from European countries and the US; the Austrian defense industry produces a range of equipment and partners with other countries (2021)
Topic: Azerbaijanthe inventory of the Azerbaijan military is comprised mostly of Russian and Soviet-era weapons systems with a smaller mix of equipment from other countries; since 2010, Russia is the leading supplier of arms to Azerbaijan, followed by Israel (2021)
Topic: Bahamas, Themost of the RBDF's major equipment inventory is supplied by the Netherlands (2021)
Topic: Bahrainthe inventory of the Bahrain Defense force consists of a mix of equipment acquired from a wide variety of suppliers; since 2010, the US is the leading supplier of arms to Bahrain (2021)
Topic: Bangladeshmuch of the military's inventory is comprised of Chinese- and Russian-origin equipment, with a smaller mix from a variety of other suppliers; since 2010, China is the leading provider of arms to Bangladesh; as of 2022, Bangladesh was undertaking a large defense modernization program, with a focus on naval acquisitions (2022)
Topic: Barbadosthe Netherlands provide the BDF's major equipment inventory (maritime patrol boats) (2021)
Topic: Belarusthe inventory of the Belarus Armed Forces is comprised mostly of Russian/Soviet-origin equipment, and since 2010 Russia is the leading provider of arms; Belarus's defense industry manufactures some equipment (mostly modernized Soviet designs), including vehicles, guided weapons, and electronic warfare systems (2021)
Topic: Belgiumthe Belgian Armed Forces have a mix of weapons systems from European countries, Israel, and the US; since 2010, several European nations are the leading suppliers of armaments; Belgium has an export-focused defense industry that focuses on components and subcontracting (2021)
Topic: Belizethe BDF's inventory is limited and consists mostly of UK- and US-origin equipment (2022)
Topic: Beninthe FAB is equipped with a small mix of mostly older French and Soviet-era equipment (2021)
Topic: Bermudathe Regiment is equipped with small arms (2021)
Topic: BhutanIndia has provided most of the Royal Bhutan Army's equipment (2021)
Topic: Boliviathe Bolivian Armed Forces are equipped with a mix of mostly older Brazilian, Chinese, European, and US equipment; since 2010, China and France are the leading suppliers of military hardware to Bolivia (2021)
Topic: Bosnia and Herzegovinathe inventory for the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina includes mainly Soviet-era weapons systems with a small and varied mix of older European and US equipment (2021)
Topic: Botswanathe BDF has a mix of foreign-supplied and mostly older weapons and equipment, largely from Europe (2021)
Topic: Brazilthe Brazilian military's inventory consists of a mix of domestically-produced and imported weapons, largely from Europe and the US; since 2010, the US and several European countries are the leading suppliers of military equipment to Brazil; Brazil's defense industry is capable of designing and manufacturing equipment for all three military services and for export; it also jointly produces equipment with other countries (2021)
Topic: Bruneithe Royal Brunei Armed Forces imports nearly all of its military equipment and weapons systems and has a variety of suppliers, including the US and several European countries (2021)
Topic: Bulgariathe Bulgarian Armed Forces inventory consists primarily of Soviet-era equipment, although in recent years Bulgaria has procured limited amounts of more modern weapons systems from some Western countries (2022)
Topic: Burkina Fasothe FABF has a mix of foreign-supplied weapons; since 2010, it has received limited amounts of mostly donated second-hand equipment from a variety of countries (2022)
Topic: Burmathe Burmese military inventory is comprised mostly of older Chinese and Russian/Soviet-era equipment with a smaller mix of more modern acquisitions; since 2010, China and Russia are the leading suppliers of military hardware; Burma has a limited defense industry, including a growing shipbuilding capability (2021)
Topic: Burundithe FDN is armed mostly with weapons from Russia and the former Soviet Union, with some Western equipment, largely from France; since 2010, the FDN has received small amounts of mostly second-hand equipment from China, South Africa, and the US (2021)
Topic: Cabo Verdethe FACV has a limited amount of mostly dated and second-hand equipment, largely from China, European countries, and the former Soviet Union (2021)
Topic: Cambodiathe Royal Cambodian Armed Forces are armed largely with older Chinese and Russian-origin equipment; since 2010, it has received limited amounts of more modern (mostly second-hand) equipment from a variety of suppliers, led by China and Ukraine (2021)
Topic: Cameroonthe FAC inventory includes a wide mix of mostly older or second-hand Chinese, Russian, and Western equipment, with a limited quantity of more modern weapons; since 2010, China is the leading supplier of armaments to the FAC (2021)
Topic: Canadathe CAF's inventory is a mix of domestically-produced equipment and imported weapons systems from Australia, Europe, Israel, and the US; since 2010, the leading supplier is the US; Canada's defense industry develops, maintains, and produces a range of equipment, including aircraft, combat vehicles, naval vessels, and associated components (2021)
Topic: Central African Republicthe FACA is lightly and poorly armed with mostly outdated weapons; since 2010, it has received small amounts of second-hand equipment from China, Russia, and Ukraine (2021)
note - since 2013, CAR has been under a UNSC arms embargo; the embargo bans all supplies of arms and related materiel to the country except to the CAR security forces if approved in advance by the relevant UN Sanctions Committee
Topic: Chadthe ANT is mostly armed with older or second-hand equipment from Belgium, France, Russia, and the former Soviet Union; since 2010, it has received equipment, including donations, from more than 10 countries, including China, Italy, Ukraine, and the US (2021)
Topic: Chilethe Chilean military inventory is comprised of a wide mix of mostly Western equipment and some domestically-produced systems; since 2010, it has received military hardware from nearly 15 countries with Germany and the US as the leading suppliers; Chile's defense industry has capabilities in military aircraft, ships, and vehicles (2021)
Topic: Chinathe PLA is outfitted primarily with a wide mix of older and modern domestically-produced systems heavily influenced by technology derived from other countries; Russia is the top supplier of foreign military equipment since 2010; China's defense-industrial sector is large and capable of producing advanced weapons systems across all military domains (2022)
note - the PLA is in the midst of a decades-long modernization effort; in 2017, President XI set three developmental goals for the force - becoming a mechanized force with increased information and strategic capabilities by 2020, a fully modernized force by 2035, and a world-class military by mid-century
Topic: Colombiathe Colombian military inventory includes a wide mix of equipment from a variety of suppliers, including Canada, Europe, Israel, South Korea, and the US; Germany, Israel, and the US are the leading suppliers of military hardware since 2010; Colombia's defense industry is active in producing air, land, and naval platforms (2021)
Topic: Comorosthe defense forces are lightly armed with a mix of mostly older equipment from a variety of countries, including France, Italy, Russia, and the US (2021)
Topic: Congo, Democratic Republic of thethe FARDC is equipped mostly with a mix of second-hand Russian and Soviet-era weapons acquired from former Warsaw Pact nations; most equipment was acquired between 1970 and 2000; in recent years, Ukraine is the largest supplier of arms to the FARDC (2021)
Topic: Congo, Republic of thethe FAC is armed with mostly ageing Russian and Soviet-era weapons, with a smaller mix of French and South African equipment; the leading supplier of arms to the FAC since 2010 is South Africa (2021)
Topic: Costa Ricathe Public Force is lightly armed with an inventory that includes mostly second-hand US equipment (2022)
Topic: Cote d'Ivoirethe inventory of the FACI consists mostly of older or second-hand equipment, typically of French or Soviet-era origin; Cote d'Ivoire was under a partial UN arms embargo from 2004 to 2016; since 2016, it has received limited amounts of mostly second-hand equipment from a variety of countries (2021)
Topic: Croatiathe inventory of the Croatian Armed Forces consists mostly of Soviet-era equipment, although in recent years, it has acquired a limited amount of more modern weapon systems from Western suppliers, including Finland, Germany, and the US (2021)
Topic: Cubathe Cuban military inventory is comprised of ageing Russian and Soviet-era equipment; the last recorded arms delivery to Cuba was by Russia in 2004; in 2019, Russia approved a loan for approximately $43-50 million for Cuba's purchase of spare parts and armored vehicles (2022)
Topic: Cyprusthe inventory of the Cypriot National Guard is a mix of Soviet-era and some more modern weapons systems; since 2010, it has received equipment from several countries, including France, Israel, Russia, and Serbia (2021)
Topic: Czechiathe Czech military has a mix of Soviet-era and more modern equipment, mostly of Western European origin; since 2010, the leading suppliers of military equipment to Czechia are Austria and Spain (2021)
Topic: Denmarkthe Danish military inventory is comprised of a mix of modern European, US, and domestically-produced equipment; the US is the largest supplier of military equipment to Denmark since 2010; the Danish defense industry is active in the production of naval vessels, defense electronics, and subcomponents of larger weapons systems, such as the US F-35 fighter aircraft (2022)
Topic: Djiboutithe FAD is armed largely with older French and Soviet-era weapons systems; since 2010, it has received limited amounts of mostly second-hand equipment from a variety of countries, including China and the US (2021)
Topic: Dominican Republicthe military is lightly armed with an inventory consisting mostly of older US equipment with limited quantities of material from other countries (2022)
Topic: Ecuadorthe military's equipment inventory is mostly older and derived from a wide variety of sources; since 2010, Ecuador has received limited amounts of military equipment from more than 15 countries, including China, Russia, and the US (2022)
Topic: Egyptthe EAF's inventory is comprised of a mix of domestically produced, imported Soviet-era, and more modern, particularly Western, weapons systems; in recent years, the EAF has embarked on an extensive equipment modernization program with major purchases from a variety of suppliers; since 2010, the leading suppliers of military hardware to Egypt are France, Russia, and the US; Egypt has an established defense industry that produces a range of products from small arms to armored vehicles and naval vessels; it also has licensed and co-production agreements with several countries (2021)
Topic: El Salvadorthe FAES is dependent on a mix of mostly older imported platforms, largely from the US; since 2010, the FAES has received small amounts of equipment from several countries, including Chile, Israel, Spain, and the US (2021)
Topic: Equatorial Guineathe FAGE is armed with mostly older (typically Soviet-era) and second-hand weapons systems; in recent years, it has sought to modernize its naval inventory; Ukraine has been the leading provider of equipment since 2010 (2021)
Topic: Eritreathe Eritrean Defense Forces inventory is comprised primarily of older Russian and Soviet-era systems; Eritrea was under a UN arms embargo from 2009 to 2018; from the 1990s to 2008, Russia was the leading supplier of arms to Eritrea, followed by Belarus; in 2019, Eritrea expressed interest in purchasing Russian arms, including missile boats, helicopters, and small arms (2021)
Topic: Estoniathe Estonian Defense Forces have a limited inventory of Soviet-era and more recently acquired modern weapons systems, largely from western European countries, particularly France and the Netherlands (2021)
Topic: Eswatinithe UEDF is lightly armed with mostly South African material; it has received small amounts of secondhand equipment since 2010 (2021)
Topic: Ethiopiathe ENDF's inventory is comprised mostly of Soviet-era equipment from the 1970s; since 2010, the ENDF has received arms from a variety of countries, with China, Russia, and Ukraine as the leading suppliers; Ethiopia has a modest industrial defense base centered on small arms and production of armored vehicles (2021)
Topic: Fijithe RFMF is lightly armed and equipped; Australia has provided patrol boats and a few armored personnel carriers; it also provides logistical support for RFMF regional or UN operations; in recent years, China has provided construction equipment and military vehicles (2021)
Topic: Finlandthe inventory of the Finnish Defense Forces consists of a wide mix of mostly modern US, European, and domestically-produced weapons systems; since 2010, the US is the leading supplier; the Finnish defense industry produces a variety of military equipment, including wheeled armored vehicles and naval vessels (2021)
Topic: Francethe French military's inventory consists mostly of domestically-produced weapons systems, including some jointly-produced with other European countries; there is a limited mix of armaments from other Western countries, particularly the US; France has a defense industry capable of manufacturing the full spectrum of air, land, and naval military weapons systems (2022)
Topic: Gabonthe FDG is lightly armed with a mixed inventory from a variety of suppliers; since 2010, providers have included Brazil, China, France, Germany, and South Africa (2021)
Topic: Gambia, Thethe GNA has a limited equipment inventory; since 2000, it has received only a few secondhand items (2021)
Topic: Gaza Stripthe military wing of HAMAS is armed with light weapons, including an inventory of improvised rocket, anti-tank missile, and mortar capabilities; HAMAS acquires its weapons through smuggling or local construction and receives some military support from Iran (2021)
Topic: Georgiathe Georgian Defense Forces are equipped mostly with older Russian and Soviet-era weapons; since 2010, it has received limited quantities of equipment from European countries and the US (2021)
Topic: Germanythe German Federal Armed Forces inventory is mostly comprised of weapons systems produced domestically or jointly with other European countries and Western imports, particularly from the US; since 2010, the US is the leading foreign supplier; Germany's defense industry is capable of manufacturing the full spectrum of air, land, and naval military weapons systems, and is one of the world's leading arms exporters (2021)
Topic: Ghanathe inventory of the Ghana Armed Forces is a mix of Russian, Chinese, and Western equipment; since 2010, China is the leading supplier of arms (2021)
Topic: Greecethe inventory of the Hellenic Armed Forces consists mostly of a mix of imported weapons from Europe and the US, as well as a limited number of domestically produced systems, particularly naval vessels; Germany is the leading supplier of weapons systems to Greece since 2010; Greece's defense industry is capable of producing a range of military hardware, including naval vessels and associated subsystems (2021)
note - in addition to finalizing an update to the Mutual Defense Cooperation Agreement with the US, Greece also entered into a security agreement with France in 2021 that included the sale of frigates and fighter aircraft to augment its aging weapons systems
Topic: Guatemalathe Guatemalan military inventory is small and mostly comprised of older US equipment; since 2010, Guatemala has received small amounts of equipment from several countries, including the US (2022)
Topic: Guineathe inventory of the Guinean military consists largely of ageing and outdated (mostly Soviet-era) equipment; since 2010, it has received small amounts of equipment from China, France, Russia, and South Africa (2021)
Topic: Guinea-Bissauthe FARP is poorly armed with an inventory consisting of Soviet-era equipment, much of which is reportedly unserviceable; the only reported deliveries of military equipment since 2015 were patrol boats from Spain in 2017 and non-lethal equipment from China in 2015; Guinea-Bissau has also discussed acquiring military equipment with Indonesia (2021)
Topic: Guyanathe Guyana Defense Force's limited inventory is mostly comprised of second-hand platforms from a variety of foreign suppliers, including Brazil, China, the former Soviet Union, the UK, and the US (2021)
Topic: Haitinot available
Topic: Hondurasthe FFAA's inventory is comprised of mostly older imported equipment from Israel, the UK, and the US; since 2010, Honduras has received limited amounts of military equipment from several countries, including Colombia, Israel, and the Netherlands (2021)
Topic: Hungarythe inventory of the Hungarian Defense Forces consists largely of Soviet-era weapons, with a smaller mix of more modern European and US equipment; since 2010, Hungary has received limited quantities of equipment from several European countries and the US (2021)
Topic: Icelandthe Icelandic Coast Guard's inventory consists of equipment from mostly European suppliers (2022)
Topic: Indiathe inventory of the Indian Armed Forces consists mostly of Russian- and Soviet-origin equipment along with a smaller mix of Western and domestically-produced arms; since 2010, Russia has been the leading supplier of arms to India; other key suppliers included France, Israel, and the US; India's defense industry is capable of producing a range of air, land, missile, and naval weapons systems for both indigenous use and export (2022)
Topic: Indonesiathe Indonesian military inventory comes from a wide variety of sources; since 2010, the top suppliers included China, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Russia, South Korea, the UK, and the US; the TNI has been engaged in a long-term modernization program since 2010 with uneven success; Indonesia has a growing defense industry fueled by technology transfers and cooperation agreements with several countries; in 2019, the Indonesian Government publicly said that growing its domestic defense industry is a national priority over the next 5-10 years (2022)
Topic: Iranthe Iranian military's inventory includes a mix of domestically-produced and mostly older foreign equipment largely of Chinese, Russian, Soviet, and US origin (US equipment acquired prior to the Islamic Revolution in 1979); Iran has also received some military equipment from North Korea, including midget submarines and ballistic missiles; Iran has a defense industry with the capacity to develop, produce, support, and sustain air, land, missile, and naval weapons programs (2021)
note - in 2020, the UN lifted a 2010 embargo on exports of most types of major arms to Iran"
Topic: Iraqthe Iraqi military inventory is comprised of a mix of equipment from a wide variety of sources, including Europe, South Africa, South Korea, Russia, and the US; since 2010, Russia and the US are the leading suppliers of military hardware to Iraq (2021)
Topic: Irelandthe Irish Defense Forces have a small inventory of imported weapons systems from a variety of mostly European countries; the UK is the leading supplier of military hardware to Ireland since 2010 (2020)
Topic: Israelthe majority of the IDF's inventory is comprised of weapons that are domestically-produced or imported from Europe and the US; since 2010, the US is the leading supplier of arms to Israel; Israel has a broad defense industrial base that can develop, produce, support, and sustain a wide variety of weapons systems for both domestic use and export, particularly armored vehicles, unmanned aerial systems, air defense, and guided missiles (2021)
Topic: Italythe Italian Armed Forces' inventory includes a mix of domestically-produced, jointly-produced, and imported weapons systems, mostly from Europe and the US; the US is the leading supplier of weapons to Italy since 2010, followed by Germany; the Italian defense industry is capable of producing equipment across all the military domains with particular strengths in naval vessels and aircraft; it also participates in joint development and production of advanced weapons systems with other European countries and the US (2021)
Topic: Jamaicathe Jamaica Defense Force is lightly armed with a limited inventory featuring equipment mostly from Europe and the US (2021)
Topic: Japanthe JSDF is equipped with a mix of imported and domestically-produced equipment; Japan has a robust defense industry and is capable of producing a wide range of air, ground, and naval weapons systems; the majority of its weapons imports are from the US and some domestically-produced weapons are US-origin and manufactured under license (2021)
Topic: Jordanthe JAF inventory is comprised of a wide mix of imported equipment from Europe, some Gulf States, Russia, and the US; since 2010, the Netherlands and the US are the leading suppliers (2021)
Topic: Kazakhstanthe Kazakh military's inventory is comprised of mostly older Russian and Soviet-era equipment; since 2010, Russia is the leading supplier of weapons systems (2021)
Topic: Kenyathe KDF's inventory traditionally carried mostly older or second-hand Western weapons systems, particularly from France, the UK, and the US; however, since the 2000s it has sought to modernize and diversify its imports, and suppliers have included more than a dozen countries ranging from China to Italy, Jordan, and the US (2022)
Topic: Korea, Norththe KPA is equipped with older weapon systems originally acquired from the former Soviet Union, Russia, and China, as well as some domestically-produced equipment; North Korea manufactures copies and provides some upgrades to the older foreign weapon systems; it also produces a diverse array of military hardware, including small arms, munitions, light armored vehicles, tanks, naval vessels and submarines, and advanced weapons systems, such as ballistic missiles (2021)
note - since 2006, the UN Security Council has passed nearly a dozen resolutions sanctioning North Korea for developing nuclear weapons and related activities, starting with Resolution 1718 which condemned the North's first nuclear test and placed sanctions on the supply of heavy weaponry (including tanks, armored combat vehicles, large calibre artillery, combat aircraft, attack helicopters, warships, and missiles and missile launchers), missile technology and material, and select luxury goods; additional resolutions have expanded to include all arms, including small arms and light weapons; the US and other countries have also imposed unilateral sanctions
Topic: Korea, Souththe South Korean military is equipped with a mix of domestically-produced and imported weapons systems; South Korea has a robust defense industry and production includes armored fighting vehicles, artillery, aircraft, and naval ships; since 2010, the top foreign weapons supplier is the US and some domestically-produced systems are built under US license (2022)
Topic: Kosovothe KSF is equipped with small arms and light vehicles only; it relies on donations and since 2013 has received donated equipment from Turkey and the US (2021)
Topic: Kuwaitthe inventory of the Kuwaiti Armed Forces consists of weapons from a wide variety of sources, including Western Europe, Russia, the United Arab Emirates, and the US; the US is the leading supplier of arms to Kuwait since 2010 (2021)
Topic: Kyrgyzstanthe Kyrgyz Armed Forces' inventory is comprised of mostly older Russian and Soviet-era equipment; Kyrgyzstan relies on donations of military equipment, which come mostly from Russia under a 2013 agreement between Bishkek and Moscow (2021)
Topic: Laosthe LPAF is armed largely with weapons from the former Soviet Union; since 2010, China and Russia are the leading suppliers of military equipment to Laos (2021)
Topic: Latviathe Latvian military's inventory is limited and consists of a mixture of Soviet-era and more modern--mostly second-hand--European and US equipment; since 2010, it has received limited amounts of equipment from several European countries, Israel, and the US (2021)
Topic: Lebanonthe LAF inventory includes a wide mix of mostly older equipment from a diverse array of countries; since 2010, the US is the leading supplier of armaments (mostly second hand equipment) to Lebanon (2021)
Topic: Lesothothe LDF has a small inventory of older equipment from a variety of countries; since 2010, it has received only small quantities of second hand equipment from France (2021)
Topic: Liberiathe AFL is poorly armed; it has received limited quantities of equipment since 2010, including donations, from countries such as China and the US (2021)
Topic: Libyaboth the forces aligned with the GNU and the LNA are largely equipped with weapons of Russian or Soviet origin; as of 2021, Turkey was the top provider of arms and equipment to the forces supporting the GNU, while the United Arab Emirates was the main supporter of the LNA (2021)
Topic: Lithuaniathe Lithuanian Armed Forces' inventory is mostly a mix of Western weapons systems and Soviet-era equipment (primarily aircraft and helicopters); as of 2021, Germany was the leading supplier of armaments to Lithuania (2021)
Topic: Luxembourgthe inventory of Luxembourg's Army is a small mix of Western-origin equipment; since 2010, it has received equipment from several European countries (2021)
Topic: Madagascarthe PAF's inventory consists mostly of aging Soviet-era equipment; since 2010, it has received limited amounts of second-hand equipment from France, South Africa, and UAE (2021)
Topic: Malawithe Malawi Defense Force inventory is comprised of mostly obsolescent or second-hand equipment from Europe and South Africa; since 2010, it has taken deliveries of limited amounts of mostly second-hand equipment from China, South Africa, and the UK, as well as non-lethal equipment donated by the US (2021)
Topic: Malaysiathe Malaysian Armed Forces field a diverse mix of mostly older imported weapons systems; since 2010, it has imported military equipment from approximately 20 countries, with Germany and Spain as the leading suppliers (2021)
Topic: MaldivesIndia has provided most of the equipment in the MNDF's inventory (2021)
Topic: Malithe FAMa's inventory consists primarily of Soviet-era equipment, although in recent years it has received limited quantities of mostly second-hand armaments from more than a dozen countries, including Russia (2021)
Topic: Maltathe small inventory of the Armed Forces of Malta consists of equipment from a mix of European countries, particularly Italy, and the US (2021)
Topic: Mauritaniathe Mauritanian Armed Forces' inventory is limited and made up largely of older French and Soviet-era equipment; since 2010, Mauritania has received a limited amount of mostly secondhand military equipment from a variety of suppliers, with China as the leading provider (2021)
Topic: Mauritiusthe MPF's inventory is comprised of mostly second-hand equipment from Western European countries and India; since 2010, India has been the primary supplier (2021)
Topic: Mexicothe Mexican military inventory includes a mix of domestically-produced and imported equipment from a variety of mostly Western suppliers; since 2010, the US is the leading supplier of military hardware to Mexico; Mexico's defense industry produces naval vessels and light armored vehicles, as well as small arms and other miscellaneous equipment (2022)
Topic: Moldovathe Moldovan military's inventory is limited and almost entirely comprised of older Russian and Soviet-era equipment; since 2000, it has received small amounts of donated material from other nations, including the US (2021)
Topic: Mongoliathe MAF are armed with Soviet-era equipment supplemented by deliveries of second-hand Russian weapons (2021)
Topic: Montenegrothe inventory of the Armed Forces of Montenegro is small and consists mostly of equipment inherited from the former Yugoslavia military, with a limited mix of other imported systems; since 2010, it has received small quantities of equipment from Austria, Turkey, and the US (2021)
Topic: Moroccothe Moroccan military's inventory is comprised of mostly older French and US equipment; since 2010, it has received equipment from about a dozen countries with France and the US as the leading suppliers (2021)
Topic: Mozambiquethe FADM's inventory consists primarily of Soviet-era equipment, although since 2010 it has received limited quantities of more modern equipment from a variety of countries, mostly as aid/donations (2021)
Topic: Namibiathe inventory of the Namibian Defense Force consists mostly of Soviet-era equipment; China is the leading supplier of weapons to Namibia since 2010 (2021)
Topic: Nepalthe Army's inventory includes a mix of older equipment largely of British, Chinese, Indian, Russian, and South African origin; since 2010, Nepal has received limited amounts of newer hardware from several countries, including China, Italy, and Russia (2021)
Topic: Netherlandsthe inventory of the Netherlands Armed Forces consists of a mix of domestically-produced and modern European- and US-sourced equipment; since 2010, the US is the leading supplier of weapons systems to the Netherlands; the Netherlands has an advanced domestic defense industry that focuses on armored vehicles, naval ships, and air defense systems; it also participates with the US and other European countries on joint development and production of advanced weapons systems (2021)
Topic: New ZealandNZDF is equipped mostly with imported weapons and equipment from Western suppliers; the US is the leading provider since 2010 (2021)
Topic: Nicaraguathe Nicaraguan military's inventory includes mostly second-hand Russian/Soviet-era equipment; since 2010, Russia is the leading arms supplier to Nicaragua (2021)
Topic: Nigerthe FAN's inventory consists of a wide variety of older weapons; since 2010, the FAN has received small amounts of mostly second-hand equipment and donations from several countries with the US as the top provider (2021)
Topic: Nigeriathe Nigerian Armed Forces' inventory consists of a wide variety of imported weapons systems of Chinese, European, Middle Eastern, Russian (including Soviet-era), and US origin; since 2010, Nigeria has undertaken a considerable military modernization program, and has received equipment from some 20 countries with China, Russia, and the US as the leading suppliers; Nigeria is also developing a defense-industry capacity, including small arms, armored personnel vehicles, and small-scale naval production (2021)
Topic: North Macedoniathe inventory of North Macedonia's Army consists mostly of Soviet-era equipment; since 2010, it has received small amounts of equipment from Ireland and Turkey (2021)
Topic: Norwaythe Norwegian Armed Forces inventory includes mostly imported European and US weapons systems, as well as a limited mix of domestically-produced equipment, particularly small naval craft and surface-to-air missile systems; since 2010, the US is the leading supplier of weapons systems to Norway (2021)
Topic: Omanthe SAF's inventory includes a mix of older and some more modern weapons systems from a variety of suppliers, particularly Europe and the US; since 2010, the UK and the US are the leading suppliers of arms to Oman (2021)
Topic: Pakistanthe Pakistan military inventory includes a broad mix of equipment, primarily from China, France, Russia, Ukraine, the UK, and the US; since 2010, China is the leading supplier of arms to Pakistan; Pakistan also has a large domestic defense industry (2021)
Topic: Palausince 2018, Australia and Japan have provided patrol boats to the Palau's Division of Marine Law Enforcement (2021)
Topic: PanamaPanama's security forces are lightly armed; Canada, Italy and the US have provided equipment to the security forces since 2010 (2021)
Topic: Papua New Guineathe PNGDF has a limited inventory consisting of a diverse mix of foreign-supplied weapons and equipment; Papua New Guinea has received most of its military assistance from Australia (2021)
Topic: Paraguaythe Paraguayan military forces inventory is comprised of mostly older equipment from a variety of foreign suppliers, particularly Brazil and the US; since 2010, Paraguay has acquired small quantities of mostly second-hand military equipment from several countries, including Argentina, Brazil, Israel, Taiwan, and the US (2021)
Topic: Peruthe Peruvian military's inventory is a mix of mostly older equipment from a wide variety of suppliers, including Brazil, Europe, the former Soviet Union, and the US; since 2010, Peru has received military equipment from more than a dozen countries, led by Russia and South Korea (2021)
Topic: Philippinesthe AFP is equipped with a mix of imported weapons systems, particularly second-hand equipment from the US; since 2014, its top weapons suppliers include South Korea and the US (2021)
Topic: Polandthe inventory of the Polish Armed Forces consists of a mix of Soviet-era and more modern Western weapons systems; since 2010, the leading suppliers of armaments to Poland are Finland, Germany, Italy, and the US (2021)
note - in late 2018, Poland announced a 7-year (through 2026) approximately $50 billion defense modernization plan that would include such items as 5th generation combat aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles, rocket artillery, helicopters, submarines, frigates, and improved cyber security
Topic: Portugalthe Portuguese Armed Forces inventory includes mostly European and US-origin weapons systems along with a smaller mix of domestically-produced equipment; since 2010, Germany and the US are the leading suppliers of armaments to Portugal; Portugal's defense industry is primarily focused on shipbuilding (2021)
Topic: Qatarthe Qatari military's inventory includes a broad mix of older and modern weapons systems, mostly from the US and Europe; in the 2010s, Qatar embarked on an extensive military expansion and modernization program with large air, ground, and naval equipment purchases; since 2010, France and the US are the top suppliers (2021)
Topic: Romaniathe inventory of the Romanian Armed Forces is comprised mostly of Soviet-era and older domestically-produced weapons systems; there is also a smaller mix of Western-origin equipment received in more recent years from European countries and the US (2021)
Topic: Russiathe Russian Federation's military and paramilitary services are equipped with domestically-produced weapons systems, although since 2010 Russia has imported limited amounts of military hardware from several countries, including Czechia, France, Israel, Italy, Turkey, and Ukraine; the Russian defense industry is capable of designing, developing, and producing a full range of advanced air, land, missile, and naval systems; Russia is the world's second largest exporter of military hardware (2021)
Topic: Rwandathe RDF's inventory includes mostly Russian, Soviet-era, and older Western - largely French and South African - equipment; since 2010, Russia has been the top supplier (2021)
Topic: Saint Kitts and Nevisthe SKNDF is lightly armed with equipment from Belgium, the UK, and the US (2021)
Topic: Sao Tome and Principethe FASTP is lightly and poorly armed (2021)
Topic: Saudi Arabiathe inventory of the Saudi military forces, including the SANG, includes a mix of mostly modern weapons systems from the US and Europe; since 2010, the US is the leading supplier of armaments; as of 2020-21, Saudi Arabia was the world's largest arms importer (2021)
Topic: Senegalthe FAS inventory includes mostly older or second-hand equipment from a variety of countries, including France, South Africa, and Russia/former Soviet Union; in recent years, the FAS has undertaken a modernization program; since 2010, it has received newer equipment from nearly 15 countries, with France as the leading supplier (2021)
Topic: Serbiathe inventory of the Serbian Armed Forces consists of Russian and Soviet-era weapons systems; since 2010, Russia has been the top supplier of military hardware (2021)
Topic: Seychellesthe SPDF's inventory primarily consists of Soviet-era equipment delivered in the 1970s and 1980s; since 2010, the SPDF has received limited amounts of more modern equipment (mostly donations of patrol boats and aircraft) from several suppliers led by China and India (2021)
Topic: Sierra Leonethe RSLAF's small inventory includes a mix of Soviet-origin and other older foreign-supplied equipment; since 2010, it has received limited quantities of material (mostly donations of second-hand equipment) from China and South Africa (2021)
Topic: Singaporethe SAF has a diverse and largely modern mix of domestically-produced and imported weapons; since 2010, it has received armaments from about 10 countries with the US as the chief supplier; Singapore has the most developed arms industry in Southeast Asia and is also its largest importer of weapons (2021)
Topic: Slovakiathe inventory of the Slovakian military consists mostly of Soviet-era platforms; since 2010, it has imported limited quantities of equipment, particularly from Italy and the US (2021)
Topic: Sloveniathe inventory of the Slovenian Armed Forces is a mix of Soviet-era and smaller quantities of more modern Russian and Western equipment; since 2010, it has received limited amounts of military equipment from several countries led by France and Russia (2021)
Topic: Solomon Islandsthe maritime branch of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force operates patrol boats provided by Australia (2021)
Topic: Somaliathe SNA is lightly armed with an inventory that includes a variety of older, second-hand equipment largely from Italy, Russia, South Africa, and the UK; since 2015, it has received small quantities of second-hand equipment from up to 10 different countries, usually as aid/donations (2021)
Topic: South Africathe SANDF's inventory consists of a mix of domestically-produced and foreign-supplied equipment; South Africa's domestic defense industry produced most of the Army's major weapons systems (some were jointly-produced with foreign companies), while the Air Force and Navy inventories include a mix of European, Israeli, and US-origin weapons systems; since 2010, Sweden is the largest supplier of weapons to the SANDF (2021)
Topic: South Sudanthe SSPDF inventory is primarily of Soviet origin; from 2010 to 2015, Russia and the United Arab Emirates were the leading suppliers of arms and equipment; South Sudan has been under a UN arms embargo since 2018 (2021)
Topic: Spainthe inventory of the Spanish military is comprised of domestically-produced and imported Western weapons systems; France, Germany, and the US are the leading suppliers of military hardware since 2010; Spain's defense industry manufactures land, air, and sea weapons systems and is integrated within the European defense-industrial sector (2021)
Topic: Sri Lankathe Sri Lankan military inventory consists mostly of Chinese and Russian-origin equipment; since 2010, China, India, and the US have been the leading suppliers of arms to Sri Lanka (2021)
Topic: Sudanthe SAF's inventory includes a mix of Chinese, Russian, Soviet-era, Ukrainian, and domestically-produced weapons systems; since 2010, the leading arms providers to the SAF are Belarus, China, Russia, and Ukraine; North Korea has also provided arms; Sudan has a domestic arms industry that manufactures ammunition, small arms, and armored vehicles, largely based on older Chinese and Russian systems (2021)
Topic: Surinamethe Suriname Army has a limited inventory comprised of a mix of older, foreign-supplied equipment; since 2010, Suriname has received small quantities of military hardware from several countries, including the US (2021)
Topic: Swedenthe inventory of the Swedish Armed Forces is comprised of domestically-produced and imported Western weapons systems; since 2010, the US is the leading supplier of military hardware to Sweden; Sweden's defense industry produces a range of air, land, and naval systems (2021)
Topic: Switzerlandthe Swiss Armed Forces inventory includes a mix of domestically-produced and imported weapons systems; the US is the leading supplier of military armaments to Switzerland since 2010; the Swiss defense industry produces a range of military land vehicles (2021)
Topic: Syriathe SAF's inventory is comprised mostly of Russian and Soviet-era equipment; since 2010, Russia has supplied nearly all of Syria's imported weapons systems, although China and Iran have also provided military equipment (2021)
Topic: Taiwanthe Taiwan military is armed mostly with second-hand weapons and equipment provided by the US; since 2010, the US continued to be the largest provider of arms; Taiwan also has a domestic defense industry capable of building and upgrading a range of weapons systems, including surface naval craft and submarines (2021)
Topic: Tajikistanthe Tajikistan Armed Forces' inventory is comprised of older Russian and Soviet-era equipment; it has received limited quantities of weapons systems since 2010, most of which was second-hand material from Russia (2021)
Topic: Tanzaniathe TPDF inventory includes mostly Soviet-era and Chinese equipment; since 2010, China is the leading supplier of arms to the TPDF (2021)
Topic: Thailandthe RTARF has a diverse array of foreign-supplied weapons systems, including a large amount of obsolescent or second-hand US equipment; since 2010, Thailand has received military equipment from nearly 20 countries with China, South Korea, Sweden, Ukraine, and the US as the leading suppliers (2021)
Topic: Timor-LesteTimor-Leste Defense Force's limited inventory consists of equipment donated by other countries; the only recorded deliveries of major arms to Timor-Leste since 2010 were naval patrol craft from China and South Korea (2021)
Topic: Togothe FAT's small inventory is a mix of older equipment from a variety of countries, including Brazil, France, Germany, Russia/former Soviet Union, the UK, and the US; since 2010, it has received limited amounts of newer--largely secondhand--equipment, such as patrol boats, from China, France, South Africa, and the US (2021)
Topic: Tongathe Tonga military's inventory includes mostly light weapons and equipment from European (primarily the UK) countries and the US, as well as naval patrol vessels from Australia; Australia is the only supplier of military systems since 2010 (2021)
Topic: Trinidad and Tobagothe TTDF's ground force inventory includes only light weapons, while the Coast Guard and Air Guard field mostly second-hand equipment from a mix of countries, including Australia, China, the Netherlands, the UK, and the US (2021)
Topic: Tunisiathe Tunisian military's inventory includes mostly older or secondhand US and European equipment; since 2010, the Netherlands and US are the leading suppliers of arms to Tunisia (2021)
Topic: Turkeythe Turkish Armed Forces inventory is mostly comprised of a mix of domestically-produced and Western weapons systems, although in recent years, Turkey has also acquired some Chinese, Russian, and South Korean equipment; since 2010, the US is the leading provider of armaments to Turkey, followed by Italy, South Korea, and Spain; Turkey has a robust defense industry capable of producing a range of weapons systems for both export and internal use, including armored vehicles, naval vessels, and unmanned aerial platforms, although it is heavily dependent on Western technology; Turkey's defense industry also partners with other countries for defense production (2021)
Topic: Turkmenistanthe inventory for Turkmenistan's military is comprised largely of older Russian and Soviet-era weapons systems; since 2010, however, it has attempted to diversify and purchased equipment from more than a dozen countries, with Turkey as the top supplier (2021)
Topic: Ugandathe UPDF's inventory is mostly older Russian/Soviet-era equipment with a limited mix of more modern Russian- and Western-origin arms; since 2010, Russia is the leading supplier of arms to the UPDF (2021)
Topic: Ukrainethe Ukrainian military is equipped mostly with older Russian and Soviet-era weapons systems; since 2010, it has imported limited quantities of weapons from several European countries, as well as Canada, the US, and the United Arab Emirates; Ukraine has a broad defense industry capable of building Soviet-era land systems and maintaining and upgrading Soviet-era combat aircraft, as well as missile and air defense systems (2021)
Topic: United Arab Emiratesthe UAE Armed Forces inventory is comprised of wide variety of mostly modern imported equipment; since 2010, the UAE has acquired military equipment from more than 20 countries with France, Russia, and the US as the leading suppliers; in recent years, the UAE has tried to boost its domestic defense industry (2021)
Topic: United Kingdomthe inventory of the British military is comprised of a mix of domestically-produced and imported Western weapons systems; the US is the leading supplier of armaments to the UK since 2010; the UK defense industry is capable of producing a wide variety of air, land, and sea weapons systems and is one of the world's top weapons suppliers (2021)
Topic: United Statesthe US military's inventory is comprised almost entirely of domestically-produced weapons systems (some assembled with foreign components) along with a smaller mix of imported equipment from a variety of Western countries; since 2010, Germany and the UK are the leading suppliers of military hardware; the US defense industry is capable of designing, developing, maintaining, and producing the full spectrum of weapons systems; the US is the world's leading arms exporter (2021)
Topic: Uruguaythe inventory of the Armed Forces of Uruguay includes a wide variety of older or second-hand equipment; since 2010, it has imported limited amounts of military hardware from about 10 countries with Spain as the leading supplier (2021)
Topic: Uzbekistanthe Uzbek Armed Forces use mainly Soviet-era equipment; since 2010, Russia has been the leading supplier of arms, followed by China (2021)
Topic: Venezuelathe FANB inventory is mainly of Chinese and Russian origin with a smaller mix of equipment from Western countries, including the US; since 2010, Russia is the top supplier of military hardware to Venezuela (2021)
Topic: Vietnamthe PAVN is armed largely with weapons and equipment from Russia and the former Soviet Union; since 2010, Russia has remained the main supplier of newer PAVN military equipment, although in recent years Vietnam has purchased arms from more than a dozen other countries including Belarus, Israel, South Korea, Ukraine, and the US; Vietnam has a limited defense industry (2021)
Topic: West Bankthe security services are armed mostly with small arms and light weapons, although since 2007, they have received limited amounts of heavier equipment from Jordan (armored personnel carriers) and Russia (armored personnel carriers and transport helicopters) (2021)
Topic: Worldfrom 2010-2020, the US was assessed to be the world's leading arms exporter, followed by Russia; India and Saudi Arabia were the top arms importers for the same period
Topic: Yementhe inventory of the Yemeni Government forces consists primarily of Russian and Soviet-era equipment, although much of it has been lost in the current conflict; since the start of the civil war in 2014, it has received limited amounts of donated equipment from some Gulf States, including Saudi Arabia and UAE (2021)
Topic: Zambiathe ZDF's inventory is largely comprised of Chinese, Russian, and Soviet-era armaments; since 2010, China is the leading supplier of arms to Zambia (2021)
Topic: Zimbabwethe ZDF inventory is comprised mostly of older Chinese- and Russian-origin equipment; since the early 2000s, Zimbabwe has been under an arms embargo from the European Union, as well as targeted sanctions from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK, and the US (2021) |
20220601 | field-natural-resources | This entry lists a country's mineral, petroleum, hydropower, and other resources of commercial importance, such as rare earth elements (REEs). In general, products appear only if they make a significant contribution to the economy, or are likely to do so in the future.
Topic: Afghanistannatural gas, petroleum, coal, copper, chromite, talc, barites, sulfur, lead, zinc, iron ore, salt, precious and semiprecious stones, arable land
Topic: Albaniapetroleum, natural gas, coal, bauxite, chromite, copper, iron ore, nickel, salt, timber, hydropower, arable land
Topic: Algeriapetroleum, natural gas, iron ore, phosphates, uranium, lead, zinc
Topic: American Samoapumice, pumicite
Topic: Andorrahydropower, mineral water, timber, iron ore, lead
Topic: Angolapetroleum, diamonds, iron ore, phosphates, copper, feldspar, gold, bauxite, uranium
Topic: Anguillasalt, fish, lobster
Topic: Antarcticairon ore, chromium, copper, gold, nickel, platinum and other minerals, and coal and hydrocarbons have been found in small noncommercial quantities; mineral exploitation except for scientific research is banned by the Environmental Protocol to the Antarctic Treaty; krill, icefish, toothfish, and crab have been taken by commercial fisheries, which are managed through the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Living Marine Resources (CCAMLR)
Topic: Antigua and BarbudaNEGL; pleasant climate fosters tourism
Topic: Arctic Oceansand and gravel aggregates, placer deposits, polymetallic nodules, oil and gas fields, fish, marine mammals (seals and whales)
Topic: Argentinafertile plains of the pampas, lead, zinc, tin, copper, iron ore, manganese, petroleum, uranium, arable land
Topic: Armeniasmall deposits of gold, copper, molybdenum, zinc, bauxite
Topic: ArubaNEGL; white sandy beaches foster tourism
Topic: Ashmore and Cartier Islandsfish
Topic: Atlantic Oceanoil and gas fields, fish, marine mammals (seals and whales), sand and gravel aggregates, placer deposits, polymetallic nodules, precious stones
Topic: Australiaalumina, coal, iron ore, copper, tin, gold, silver, uranium, nickel, tungsten, rare earth elements, mineral sands, lead, zinc, diamonds, opals, natural gas, petroleum; note - Australia is the world's largest net exporter of coal accounting for 29% of global coal exports; as well, Australia is by far the world's largest supplier of opals
Topic: Austriaoil, coal, lignite, timber, iron ore, copper, zinc, antimony, magnesite, tungsten, graphite, salt, hydropower
Topic: Azerbaijanpetroleum, natural gas, iron ore, nonferrous metals, bauxite
Topic: Bahamas, Thesalt, aragonite, timber, arable land
Topic: Bahrainoil, associated and nonassociated natural gas, fish, pearls
Topic: Bangladeshnatural gas, arable land, timber, coal
Topic: Barbadospetroleum, fish, natural gas
Topic: Belarustimber, peat deposits, small quantities of oil and natural gas, granite, dolomitic limestone, marl, chalk, sand, gravel, clay
Topic: Belgiumconstruction materials, silica sand, carbonates, arable land
Topic: Belizearable land potential, timber, fish, hydropower
Topic: Beninsmall offshore oil deposits, limestone, marble, timber
Topic: Bermudalimestone, pleasant climate fostering tourism
Topic: Bhutantimber, hydropower, gypsum, calcium carbonate
Topic: Boliviatin, natural gas, petroleum, zinc, tungsten, antimony, silver, iron, lead, gold, timber, hydropower
Topic: Bosnia and Herzegovinacoal, iron ore, antimony, bauxite, copper, lead, zinc, chromite, cobalt, manganese, nickel, clay, gypsum, salt, sand, timber, hydropower
Topic: Botswanadiamonds, copper, nickel, salt, soda ash, potash, coal, iron ore, silver
Topic: Bouvet Islandnone
Topic: Brazilalumina, bauxite, beryllium, gold, iron ore, manganese, nickel, niobium, phosphates, platinum, tantalum, tin, rare earth elements, uranium, petroleum, hydropower, timber
Topic: British Indian Ocean Territorycoconuts, fish, sugarcane
Topic: British Virgin IslandsNEGL; pleasant climate, beaches foster tourism
Topic: Bruneipetroleum, natural gas, timber
Topic: Bulgariabauxite, copper, lead, zinc, coal, timber, arable land
Topic: Burkina Fasogold, manganese, zinc, limestone, marble, phosphates, pumice, salt
Topic: Burmapetroleum, timber, tin, antimony, zinc, copper, tungsten, lead, coal, marble, limestone, precious stones, natural gas, hydropower, arable land
Topic: Burundinickel, uranium, rare earth oxides, peat, cobalt, copper, platinum, vanadium, arable land, hydropower, niobium, tantalum, gold, tin, tungsten, kaolin, limestone
Topic: Cabo Verdesalt, basalt rock, limestone, kaolin, fish, clay, gypsum
Topic: Cambodiaoil and gas, timber, gemstones, iron ore, manganese, phosphates, hydropower potential, arable land
Topic: Cameroonpetroleum, bauxite, iron ore, timber, hydropower
Topic: Canadabauxite, iron ore, nickel, zinc, copper, gold, lead, uranium, rare earth elements, molybdenum, potash, diamonds, silver, fish, timber, wildlife, coal, petroleum, natural gas, hydropower
Topic: Cayman Islandsfish, climate and beaches that foster tourism
Topic: Central African Republicdiamonds, uranium, timber, gold, oil, hydropower
Topic: Chadpetroleum, uranium, natron, kaolin, fish (Lake Chad), gold, limestone, sand and gravel, salt
Topic: Chilecopper, timber, iron ore, nitrates, precious metals, molybdenum, hydropower
Topic: Chinacoal, iron ore, helium, petroleum, natural gas, arsenic, bismuth, cobalt, cadmium, ferrosilicon, gallium, germanium, hafnium, indium, lithium, mercury, tantalum, tellurium, tin, titanium, tungsten, antimony, manganese, magnesium, molybdenum, selenium, strontium, vanadium, magnetite, aluminum, lead, zinc, rare earth elements, uranium, hydropower potential (world's largest), arable land
Topic: Christmas Islandphosphate, beaches
Topic: Clipperton Islandfish
Topic: Cocos (Keeling) Islandsfish
Topic: Colombiapetroleum, natural gas, coal, iron ore, nickel, gold, copper, emeralds, hydropower
Topic: Comorosfish
Topic: Congo, Democratic Republic of thecobalt, copper, niobium, tantalum, petroleum, industrial and gem diamonds, gold, silver, zinc, manganese, tin, uranium, coal, hydropower, timber
Topic: Congo, Republic of thepetroleum, timber, potash, lead, zinc, uranium, copper, phosphates, gold, magnesium, natural gas, hydropower
Topic: Cook Islandscoconuts (copra)
Topic: Coral Sea Islandsfish
Topic: Costa Ricahydropower
Topic: Cote d'Ivoirepetroleum, natural gas, diamonds, manganese, iron ore, cobalt, bauxite, copper, gold, nickel, tantalum, silica sand, clay, cocoa beans, coffee, palm oil, hydropower
Topic: Croatiaoil, some coal, bauxite, low-grade iron ore, calcium, gypsum, natural asphalt, silica, mica, clays, salt, hydropower
Topic: Cubacobalt, nickel, iron ore, chromium, copper, salt, timber, silica, petroleum, arable land
Topic: Curacaocalcium phosphates, protected harbors, hot springscalcium phosphates, protected harbors, hot springs
Topic: Cypruscopper, pyrites, asbestos, gypsum, timber, salt, marble, clay earth pigment
Topic: Czechiahard coal, soft coal, kaolin, clay, graphite, timber, arable land
Topic: Denmarkpetroleum, natural gas, fish, arable land, salt, limestone, chalk, stone, gravel and sand
Topic: Djiboutipotential geothermal power, gold, clay, granite, limestone, marble, salt, diatomite, gypsum, pumice, petroleum
Topic: Dominicatimber, hydropower, arable land
Topic: Dominican Republicnickel, bauxite, gold, silver, arable land
Topic: Ecuadorpetroleum, fish, timber, hydropower
Topic: Egyptpetroleum, natural gas, iron ore, phosphates, manganese, limestone, gypsum, talc, asbestos, lead, rare earth elements, zinc
Topic: El Salvadorhydropower, geothermal power, petroleum, arable land
Topic: Equatorial Guineapetroleum, natural gas, timber, gold, bauxite, diamonds, tantalum, sand and gravel, clay
Topic: Eritreagold, potash, zinc, copper, salt, possibly oil and natural gas, fish
Topic: Estoniaoil shale, peat, rare earth elements, phosphorite, clay, limestone, sand, dolomite, arable land, sea mud
Topic: Eswatiniasbestos, coal, clay, cassiterite, hydropower, forests, small gold and diamond deposits, quarry stone, and talc
Topic: Ethiopiasmall reserves of gold, platinum, copper, potash, natural gas, hydropower
Topic: European Unioniron ore, natural gas, petroleum, coal, copper, lead, zinc, bauxite, uranium, potash, salt, hydropower, arable land, timber, fish
Topic: Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)fish, squid, wildlife, calcified seaweed, sphagnum moss
Topic: Faroe Islandsfish, whales, hydropower, possible oil and gas
Topic: Fijitimber, fish, gold, copper, offshore oil potential, hydropower
Topic: Finlandtimber, iron ore, copper, lead, zinc, chromite, nickel, gold, silver, limestone
Topic: Francemetropolitan France: coal, iron ore, bauxite, zinc, uranium, antimony, arsenic, potash, feldspar, fluorspar, gypsum, timber, arable land, fish, French Guiana, gold deposits, petroleum, kaolin, niobium, tantalum, clay
Topic: French Polynesiatimber, fish, cobalt, hydropower
Topic: French Southern and Antarctic Landsfish, crayfish, note, Glorioso Islands and Tromelin Island (Iles Eparses) have guano, phosphates, and coconuts
note - in the 1950's and 1960's, several species of trout were introduced to Iles Kerguelen of which two, Brown trout and Brook trout, survived to establish wild populations; reindeer were also introduced to Iles Kerguelen in 1956 as a source of fresh meat for whaling crews, the herd today, one of two in the Southern Hemisphere, is estimated to number around 4,000
Topic: Gabonpetroleum, natural gas, diamond, niobium, manganese, uranium, gold, timber, iron ore, hydropower
Topic: Gambia, Thefish, clay, silica sand, titanium (rutile and ilmenite), tin, zircon
Topic: Gaza Striparable land, natural gas
Topic: Georgiatimber, hydropower, manganese deposits, iron ore, copper, minor coal and oil deposits; coastal climate and soils allow for important tea and citrus growth
Topic: Germanycoal, lignite, natural gas, iron ore, copper, nickel, uranium, potash, salt, construction materials, timber, arable land
Topic: Ghanagold, timber, industrial diamonds, bauxite, manganese, fish, rubber, hydropower, petroleum, silver, salt, limestone
Topic: Gibraltarnone
Topic: Greecelignite, petroleum, iron ore, bauxite, lead, zinc, nickel, magnesite, marble, salt, hydropower potential
Topic: Greenlandcoal, iron ore, lead, zinc, molybdenum, diamonds, gold, platinum, niobium, tantalite, uranium, fish, seals, whales, hydropower, possible oil and gas
Topic: Grenadatimber, tropical fruit
Topic: Guamaquatic wildlife (supporting tourism), fishing (largely undeveloped)
Topic: Guatemalapetroleum, nickel, rare woods, fish, chicle, hydropower
Topic: Guernseycropland
Topic: Guineabauxite, iron ore, diamonds, gold, uranium, hydropower, fish, salt
Topic: Guinea-Bissaufish, timber, phosphates, bauxite, clay, granite, limestone, unexploited deposits of petroleum
Topic: Guyanabauxite, gold, diamonds, hardwood timber, shrimp, fish
Topic: Haitibauxite, copper, calcium carbonate, gold, marble, hydropower, arable land
Topic: Heard Island and McDonald Islandsfish
Topic: Holy See (Vatican City)none
Topic: Hondurastimber, gold, silver, copper, lead, zinc, iron ore, antimony, coal, fish, hydropower
Topic: Hong Kongoutstanding deepwater harbor, feldspar
Topic: Hungarybauxite, coal, natural gas, fertile soils, arable land
Topic: Icelandfish, hydropower, geothermal power, diatomite
Topic: Indiacoal (fourth-largest reserves in the world), antimony, iron ore, lead, manganese, mica, bauxite, rare earth elements, titanium ore, chromite, natural gas, diamonds, petroleum, limestone, arable land
Topic: Indian Oceanoil and gas fields, fish, shrimp, sand and gravel aggregates, placer deposits, polymetallic nodules
Topic: Indonesiapetroleum, tin, natural gas, nickel, timber, bauxite, copper, fertile soils, coal, gold, silver
Topic: Iranpetroleum, natural gas, coal, chromium, copper, iron ore, lead, manganese, zinc, sulfur
Topic: Iraqpetroleum, natural gas, phosphates, sulfur
Topic: Irelandnatural gas, peat, copper, lead, zinc, silver, barite, gypsum, limestone, dolomite
Topic: Isle of Mannone
Topic: Israeltimber, potash, copper ore, natural gas, phosphate rock, magnesium bromide, clays, sand
Topic: Italycoal, antimony, mercury, zinc, potash, marble, barite, asbestos, pumice, fluorspar, feldspar, pyrite (sulfur), natural gas and crude oil reserves, fish, arable land
Topic: Jamaicabauxite, alumina, gypsum, limestone
Topic: Jan Mayennone
Topic: Japannegligible mineral resources, fish; note - with virtually no natural energy resources, Japan is the world's largest importer of coal and liquefied natural gas, as well as the second largest importer of oil
Topic: Jerseyarable land
Topic: Jordanphosphates, potash, shale oil
Topic: Kazakhstanmajor deposits of petroleum, natural gas, coal, iron ore, manganese, chrome ore, nickel, cobalt, copper, molybdenum, lead, zinc, bauxite, gold, uranium
Topic: Kenyalimestone, soda ash, salt, gemstones, fluorspar, zinc, diatomite, gypsum, wildlife, hydropower
Topic: Kiribatiphosphate (production discontinued in 1979), coconuts (copra), fish
Topic: Korea, Northcoal, iron ore, limestone, magnesite, graphite, copper, zinc, lead, precious metals, hydropower
Topic: Korea, Southcoal, tungsten, graphite, molybdenum, lead, hydropower potential
Topic: Kosovonickel, lead, zinc, magnesium, lignite, kaolin, chrome, bauxite
Topic: Kuwaitpetroleum, fish, shrimp, natural gas
Topic: Kyrgyzstanabundant hydropower; gold, rare earth metals; locally exploitable coal, oil, and natural gas; other deposits of nepheline, mercury, bismuth, lead, and zinc
Topic: Laostimber, hydropower, gypsum, tin, gold, gemstones
Topic: Latviapeat, limestone, dolomite, amber, hydropower, timber, arable land
Topic: Lebanonlimestone, iron ore, salt, water-surplus state in a water-deficit region, arable land
Topic: Lesothowater, agricultural and grazing land, diamonds, sand, clay, building stone
Topic: Liberiairon ore, timber, diamonds, gold, hydropower
Topic: Libyapetroleum, natural gas, gypsum
Topic: Liechtensteinhydroelectric potential, arable land
Topic: Lithuaniapeat, arable land, amber
Topic: Luxembourgiron ore (no longer exploited), arable land
Topic: MacauNEGL
Topic: Madagascargraphite, chromite, coal, bauxite, rare earth elements, salt, quartz, tar sands, semiprecious stones, mica, fish, hydropower
Topic: Malawilimestone, arable land, hydropower, unexploited deposits of uranium, coal, and bauxite
Topic: Malaysiatin, petroleum, timber, copper, iron ore, natural gas, bauxite
Topic: Maldivesfish
Topic: Maligold, phosphates, kaolin, salt, limestone, uranium, gypsum, granite, hydropower, note, bauxite, iron ore, manganese, tin, and copper deposits are known but not exploited
Topic: Maltalimestone, salt, arable land
Topic: Marshall Islandscoconut products, marine products, deep seabed minerals
Topic: Mauritaniairon ore, gypsum, copper, phosphate, diamonds, gold, oil, fish
Topic: Mauritiusarable land, fish
Topic: Mexicopetroleum, silver, antimony, copper, gold, lead, zinc, natural gas, timber
Topic: Micronesia, Federated States oftimber, marine products, deep-seabed minerals, phosphate
Topic: Moldovalignite, phosphorites, gypsum, limestone, arable land
Topic: Monaconone
Topic: Mongoliaoil, coal, copper, molybdenum, tungsten, phosphates, tin, nickel, zinc, fluorspar, gold, silver, iron
Topic: Montenegrobauxite, hydroelectricity
Topic: MontserratNEGL
Topic: Moroccophosphates, iron ore, manganese, lead, zinc, fish, salt
Topic: Mozambiquecoal, titanium, natural gas, hydropower, tantalum, graphite
Topic: Namibiadiamonds, copper, uranium, gold, silver, lead, tin, lithium, cadmium, tungsten, zinc, salt, hydropower, fish, note, suspected deposits of oil, coal, and iron ore
Topic: Nauruphosphates, fish
Topic: Navassa Islandguano (mining discontinued in 1898)
Topic: Nepalquartz, water, timber, hydropower, scenic beauty, small deposits of lignite, copper, cobalt, iron ore
Topic: Netherlandsnatural gas, petroleum, peat, limestone, salt, sand and gravel, arable land
Topic: New Caledonianickel, chrome, iron, cobalt, manganese, silver, gold, lead, copper
Topic: New Zealandnatural gas, iron ore, sand, coal, timber, hydropower, gold, limestone
Topic: Nicaraguagold, silver, copper, tungsten, lead, zinc, timber, fish
Topic: Nigeruranium, coal, iron ore, tin, phosphates, gold, molybdenum, gypsum, salt, petroleum
Topic: Nigerianatural gas, petroleum, tin, iron ore, coal, limestone, niobium, lead, zinc, arable land
Topic: Niuearable land, fish
Topic: Norfolk Islandfish
Topic: North Macedonialow-grade iron ore, copper, lead, zinc, chromite, manganese, nickel, tungsten, gold, silver, asbestos, gypsum, timber, arable land
Topic: Northern Mariana Islandsarable land, fish
Topic: Norwaypetroleum, natural gas, iron ore, copper, lead, zinc, titanium, pyrites, nickel, fish, timber, hydropower
Topic: Omanpetroleum, copper, asbestos, some marble, limestone, chromium, gypsum, natural gas
Topic: Pacific Oceanoil and gas fields, polymetallic nodules, sand and gravel aggregates, placer deposits, fish
Topic: Pakistanarable land, extensive natural gas reserves, limited petroleum, poor quality coal, iron ore, copper, salt, limestone
Topic: Palauforests, minerals (especially gold), marine products, deep-seabed minerals
Topic: Panamacopper, mahogany forests, shrimp, hydropower
Topic: Papua New Guineagold, copper, silver, natural gas, timber, oil, fisheries
Topic: Paracel Islandsnone
Topic: Paraguayhydropower, timber, iron ore, manganese, limestone
Topic: Perucopper, silver, gold, petroleum, timber, fish, iron ore, coal, phosphate, potash, hydropower, natural gas
Topic: Philippinestimber, petroleum, nickel, cobalt, silver, gold, salt, copper
Topic: Pitcairn Islandsmiro trees (used for handicrafts), fish; note - manganese, iron, copper, gold, silver, and zinc have been discovered offshore
Topic: Polandcoal, sulfur, copper, natural gas, silver, lead, salt, amber, arable land
Topic: Portugalfish, forests (cork), iron ore, copper, zinc, tin, tungsten, silver, gold, uranium, marble, clay, gypsum, salt, arable land, hydropower
Topic: Puerto Ricosome copper and nickel; potential for onshore and offshore oil
Topic: Qatarpetroleum, fish, natural gas
Topic: Romaniapetroleum (reserves declining), timber, natural gas, coal, iron ore, salt, arable land, hydropower
Topic: Russiawide natural resource base including major deposits of oil, natural gas, coal, and many strategic minerals, bauxite, reserves of rare earth elements, timber, note, formidable obstacles of climate, terrain, and distance hinder exploitation of natural resources
Topic: Rwandagold, cassiterite (tin ore), wolframite (tungsten ore), methane, hydropower, arable land
Topic: Saint Barthelemyfew natural resources; beaches foster tourism
Topic: Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunhafish, lobster
Topic: Saint Kitts and Nevisarable land
Topic: Saint Luciaforests, sandy beaches, minerals (pumice), mineral springs, geothermal potential
Topic: Saint Martinsalt
Topic: Saint Pierre and Miquelonfish, deepwater ports
Topic: Saint Vincent and the Grenadineshydropower, arable land
Topic: Samoahardwood forests, fish, hydropower
Topic: San Marinobuilding stone
Topic: Sao Tome and Principefish, hydropower
Topic: Saudi Arabiapetroleum, natural gas, iron ore, gold, copper
Topic: Senegalfish, phosphates, iron ore
Topic: Serbiaoil, gas, coal, iron ore, copper, zinc, antimony, chromite, gold, silver, magnesium, pyrite, limestone, marble, salt, arable land
Topic: Seychellesfish, coconuts (copra), cinnamon trees
Topic: Sierra Leonediamonds, titanium ore, bauxite, iron ore, gold, chromite
Topic: Singaporefish, deepwater ports
Topic: Sint Maartenfish, saltfish, salt
Topic: Slovakialignite, small amounts of iron ore, copper and manganese ore; salt; arable land
Topic: Slovenialignite, lead, zinc, building stone, hydropower, forests
Topic: Solomon Islandsfish, forests, gold, bauxite, phosphates, lead, zinc, nickel
Topic: Somaliauranium and largely unexploited reserves of iron ore, tin, gypsum, bauxite, copper, salt, natural gas, likely oil reserves
Topic: South Africagold, chromium, antimony, coal, iron ore, manganese, nickel, phosphates, tin, rare earth elements, uranium, gem diamonds, platinum, copper, vanadium, salt, natural gas
Topic: South Georgia and South Sandwich Islandsfish
Topic: South Sudanhydropower, fertile agricultural land, gold, diamonds, petroleum, hardwoods, limestone, iron ore, copper, chromium ore, zinc, tungsten, mica, silver
Topic: Southern Oceanprobable large oil and gas fields on the continental margin; manganese nodules, possible placer deposits, sand and gravel, fresh water as icebergs; squid, whales, and seals - none exploited; krill, fish
Topic: Spaincoal, lignite, iron ore, copper, lead, zinc, uranium, tungsten, mercury, pyrites, magnesite, fluorspar, gypsum, sepiolite, kaolin, potash, hydropower, arable land
Topic: Spratly Islandsfish, guano, undetermined oil and natural gas potential
Topic: Sri Lankalimestone, graphite, mineral sands, gems, phosphates, clay, hydropower, arable land
Topic: Sudanpetroleum; small reserves of iron ore, copper, chromium ore, zinc, tungsten, mica, silver, gold; hydropower
Topic: Surinametimber, hydropower, fish, kaolin, shrimp, bauxite, gold, and small amounts of nickel, copper, platinum, iron ore
Topic: Svalbardcoal, iron ore, copper, zinc, phosphate, wildlife, fish
Topic: Swedeniron ore, copper, lead, zinc, gold, silver, tungsten, uranium, arsenic, feldspar, timber, hydropower
Topic: Switzerlandhydropower potential, timber, salt
Topic: Syriapetroleum, phosphates, chrome and manganese ores, asphalt, iron ore, rock salt, marble, gypsum, hydropower
Topic: Taiwansmall deposits of coal, natural gas, limestone, marble, asbestos, arable land
Topic: Tajikistanhydropower, some petroleum, uranium, mercury, brown coal, lead, zinc, antimony, tungsten, silver, gold
Topic: Tanzaniahydropower, tin, phosphates, iron ore, coal, diamonds, gemstones (including tanzanite, found only in Tanzania), gold, natural gas, nickel
Topic: Thailandtin, rubber, natural gas, tungsten, tantalum, timber, lead, fish, gypsum, lignite, fluorite, arable land
Topic: Timor-Lestegold, petroleum, natural gas, manganese, marble
Topic: Togophosphates, limestone, marble, arable land
Topic: TokelauNEGL
Topic: Tongaarable land, fish
Topic: Trinidad and Tobagopetroleum, natural gas, asphalt
Topic: Tunisiapetroleum, phosphates, iron ore, lead, zinc, salt
Topic: Turkeycoal, iron ore, copper, chromium, antimony, mercury, gold, barite, borate, celestite (strontium), emery, feldspar, limestone, magnesite, marble, perlite, pumice, pyrites (sulfur), clay, arable land, hydropower
Topic: Turkmenistanpetroleum, natural gas, sulfur, salt
Topic: Turks and Caicos Islandsspiny lobster, conch
Topic: Tuvalufish, coconut (copra)
Topic: Ugandacopper, cobalt, hydropower, limestone, salt, arable land, gold
Topic: Ukraineiron ore, coal, manganese, natural gas, oil, salt, sulfur, graphite, titanium, magnesium, kaolin, nickel, mercury, timber, arable land
Topic: United Arab Emiratespetroleum, natural gas
Topic: United Kingdomcoal, petroleum, natural gas, iron ore, lead, zinc, gold, tin, limestone, salt, clay, chalk, gypsum, potash, silica sand, slate, arable land
Topic: United Statescoal, copper, lead, molybdenum, phosphates, rare earth elements, uranium, bauxite, gold, iron, mercury, nickel, potash, silver, tungsten, zinc, petroleum, natural gas, timber, arable land;
note 1: the US has the world's largest coal reserves with 491 billion short tons accounting for 27% of the world's total
note 2: the US is reliant on foreign imports for 100% of its needs for the following strategic resources - Arsenic, Cesium, Fluorspar, Gallium, Graphite, Indium, Manganese, Niobium, Rare Earths, Rubidium, Scandium, Tantalum, Yttrium; see Appendix H: Strategic Materials for further details
Topic: United States Pacific Island Wildlife Refugesterrestrial and aquatic wildlife
Topic: Uruguayarable land, hydropower, minor minerals, fish
Topic: Uzbekistannatural gas, petroleum, coal, gold, uranium, silver, copper, lead and zinc, tungsten, molybdenum
Topic: Vanuatumanganese, hardwood forests, fish
Topic: Venezuelapetroleum, natural gas, iron ore, gold, bauxite, other minerals, hydropower, diamonds
Topic: Vietnamantimony, phosphates, coal, manganese, rare earth elements, bauxite, chromate, offshore oil and gas deposits, timber, hydropower, arable land
Topic: Virgin Islandspleasant climate, beaches foster tourism
Topic: Wake Islandnone
Topic: Wallis and FutunaNEGL
Topic: West Bankarable land
Topic: Worldthe rapid depletion of nonrenewable mineral resources, the depletion of forest areas and wetlands, the extinction of animal and plant species, and the deterioration in air and water quality pose serious long-term problems
Topic: Yemenpetroleum, fish, rock salt, marble; small deposits of coal, gold, lead, nickel, and copper; fertile soil in west
Topic: Zambiacopper, cobalt, zinc, lead, coal, emeralds, gold, silver, uranium, hydropower
Topic: Zimbabwecoal, chromium ore, asbestos, gold, nickel, copper, iron ore, vanadium, lithium, tin, platinum group metals |
20220601 | countries-sao-tome-and-principe |
Topic: Photos of Sao Tome and Principe
Topic: Introduction
Background: Portugal discovered and colonized the uninhabited islands in the late 15th century, setting up a sugar-based economy that gave way to coffee and cocoa in the 19th century - all grown with African plantation slave labor, a form of which lingered into the 20th century. While independence was achieved in 1975, democratic reforms were not instituted until the late 1980s. The country held its first free elections in 1991, but frequent internal wrangling between the various political parties precipitated repeated changes in leadership and four failed, non-violent coup attempts in 1995, 1998, 2003, and 2009. In 2012, three opposition parties combined in a no confidence vote to bring down the majority government of former Prime Minister Patrice TROVOADA, but in 2014, legislative elections returned him to the office. President Evaristo CARVALHO, of the same political party as Prime Minister TROVOADA, was elected in September 2016, marking a rare instance in which the positions of president and prime minister are held by the same party. Prime Minister TROVOADA resigned at the end of 2018 and was replaced by Jorge BOM JESUS. Carlos Vila NOVA was elected president in early September 2021 and was inaugurated 2 October 2021. New oil discoveries in the Gulf of Guinea may attract increased attention to the small island nation.Portugal discovered and colonized the uninhabited islands in the late 15th century, setting up a sugar-based economy that gave way to coffee and cocoa in the 19th century - all grown with African plantation slave labor, a form of which lingered into the 20th century. While independence was achieved in 1975, democratic reforms were not instituted until the late 1980s. The country held its first free elections in 1991, but frequent internal wrangling between the various political parties precipitated repeated changes in leadership and four failed, non-violent coup attempts in 1995, 1998, 2003, and 2009. In 2012, three opposition parties combined in a no confidence vote to bring down the majority government of former Prime Minister Patrice TROVOADA, but in 2014, legislative elections returned him to the office. President Evaristo CARVALHO, of the same political party as Prime Minister TROVOADA, was elected in September 2016, marking a rare instance in which the positions of president and prime minister are held by the same party. Prime Minister TROVOADA resigned at the end of 2018 and was replaced by Jorge BOM JESUS. Carlos Vila NOVA was elected president in early September 2021 and was inaugurated 2 October 2021. New oil discoveries in the Gulf of Guinea may attract increased attention to the small island nation.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Central Africa, islands in the Gulf of Guinea, just north of the Equator, west of Gabon
Geographic coordinates: 1 00 N, 7 00 E
Map references: Africa
Area: total: 964 sq km
land: 964 sq km
water: 0 sq km
Area - comparative: more than five times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries: total: 0 km
Coastline: 209 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
measured from claimed archipelagic baselines
Climate: tropical; hot, humid; one rainy season (October to May)
Terrain: volcanic, mountainous
Elevation: highest point: Pico de Sao Tome 2,024 m
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
Natural resources: fish, hydropower
Land use: agricultural land: 50.7% (2018 est.)
arable land: 9.1% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 40.6% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 1% (2018 est.)
forest: 28.1% (2018 est.)
other: 21.2% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 100 sq km (2012)
Population distribution: Sao Tome, the capital city, has roughly a quarter of the nation's population; Santo Antonio is the largest town on Principe; the northern areas of both islands have the highest population densities as shown in this population distribution map
Natural hazards: flooding
Geography - note: the second-smallest African country (after the Seychelles); the two main islands form part of a chain of extinct volcanoes and both are mountainous
Map description: Sao Tome and Principe map showing the islands that make up this country in the Gulf of Guinea.Sao Tome and Principe map showing the islands that make up this country in the Gulf of Guinea.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 217,164 (2022 est.)
Nationality: noun: Sao Tomean(s)
adjective: Sao Tomean
Ethnic groups: Mestico, Angolares (descendants of Angolan slaves), Forros (descendants of freed slaves), Servicais (contract laborers from Angola, Mozambique, and Cabo Verde), Tongas (children of servicais born on the islands), Europeans (primarily Portuguese), Asians (mostly Chinese)
Languages: Portuguese 98.4% (official), Forro 36.2%, Cabo Verdian 8.5%, French 6.8%, Angolar 6.6%, English 4.9%, Lunguie 1%, other (including sign language) 2.4%; note - shares sum to more than 100% because some respondents gave more than one answer on the census; other Portuguese-based Creoles are also spoken (2012 est.)
Religions: Catholic 55.7%, Adventist 4.1%, Assembly of God 3.4%, New Apostolic 2.9%, Mana 2.3%, Universal Kingdom of God 2%, Jehovah's Witness 1.2%, other 6.2%, none 21.2%, unspecified 1% (2012 est.)
Demographic profile: Sao Tome and Principe’s youthful age structure – more than 60% of the population is under the age of 25 – and high fertility rate ensure future population growth. Although Sao Tome has a net negative international migration rate, emigration is not a sufficient safety valve to reduce already high levels of unemployment and poverty. While literacy and primary school attendance have improved in recent years, Sao Tome still struggles to improve its educational quality and to increase its secondary school completion rate. Despite some improvements in education and access to healthcare, Sao Tome and Principe has much to do to decrease its high poverty rate, create jobs, and increase its economic growth.The population of Sao Tome and Principe descends primarily from the islands’ colonial Portuguese settlers, who first arrived in the late 15th century, and the much larger number of African slaves brought in for sugar production and the slave trade. For about 100 years after the abolition of slavery in 1876, the population was further shaped by the widespread use of imported unskilled contract laborers from Portugal’s other African colonies, who worked on coffee and cocoa plantations. In the first decades after abolition, most workers were brought from Angola under a system similar to slavery. While Angolan laborers were technically free, they were forced or coerced into long contracts that were automatically renewed and extended to their children. Other contract workers from Mozambique and famine-stricken Cape Verde first arrived in the early 20th century under short-term contracts and had the option of repatriation, although some chose to remain in Sao Tome and Principe.Today’s Sao Tomean population consists of mesticos (creole descendants of the European immigrants and African slaves that first inhabited the islands), forros (descendants of freed African slaves), angolares (descendants of runaway African slaves that formed a community in the south of Sao Tome Island and today are fishermen), servicais (contract laborers from Angola, Mozambique, and Cape Verde), tongas (locally born children of contract laborers), and lesser numbers of Europeans and Asians.Sao Tome and Principe’s youthful age structure – more than 60% of the population is under the age of 25 – and high fertility rate ensure future population growth. Although Sao Tome has a net negative international migration rate, emigration is not a sufficient safety valve to reduce already high levels of unemployment and poverty. While literacy and primary school attendance have improved in recent years, Sao Tome still struggles to improve its educational quality and to increase its secondary school completion rate. Despite some improvements in education and access to healthcare, Sao Tome and Principe has much to do to decrease its high poverty rate, create jobs, and increase its economic growth.The population of Sao Tome and Principe descends primarily from the islands’ colonial Portuguese settlers, who first arrived in the late 15th century, and the much larger number of African slaves brought in for sugar production and the slave trade. For about 100 years after the abolition of slavery in 1876, the population was further shaped by the widespread use of imported unskilled contract laborers from Portugal’s other African colonies, who worked on coffee and cocoa plantations. In the first decades after abolition, most workers were brought from Angola under a system similar to slavery. While Angolan laborers were technically free, they were forced or coerced into long contracts that were automatically renewed and extended to their children. Other contract workers from Mozambique and famine-stricken Cape Verde first arrived in the early 20th century under short-term contracts and had the option of repatriation, although some chose to remain in Sao Tome and Principe.Today’s Sao Tomean population consists of mesticos (creole descendants of the European immigrants and African slaves that first inhabited the islands), forros (descendants of freed African slaves), angolares (descendants of runaway African slaves that formed a community in the south of Sao Tome Island and today are fishermen), servicais (contract laborers from Angola, Mozambique, and Cape Verde), tongas (locally born children of contract laborers), and lesser numbers of Europeans and Asians.
Age structure: 0-14 years: 39.77% (male 42,690/female 41,277)
15-24 years: 21.59% (male 23,088/female 22,487)
25-54 years: 31.61% (male 32,900/female 33,834)
55-64 years: 4.17% (male 4,095/female 4,700)
65 years and over: 2.87% (2020 est.) (male 2,631/female 3,420)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 81
youth dependency ratio: 75.6
elderly dependency ratio: 5.4
potential support ratio: 18.4 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 19.3 years
male: 18.9 years
female: 19.7 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 1.48% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 28.19 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 6.2 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: -7.19 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: Sao Tome, the capital city, has roughly a quarter of the nation's population; Santo Antonio is the largest town on Principe; the northern areas of both islands have the highest population densities as shown in this population distribution map
Urbanization: urban population: 75.8% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 2.96% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 80,000 SAO TOME (capital) (2018)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.03 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.03 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 0.97 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 0.88 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.7 male(s)/female
total population: 1 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth: 19.4 years (2008/09 est.)
note: median age at first birth among women 25-29
Maternal mortality ratio: 130 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 44.38 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 47.82 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 40.84 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 67.06 years
male: 65.44 years
female: 68.72 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 3.56 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: 49.7% (2019)
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 100% of population
rural: 94% of population
total: 98.5% of population
unimproved: urban: 0% of population
rural: 6% of population
total: 1.5% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 5.5% (2019)
Physicians density: 0.05 physicians/1,000 population (2017)
Hospital bed density: 2.9 beds/1,000 population (2011)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 57.1% of population
rural: 42.8% of population
total: 53.4% of population
unimproved: urban: 42.9% of population
rural: 57.2% of population
total: 46.6% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: 0.3% (2020)
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: (2020) <1,000
HIV/AIDS - deaths: (2020) <100
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial diarrhea, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever
vectorborne diseases: malaria and dengue fever
water contact diseases: schistosomiasis
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 12.4% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: 5.4% (2019)
Child marriage: women married by age 15: 5.4% (2019)
women married by age 18: 28% (2019)
men married by age 18: 3.1% (2019 est.)
Education expenditures: 5.9% of GDP (2019)
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 92.8%
male: 96.2%
female: 89.5% (2018)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 12 years
male: 12 years
female: 13 years (2015)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 20.8%
male: NA
female: (2012 est.) NA
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: deforestation and illegal logging; soil erosion and exhaustion; inadequate sewage treatment in cities; biodiversity preservation
Environment - international agreements: party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands, Whaling
signed, but not ratified: Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 25.66 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 0.12 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 0.04 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: tropical; hot, humid; one rainy season (October to May)
Land use: agricultural land: 50.7% (2018 est.)
arable land: 9.1% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 40.6% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 1% (2018 est.)
forest: 28.1% (2018 est.)
other: 21.2% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 75.8% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 2.96% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 1.9% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0% of GDP (2018 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial diarrhea, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever
vectorborne diseases: malaria and dengue fever
water contact diseases: schistosomiasis
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 25,587 tons (2014 est.)
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 14.7 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 600,000 cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 25.6 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 2.18 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe
conventional short form: Sao Tome and Principe
local long form: Republica Democratica de Sao Tome e Principe
local short form: Sao Tome e Principe
etymology: Sao Tome was named after Saint THOMAS the Apostle by the Portuguese who discovered the island on 21 December 1470 (or 1471), the saint's feast day; Principe is a shortening of the original Portuguese name of "Ilha do Principe" (Isle of the Prince) referring to the Prince of Portugal to whom duties on the island's sugar crop were paid
Government type: semi-presidential republic
Capital: name: Sao Tome
geographic coordinates: 0 20 N, 6 44 E
time difference: UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: named after Saint Thomas the Apostle
Administrative divisions: 6 districts (distritos, singular - distrito), 1 autonomous region* (regiao autonoma); Agua Grande, Cantagalo, Caue, Lemba, Lobata, Me-Zochi, Principe*
Independence: 12 July 1975 (from Portugal)
National holiday: Independence Day, 12 July (1975)
Constitution: history: approved 5 November 1975
amendments: proposed by the National Assembly; passage requires two-thirds majority vote by the Assembly; the Assembly can propose to the president of the republic that an amendment be submitted to a referendum; revised several times, last in 2006
Legal system: mixed legal system of civil law based on the Portuguese model and customary law
International law organization participation: has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; non-party state to the ICCt
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: no
citizenship by descent only: at least one parent must be a citizen of Sao Tome and Principe
dual citizenship recognized: no
residency requirement for naturalization: 5 years
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: President Carlos Manuel VILA NOVA (since 2 October 2021)
head of government: Prime Minister Jorge BOM JESUS (since 3 December 2018)
cabinet: Council of Ministers proposed by the prime minister, appointed by the president
elections/appointments: president directly elected by absolute majority popular vote in 2 rounds if needed for a 5-year term (eligible for a second term); election last held on 18 July 2021 and runoff on 5 September 2021 (next to be held in 2026); prime minister chosen by the National Assembly and approved by the president
election results:
2021: Carlos Manuel VILA NOVA elected president in the second round; percent of vote in the first round - Carlos Manuel VILA NOVA (IDA) 39.5%; Guilherme POSSER DA COSTA (MLSTP-PSD) 20.8%; Delfim NEVES (PCD-GR) 16.9%; Abel BOM JESUS (independent) 3.6%; Maria DAS NEVES (independent) 3.3%; other 15.9%; percent of the vote in the second round - Carlos Manuel VILA NOVA (IDA) 57.5%, Guilherme POSSER DA COSTA (MLSTP-PSD) 42.5%; note - VILA NOVA is scheduled to take office 29 September 2021
2016: Evaristo CARVALHO elected president; percent of vote - Evaristo CARVALHO (ADI) 49.8%, Manuel Pinto DA COSTA (independent) 24.8%, Maria DAS NEVES (MLSTP-PSD) 24.1%; note - first round results for CARVALHO were revised downward from just over 50%, prompting the 7 August runoff; however, on 1 August 2016 DA COSTA withdrew from the runoff, citing voting irregularities, and CARVALHO was declared the winner
Legislative branch: description: unicameral National Assembly or Assembleia Nacional (55 seats; members directly elected in multi-seat constituencies by closed party-list proportional representation vote to serve 4-year terms)
elections: last held on 7 October 2018 (next to be held in October 2022)
election results: percent of vote by party - ADI 41.8%, MLSTP/PSD 40.3%, PCD-GR 9.5%, MCISTP 2.1%, other 6.3%; seats by party - ADI 25, MLSTP-PSD 23, PCD-MDFM-UDD 5, MCISTP 2; composition - men 45, women 10, percent of women 18.2%
Judicial branch: highest courts: Supreme Court or Supremo Tribunal Justica (consists of 5 judges); Constitutional Court or Tribunal Constitucional (consists of 5 judges, 3 of whom are from the Supreme Court)
judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court judges appointed by the National Assembly; judge tenure NA; Constitutional Court judges nominated by the president and elected by the National Assembly for 5-year terms
subordinate courts: Court of First Instance; Audit Court
Political parties and leaders: Force for Democratic Change Movement or MDFM [Fradique Bandeira Melo DE MENEZES]
Independent Democratic Action or ADI [vacant]
Movement for the Liberation of Sao Tome and Principe-Social Democratic Party or MLSTP-PSD [Aurelio MARTINS]
Party for Democratic Convergence-Reflection Group or PCD-GR [Leonel Mario D'ALVA]
other small parties
International organization participation: ACP, AfDB, AOSIS, AU, CD, CEMAC, CPLP, EITI (candidate country), FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IOM (observer), IPU, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, NAM, OIF, OPCW, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, Union Latina, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO (observer)
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Carlos Filomeno Azevedo Agostinho das NEVES (since 3 December 2013)
chancery: 675 Third Avenue, Suite 1807, New York, NY 10017
telephone: [1] (212) 651-8116
FAX: [1] (212) 651-8117
email address and website:
rdstppmun@gmail.com
Diplomatic representation from the US: embassy: the US does not have an embassy in Sao Tome and Principe; the US Ambassador to Gabon is accredited to Sao Tome and Principe
mailing address: 2290 Sao Tome Place, Washington DC 20521-2290
Flag description: three horizontal bands of green (top), yellow (double width), and green with two black five-pointed stars placed side by side in the center of the yellow band and a red isosceles triangle based on the hoist side; green stands for the country's rich vegetation, red recalls the struggle for independence, and yellow represents cocoa, one of the country's main agricultural products; the two stars symbolize the two main islands
note: uses the popular Pan-African colors of Ethiopia
National symbol(s): palm tree; national colors: green, yellow, red, black
National anthem: name: "Independencia total" (Total Independence)
lyrics/music: Alda Neves DA GRACA do Espirito Santo/Manuel dos Santos Barreto de Sousa e ALMEIDA
note: adopted 1975
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: The economy of São Tomé and Príncipe is small, based mainly on agricultural production, and, since independence in 1975, increasingly dependent on the export of cocoa beans. Cocoa production has substantially declined in recent years because of drought and mismanagement. Sao Tome depends heavily on imports of food, fuels, most manufactured goods, and consumer goods, and changes in commodity prices affect the country’s inflation rate. Maintaining control of inflation, fiscal discipline, and increasing flows of foreign direct investment into the nascent oil sector are major economic problems facing the country. In recent years the government has attempted to reduce price controls and subsidies. In 2017, several business-related laws were enacted that aim to improve the business climate. São Tomé and Príncipe has had difficulty servicing its external debt and has relied heavily on concessional aid and debt rescheduling. In April 2011, the country completed a Threshold Country Program with The Millennium Challenge Corporation to help increase tax revenues, reform customs, and improve the business environment. In 2016, Sao Tome and Portugal signed a five-year cooperation agreement worth approximately $64 million, some of which will be provided as loans. In 2017, China and São Tomé signed a mutual cooperation agreement in areas such as infrastructure, health, and agriculture worth approximately $146 million over five years. Considerable potential exists for development of tourism, and the government has taken steps to expand tourist facilities in recent years. Potential also exists for the development of petroleum resources in São Tomé and Príncipe's territorial waters in the oil-rich Gulf of Guinea, some of which are being jointly developed in a 60-40 split with Nigeria, but production is at least several years off. Volatile aid and investment inflows have limited growth, and poverty remains high. Restricteded capacity at the main port increases the periodic risk of shortages of consumer goods. Contract enforcement in the country’s judicial system is difficult. The IMF in late 2016 expressed concern about vulnerabilities in the country’s banking sector, although the country plans some austerity measures in line with IMF recommendations under their three year extended credit facility. Deforestation, coastal erosion, poor waste management, and misuse of natural resources also are challenging issues.The economy of São Tomé and Príncipe is small, based mainly on agricultural production, and, since independence in 1975, increasingly dependent on the export of cocoa beans. Cocoa production has substantially declined in recent years because of drought and mismanagement. Sao Tome depends heavily on imports of food, fuels, most manufactured goods, and consumer goods, and changes in commodity prices affect the country’s inflation rate. Maintaining control of inflation, fiscal discipline, and increasing flows of foreign direct investment into the nascent oil sector are major economic problems facing the country. In recent years the government has attempted to reduce price controls and subsidies. In 2017, several business-related laws were enacted that aim to improve the business climate. São Tomé and Príncipe has had difficulty servicing its external debt and has relied heavily on concessional aid and debt rescheduling. In April 2011, the country completed a Threshold Country Program with The Millennium Challenge Corporation to help increase tax revenues, reform customs, and improve the business environment. In 2016, Sao Tome and Portugal signed a five-year cooperation agreement worth approximately $64 million, some of which will be provided as loans. In 2017, China and São Tomé signed a mutual cooperation agreement in areas such as infrastructure, health, and agriculture worth approximately $146 million over five years. Considerable potential exists for development of tourism, and the government has taken steps to expand tourist facilities in recent years. Potential also exists for the development of petroleum resources in São Tomé and Príncipe's territorial waters in the oil-rich Gulf of Guinea, some of which are being jointly developed in a 60-40 split with Nigeria, but production is at least several years off. Volatile aid and investment inflows have limited growth, and poverty remains high. Restricteded capacity at the main port increases the periodic risk of shortages of consumer goods. Contract enforcement in the country’s judicial system is difficult. The IMF in late 2016 expressed concern about vulnerabilities in the country’s banking sector, although the country plans some austerity measures in line with IMF recommendations under their three year extended credit facility. Deforestation, coastal erosion, poor waste management, and misuse of natural resources also are challenging issues.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $890 million (2020 est.)
$860 million (2019 est.)
$840 million (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 3.9% (2017 est.)
4.2% (2016 est.)
3.8% (2015 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $4,100 (2020 est.)
$4,000 (2019 est.)
$4,000 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $0 (2018 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 7.8% (2018 est.)
5.6% (2017 est.)
5.7% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 11.8% (2017 est.)
industry: 14.8% (2017 est.)
services: 73.4% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 81.4% (2017 est.)
government consumption: 17.6% (2017 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 33.4% (2017 est.)
investment in inventories: 0% (2017 est.)
exports of goods and services: 7.9% (2017 est.)
imports of goods and services: -40.4% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: plantains, oil palm fruit, coconuts, taro, bananas, fruit, cocoa, yams, cassava, maize
Industries: light construction, textiles, soap, beer, fish processing, timber
Industrial production growth rate: 5% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 72,600 (2017 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 26.1%
industry: 21.4%
services: 52.5% (2014 est.)
Unemployment rate: 12.2% (2017 est.)
12.6% (2016 est.)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 20.8%
male: NA
female: (2012 est.) NA
Population below poverty line: 66.7% (2017 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 56.3 (2017 est.)
32.1 (2000 est.)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Budget: revenues: 103 million (2017 est.)
expenditures: 112.4 million (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): -2.4% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 88.4% of GDP (2017 est.)
93.1% of GDP (2016 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 26.2% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: calendar year
Current account balance: -$32 million (2017 est.)
-$23 million (2016 est.)
Exports: $50 million (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$70 million (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$100 million (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Exports - partners: Singapore 30%, Switzerland 24%, France 11%, Poland 7%, Belgium 7%, United States 5% (2019)
Exports - commodities: gas turbines, cocoa beans, aircraft parts, iron products, chocolate (2019)
Imports: $160 million (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$190 million (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$200 million (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Imports - partners: Portugal 41%, Angola 17%, China 8% (2019 )
Imports - commodities: refined petroleum, cars, rice, flavored water, postage stamps (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $58.95 million (31 December 2017 est.)
$61.5 million (31 December 2016 est.)
Debt - external: $292.9 million (31 December 2017 est.)
$308.5 million (31 December 2016 est.)
Exchange rates: dobras (STD) per US dollar -
22,689 (2017 est.)
21,797 (2016 est.)
22,149 (2015 est.)
22,091 (2014 est.)
18,466 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 71% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 87% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 25% (2019)
Electricity - production: 66 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 61.38 million kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 0 kWh (2016)
Electricity - imports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 18,100 kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 88% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 11% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 1% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 0 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 0 bbl (1 January 2018)
Refined petroleum products - production: 0 bbl/day (2017 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 1,000 bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 1,027 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 0 cu m (1 January 2014 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 2,790 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 1 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 165,761 (2019)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 77.08 (2019)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: local telephone network of adequate quality with most lines connected to digital switches; mobile cellular superior choice to landland; dial-up quality low; broadband expensive (2018)
domestic: fixed-line roughly 1 per 100 and mobile-cellular teledensity roughly 79 telephones per 100 persons (2020)
international: country code - 239; landing points for the Ultramar GE and ACE submarine cables from South Africa to over 20 West African countries and Europe; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) (2019)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governments
Broadcast media: 1 government-owned TV station; 1 government-owned radio station; 3 independent local radio stations authorized in 2005 with 2 operating at the end of 2006; transmissions of multiple international broadcasters are available
Internet country code: .st
Internet users: total: 72,323 (2020 est.)
percent of population: 33% (2020 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 2,512 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 1.15 (2020 est.)
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 1 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 1
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: S9
Airports: total: 2 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 2
1,524 to 2,437 m: 1
914 to 1,523 m: 1 (2021)
Roadways: total: 1,300 km (2018)
paved: 230 km (2018)
unpaved: 1,070 km (2018)
Merchant marine: total: 22
by type: general cargo 13, oil tanker 2, other 7 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): Sao Tome
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: Armed Forces of Sao Tome and Principe (Forcas Armadas de Sao Tome e Principe, FASTP): Army, Coast Guard of Sao Tome e Principe (Guarda Costeira de Sao Tome e Principe, GCSTP), Presidential Guard, National Guard (2021)
Military expenditures: Not available
Military and security service personnel strengths: the FASTP has approximately 400-500 personnel (2021)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the FASTP is lightly and poorly armed (2021)
Military service age and obligation: 18 is the legal minimum age for compulsory military service; 17 is the legal minimum age for voluntary service (2021)
Military - note: the FASTP is one of the smallest militaries in Africa and consists of only a few companies of ground troops and a few small patrol boats; as of 2021, it did not have an air forcethe FASTP is one of the smallest militaries in Africa and consists of only a few companies of ground troops and a few small patrol boats; as of 2021, it did not have an air force
Maritime threats: the International Maritime Bureau reports the territorial and offshore waters in the Niger Delta and Gulf of Guinea remain a very high risk for piracy and armed robbery of ships; in 2021, there were 34 reported incidents of piracy and armed robbery at sea in the Gulf of Guinea region; although a significant decrease from the total number of 81 incidents in 2020, it included the one hijacking and three of five ships fired upon worldwide; while boarding and attempted boarding to steal valuables from ships and crews are the most common types of incidents, almost a third of all incidents involve a hijacking and/or kidnapping; in 2021, 57 crew members were kidnapped in seven separate incidents in the Gulf of Guinea, representing 100% of kidnappings worldwide; Nigerian pirates in particular are well armed and very aggressive, operating as far as 200 nm offshore; the Maritime Administration of the US Department of Transportation has issued a Maritime Advisory (2022-001 - Gulf of Guinea-Piracy/Armed Robbery/Kidnapping for Ransom) effective 4 January 2022, which states in part, "Piracy, armed robbery, and kidnapping for ransom continue to serve as significant threats to US-flagged vessels transiting or operating in the Gulf of Guinea"
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: nonenone |
20220601 | countries-botswana |
Topic: Photos of Botswana
Topic: Introduction
Background: Seeking to stop the incorporation of their land into Rhodesia (Zimbabwe) or the Union of South Africa, in 1885, three tribal chiefs traveled to Great Britain and successfully lobbied the British Government to put "Bechuanaland" under UK protection. Upon independence in 1966, the British protectorate of Bechuanaland adopted the new name of Botswana. More than five decades of uninterrupted civilian leadership, progressive social policies, and significant capital investment have created one of the most stable economies in Africa. The ruling Botswana Democratic Party has won every national election since independence; President Mokgweetsi Eric MASISI assumed the presidency in April 2018 following the retirement of former President Ian KHAMA due to constitutional term limits. MASISI won his first election as president in October 2019, and he is Botswana’s fifth president since independence. Mineral extraction, principally diamond mining, dominates economic activity, though tourism is a growing sector due to the country's conservation practices and extensive nature preserves. Botswana has one of the world's highest rates of HIV/AIDS infection, but also one of Africa's most progressive and comprehensive programs for dealing with the disease.Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Southern Africa, north of South Africa
Geographic coordinates: 22 00 S, 24 00 E
Map references: Africa
Area: total: 581,730 sq km
land: 566,730 sq km
water: 15,000 sq km
Area - comparative: slightly smaller than Texas; almost four times the size of Illinois
Land boundaries: total: 4,347.15 km
border countries (4): Namibia 1,544 km; South Africa 1,969 km; Zambia 0.15 km; Zimbabwe 834 km
Coastline: 0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims: none (landlocked)
Climate: semiarid; warm winters and hot summers
Terrain: predominantly flat to gently rolling tableland; Kalahari Desert in southwest
Elevation: highest point: Manyelanong Hill 1,495 m
note - the Factbook map is incorrect; it shows the wrong high elevation
lowest point: junction of the Limpopo and Shashe Rivers 513 m
mean elevation: 1,013 m
Natural resources: diamonds, copper, nickel, salt, soda ash, potash, coal, iron ore, silver
Land use: agricultural land: 45.8% (2018 est.)
arable land: 0.6% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 0% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 45.2% (2018 est.)
forest: 19.8% (2018 est.)
other: 34.4% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 20 sq km (2012)
Major rivers (by length in km): Zambezi (shared with Zambia [s]), Angola, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique [m]) - 2,740 km; Limpopo (shared with South Africa [s], Zimbabwe, and Mozambique [m]) - 1,800 km; Okavango river mouth (shared with Angola [s], and Namibia) - 1,600 km
note – [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouthZambezi (shared with Zambia [s]), Angola, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique [m]) - 2,740 km; Limpopo (shared with South Africa [s], Zimbabwe, and Mozambique [m]) - 1,800 km; Okavango river mouth (shared with Angola [s], and Namibia) - 1,600 km
note – [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
Major watersheds (area sq km): Atlantic Ocean drainage: Orange (941,351 sq km)
Indian Ocean drainage: Zambezi (1,332,412 sq km)
Internal (endorheic basin) drainage: Okavango Basin (863,866 sq km)
Major aquifers: Lower Kalahari-Stampriet Basin, Upper Kalahari-Cuvelai-Upper Zambezi Basin
Population distribution: the population is primarily concentrated in the east with a focus in and around the captial of Gaborone, and the far central-eastern city of Francistown; population density remains low in other areas in the country, especially in the Kalahari to the west as shown in this population distribution map
Natural hazards: periodic droughts; seasonal August winds blow from the west, carrying sand and dust across the country, which can obscure visibility
Geography - note: landlocked; population concentrated in the southern and eastern parts of the country
Map description: Botswana map showing major cities as well as parts of surrounding countries.Botswana map showing major cities as well as parts of surrounding countries.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 2,384,246 (2022 est.)
note: estimates for this country explicitly taken into account the impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic
Nationality: noun: Motswana (singular), Batswana (plural)
adjective: Motswana (singular), Batswana (plural)
Ethnic groups: Tswana (or Setswana) 79%, Kalanga 11%, Basarwa 3%, other, including Kgalagadi and people of European ancestry 7%
Languages: Setswana 77.3%, Sekalanga 7.4%, Shekgalagadi 3.4%, English (official) 2.8%, Zezuru/Shona 2%, Sesarwa 1.7%, Sembukushu 1.6%, Ndebele 1%, other 2.8% (2011 est.)
Religions: Christian 79.1%, Badimo 4.1%, other 1.4% (includes Baha'i, Hindu, Muslim, Rastafarian), none 15.2%, unspecified 0.3% (2011 est.)
Demographic profile: Botswana has experienced one of the most rapid declines in fertility in Sub-Saharan Africa. The total fertility rate has fallen from more than 5 children per woman in the mid 1980s to approximately 2.4 in 2013. The fertility reduction has been attributed to a host of factors, including higher educational attainment among women, greater participation of women in the workforce, increased contraceptive use, later first births, and a strong national family planning program. Botswana was making significant progress in several health indicators, including life expectancy and infant and child mortality rates, until being devastated by the HIV/AIDs epidemic in the 1990s.Today Botswana has the third highest HIV/AIDS prevalence rate in the world at approximately 22%, however comprehensive and effective treatment programs have reduced HIV/AIDS-related deaths. The combination of declining fertility and increasing mortality rates because of HIV/AIDS is slowing the population aging process, with a narrowing of the youngest age groups and little expansion of the oldest age groups. Nevertheless, having the bulk of its population (about 60%) of working age will only yield economic benefits if the labor force is healthy, educated, and productively employed.Batswana have been working as contract miners in South Africa since the 19th century. Although Botswana’s economy improved shortly after independence in 1966 with the discovery of diamonds and other minerals, its lingering high poverty rate and lack of job opportunities continued to push workers to seek mining work in southern African countries. In the early 1970s, about a third of Botswana’s male labor force worked in South Africa (lesser numbers went to Namibia and Zimbabwe). Not until the 1980s and 1990s, when South African mining companies had reduced their recruitment of foreign workers and Botswana’s economic prospects had improved, were Batswana increasingly able to find job opportunities at home.Most Batswana prefer life in their home country and choose cross-border migration on a temporary basis only for work, shopping, visiting family, or tourism. Since the 1970s, Botswana has pursued an open migration policy enabling it to recruit thousands of foreign workers to fill skilled labor shortages. In the late 1990s, Botswana’s prosperity and political stability attracted not only skilled workers but small numbers of refugees from neighboring Angola, Namibia, and Zimbabwe.Botswana has experienced one of the most rapid declines in fertility in Sub-Saharan Africa. The total fertility rate has fallen from more than 5 children per woman in the mid 1980s to approximately 2.4 in 2013. The fertility reduction has been attributed to a host of factors, including higher educational attainment among women, greater participation of women in the workforce, increased contraceptive use, later first births, and a strong national family planning program. Botswana was making significant progress in several health indicators, including life expectancy and infant and child mortality rates, until being devastated by the HIV/AIDs epidemic in the 1990s.Today Botswana has the third highest HIV/AIDS prevalence rate in the world at approximately 22%, however comprehensive and effective treatment programs have reduced HIV/AIDS-related deaths. The combination of declining fertility and increasing mortality rates because of HIV/AIDS is slowing the population aging process, with a narrowing of the youngest age groups and little expansion of the oldest age groups. Nevertheless, having the bulk of its population (about 60%) of working age will only yield economic benefits if the labor force is healthy, educated, and productively employed.Batswana have been working as contract miners in South Africa since the 19th century. Although Botswana’s economy improved shortly after independence in 1966 with the discovery of diamonds and other minerals, its lingering high poverty rate and lack of job opportunities continued to push workers to seek mining work in southern African countries. In the early 1970s, about a third of Botswana’s male labor force worked in South Africa (lesser numbers went to Namibia and Zimbabwe). Not until the 1980s and 1990s, when South African mining companies had reduced their recruitment of foreign workers and Botswana’s economic prospects had improved, were Batswana increasingly able to find job opportunities at home.Most Batswana prefer life in their home country and choose cross-border migration on a temporary basis only for work, shopping, visiting family, or tourism. Since the 1970s, Botswana has pursued an open migration policy enabling it to recruit thousands of foreign workers to fill skilled labor shortages. In the late 1990s, Botswana’s prosperity and political stability attracted not only skilled workers but small numbers of refugees from neighboring Angola, Namibia, and Zimbabwe.
Age structure: 0-14 years: 30.54% (male 357,065/female 350,550)
15-24 years: 18.31% (male 208,824/female 215,462)
25-54 years: 39.67% (male 434,258/female 484,922)
55-64 years: 5.92% (male 59,399/female 77,886)
65 years and over: 5.56% (2020 est.) (male 53,708/female 75,159)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 61.1
youth dependency ratio: 53.8
elderly dependency ratio: 7.3
potential support ratio: 13.8 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 25.7 years
male: 24.5 years
female: 26.7 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 1.4% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 20.28 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 9.05 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: 2.81 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: the population is primarily concentrated in the east with a focus in and around the captial of Gaborone, and the far central-eastern city of Francistown; population density remains low in other areas in the country, especially in the Kalahari to the west as shown in this population distribution map
Urbanization: urban population: 72.2% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 2.47% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 269,000 GABORONE (capital) (2018)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.02 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 0.96 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 0.9 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 0.79 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.6 male(s)/female
total population: 0.92 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Maternal mortality ratio: 144 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 25.18 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 27.54 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 22.75 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 65.64 years
male: 63.6 years
female: 67.74 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 2.39 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: 67.4% (2017)
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 98.1% of population
rural: 96.9% of population
total: 99.4% of population
unimproved: urban: 0.2% of population
rural: 3.1% of population
total: 0.6% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 6.1% (2019)
Physicians density: 0.53 physicians/1,000 population (2016)
Hospital bed density: 1.8 beds/1,000 population
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 94.9% of population
rural: 63% of population
total: 85.6% of population
unimproved: urban: 5.1% of population
rural: 37% of population
total: 14.4% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: 19.9% (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: 370,000 (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - deaths: 5,100 (2020 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial diarrhea, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever
vectorborne diseases: malaria
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 18.9% (2016)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: NA
Education expenditures: 6.9% of GDP (2019)
Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 88.5%
male: 88%
female: 88.9% (2015)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 13 years
male: 13 years
female: 13 years (2013)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 46.2%
male: 44.9%
female: 47.8% (2020 est.)
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: overgrazing; desertification; limited freshwater resources; air pollution
Environment - international agreements: party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 21.24 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 6.34 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 5.73 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: semiarid; warm winters and hot summers
Land use: agricultural land: 45.8% (2018 est.)
arable land: 0.6% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 0% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 45.2% (2018 est.)
forest: 19.8% (2018 est.)
other: 34.4% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 72.2% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 2.47% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 0.23% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0.45% of GDP (2018 est.)
Major infectious diseases: degree of risk: high (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial diarrhea, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever
vectorborne diseases: malaria
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 210,854 tons (2010 est.)
municipal solid waste recycled annually: 2,109 tons (2005 est.)
percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 1% (2005 est.)
Major rivers (by length in km): Zambezi (shared with Zambia [s]), Angola, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique [m]) - 2,740 km; Limpopo (shared with South Africa [s], Zimbabwe, and Mozambique [m]) - 1,800 km; Okavango river mouth (shared with Angola [s], and Namibia) - 1,600 km
note – [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouthZambezi (shared with Zambia [s]), Angola, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique [m]) - 2,740 km; Limpopo (shared with South Africa [s], Zimbabwe, and Mozambique [m]) - 1,800 km; Okavango river mouth (shared with Angola [s], and Namibia) - 1,600 km
note – [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
Major watersheds (area sq km): Atlantic Ocean drainage: Orange (941,351 sq km)
Indian Ocean drainage: Zambezi (1,332,412 sq km)
Internal (endorheic basin) drainage: Okavango Basin (863,866 sq km)
Major aquifers: Lower Kalahari-Stampriet Basin, Upper Kalahari-Cuvelai-Upper Zambezi Basin
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 100.6 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 23.4 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 69 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 12.24 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Republic of Botswana
conventional short form: Botswana
local long form: Republic of Botswana
local short form: Botswana
former: Bechuanaland
etymology: the name Botswana means "Land of the Tswana" - referring to the country's major ethnic group
Government type: parliamentary republic
Capital: name: Gaborone
geographic coordinates: 24 38 S, 25 54 E
time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: named after GABORONE (ca. 1825-1931), a revered kgosi (chief) of the Tlokwa tribe, part of the larger Tswana ethnic group
Administrative divisions: 10 districts and 6 town councils*; Central, Chobe, Francistown*, Gaborone*, Ghanzi, Jwaneng*, Kgalagadi, Kgatleng, Kweneng, Lobatse*, North East, North West, Selebi-Phikwe*, South East, Southern, Sowa Town*
Independence: 30 September 1966 (from the UK)
National holiday: Independence Day (Botswana Day), 30 September (1966)
Constitution: history: previous 1960 (preindependence); latest adopted March 1965, effective 30 September 1966
amendments: proposed by the National Assembly; passage requires approval in two successive Assembly votes with at least two-thirds majority in the final vote; proposals to amend constitutional provisions on fundamental rights and freedoms, the structure and branches of government, and public services also requires approval by majority vote in a referendum and assent by the president of the republic; amended several times, last in 2016
Legal system: mixed legal system of civil law influenced by the Roman-Dutch model and also customary and common law
International law organization participation: accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction with reservations; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: no
citizenship by descent only: at least one parent must be a citizen of Botswana
dual citizenship recognized: no
residency requirement for naturalization: 10 years
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: President Mokgweetse Eric MASISI (since 1 April 2018); Vice President Slumber TSOGWANE (since 4 April 2018); note - the president is both chief of state and head of government
head of government: President Mokgweetse Eric MASISI (since 1 April 2018); Vice President Slumber TSOGWANE (since 4 April 2018); note - the president is both chief of state and head of government
cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the president
elections/appointments: president indirectly elected by the National Assembly for a 5-year term (eligible for a second term); election last held on 24 October 2014 (next to be held on 31 October 2019); vice president appointed by the president
election results: President Seretse Khama Ian KHAMA (since 1 April 2008) stepped down on 1 April 2018 having completed the constitutionally mandated 10-year term limit; upon his retirement, then Vice President MASISI became president; national elections held on 23 October 2019 gave MASISI'S BPD 38 seats in the National Assembly which then selected MASISI as President
Legislative branch: description: unicameral Parliament consists of the National Assembly (63 seats; 57 members directly elected in single-seat constituencies by simple majority vote, 4 nominated by the president and indirectly elected by simple majority vote by the rest of the National Assembly, and 2 ex-officio members - the president and attorney general; elected members serve 5-year terms); note - the House of Chiefs (Ntlo ya Dikgosi), an advisory body to the National Assembly, consists of 35 members - 8 hereditary chiefs from Botswana's principal tribes, 22 indirectly elected by the chiefs, and 5 appointed by the president; the House of Chiefs consults on issues including powers of chiefs, customary courts, customary law, tribal property, and constitutional amendments
elections: last held on 23 October 2019 (next to be held in October 2024)
election results: percent of vote by party - BDP 52.7%, UDC 35.9%, BPF 4.4%, AP 5.1%, other 1.7%; seats by party - BDP 38, UDC 15, BPF 3, AP 1; composition as of February 2022 - men 56, women 7, percent of women 11.1%
Judicial branch: highest courts: Court of Appeal, High Court (each consists of a chief justice and a number of other judges as prescribed by the Parliament)
judge selection and term of office: Court of Appeal and High Court chief justices appointed by the president and other judges appointed by the president upon the advice of the Judicial Service Commission; all judges appointed to serve until age 70
subordinate courts: Industrial Court (with circuits scheduled monthly in the capital city and in 3 districts); Magistrates Courts (1 in each district); Customary Court of Appeal; Paramount Chief's Court/Urban Customary Court; Senior Chief's Representative Court; Chief's Representative’s Court; Headman's Court
Political parties and leaders: Alliance of Progressives or AP [Ndaba GAOLATHE]
Botswana Congress Party or BCP [Dumelang SALESHANDO]
Botswana Democratic Party or BDP [Mokgweetsi MASISI]
Botswana Movement for Democracy or BMD [Sidney PILANE]
Botswana National Front or BNF [Duma BOKO]
Botswana Patriotic Front or BPF [Biggie BUTALE]
Botswana Peoples Party or BPP [Motlatsi MOLAPISI]
Real Alternative Party or RAP [Gaontebale MOKGOSI]
Umbrella for Democratic Change or UDC [Duma BOKO] (various times the collation has included the BMD, BPP, BCP and BNF) (2019)
International organization participation: ACP, AfDB, AU, C, CD, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, NAM, OPCW, SACU, SADC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Onkokame Kitso MOKAILA (since 17 September 2020)
chancery: 1531-1533 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
telephone: [1] (202) 244-4990
FAX: [1] (202) 244-4164
email address and website:
info@botswanaembassy.org
http://www.botswanaembassy.org/
consulate(s) general: Atlanta
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Craig Lewis CLOUD (since 2 April 2019)
embassy: Embassy Drive, Government Enclave (off Khama Crescent), Gaborone
mailing address: 2170 Gabarone Place, Washington DC 20521-2170
telephone: [267] 395-3982
FAX: [267] 318-0232
email address and website:
ConsularGabarone@state.gov
https://bw.usembassy.gov/
Flag description: light blue with a horizontal white-edged black stripe in the center; the blue symbolizes water in the form of rain, while the black and white bands represent racial harmony
National symbol(s): zebra; national colors: blue, white, black
National anthem: name: "Fatshe leno la rona" (Our Land)
lyrics/music: Kgalemang Tumedisco MOTSETE
note: adopted 1966
National heritage: total World Heritage Sites: 2 (1 cultural, 1 natural)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Tsodilo Hills (c), Okavango Delta (n)
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: Until the beginning of the global recession in 2008, Botswana maintained one of the world's highest economic growth rates since its independence in 1966. Botswana recovered from the global recession in 2010, but only grew modestly until 2017, primarily due to a downturn in the global diamond market, though water and power shortages also played a role. Through fiscal discipline and sound management, Botswana has transformed itself from one of the poorest countries in the world five decades ago into a middle-income country with a per capita GDP of approximately $18,100 in 2017. Botswana also ranks as one of the least corrupt and best places to do business in Sub-Saharan Africa. Because of its heavy reliance on diamond exports, Botswana’s economy closely follows global price trends for that one commodity. Diamond mining fueled much of Botswana’s past economic expansion and currently accounts for one-quarter of GDP, approximately 85% of export earnings, and about one-third of the government's revenues. In 2017, Diamond exports increased to the highest levels since 2013 at about 22 million carats of output, driving Botswana’s economic growth to about 4.5% and increasing foreign exchange reserves to about 45% of GDP. De Beers, a major international diamond company, signed a 10-year deal with Botswana in 2012 and moved its rough stone sorting and trading division from London to Gaborone in 2013. The move was geared to support the development of Botswana's nascent downstream diamond industry. Tourism is a secondary earner of foreign exchange and many Batswana engage in tourism-related services, subsistence farming, and cattle rearing. According to official government statistics, unemployment is around 20%, but unofficial estimates run much higher. The prevalence of HIV/AIDS is second highest in the world and threatens the country's impressive economic gains.Until the beginning of the global recession in 2008, Botswana maintained one of the world's highest economic growth rates since its independence in 1966. Botswana recovered from the global recession in 2010, but only grew modestly until 2017, primarily due to a downturn in the global diamond market, though water and power shortages also played a role. Through fiscal discipline and sound management, Botswana has transformed itself from one of the poorest countries in the world five decades ago into a middle-income country with a per capita GDP of approximately $18,100 in 2017. Botswana also ranks as one of the least corrupt and best places to do business in Sub-Saharan Africa. Because of its heavy reliance on diamond exports, Botswana’s economy closely follows global price trends for that one commodity. Diamond mining fueled much of Botswana’s past economic expansion and currently accounts for one-quarter of GDP, approximately 85% of export earnings, and about one-third of the government's revenues. In 2017, Diamond exports increased to the highest levels since 2013 at about 22 million carats of output, driving Botswana’s economic growth to about 4.5% and increasing foreign exchange reserves to about 45% of GDP. De Beers, a major international diamond company, signed a 10-year deal with Botswana in 2012 and moved its rough stone sorting and trading division from London to Gaborone in 2013. The move was geared to support the development of Botswana's nascent downstream diamond industry. Tourism is a secondary earner of foreign exchange and many Batswana engage in tourism-related services, subsistence farming, and cattle rearing. According to official government statistics, unemployment is around 20%, but unofficial estimates run much higher. The prevalence of HIV/AIDS is second highest in the world and threatens the country's impressive economic gains.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $37.72 billion (2020 est.)
$40.95 billion (2019 est.)
$39.75 billion (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 2.4% (2017 est.)
4.3% (2016 est.)
-1.7% (2015 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $16,000 (2020 est.)
$17,800 (2019 est.)
$17,600 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $18.335 billion (2019 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 2.7% (2019 est.)
3.2% (2018 est.)
3.2% (2017 est.)
Credit ratings: Moody's rating: A2 (2020)
Standard & Poors rating: BBB+ (2020)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 1.8% (2017 est.)
industry: 27.5% (2017 est.)
services: 70.6% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 48.5% (2017 est.)
government consumption: 18.4% (2017 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 29% (2017 est.)
investment in inventories: -1.8% (2017 est.)
exports of goods and services: 39.8% (2017 est.)
imports of goods and services: -33.9% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: milk, roots/tubers, vegetables, sorghum, beef, game meat, watermelons, cabbages, goat milk, onions
Industries: diamonds, copper, nickel, salt, soda ash, potash, coal, iron ore, silver; beef processing; textiles
Industrial production growth rate: -4.2% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 1.177 million (2017 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: NA
industry: NA
services: NA
Unemployment rate: 20% (2013 est.)
17.8% (2009 est.)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 46.2%
male: 44.9%
female: 47.8% (2020 est.)
Population below poverty line: 19.3% (2009 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 53.3 (2015 est.)
63 (1993)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: NA
highest 10%: NA
Budget: revenues: 5.305 billion (2017 est.)
expenditures: 5.478 billion (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): -1% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 14% of GDP (2017 est.)
15.6% of GDP (2016 est.)
Taxes and other revenues: 30.5% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March
Current account balance: $2.146 billion (2017 est.)
$2.147 billion (2016 est.)
Exports: $6.16 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$7.53 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Exports - partners: India 21%, Belgium 19%, United Arab Emirates 19%, South Africa 9%, Israel 7%, Hong Kong 6%, Singapore 5% (2019)
Exports - commodities: diamonds, insulated wiring, gold, beef, carbonates (2019)
Imports: $7.44 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$7.31 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Imports - partners: South Africa 58%, Namibia 9%, Canada 7% (2019)
Imports - commodities: diamonds, refined petroleum, cars, delivery trucks, electricity (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $7.491 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
$7.189 billion (31 December 2016 est.)
Debt - external: $2.187 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
$2.421 billion (31 December 2016 est.)
Exchange rates: pulas (BWP) per US dollar -
10.90512 (2020 est.)
10.81081 (2019 est.)
10.60446 (2018 est.)
10.1263 (2014 est.)
8.9761 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 59% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 71% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 29% (2019)
Electricity - production: 2.527 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - consumption: 3.636 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - exports: 0 kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - imports: 1.673 billion kWh (2016 est.)
Electricity - installed generating capacity: 735,000 kW (2016 est.)
Electricity - from fossil fuels: 100% of total installed capacity (2016 est.)
Electricity - from nuclear fuels: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from hydroelectric plants: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Electricity - from other renewable sources: 0% of total installed capacity (2017 est.)
Crude oil - production: 0 bbl/day (2018 est.)
Crude oil - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - imports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Crude oil - proved reserves: 0 bbl (1 January 2018 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - consumption: 21,000 bbl/day (2016 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 0 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 21,090 bbl/day (2015 est.)
Natural gas - production: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - consumption: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - exports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - imports: 0 cu m (2017 est.)
Natural gas - proved reserves: 0 cu m (1 January 2014 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 140,003 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 6 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 3,829,408 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 163 (2020 est.)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: due to effective regulatory reform and active competition, Botswana’s telecom market is one of the most liberalized in the region; strategy to drive nationwide ICT penetration is slowed; one of the highest mobile penetration rates in Africa; operators developing 3G and LTE; Internet use rising due to lower prices; government has embraced digitalization, e-government and identity programs that require citizens to provide detailed personal information; previously dependent on satellites for international connectivity, country’s new submarine cable landings improved competition and tripled international Internet capacity; importer of broadcast equipment from Hong Kong and China (2020) (2020)
domestic: fixed-line teledensity has declined in recent years and now stands at roughly 6 telephones per 100 persons; mobile-cellular teledensity is roughly 162 telephones per 100 persons (2020)
international: country code - 267; international calls are made via satellite, using international direct dialing; 2 international exchanges; digital microwave radio relay links to Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced downturn, particularly in mobile device production; many network operators delayed upgrades to infrastructure; progress towards 5G implementation was postponed or slowed in some countries; consumer spending on telecom services and devices was affected by large-scale job losses and the consequent restriction on disposable incomes; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home became evident, and received some support from governmentsdue to effective regulatory reform and active competition, Botswana’s telecom market is one of the most liberalized in the region; strategy to drive nationwide ICT penetration is slowed; one of the highest mobile penetration rates in Africa; operators developing 3G and LTE; Internet use rising due to lower prices; government has embraced digitalization, e-government and identity programs that require citizens to provide detailed personal information; previously dependent on satellites for international connectivity, country’s new submarine cable landings improved competition and tripled international Internet capacity; importer of broadcast equipment from Hong Kong and China (2020)
Broadcast media: 2 TV stations - 1 state-owned and 1 privately owned; privately owned satellite TV subscription service is available; 2 state-owned national radio stations; 4 privately owned radio stations broadcast locally (2019)
Internet country code: .bw
Internet users: total: 1,505,040 (2020 est.)
percent of population: 64% (2020 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 259,525 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 11 (2020 est.)
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 1 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 6
annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 253,417 (2018)
annual freight traffic on registered air carriers: 110,000 (2018) mt-km
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: A2
Airports: total: 74 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 10
over 3,047 m: 2
2,438 to 3,047 m: 1
1,524 to 2,437 m: 6
914 to 1,523 m: 1 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 64
1,524 to 2,437 m: 5
914 to 1,523 m: 46
under 914 m: 13 (2021)
Railways: total: 888 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 888 km (2014) 1.067-m gauge
Roadways: total: 31,747 km (2017)
paved: 9,810 km (2017)
unpaved: 21,937 km (2017)
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: Botswana Defense Force (BDF): Ground Forces Command, Air Arm Command, Defense Logistics Command (2022)
note - both the armed forces and the Botswana Police Service report to the Ministry of Defense, Justice, and Security
Military expenditures: 3% of GDP (2021 est.)
3% of GDP (2020 est.)
2.8% of GDP (2019) (approximately $760 million)
2.8% of GDP (2018) (approximately $730 million)
2.9% of GDP (2017) (approximately $740 million)
Military and security service personnel strengths: the Botswana Defense Force (BDF) has approximately 9,000 active personnel (2021)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the BDF has a mix of foreign-supplied and mostly older weapons and equipment, largely from Europe (2021)
Military service age and obligation: 18 is the legal minimum age for voluntary military service (men and women); no conscription (2021)
Military - note: Bechuanaland/Botswana did not have a permanent military during colonial times, with the British colonial administrators relying instead on small, lightly armed constabularies such as the Bechuanaland Mounted Police, the Bechuanaland Border Police, and by the early 1960s, the Police Mobile Unit (PMU); after independence in 1966, Botswana militarized the PMU and gave it responsibility for the country’s defense rather than create a conventional military force; however, turmoil in neighboring countries and numerous cross-border incursions by Rhodesian and South African security forces demonstrated that the PMU was inadequate for defending the country and led to the establishment of the BDF in 1977; as of 2022, the BDF’s primary missions included securing territorial integrity/border security and internal duties such as disaster relief and anti-poaching Botswana participates in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Standby Force, and in 2021-2022 contributed nearly 300 troops to the SADC’s effort to help the Mozambique Government suppress an insurgencyBechuanaland/Botswana did not have a permanent military during colonial times, with the British colonial administrators relying instead on small, lightly armed constabularies such as the Bechuanaland Mounted Police, the Bechuanaland Border Police, and by the early 1960s, the Police Mobile Unit (PMU); after independence in 1966, Botswana militarized the PMU and gave it responsibility for the country’s defense rather than create a conventional military force; however, turmoil in neighboring countries and numerous cross-border incursions by Rhodesian and South African security forces demonstrated that the PMU was inadequate for defending the country and led to the establishment of the BDF in 1977; as of 2022, the BDF’s primary missions included securing territorial integrity/border security and internal duties such as disaster relief and anti-poachingBotswana participates in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Standby Force, and in 2021-2022 contributed nearly 300 troops to the SADC’s effort to help the Mozambique Government suppress an insurgency
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: none identifiednone identified |
20220601 | field-exports-country-comparison | |
20220901 | field-communications-note | This entry includes miscellaneous communications information of significance not included elsewhere.
Topic: Austrianote 1: the Austrian National Library contains important collections of the Imperial Library of the Holy Roman Empire and of the Austrian Empire, as well as of the Austrian Republic; among its more than 12 million items are outstanding holdings of rare books, maps, globes, papyrus, and music; its Globe Museum is the only one in the world
note 2: on 1 October 1869, Austria-Hungary introduced the world's first postal card - postal stationery with an imprinted stamp indicating the prepayment of postage; simple and cheap (sent for a fraction of the cost of a regular letter), postal cards became an instant success, widely produced in the millions worldwide
note 3: Austria followed up with the creation of the world's first commercial picture postcards - cards bearing a picture or photo to which postage is affixed - in May 1871; sent from Vienna, the image served as a souvenir of the city; together, postal cards and post cards served as the world's e-mails of the late 19th and early 20th centuries
note 4: Austria was also an airmail pioneer; from March to October of 1918, it conducted the world's first regular (daily) airmail service - between the imperial cities of Vienna, Krakow, and Lemberg - a combined distance of some 650 km (400 mi) (earlier airmail services had been set up in a few parts of the world, but only for short stretches and none lasted beyond a few days or weeks); an expansion of the route in June of 1918 allowed private mail to be flown to Kyiv, in newly independent Ukraine, which made the route the world's first regular international airmail service (covering a distance of some 1,200 km; 750 mi)
Topic: Bouvet Islandhas an automated meteorological station
Topic: British Indian Ocean TerritoryDiego Garcia hosts one of four dedicated ground antennas that assist in the operation of the Global Positioning System (GPS) navigation system (the others are on Kwajalein (Marshall Islands), at Cape Canaveral, Florida (US), and on Ascension Island (Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha))
Topic: Coral Sea Islandsautomatic weather stations on many of the isles and reefs relay data to the mainland
Topic: Egyptone of the largest and most famous libraries in the ancient world was the Great Library of Alexandria in Egypt (founded about 295 B.C., it may have survived in some form into the 5th century A.D.); seeking to resurrect the great center of learning and communication, the Egyptian Government in 2002 inaugurated the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, an Egyptian National Library on the site of the original Great Library, which commemorates the original archive and also serves as a center of cultural and scientific excellence
Topic: French Southern and Antarctic Landshas one or more meteorological stations on each possession
Topic: Holy See (Vatican City)the Vatican Apostolic Library is one of the world's oldest libraries, formally established in 1475, but actually much older; it holds a significant collection of historic texts including 1.1 million printed books and 75,000 codices (manuscript books with handwritten contents); it serves as a research library for history, law, philosophy, science, and theology; the library's collections have been described as "the world's greatest treasure house of the writings at the core of Western tradition"
Topic: Marshall IslandsKwajalein hosts one of four dedicated ground antennas that assist in the operation of the Global Positioning System (GPS) navigation system (the others are at Cape Canaveral, Florida (US), on Ascension (Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha), and at Diego Garcia (British Indian Ocean Territory))
Topic: Moroccothe University of al-Quarawiyyin Library in Fez is recognized as the oldest existing, continually operating library in the world, dating back to A.D. 859; among its holdings are approximately 4,000 ancient Islamic manuscripts
Topic: Pitcairn Islandssatellite-based local phone service and broadband Internet connections available in all homes
Topic: Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da CunhaAscension Island hosts one of four dedicated ground antennas that assist in the operation of the Global Positioning System (GPS) navigation system (the others are on Diego Garcia (British Indian Ocean Territory), Kwajalein (Marshall Islands), and at Cape Canaveral, Florida (US)); South Africa maintains a meteorological station on Gough Island in the Tristan da Cunha archipelago
Topic: Saudi Arabiathe innovative King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (informally known as Ithra, meaning "enrichment") opened on 1 December 2017 in Dhahran, Eastern Region; its facilities include a grand library, several museums, an archive, an Idea Lab, a theater, a cinema, and an Energy Exhibit, all which are meant to provide visitors an immersive and transformative experience
Topic: Ukrainea sorting code to expeditiously handle large volumes of mail was first set up in Ukraine (then part of the Soviet Union) in the 1930s; the sophisticated, three-part (number-letter-number) postal code system, referred to as an "index," was the world's first postal zip code; the system functioned well and was in use from 1932 to 1939 when it was abruptly discontinued
Topic: United Kingdomnote 1: the British Library claims to be the largest library in the world with well over 150 million items and in most known languages; it receives copies of all books produced in the UK or Ireland, as well as a significant proportion of overseas titles distributed in the UK; in addition to books (print and digital), holdings include: journals, manuscripts, newspapers, magazines, sound and music recordings, videos, maps, prints, patents, and drawings
note 2: on 1 May 1840, the United Kingdom led the world with the introduction of postage stamps; the Austrian Empire had examined the idea of an "adhesive tax postmark" for the prepayment of postage in 1835; while the suggestion was reviewed in detail, it was rejected for the time being; other countries (including Austria) soon followed the UK's example with their own postage stamps; by the 1860s, most countries were issuing stamps; originally, stamps had to be cut from sheets; the UK issued the first postage stamps with perforations in 1854
Topic: United Statesnote 1: The Library of Congress, Washington DC, USA, claims to be the largest library in the world with more than 167 million items (as of 2018); its collections are universal, not limited by subject, format, or national boundary, and include materials from all parts of the world and in over 450 languages; collections include: books, newspapers, magazines, sheet music, sound and video recordings, photographic images, artwork, architectural drawings, and copyright data
note 2: Cape Canaveral, Florida, USA, hosts one of four dedicated ground antennas that assist in the operation of the Global Positioning System (GPS) navigation system (the others are on Ascension (Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tistan da Cunha), Diego Garcia (British Indian Ocean Territory), and at Kwajalein (Marshall Islands)
Topic: Worlddata centers consist of a dedicated space within a building or a group of buildings used to house computing resources and other components, such as telecommunications and storage systems; the ongoing worldwide boom in data generation is responsible for the mushrooming of data centers; the three largest data center facilities by area as of the first half of 2022 are:
no. 1. - the China Telecom data center located in the Inner Mongolia Information Park, Hohhot, China, reportedly covers 1 million sq m (10.7 million sq ft); the largest Internet data center in the world, it has over 50% market share in the Chinese data center market, with an extensive network of over 400 data centers located in prime regions in mainland China and overseas markets
no. 2. - the China Mobile data center located in the Inner Mongolia Information Park, Hohhot, China, covers 720,000 sq m (7.7 million sq ft); it is one of the world's biggest cloud computing data centers
no. 3. - The Citadel data center owned by US-based Switch, in Tahoe Reno, Nevada, covers 670,000 sq m (7.2 million sq ft); called the world’s largest technology ecosystem, the facility runs on 100% renewable (solar and wind) energy |
20220901 | north-america | |
20220901 | countries-bulgaria-travel-facts |
US State Dept Travel Advisory: The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens DO NOT TRAVEL to Bulgaria due to COVID-19. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws and special circumstances in this country.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements: US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. They should also make sure they have at least 2 blank pages in their passport for any entry stamp. A visa is not required as long as you do not stay in the country more than 90 days.
US Embassy/Consulate: [359] (2) 937-5100; US Embassy in Sofia, 16, Kozyak Street, Sofia 1408, Bulgaria; https://bg.usembassy.gov/; acs_sofia@state.gov
Telephone Code: 359
Local Emergency Phone: Ambulance: 150; Fire: 160; Police: 166
Vaccinations: See WHO recommendations
http://www.who.int/
Climate: Temperate; cold, damp winters; hot, dry summers
Currency (Code): Leva (BGN)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s): 230 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): C, F
Major Languages: Bulgarian, Turkish, Romani
Major Religions: Eastern Orthodox 59.4%, Muslim 7.8%
Time Difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time);
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March, ends last Sunday in October
Potable Water: Opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit: Suggested
Road Driving Side: Right
Tourist Destinations: Rila Monastery; Pirin National Park; Plovdiv Roman Theater; Sunny Beach; Tsarevets Fortress; Baba Vida Fortress; Belogradchik Fortress; Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari, ancient city of Nessebar
Major Sports: Soccer, skiing, basketball
Cultural Practices: Unlike in most other countries, a vertical shaking of the head indicates "no" in Bulgaria while a sideways shaking indicates "yes."
Tipping Guidelines: At restaurants, typically leave 10% of the total bill for a tip. Tip porters 50 levas per bag and hotel housekeepers 1.50 levas per day. It is common to tip taxi drivers 10% of the fare. Tour guides should also be tipped 5-10% of the total bill.Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444
Page last updated: Tuesday, March 22, 2022 |
20220901 | countries-ireland-summaries |
Topic: Introduction
Background: Celtic tribes arrived on the island between 600 and 150 B.C., followed by Norsemen in the late 8th century. Anglo-Norman invasions began in the 12th century. The modern Irish state broke from the UK in 1921.Celtic tribes arrived on the island between 600 and 150 B.C., followed by Norsemen in the late 8th century. Anglo-Norman invasions began in the 12th century. The modern Irish state broke from the UK in 1921.
Topic: Geography
Area: total: 70,273 sq km
land: 68,883 sq km
water: 1,390 sq km
Climate: temperate maritime; modified by North Atlantic Current; mild winters, cool summers; consistently humid; overcast about half the time
Natural resources: natural gas, peat, copper, lead, zinc, silver, barite, gypsum, limestone, dolomite
Topic: People and Society
Population: 5,275,004 (2022 est.)
Ethnic groups: Irish 82.2%, Irish travelers 0.7%, other White 9.5%, Asian 2.1%, Black 1.4%, other 1.5%, unspecified 2.6% (2016 est.)
Languages: English (official, the language generally used), Irish (Gaelic or Gaeilge) (official, spoken by approximately 39.8% of the population as of 2016; mainly spoken in areas along Ireland's western coast known as gaeltachtai, which are officially recognized regions where Irish is the predominant language)
Religions: Roman Catholic 78.3%, Church of Ireland 2.7%, other Christian 1.6%, Orthodox 1.3%, Muslim 1.3%, other 2.4%, none 9.8%, unspecified 2.6% (2016 est.)
Population growth rate: 0.94% (2022 est.)
Topic: Government
Government type: parliamentary republic
Capital: name: Dublin
Executive branch: chief of state: President Michael D. HIGGINS (since 11 November 2011)
head of government: Taoiseach (Prime Minister) Micheál MARTIN (since 27 June 2020); note - MARTIN will serve through December 2022 and will then be succeeded by Leo VARADKAR
Legislative branch: description: bicameral Parliament or Oireachtas consists of:
Senate or Seanad Eireann (60 seats; 49 members indirectly elected from 5 vocational panels of nominees by an electoral college, 11 appointed by the prime minister
House of Representatives or Dail Eireann (160 seats; members directly elected in multi-seat constituencies by proportional representation vote; all Parliament members serve 5-year terms)
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: strong, export-based EU economy; multinational-business-friendly environment known for resilience, even amid COVID-19 disruptions; real wage growth beyond other OECD members; high livings standards; strong social equity and cohesion; aging labor forcestrong, export-based EU economy; multinational-business-friendly environment known for resilience, even amid COVID-19 disruptions; real wage growth beyond other OECD members; high livings standards; strong social equity and cohesion; aging labor force
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $447.97 billion (2020 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $89,700 (2020 est.)
Agricultural products: milk, barley, beef, wheat, potatoes, pork, oats, poultry, mushrooms/truffles, mutton
Industries: pharmaceuticals, chemicals, computer hardware and software, food products, beverages and brewing; medical devices
Exports: $502.31 billion (2019 est.)
Exports - partners: United States 28%, Belgium 10%, Germany 10%, UK 9%, China 5%, Netherlands 5% (2019)
Exports - commodities: medical cultures/vaccines, nitrogen compounds, packaged medicines, integrated circuits, scented mixtures (2019)
Imports: $452.98 billion (2019 est.)
Imports - partners: United Kingdom 31%, United States 16%, Germany 10%, Netherlands 5%, France 5% (2019)
Imports - commodities: aircraft, computers, packaged medicines, refined petroleum, medical cultures/vaccines (2019)Page last updated: Thursday, May 12, 2022 |
20220901 | countries-guatemala-travel-facts |
US State Dept Travel Advisory: The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens Reconsider Travel to Guatemala due to crime and COVID-19. Some areas have increased risk. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws and special circumstances in this country.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements: US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. They should also make sure they have at least 1 blank page in their passport for any entry stamp that will be required. A visa is not required as long as you do not stay in the country more than 89 days.
US Embassy/Consulate: [502] 2326-4000; US Embassy in Guatemala City, Avenida Reforma 7-01, Zona 10, Guatemala Ciudad, Guatemala;
Telephone Code: 502
Local Emergency Phone: Ambulance: 123; Fire: 123; Police: 110
Vaccinations: An International Certificate of Vaccination for yellow fever is required for travelers arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission and for travelers having transited through the airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. See WHO recommendations.
http://www.who.int/
Climate: Tropical; hot, humid in lowlands; cooler in highlands
Currency (Code): Quetzales (GTQ)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s): 120 V / 60 Hz / plug types(s): A, B
Major Languages: Spanish, Maya languages
Major Religions: Roman Catholic 41.7%, Evangelical 38.8%, other 2.7%, atheist 0.1%
Time Difference: UTC-6 (1 hour behind Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Potable Water: Opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit: Suggested; additionally, if you plan to drive in Guatemala, you will need an Inter-American Driving Permit issued by the AAA
Road Driving Side: Right
Tourist Destinations: Mayan ruins of Tikal; Antigua Guatemala; Lake Atitlan; Chichicastenango Market; Quetzaltenango; Archaeological Park & Ruins of Quirigua
Major Sports: Soccer, futsal (type of indoor soccer on a hard court)
Cultural Practices: Wine and flowers are appropriate gifts if invited to a household but avoid white flowers because they symbolize mourning.
Tipping Guidelines: Tipping is a question of rewarding good service rather than an obligation. Restaurant bills do not include gratuities so adding 10% is customary. Bellhops and maids expect tips only in the most expensive hotels.Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444
Page last updated: Tuesday, March 22, 2022 |
20220901 | countries-united-arab-emirates-travel-facts |
US State Dept Travel Advisory: The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens Reconsider Travel to the United Arab Emirates due to the threat of missile or drone attacks. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws, and special circumstances in this country.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements: US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. They should also make sure they have at least 1 blank page in their passport for any entry stamp that will be required. A visa is not required as long as you do not stay in the country more than 30 days.
US Embassy/Consulate: [971] (2) 414-2200; US Embassy in Abu Dhabi, Embassies District, Plot 38, Sector W59-02, Street No. 4, Abu Dhabi, U.A.E.; abudhabiacs@state.gov;
https://ae.usembassy.gov/
Telephone Code: 971
Local Emergency Phone: 998, 999
Vaccinations: See WHO recommendations
http://www.who.int/
Climate: Desert; cooler in eastern mountains
Currency (Code): Emirati dirhams (AED)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s): 230 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): G
Major Languages: Arabic, English, Hindi, Malayam, Urdu, Pashto, Tagalog, Persian
Major Religions: Muslim 76%, Christian 9%, other ( Hindu and Buddhist) 15%
Time Difference: UTC+4 (9 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Potable Water: Yes, but some opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit: Suggested
Road Driving Side: Right
Tourist Destinations: Dubai (includes Burj Khalifa (world’s tallest building), Burj-al-Arab Hotel (world's tallest hotel), Dubai Creek Dhow Ride, Dubai Museum); Jebel Hafeet; Bastakia; Al-Bidyah Mosque; Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization; Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque; Al Ain
Major Sports: Soccer, cricket, tennis, table tennis
Cultural Practices: The sole of the foot is considered the lowliest part of the body; it is therefore considered very rude to use the foot to point or to move around objects.
Tipping Guidelines: Even if there is a service charge, tip the waiter 10-15% of the total bill. Many Dubai residents choose to tip taxi and hail-riding services 5-10 dirhams or to round up the fare.
Souvenirs: Silk pashminas, leather goods, perfumes, gold and silver items
Traditional Cuisine: Kabsa (or Al Machboos) — chopped meat, fried onions, salt, other spices, and dried lemon served with rice cooked in the broth from the meat mixture Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444
Page last updated: Wednesday, July 20, 2022 |
20220901 | field-electricity-access | This entry provides information on access to electricity. Electrification data – collected from industry reports, national surveys, and international sources – consists of four subfields. Population without electricity provides an estimate of the number of citizens that do not have access to electricity. Electrification – total population is the percent of a country’s total population with access to electricity, electrification – urban areas is the percent of a country’s urban population with access to electricity, while electrification – rural areas is the percent of a country’s rural population with access to electricity. Due to differences in definitions and methodology from different sources, data quality may vary from country to country.
Topic: Afghanistanelectrification - total population: 99% (2018)
electrification - urban areas: 100% (2018)
electrification - rural areas: 98% (2018)
Topic: Albaniaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Algeriaelectrification - total population: 99.4% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 99.6% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 97% (2019)
Topic: Andorraelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Angolaelectrification - total population: 43% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 61% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 6% (2019)
Topic: Antigua and Barbudaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Argentinaelectrification - total population: 99% (2020)
electrification - urban areas: 99% (2020)
electrification - rural areas: 85% (2020)
Topic: Armeniaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Arubaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Australiaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Austriaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Azerbaijanelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Bahamas, Theelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Bahrainelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Bangladeshelectrification - total population: 83% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 93% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 77% (2019)
Topic: Barbadoselectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Belaruselectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Belgiumelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Belizeelectrification - total population: 99.5% (2018)
electrification - urban areas: 98.2% (2018)
electrification - rural areas: 100% (2018)
Topic: Beninelectrification - total population: 33% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 58% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 9% (2019)
Topic: Bermudaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Bhutanelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Boliviaelectrification - total population: 93% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 99.3% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 79% (2019)
Topic: Bosnia and Herzegovinaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Botswanaelectrification - total population: 59% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 71% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 29% (2019)
Topic: Brazilelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: British Virgin Islandselectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Bruneielectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Bulgariaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Burkina Fasoelectrification - total population: 22% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 69% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 2% (2019)
Topic: Burmaelectrification - total population: 51% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 76% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 39% (2019)
Topic: Burundielectrification - total population: 11% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 66% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 2% (2019)
Topic: Cabo Verdeelectrification - total population: 96% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 99% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 89% (2019)
Topic: Cambodiaelectrification - total population: 75% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 100% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 67% (2019)
Topic: Cameroonelectrification - total population: 70% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 98% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 32% (2019)
Topic: Canadaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Cayman Islandselectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Central African Republicelectrification - total population: 3% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 7% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 0.4% (2019)
Topic: Chadelectrification - total population: 9% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 32% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 1% (2019)
Topic: Chileelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Chinaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Colombiaelectrification - total population: 97% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 100% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 86% (2019)
Topic: Comoroselectrification - total population: 70% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 89% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 62% (2019)
Topic: Congo, Democratic Republic of theelectrification - total population: 9% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 19% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 0.4% (2019)
Topic: Congo, Republic of theelectrification - total population: 72% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 89% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 36% (2019)
Topic: Costa Ricaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Cote d'Ivoireelectrification - total population: 76% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 99% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 51% (2019)
Topic: Croatiaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Cubaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Curacaoelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Cypruselectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Czechiaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Denmarkelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Djiboutielectrification - total population: 42% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 54% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 1% (2019)
Topic: Dominicaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Dominican Republicelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Ecuadorelectrification - total population: 97% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 100% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 93% (2019)
Topic: Egyptelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: El Salvadorelectrification - total population: 97% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 99% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 93% (2019)
Topic: Equatorial Guineaelectrification - total population: 67% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 75% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 45% (2019)
Topic: Eritreaelectrification - total population: 47% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 95% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 13% (2019)
Topic: Estoniaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Eswatinielectrification - total population: 90% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 98% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 87% (2019)
Topic: Ethiopiaelectrification - total population: 47% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 96% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 34% (2019)
Topic: Faroe Islandselectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Fijielectrification - total population: 99.6% (2018)
electrification - urban areas: 100% (2018)
electrification - rural areas: 99.2% (2018)
Topic: Finlandelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Franceelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: French Polynesiaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Gabonelectrification - total population: 92% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 99% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 39% (2019)
Topic: Gambia, Theelectrification - total population: 49% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 69% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 16% (2019)
Topic: Gaza Stripelectrification - total population: 100% (2018)
note: data for Gaza Strip and West Bank combined
Topic: Georgiaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Germanyelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Ghanaelectrification - total population: 85% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 93% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 75% (2019)
Topic: Gibraltarelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Greeceelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Greenlandelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Grenadaelectrification - total population: 95.3% (2018)
Topic: Guamelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Guatemalaelectrification - total population: 92% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 99% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 85% (2019)
Topic: Guernseyelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Guineaelectrification - total population: 46% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 84% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 24% (2019)
Topic: Guinea-Bissauelectrification - total population: 28% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 56% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 7% (2019)
Topic: Guyanaelectrification - total population: 91.8% (2018)
electrification - urban areas: 96.9% (2018)
electrification - rural areas: 90% (2018)
Topic: Haitielectrification - total population: 39% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 60% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 12% (2019)
Topic: Holy See (Vatican City)electrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Honduraselectrification - total population: 81% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 91% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 68% (2019)
Topic: Hong Kongelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Hungaryelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Icelandelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Indiaelectrification - total population: 99% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 99% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 99% (2019)
Topic: Indonesiaelectrification - total population: 99% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 100% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 99% (2019)
Topic: Iranelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Iraqelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Irelandelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Isle of Manelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Israelelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Italyelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Jamaicaelectrification - total population: 99% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 100% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 97% (2019)
Topic: Japanelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Jerseyelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Jordanelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Kazakhstanelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Kenyaelectrification - total population: 85% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 99% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 79% (2019)
Topic: Kiribatielectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Korea, Northelectrification - total population: 26% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 36% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 11% (2019)
Topic: Korea, Southelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Kosovoelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Kuwaitelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Kyrgyzstanelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Laoselectrification - total population: 95% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 98% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 93% (2019)
Topic: Latviaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Lebanonelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Lesothoelectrification - total population: 36% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 63% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 26% (2019)
Topic: Liberiaelectrification - total population: 12% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 18% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 6% (2019)
Topic: Libyaelectrification - total population: 100% (2019)
Topic: Liechtensteinelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Lithuaniaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Luxembourgelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Macauelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Madagascarelectrification - total population: 39% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 64% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 23% (2019)
Topic: Malawielectrification - total population: 13% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 55% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 5% (2019)
Topic: Malaysiaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Maldiveselectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Malielectrification - total population: 50% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 78% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 28% (2019)
Topic: Maltaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Marshall Islandselectrification - total population: 96.3% (2018)
electrification - urban areas: 95.7% (2018)
electrification - rural areas: 98.4% (2018)
Topic: Mauritaniaelectrification - total population: 32% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 56% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 4% (2019)
Topic: Mauritiuselectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Mexicoelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Micronesia, Federated States ofelectrification - total population: 82% (2018)
electrification - urban areas: 93.5% (2018)
electrification - rural areas: 78.7% (2018)
Topic: Moldovaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Monacoelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Mongoliaelectrification - total population: 91% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 99% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 73% (2019)
Topic: Montenegroelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Moroccoelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Mozambiqueelectrification - total population: 35% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 57% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 22% (2019)
Topic: Namibiaelectrification - total population: 57% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 78% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 36% (2019)
Topic: Nauruelectrification - total population: 99.8% (2018)
electrification - urban areas: 99.4% (2018)
electrification - rural areas: 98.7% (2018)
Topic: Nepalelectrification - total population: 93% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 94% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 93% (2019)
Topic: Netherlandselectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: New Caledoniaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: New Zealandelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Nicaraguaelectrification - total population: 97% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 99.2% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 92% (2019)
Topic: Nigerelectrification - total population: 14% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 71% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 2% (2019)
Topic: Nigeriaelectrification - total population: 62% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 91% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 30% (2019)
Topic: North Macedoniaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Northern Mariana Islandselectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Norwayelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Omanelectrification - total population: 99% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 100% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 92% (2019)
Topic: Pakistanelectrification - total population: 79% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 91% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 72% (2019)
Topic: Palauelectrification - total population: 100% (2018)
Topic: Panamaelectrification - total population: 92% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 99.4% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 77% (2019)
Topic: Papua New Guineaelectrification - total population: 58.9% (2018)
electrification - urban areas: 82% (2018)
electrification - rural areas: 55.4% (2018)
Topic: Paraguayelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Peruelectrification - total population: 97% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 99% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 86% (2019)
Topic: Philippineselectrification - total population: 96% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 100% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 93% (2019)
Topic: Polandelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Portugalelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Puerto Ricoelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Qatarelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Romaniaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Russiaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Rwandaelectrification - total population: 53% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 76% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 48% (2019)
Topic: Saint Barthelemyelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Saint Kitts and Neviselectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Saint Luciaelectrification - total population: 99.5% (2018)
electrification - urban areas: 97.5% (2018)
electrification - rural areas: 99.9% (2018)
Topic: Saint Martinelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Saint Vincent and the Grenadineselectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Samoaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: San Marinoelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Sao Tome and Principeelectrification - total population: 71% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 87% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 25% (2019)
Topic: Saudi Arabiaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Senegalelectrification - total population: 71% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 94% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 50% (2019)
Topic: Serbiaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Seychelleselectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Sierra Leoneelectrification - total population: 26% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 52% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 6% (2019)
Topic: Singaporeelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Sint Maartenelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Slovakiaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Sloveniaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Solomon Islandselectrification - total population: 66.7% (2018)
electrification - urban areas: 76.7% (2018)
electrification - rural areas: 63.5% (2018)
Topic: Somaliaelectrification - total population: 18% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 34% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 4% (2019)
Topic: South Africaelectrification - total population: 94% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 95% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 92% (2019)
Topic: South Sudanelectrification - total population: 28.2% (2018)
electrification - urban areas: 46.8% (2018)
electrification - rural areas: 23.6% (2018)
Topic: Spainelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Sri Lankaelectrification - total population: 100% (2019)
Topic: Sudanelectrification - total population: 47% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 71% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 35% (2019)
Topic: Surinameelectrification - total population: 97.4% (2018)
electrification - urban areas: 99% (2018)
electrification - rural areas: 94.3% (2018)
Topic: Swedenelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Switzerlandelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Syriaelectrification - total population: 92% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 100% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 84% (2019)
Topic: Tajikistanelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Tanzaniaelectrification - total population: 40% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 71% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 23% (2019)
Topic: Thailandelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Timor-Lesteelectrification - total population: 85.6% (2018)
electrification - urban areas: 100% (2018)
electrification - rural areas: 79.2% (2018)
Topic: Togoelectrification - total population: 43% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 77% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 19% (2019)
Topic: Tongaelectrification - total population: 98.9% (2018)
electrification - urban areas: 98.9% (2018)
electrification - rural areas: 98.9% (2018)
Topic: Trinidad and Tobagoelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Tunisiaelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Turkey (Turkiye)electrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Turkmenistanelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Turks and Caicos Islandselectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Tuvaluelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Ugandaelectrification - total population: 29% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 66% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 17% (2019)
Topic: Ukraineelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: United Arab Emirateselectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: United Kingdomelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: United Stateselectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Uruguayelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Uzbekistanelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Vanuatuelectrification - total population: 61.8% (2018)
electrification - urban areas: 93.7% (2018)
electrification - rural areas: 51.1% (2018)
Topic: Venezuelaelectrification - total population: 99.6% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 100% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 99% (2019)
Topic: Vietnamelectrification - total population: 100% (2019)
Topic: Virgin Islandselectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: Wake Islandelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Topic: West Bankelectrification - total population: 100% (2020)
note: data for West Bank and Gaza Strip combined
Topic: Worldelectrification - total population: 90% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 96% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 85% (2019)
Topic: Yemenpopulation without electricity: 16 million (2019)
electrification - total population: 47% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 72% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 31% (2019)
Topic: Zambiaelectrification - total population: 37% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 76% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 6% (2019)
Topic: Zimbabweelectrification - total population: 53% (2019)
electrification - urban areas: 89% (2019)
electrification - rural areas: 36% (2019) |
20220901 | countries-netherlands |
Topic: Photos of Netherlands
Topic: Introduction
Background: The Dutch United Provinces declared their independence from Spain in 1579; during the 17th century, they became a leading seafaring and commercial power, with settlements and colonies around the world. After a 20-year French occupation, a Kingdom of the Netherlands was formed in 1815. In 1830, Belgium seceded and formed a separate kingdom. The Netherlands remained neutral in World War I but suffered German invasion and occupation in World War II. A modern, industrialized nation, the Netherlands is also a large exporter of agricultural products. The country was a founding member of NATO and the EEC (now the EU) and participated in the introduction of the euro in 1999. In October 2010, the former Netherlands Antilles was dissolved and the three smallest islands - Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba - became special municipalities in the Netherlands administrative structure. The larger islands of Sint Maarten and Curacao joined the Netherlands and Aruba as constituent countries forming the Kingdom of the Netherlands. In February 2018, the Sint Eustatius island council (governing body) was dissolved and replaced by a government commissioner to restore the integrity of public administration. According to the Dutch Government, the intervention will be as "short as possible and as long as needed."The Dutch United Provinces declared their independence from Spain in 1579; during the 17th century, they became a leading seafaring and commercial power, with settlements and colonies around the world. After a 20-year French occupation, a Kingdom of the Netherlands was formed in 1815. In 1830, Belgium seceded and formed a separate kingdom. The Netherlands remained neutral in World War I but suffered German invasion and occupation in World War II. A modern, industrialized nation, the Netherlands is also a large exporter of agricultural products. The country was a founding member of NATO and the EEC (now the EU) and participated in the introduction of the euro in 1999. In October 2010, the former Netherlands Antilles was dissolved and the three smallest islands - Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba - became special municipalities in the Netherlands administrative structure. The larger islands of Sint Maarten and Curacao joined the Netherlands and Aruba as constituent countries forming the Kingdom of the Netherlands.In February 2018, the Sint Eustatius island council (governing body) was dissolved and replaced by a government commissioner to restore the integrity of public administration. According to the Dutch Government, the intervention will be as "short as possible and as long as needed."Visit the Definitions and Notes page to view a description of each topic.
Topic: Geography
Location: Western Europe, bordering the North Sea, between Belgium and Germany
Geographic coordinates: 52 31 N, 5 46 E
Map references: Europe
Area: total: 41,543 sq km
land: 33,893 sq km
water: 7,650 sq km
Area - comparative: slightly less than twice the size of New Jersey
Land boundaries: total: 1,053 km
border countries (2): Belgium 478 km; Germany 575 km
Coastline: 451 km
Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
Climate: temperate; marine; cool summers and mild winters
Terrain: mostly coastal lowland and reclaimed land (polders); some hills in southeast
Elevation: highest point: Mount Scenery (on the island of Saba in the Caribbean, now considered an integral part of the Netherlands following the dissolution of the Netherlands Antilles) 862 m
lowest point: Zuidplaspolder -7 m
mean elevation: 30 m
note: the highest point on continental Netherlands is Vaalserberg at 322 m
Natural resources: natural gas, petroleum, peat, limestone, salt, sand and gravel, arable land
Land use: agricultural land: 55.1% (2018 est.)
arable land: 29.8% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 1.1% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 24.2% (2018 est.)
forest: 10.8% (2018 est.)
other: 34.1% (2018 est.)
Irrigated land: 4,860 sq km (2012)
Major rivers (by length in km): Rhine river mouth (shared with Switzerland [s], Germany, and France) - 1,233 km
note – [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
Major watersheds (area sq km): Atlantic Ocean drainage: Rhine-Maas (198,735 sq km)
Population distribution: an area known as the Randstad, anchored by the cities of Amsterdam, Rotterdam, the Hague, and Utrecht, is the most densely populated region; the north tends to be less dense, though sizeable communities can be found throughout the entire country
Natural hazards: floodingvolcanism: Mount Scenery (887 m), located on the island of Saba in the Caribbean, last erupted in 1640;; Round Hill (601 m), a dormant volcano also known as The Quill, is located on the island of St. Eustatius in the Caribbean;; these islands are at the northern end of the volcanic island arc of the Lesser Antilles that extends south to Grenadafloodingvolcanism: Mount Scenery (887 m), located on the island of Saba in the Caribbean, last erupted in 1640;; Round Hill (601 m), a dormant volcano also known as The Quill, is located on the island of St. Eustatius in the Caribbean;; these islands are at the northern end of the volcanic island arc of the Lesser Antilles that extends south to Grenada
Geography - note: located at mouths of three major European rivers (Rhine, Maas or Meuse, and Schelde); about a quarter of the country lies below sea level and only about half of the land exceeds one meter above sea level
Map description: Netherlands map showing major cities as well as parts of surrounding countries and the North Sea.Netherlands map showing major cities as well as parts of surrounding countries and the North Sea.
Topic: People and Society
Population: 17,400,824 (2022 est.)
Nationality: noun: Dutchman(men), Dutchwoman(women)
adjective: Dutch
Ethnic groups: Dutch 75.4%, EU (excluding Dutch) 6.4%, Turkish 2.4%, Moroccan 2.4%, Surinamese 2.1%, Indonesian 2%, other 9.3% (2021 est.)
Languages: Dutch (official); note - Frisian is an official language in Fryslan province; Frisian, Low Saxon, Limburgish, Romani, and Yiddish have protected status under the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages; Dutch is the official language of the three special municipalities of the Caribbean Netherlands; English is a recognized regional language on Sint Eustatius and Saba; Papiamento is a recognized regional language on Bonaire
major-language sample(s):
Het Wereld Feitenboek, een onmisbare bron van informatie. (Dutch)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Religions: Roman Catholic 20.1%, Protestant 14.8% (includes Dutch Reformed, Protestant Church of The Netherlands, Calvinist), Muslim 5%, other 5.9% (includes Hindu, Buddhist, Jewish), none 54.1% (2019 est.)
Age structure: 0-14 years: 16.11% (male 1,425,547/female 1,358,894)
15-24 years: 11.91% (male 1,049,000/female 1,008,763)
25-54 years: 38.47% (male 3,334,064/female 3,313,238)
55-64 years: 13.69% (male 1,177,657/female 1,188,613)
65 years and over: 19.82% (2020 est.) (male 1,558,241/female 1,866,380)
Dependency ratios: total dependency ratio: 55.6
youth dependency ratio: 24.4
elderly dependency ratio: 31.2
potential support ratio: 3.2 (2020 est.)
Median age: total: 42.8 years
male: 41.6 years
female: 44 years (2020 est.)
Population growth rate: 0.36% (2022 est.)
Birth rate: 10.99 births/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Death rate: 9.24 deaths/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Net migration rate: 1.9 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2022 est.)
Population distribution: an area known as the Randstad, anchored by the cities of Amsterdam, Rotterdam, the Hague, and Utrecht, is the most densely populated region; the north tends to be less dense, though sizeable communities can be found throughout the entire country
Urbanization: urban population: 92.9% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 0.59% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Major urban areas - population: 1.166 million AMSTERDAM (capital), 1.015 million Rotterdam (2022)
Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.05 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.04 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 1.01 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 0.99 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.67 male(s)/female
total population: 0.98 male(s)/female (2022 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth: 30.2 years (2020 est.)
Maternal mortality ratio: 5 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
Infant mortality rate: total: 3.4 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 3.76 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 3.02 deaths/1,000 live births (2022 est.)
Life expectancy at birth: total population: 82.16 years
male: 79.93 years
female: 84.49 years (2022 est.)
Total fertility rate: 1.78 children born/woman (2022 est.)
Contraceptive prevalence rate: 73% (2013)
note: percent of women aged 18-45
Drinking water source: improved: urban: 100% of population
rural: 100% of population
total: 100% of population
unimproved: urban: 0% of population
rural: 0% of population
total: 0% of population (2020 est.)
Current Health Expenditure: 10.1% (2019)
Physicians density: 4.08 physicians/1,000 population (2020)
Hospital bed density: 3.2 beds/1,000 population (2018)
Sanitation facility access: improved: urban: 100% of population
rural: 100% of population
total: 100% of population
unimproved: urban: 0% of population
rural: 0% of population
total: 0% of population (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate: 0.2% (2020 est.)
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: 24,000 (2020 est.)
note: estimate does not include children
HIV/AIDS - deaths: (2020 est.) <100
note: estimate does not include children
Obesity - adult prevalence rate: 20.4% (2016)
Tobacco use: total: 22.2% (2020 est.)
male: 24.4% (2020 est.)
female: 19.9% (2020 est.)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight: NA
Education expenditures: 5.4% of GDP (2018 est.)
Literacy: total population: NA
male: NA
female: NA
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education): total: 19 years
male: 18 years
female: 19 years (2018)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 9.1%
male: 9.2%
female: 9% (2020 est.)
Topic: Environment
Environment - current issues: water and air pollution are significant environmental problems; pollution of the country's rivers from industrial and agricultural chemicals, including heavy metals, organic compounds, nitrates, and phosphates; air pollution from vehicles and refining activities
Environment - international agreements: party to: Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Heavy Metals, Air Pollution-Multi-effect Protocol, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Persistent Organic Pollutants, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protection, Antarctic-Marine Living Resources, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping-London Convention, Marine Dumping-London Protocol, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 2006, Wetlands, Whaling
signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements
Air pollutants: particulate matter emissions: 12.07 micrograms per cubic meter (2016 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 170.78 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 17.79 megatons (2020 est.)
Climate: temperate; marine; cool summers and mild winters
Land use: agricultural land: 55.1% (2018 est.)
arable land: 29.8% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 1.1% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 24.2% (2018 est.)
forest: 10.8% (2018 est.)
other: 34.1% (2018 est.)
Urbanization: urban population: 92.9% of total population (2022)
rate of urbanization: 0.59% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Revenue from forest resources: forest revenues: 0.01% of GDP (2018 est.)
Revenue from coal: coal revenues: 0% of GDP (2018 est.)
Waste and recycling: municipal solid waste generated annually: 8.855 million tons (2015 est.)
municipal solid waste recycled annually: 2,179,216 tons (2015 est.)
percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 24.6% (2015 est.)
Major rivers (by length in km): Rhine river mouth (shared with Switzerland [s], Germany, and France) - 1,233 km
note – [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouth
Major watersheds (area sq km): Atlantic Ocean drainage: Rhine-Maas (198,735 sq km)
Total water withdrawal: municipal: 1.26 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
industrial: 14.74 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
agricultural: 76.5 million cubic meters (2017 est.)
Total renewable water resources: 91 billion cubic meters (2017 est.)
Topic: Government
Country name: conventional long form: Kingdom of the Netherlands
conventional short form: Netherlands
local long form: Koninkrijk der Nederlanden
local short form: Nederland
abbreviation: NL
etymology: the country name literally means "the lowlands" and refers to the geographic features of the land being both flat and down river from higher areas (i.e., at the estuaries of the Scheldt, Meuse, and Rhine Rivers; only about half of the Netherlands is more than 1 meter above sea level)
Government type: parliamentary constitutional monarchy; part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands
Capital: name: Amsterdam; note - The Hague is the seat of government
geographic coordinates: 52 21 N, 4 55 E
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
time zone note: time descriptions apply to the continental Netherlands only, for the constituent countries in the Caribbean, the time difference is UTC-4
etymology: the original Dutch name, Amstellerdam, meaning "a dam on the Amstel River," dates to the 13th century; over time the name simplified to Amsterdam
Administrative divisions: 12 provinces (provincies, singular - provincie), 3 public entities* (openbare lichamen, singular - openbaar lichaam (Dutch); entidatnan publiko, singular - entidat publiko (Papiamento)); Bonaire*, Drenthe, Flevoland, Fryslan (Friesland), Gelderland, Groningen, Limburg, Noord-Brabant (North Brabant), Noord-Holland (North Holland), Overijssel, Saba*, Sint Eustatius*, Utrecht, Zeeland (Zealand), Zuid-Holland (South Holland)
note 1: the Netherlands is one of four constituent countries of the Kingdom of the Netherlands; the other three, Aruba, Curacao, and Sint Maarten, are all islands in the Caribbean; while all four parts are considered equal partners, in practice, most of the Kingdom's affairs are administered by the Netherlands, which makes up about 98% of the Kingdom's total land area and population
note 2: although Bonaire, Saba, and Sint Eustatius are officially incorporated into the country of the Netherlands under the broad designation of "public entities," Dutch Government sources regularly apply to them the more descriptive term of "special municipalities"; Bonaire, Saba, and Sint Eustatius are collectively referred to as the Caribbean Netherlands
Independence: 23 January 1579 (the northern provinces of the Low Countries conclude the Union of Utrecht breaking with Spain; on 26 July 1581, they formally declared their independence with an Act of Abjuration; however, it was not until 30 January 1648 and the Peace of Westphalia that Spain recognized this independence)
National holiday: King's Day (birthday of King WILLEM-ALEXANDER), 27 April (1967); note - King's or Queen's Day are observed on the ruling monarch's birthday; currently celebrated on 26 April if 27 April is a Sunday
Constitution: history: many previous to adoption of the "Basic Law of the Kingdom of the Netherlands" on 24 August 1815; revised 8 times, the latest in 1983
amendments: proposed as an Act of Parliament by or on behalf of the king or by the Second Chamber of the States General; the Second Chamber is dissolved after its first reading of the Act; passage requires a second reading by both the First Chamber and the newly elected Second Chamber, followed by at least two-thirds majority vote of both chambers, and ratification by the king; amended many times, last in 2018
Legal system: civil law system based on the French system; constitution does not permit judicial review of acts of the States General
International law organization participation: accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction with reservations; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
Citizenship: citizenship by birth: no
citizenship by descent only: at least one parent must be a citizen of the Netherlands
dual citizenship recognized: no
residency requirement for naturalization: 5 years
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal
Executive branch: chief of state: King WILLEM-ALEXANDER (since 30 April 2013); Heir Apparent Princess Catharina-Amalia (daughter of King WILLEM-ALEXANDER, born 7 December 2003)
head of government: Prime Minister Mark RUTTE (since 14 October 2010); Deputy Prime Ministers Sigrid KAAG and Wopke HOEKSTRA (since 10 January 2022) and Carola SCHOUTEN (since 26 October 2017); note - Mark RUTTE heads his fourth cabinet
cabinet: Council of Ministers appointed by the monarch
elections/appointments: the monarchy is hereditary; following Second Chamber elections, the leader of the majority party or majority coalition is usually appointed prime minister by the monarch; deputy prime ministers are appointed by the monarch
Legislative branch: description: bicameral States General or Staten Generaal consists of:
Senate or Eerste Kamer (75 seats; members indirectly elected by the country's 12 provincial council members by proportional representation vote; members serve 4-year terms)
House of Representatives or Tweede Kamer (150 seats; members directly elected in multi-seat constituencies by open-list proportional representation vote to serve up to 4-year terms)
elections:
First Chamber - last held on 27 May 2019 (next to be held in May 2023)
Second Chamber - last held on 15-17 March 2021 (next to be held on 31 March 2025)
election results:
First Chamber - percent of vote by party - VVD 16%, CDA 12%, GL 10.7%, D66 9.3%, PvdA 8%, PVV 6.7%, SP 5.3%, CU 5.3%, PvdD 4%, SGP 2.7%, 50 Plus 2.7%, FvD 1.3%, other 16%; seats by party - VVD 12, CDA 9, GL 8, D66 7, PvdA 6, PVV 5, SP 4, CU 4, PvdD 3, SGP 2, 50 Plus 2, FvD 1, other 12; composition (as of September 2021) - men 52, women 23, percent of women 30.7%
Second Chamber - percent of vote by party - VVD 21.9%, D66 15%, PVV 10.8%, CDA 9.5%, SP 9.1%, PvdA 5.7%, GL 5.2%, FvD 5%, PvdD 3.8%, CU 3.4%, other 13.7%; seats by party - VVD 34, D66 24, PVV 17, CDA 15, GL 8, FvD 8, PvdD 6, PvdA 9, SP 9, CU 5, Denk 3, SGP 3, 50 Plus 1, other 6; composition (as of September 2021) - men 89, women 61, percent of women 40.7%; note - total States General percent of women 37.3%
Judicial branch: highest courts: Supreme Court or Hoge Raad (consists of 41 judges: the president, 6 vice presidents, 31 justices or raadsheren, and 3 justices in exceptional service, referred to as buitengewone dienst); the court is divided into criminal, civil, tax, and ombuds chambers
judge selection and term of office: justices appointed by the monarch from a list provided by the Second Chamber of the States General; justices appointed for life or until mandatory retirement at age 70
subordinate courts: courts of appeal; district courts, each with up to 5 subdistrict courts; Netherlands Commercial Court
Political parties and leaders: Christian Democratic Appeal or CDA [Wopke HOEKSTRA]
Christian Union or CU [Gert-Jan SEGERS]
Democrats 66 or D66 [Sigrid KAAG]
Denk [Farid AZARKAN]
50 Plus [Martin van ROOIJEN]
Forum for Democracy or FvD [Thierry BAUDET]
Green Left or GL [Jesse KLAVER]
Labor Party or PvdA [Attje KUIKEN]
Party for Freedom or PVV [Geert WILDERS]
Party for the Animals or PvdD [Esther OUWENHAND]
People's Party for Freedom and Democracy or VVD [Mark RUTTE]
Reformed Political Party or SGP [Kees VAN DER STAAIJ]
Socialist Party or SP [Lilian MARIJNISSEN]
International organization participation: ADB (nonregional member), AfDB (nonregional member), Arctic Council (observer), Australia Group, Benelux, BIS, CBSS (observer), CD, CE, CERN, EAPC, EBRD, ECB, EIB, EITI (implementing country), EMU, ESA, EU, FAO, FATF, G-10, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IGAD (partners), IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, IMSO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, MINUSMA, NATO, NEA, NSG, OAS (observer), OECD, OPCW, OSCE, Pacific Alliance (observer), Paris Club, PCA, Schengen Convention, SELEC (observer), UN, UNCTAD, UNDOF, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNMISS, UNRWA, UN Security Council (temporary), UNTSO, UNWTO, UPU, Wassenaar Arrangement, WCO, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Andre HASPELS (since 16 September 2019)
chancery: 4200 Linnean Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 244-5300
FAX: [1] (202) 362-3430
email address and website:
https://www.netherlandsworldwide.nl/countries/united-states/about-us/embassy-in-washington-dc
consulate(s) general: Atlanta, Chicago, Miami, New York, San Francisco
Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Marja VERLOOP (since 17 January 2021)
embassy: John Adams Park 1, 2244 BZ Wassenaar
mailing address: 5780 Amsterdam Place, Washington DC 20521-5780
telephone: [31] (70) 310-2209
FAX: [31] (70) 310-2207
email address and website:
AmsterdamUSC@state.gov
https://nl.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Amsterdam
Flag description: three equal horizontal bands of red (bright vermilion; top), white, and blue (cobalt); similar to the flag of Luxembourg, which uses a lighter blue and is longer; the colors were derived from those of WILLIAM I, Prince of Orange, who led the Dutch Revolt against Spanish sovereignty in the latter half of the 16th century; originally the upper band was orange, but because its dye tended to turn red over time, the red shade was eventually made the permanent color; the banner is perhaps the oldest tricolor in continuous use
National symbol(s): lion, tulip; national color: orange
National anthem: name: "Het Wilhelmus" (The William)
lyrics/music: Philips VAN MARNIX van Sint Aldegonde (presumed)/unknown
note: adopted 1932, in use since the 17th century, making it the oldest national anthem in the world; also known as "Wilhelmus van Nassouwe" (William of Nassau), it is in the form of an acrostic, where the first letter of each stanza spells the name of the leader of the Dutch Revolt
National heritage: total World Heritage Sites: 12 (11 cultural, 1 natural); note - includes one site in Curacao
selected World Heritage Site locales: Schokland and Surroundings (c); Dutch Water Defense Lines (c); Van Nellefabriek (c); Mill Network at Kinderdijk-Elshout (c); Droogmakerij de Beemster (Beemster Polder) (c); Rietveld Schröderhuis (Rietveld Schröder House) (c); Wadden Sea (n); Seventeenth Century Canal Ring Area of Amsterdam inside the Singelgracht (c); Colonies of Benevolence (c); Frontiers of the Roman Empire - The Lower German Limes (c)
Topic: Economy
Economic overview: The Netherlands, the sixth-largest economy in the European Union, plays an important role as a European transportation hub, with a consistently high trade surplus, stable industrial relations, and low unemployment. Industry focuses on food processing, chemicals, petroleum refining, and electrical machinery. A highly mechanized agricultural sector employs only 2% of the labor force but provides large surpluses for food-processing and underpins the country’s status as the world’s second largest agricultural exporter. The Netherlands is part of the euro zone, and as such, its monetary policy is controlled by the European Central Bank. The Dutch financial sector is highly concentrated, with four commercial banks possessing over 80% of banking assets, and is four times the size of Dutch GDP. In 2008, during the financial crisis, the government budget deficit hit 5.3% of GDP. Following a protracted recession from 2009 to 2013, during which unemployment doubled to 7.4% and household consumption contracted for four consecutive years, economic growth began inching forward in 2014. Since 2010, Prime Minister Mark RUTTE’s government has implemented significant austerity measures to improve public finances and has instituted broad structural reforms in key policy areas, including the labor market, the housing sector, the energy market, and the pension system. In 2017, the government budget returned to a surplus of 0.7% of GDP, with economic growth of 3.2%, and GDP per capita finally surpassed pre-crisis levels. The fiscal policy announced by the new government in the 2018-2021 coalition plans for increases in government consumption and public investment, fueling domestic demand and household consumption and investment. The new government’s policy also plans to increase demand for workers in the public and private sector, forecasting a further decline in the unemployment rate, which hit 4.8% in 2017.The Netherlands, the sixth-largest economy in the European Union, plays an important role as a European transportation hub, with a consistently high trade surplus, stable industrial relations, and low unemployment. Industry focuses on food processing, chemicals, petroleum refining, and electrical machinery. A highly mechanized agricultural sector employs only 2% of the labor force but provides large surpluses for food-processing and underpins the country’s status as the world’s second largest agricultural exporter. The Netherlands is part of the euro zone, and as such, its monetary policy is controlled by the European Central Bank. The Dutch financial sector is highly concentrated, with four commercial banks possessing over 80% of banking assets, and is four times the size of Dutch GDP. In 2008, during the financial crisis, the government budget deficit hit 5.3% of GDP. Following a protracted recession from 2009 to 2013, during which unemployment doubled to 7.4% and household consumption contracted for four consecutive years, economic growth began inching forward in 2014. Since 2010, Prime Minister Mark RUTTE’s government has implemented significant austerity measures to improve public finances and has instituted broad structural reforms in key policy areas, including the labor market, the housing sector, the energy market, and the pension system. In 2017, the government budget returned to a surplus of 0.7% of GDP, with economic growth of 3.2%, and GDP per capita finally surpassed pre-crisis levels. The fiscal policy announced by the new government in the 2018-2021 coalition plans for increases in government consumption and public investment, fueling domestic demand and household consumption and investment. The new government’s policy also plans to increase demand for workers in the public and private sector, forecasting a further decline in the unemployment rate, which hit 4.8% in 2017.
Real GDP (purchasing power parity): $945.48 billion (2020 est.)
$982.22 billion (2019 est.)
$966.02 billion (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
Real GDP growth rate: 1.63% (2019 est.)
2.32% (2018 est.)
3.02% (2017 est.)
Real GDP per capita: $54,200 (2020 est.)
$56,600 (2019 est.)
$56,100 (2018 est.)
note: data are in 2017 dollars
GDP (official exchange rate): $907.042 billion (2019 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 2.6% (2019 est.)
1.7% (2018 est.)
1.3% (2017 est.)
Credit ratings: Fitch rating: AAA (1994)
Moody's rating: Aaa (1986)
Standard & Poors rating: AAA (2015)
GDP - composition, by sector of origin: agriculture: 1.6% (2017 est.)
industry: 17.9% (2017 est.)
services: 70.2% (2017 est.)
GDP - composition, by end use: household consumption: 44.3% (2017 est.)
government consumption: 24.2% (2017 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 20.5% (2017 est.)
investment in inventories: 0.2% (2017 est.)
exports of goods and services: 83% (2017 est.)
imports of goods and services: -72.3% (2017 est.)
Agricultural products: milk, potatoes, sugar beet, pork, onions, wheat, poultry, tomatoes, carrots/turnips, beef
Industries: agroindustries, metal and engineering products, electrical machinery and equipment, chemicals, petroleum, construction, microelectronics, fishing
Industrial production growth rate: 3.3% (2017 est.)
Labor force: 8.907 million (2020 est.)
Labor force - by occupation: agriculture: 1.2%
industry: 17.2%
services: 81.6% (2015 est.)
Unemployment rate: 3.41% (2019 est.)
3.84% (2018 est.)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24: total: 9.1%
male: 9.2%
female: 9% (2020 est.)
Population below poverty line: 13.6% (2019 est.)
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income: 28.5 (2017 est.)
25.1 (2013 est.)
Household income or consumption by percentage share: lowest 10%: 2.3%
highest 10%: 24.9% (2014 est.)
Budget: revenues: 361.4 billion (2017 est.)
expenditures: 352.4 billion (2017 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-): 1.1% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Public debt: 56.5% of GDP (2017 est.)
61.3% of GDP (2016 est.)
note: data cover general government debt and include debt instruments issued (or owned) by government entities other than the treasury; the data include treasury debt held by foreign entities; the data include debt issued by subnational entities, as well as intragovernmental debt; intragovernmental debt consists of treasury borrowings from surpluses in the social funds, such as for retirement, medical care, and unemployment, debt instruments for the social funds are not sold at public auctions
Taxes and other revenues: 43.4% (of GDP) (2017 est.)
Fiscal year: calendar year
Current account balance: $90.207 billion (2019 est.)
$98.981 billion (2018 est.)
Exports: $719.78 billion (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$755.77 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$773.74 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Exports - partners: Germany 20%, Belgium 12%, United Kingdom 9%, France 7%, United States 5% (2019)
Exports - commodities: refined petroleum, packaged medicines, broadcasting equipment, photography equipment, computers (2019)
Imports: $622.66 billion (2020 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$661.18 billion (2019 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
$677.38 billion (2018 est.) note: data are in current year dollars
Imports - partners: Germany 15%, China 11%, Belgium 9%, United States 8%, Russia 7%, United Kingdom 5% (2019)
Imports - commodities: crude petroleum, refined petroleum, broadcasting equipment, computers, cars (2019)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $38.44 billion (31 December 2017 est.)
$38.21 billion (31 December 2015 est.)
Debt - external: $4,345,413,000,000 (2019 est.)
$4,625,016,000,000 (2018 est.)
Exchange rates: euros (EUR) per US dollar -
0.82771 (2020 est.)
0.90338 (2019 est.)
0.87789 (2018 est.)
0.885 (2014 est.)
0.7634 (2013 est.)
Topic: Energy
Electricity access: electrification - total population: 100% (2020)
Electricity: installed generating capacity: 43.409 million kW (2020 est.)
consumption: 109.796 billion kWh (2020 est.)
exports: 22.433 billion kWh (2020 est.)
imports: 19.773 billion kWh (2020 est.)
transmission/distribution losses: 5.059 billion kWh (2020 est.)
Electricity generation sources: fossil fuels: 68.3% of total installed capacity (2020 est.)
nuclear: 3.3% of total installed capacity (2020 est.)
solar: 6.8% of total installed capacity (2020 est.)
wind: 13.1% of total installed capacity (2020 est.)
hydroelectricity: 0% of total installed capacity (2020 est.)
tide and wave: 0% of total installed capacity (2020 est.)
geothermal: 0% of total installed capacity (2020 est.)
biomass and waste: 8.5% of total installed capacity (2020 est.)
Coal: production: 1.879 million metric tons (2020 est.)
consumption: 8.241 million metric tons (2020 est.)
exports: 20.164 million metric tons (2020 est.)
imports: 21.552 million metric tons (2020 est.)
proven reserves: 497 million metric tons (2019 est.)
Petroleum: total petroleum production: 76,100 bbl/day (2021 est.)
refined petroleum consumption: 915,200 bbl/day (2019 est.)
crude oil and lease condensate exports: 8,800 barrels/day (2018 est.)
crude oil and lease condensate imports: 1,096,500 barrels/day (2018 est.)
crude oil estimated reserves: 137.7 million barrels (2021 est.)
Refined petroleum products - production: 1.282 million bbl/day (2017 est.)
Refined petroleum products - exports: 2.406 million bbl/day (2017 est.)
Refined petroleum products - imports: 2.148 million bbl/day (2017 est.)
Natural gas: production: 32,857,597,000 cubic meters (2019 est.)
consumption: 44,752,918,000 cubic meters (2019 est.)
exports: 42,827,461,000 cubic meters (2019 est.)
imports: 55,767,276,000 cubic meters (2019 est.)
proven reserves: 132.608 billion cubic meters (2021 est.)
Carbon dioxide emissions: 214.416 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2019 est.)
from coal and metallurgical coke: 23.15 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2019 est.)
from petroleum and other liquids: 116.24 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2019 est.)
from consumed natural gas: 75.027 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2019 est.)
Energy consumption per capita: 219.606 million Btu/person (2019 est.)
Topic: Communications
Telephones - fixed lines: total subscriptions: 4.937 million (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 29 (2020 est.)
Telephones - mobile cellular: total subscriptions: 21.415 million (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 125 (2020 est.)
Telecommunication systems: general assessment: Telecom infrastructure in the Netherlands continues to be upgraded as modernization schemes undertaken by telcos make steady progress; KPN is replacing its copper access network with fiber, either through its own investment program or in conjunction with the wholesale fiber access provider Glaspoort, in which it has a half-share alongside the pension company APG. KPN expected that about 80% of all premises in the country would be covered by its FttP service by 2026; other fiber providers have been supported by regulatory measures which have encouraged municipal governments to intervene with telcos’ fiber builds, facilitating open access networks in a bid to make rollouts cheaper, and completed sooner; while the MNOs are also closing down their GSM and 3G networks and re purposing their spectrum and physical assets for LTE and 5G, the regulator has also encouraged GSM/3G roaming in the interim, thus safeguarding services such as M2M and other low data-use applications while individual MNOs disable their own GSM/3G networks. T-Mobile Netherlands has delayed switching off GSM until June 2023, given that the network is still used for M2M connections and other applications; the country has one of the highest fixed broadband penetration rates in the world, with effective cross-platform competition between DSL, HFC, and fiber networks; in the third quarter of 2020 the number of cable broadband connections fell for the first time, while the DSL segment has long been eclipsed by fiber; by the end of 2021, over a quarter of fixed broadband connections were on fiber infrastructure, while DSL accounted for only about 29%; almost 49% of fixed connections provided data above 100Mb/s, while an additional 43.7% provided data of at least 30Mb/s; under regulatory measures, the telcos KPN and Vodafone Ziggo are obliged to offer wholesale access to competitors. (2022)
domestic: extensive fixed-line, fiber-optic network; large cellular telephone system with five major operators utilizing the third generation of the Global System for Mobile Communications technology; one in five households now use Voice over the Internet Protocol services; fixed-line nearly 29 per 100 and mobile-cellular at 125 per 100 persons (2020)
international: country code - 31; landing points for Farland North, TAT-14, Circe North, Concerto, Ulysses 2, AC-1, UK-Netherlands 14, and COBRAcable submarine cables which provide links to the US and Europe; satellite earth stations - 5 (3 Intelsat - 1 Indian Ocean and 2 Atlantic Ocean, 1 Eutelsat, and 1 Inmarsat) (2019)
note: the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on production and supply chains globally; since 2020, some aspects of the telecom sector have experienced a downturn, particularly in mobile device production; progress towards 5G implementation has resumed, as well as upgrades to infrastructure; consumer spending on telecom services has increased due to the surge in demand for capacity and bandwidth; the crucial nature of telecom services as a tool for work and school from home is still evident, and the spike in this area has seen growth opportunities for development of new tools and increased services
Broadcast media: more than 90% of households are connected to cable or satellite TV systems that provide a wide range of domestic and foreign channels; public service broadcast system includes multiple broadcasters, 3 with a national reach and the remainder operating in regional and local markets; 2 major nationwide commercial television companies, each with 3 or more stations, and many commercial TV stations in regional and local markets; nearly 600 radio stations with a mix of public and private stations providing national or regional coverage
Internet country code: .nl
Internet users: total: 15,871,765 (2020 est.)
percent of population: 91% (2020 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions: total: 7,525,016 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 44 (2020 est.)
Topic: Transportation
National air transport system: number of registered air carriers: 8 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 238
annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 43,996,044 (2018)
annual freight traffic on registered air carriers: 5,886,510,000 (2018) mt-km
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix: PH
Airports: total: 29 (2021)
Airports - with paved runways: total: 23
over 3,047 m: 3
2,438 to 3,047 m: 11
1,524 to 2,437 m: 1
914 to 1,523 m: 6
under 914 m: 2 (2021)
Airports - with unpaved runways: total: 6
914 to 1,523 m: 4
under 914 m: 2 (2021)
Heliports: 1 (2021)
Pipelines: 14,000 km gas, 2,500 km oil and refined products, 3,000 km chemicals (2017)
Railways: total: 3,058 km (2016)
standard gauge: 3,058 km (2016) 1.435-m gauge (2,314 km electrified)
Roadways: total: 139,124 km (2016) (includes 3,654 km of expressways)
Waterways: 6,237 km (2012) (navigable by ships up to 50 tons)
Merchant marine: total: 1,199
by type: bulk carrier 10, container ship 40, general cargo 559, oil tanker 26, other 564 (2021)
Ports and terminals: major seaport(s): IJmuiden, Vlissingen
container port(s) (TEUs): Rotterdam (14,810,804) (2019)
LNG terminal(s) (import): Gate (Rotterdam)
river port(s): Amsterdam (Nordsee Kanaal); Moerdijk (Hollands Diep River); Rotterdam (Rhine River); Terneuzen (Western Scheldt River)
Topic: Military and Security
Military and security forces: Royal Netherlands Army, Royal Netherlands Navy (includes Naval Air Service and Marine Corps), Royal Netherlands Air Force, Royal Netherlands Marechaussee (Military Constabulary) (2022)
note: the Netherlands Coast Guard and the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard are civilian in nature but managed by the Royal Netherlands Navy
Military expenditures: 1.5% of GDP (2021 est.)
1.4% of GDP (2020)
1.3% of GDP (2019) (approximately $13.6 billion)
1.2% of GDP (2018) (approximately $12.3 billion)
1.2% of GDP (2017) (approximately $11.3 billion)
Military and security service personnel strengths: approximately 40,000 active duty personnel (20,000 Army; 7,500 Navy; 6,500 Air Force; 6,000 Constabulary) (2022)
note: the Navy includes about 2,300 marines
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions: the inventory of the Netherlands Armed Forces consists of a mix of domestically-produced and modern European- and US-sourced equipment; since 2010, the US is the leading supplier of weapons systems to the Netherlands; the Netherlands has an advanced domestic defense industry that focuses on armored vehicles, naval ships, and air defense systems; it also participates with the US and other European countries on joint development and production of advanced weapons systems (2021)
Military service age and obligation: 17 years of age for an all-volunteer force; conscription remains in place, but the requirement to show up for compulsory military service was suspended in 1997 (2021)
note: in 2019, women made up about 11% of the military's full-time personnel
Military deployments: 270 Lithuania (NATO); 125 Slovakia (NATO) (2022)
note: in response to Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, some NATO countries, including the Netherlands, have sent additional troops and equipment to the battlegroups deployed in NATO territory in eastern Europe
Military - note: the Netherlands is a member of NATO and was one of the original 12 countries to sign the North Atlantic Treaty (also known as the Washington Treaty) in 1949
since 1973, the Dutch Marine Corps has worked closely with the British Royal Marines, including jointly in the UK-Netherlands amphibious landing force; a Dutch Army airmobile infantry brigade and a mechanized infantry brigade have been integrated into the German Army since 2014 and 2016 respectively in 2018, the Defense Ministers of Belgium, Denmark and the Netherlands signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the creation of a Composite Special Operations Component Command (C-SOCC); the C-SOCC was declared operational in December 2020
in 2015, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg signed an agreement to conduct joint air policing of their territories; under the agreement, which went into effect in January of 2017, the Belgian and Dutch Air Forces trade responsibility for patrolling the skies over the three countriessince 1973, the Dutch Marine Corps has worked closely with the British Royal Marines, including jointly in the UK-Netherlands amphibious landing force; a Dutch Army airmobile infantry brigade and a mechanized infantry brigade have been integrated into the German Army since 2014 and 2016 respectively
Topic: Terrorism
Terrorist group(s): Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS)
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T
Topic: Transnational Issues
Disputes - international: none identifiednone identified
Refugees and internally displaced persons: refugees (country of origin): 37,792 (Syria), 14,787 (Eritrea), 8,368 (Somalia), 6,636 (Iraq), 5,346 (Iran) (mid-year 2021); 68,050 (Ukraine) (as of 5 July 2022)
stateless persons: 2,087 (mid-year 2021)
Illicit drugs: a significant transit country for illicit drugs, especially cocaine from South America destined for Europe; one of the largest sources of synthetic drugs for international markets; numerous methamphetamine laboratories; traffickers use postage companies to send cocaine, ecstasy or methamphetamines distribute narcotics to global customersa significant transit country for illicit drugs, especially cocaine from South America destined for Europe; one of the largest sources of synthetic drugs for international markets; numerous methamphetamine laboratories; traffickers use postage companies to send cocaine, ecstasy or methamphetamines distribute narcotics to global customers |
20220901 | field-education-expenditures | This entry provides the public expenditure on education as a percent of GDP.
Topic: Afghanistan3.2% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: AkrotiriNA
Topic: Albania3.9% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Algeria6.1% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: American SamoaNA
Topic: Andorra3.2% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Angola1.8% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Anguilla3.6% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Antigua and Barbuda3.3% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: Argentina4.8% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Armenia2.7% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: Aruba5.5% of GDP (2016 est.)
Topic: Ashmore and Cartier IslandsNA
Topic: Australia5.1% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Austria5.2% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Azerbaijan2.7% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Bahamas, The2.5% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: Bahrain2.3% of GDP (2017 est.)
Topic: Bangladesh1.3% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Barbados4.3% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: Belarus5% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: Belgium6.4% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Belize7.9% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: Benin3% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Bermuda1.3% of GDP (2017 est.)
Topic: Bhutan6.9% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Bolivia7.3% of GDP (2014 est.)
Topic: Bosnia and HerzegovinaNA
Topic: Botswana6.9% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Brazil6.1% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: British Indian Ocean TerritoryNA
Topic: British Virgin Islands2.9% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Brunei4.4% of GDP (2016 est.)
Topic: Bulgaria4.1% of GDP (2017 est.)
Topic: Burkina Faso5.8% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Burma2% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Burundi5.1% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Cabo Verde4.7% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Cambodia2.2% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Cameroon3.1% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Canada5.3% of GDP (2011 est.)
Topic: Cayman IslandsNA
Topic: Central African Republic1.8% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Chad2.4% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Chile5.4% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: China3.5% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Christmas IslandNA
Topic: Clipperton IslandNA
Topic: Cocos (Keeling) IslandsNA
Topic: Colombia4.5% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Comoros2.5% of GDP (2015 est.)
Topic: Congo, Democratic Republic of the1.5% of GDP (2017 est.)
Topic: Congo, Republic of the3.9% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Cook Islands3.5% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Coral Sea IslandsNA
Topic: Costa Rica6.7% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: Cote d'Ivoire3.7% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Croatia3.9% of GDP (2017 est.)
Topic: CubaNA
Topic: Curacao4.9% of GDP (2013 est.)
Topic: Cyprus5.8% of GDP (2017 est.)
Topic: Czechia4.3% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Denmark7.8% of GDP (2017 est.)
Topic: DhekeliaNA
Topic: Djibouti3.6% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Dominica5% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: Dominican Republic4% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Ecuador4.1% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: Egypt3.9% of GDP (2015 est.)
Topic: El Salvador3.4% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Equatorial GuineaNA
Topic: EritreaNA
Topic: Estonia5.2% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Eswatini5.3% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: Ethiopia5.1% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: European Union4.7% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)NA
Topic: Faroe Islands8.2% of GDP (2017 est.)
Topic: Fiji5.1% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Finland6.3% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: France5.4% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: French PolynesiaNA
Topic: French Southern and Antarctic LandsNA
Topic: Gabon2.8% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Gambia, The2.9% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Gaza Strip5.3% of GDP (2018 est.)
note: includes Gaza Strip and the West Bank
Topic: Georgia3.8% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: Germany5% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Ghana4% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: GibraltarNA
Topic: Greece3.6% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Greenland10.6% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Grenada3.6% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: GuamNA
Topic: Guatemala3.3% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: GuernseyNA
Topic: Guinea2.2% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: Guinea-Bissau2.9% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Guyana4.5% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Haiti1.7% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Heard Island and McDonald IslandsNA
Topic: Holy See (Vatican City)NA
Topic: Honduras4.9% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Hong Kong4.4% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: Hungary4.6% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Iceland7.6% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: India3.5% of GDP (2016 est.)
Topic: Indonesia2.8% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Iran3.7% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: IraqNA
Topic: Ireland3.4% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Isle of ManNA
Topic: Israel6.2% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Italy4.3% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Jamaica5.4% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: Jan MayenNA
Topic: Japan3.2% of GDP (2017 est.)
Topic: JerseyNA
Topic: Jordan3% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Kazakhstan2.9% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Kenya5.1% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: Kiribati12.4% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Korea, NorthNA
Topic: Korea, South4.5% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: KosovoNA
Topic: Kuwait6.6% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: Kyrgyzstan5.4% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Laos2.9% of GDP (2014 est.)
Topic: Latvia4.2% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Lebanon2.6% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Lesotho7.4% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: Liberia2.3% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: LibyaNA
Topic: Liechtenstein2.6% of GDP (2011 est.)
Topic: Lithuania3.9% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Luxembourg3.7% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Macau3.1% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Madagascar2.9% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Malawi2.9% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: Malaysia4.2% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Maldives4.1% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Mali3.4% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Malta4.7% of GDP (2017 est.)
Topic: Marshall Islands9.6% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Mauritania1.9% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: Mauritius4.6% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: Mexico4.3% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Micronesia, Federated States of9.7% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Moldova6.1% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Monaco1.2% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Mongolia4.9% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: MontenegroNA
Topic: Montserrat9.1% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: MoroccoNA
note: does not include data from the former Western Sahara
Topic: Mozambique6.2% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Namibia9.4% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: NauruNA
Topic: Navassa IslandNA
Topic: Nepal4.4% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Netherlands5.4% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: New CaledoniaNA
Topic: New Zealand6% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Nicaragua3.4% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Niger3.5% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: NigeriaNA
Topic: NiueNA
Topic: Norfolk IslandNA
Topic: North MacedoniaNA
Topic: Northern Mariana IslandsNA
Topic: Norway7.6% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Oman5.4% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Pakistan2.5% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: PalauNA
Topic: Panama3.1% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Papua New Guinea1.9% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Paracel IslandsNA
Topic: Paraguay3.5% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Peru4.2% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: Philippines3.2% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Pitcairn IslandsNA
Topic: Poland4.6% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Portugal4.7% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Puerto Rico6.1% of GDP (2014 est.)
Topic: Qatar3.2% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: Romania3.3% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Russia4.7% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Rwanda3.4% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: Saint BarthelemyNA
Topic: Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da CunhaNA
Topic: Saint Kitts and Nevis2.6% of GDP (2015 est.)
Topic: Saint Lucia3.6% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: Saint MartinNA
Topic: Saint Pierre and MiquelonNA
Topic: Saint Vincent and the Grenadines5.7% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Samoa4.8% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: San Marino3.4% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Sao Tome and Principe5.9% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Saudi ArabiaNA
Topic: Senegal5.3% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Serbia3.6% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Seychelles3.9% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Sierra Leone9.3% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: Singapore2.5% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: Sint MaartenNA
Topic: Slovakia4% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Slovenia4.9% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Solomon Islands10.1% of GDP (2015 est.)
Topic: SomaliaNA
Topic: South Africa6.8% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: South Georgia and South Sandwich IslandsNA
Topic: South Sudan1.5% of GDP (2016 est.)
Topic: Spain4.2% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Spratly IslandsNA
Topic: Sri Lanka2.1% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: SudanNA
Topic: Suriname7.2% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: SvalbardNA
Topic: Sweden7.6% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Switzerland4.9% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: SyriaNA
Topic: TaiwanNA
Topic: Tajikistan5.7% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Tanzania3.1% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: Thailand3% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Timor-Leste6.8% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Togo5% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: TokelauNA
Topic: Tonga8% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Trinidad and Tobago3.6% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Tunisia7.3% of GDP (2016 est.)
Topic: Turkey (Turkiye)4.3% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: Turkmenistan3.1% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Turks and Caicos Islands3.5% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: TuvaluNA
Topic: Uganda3% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: Ukraine5.4% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: United Arab Emirates3.1% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: United Kingdom5.2% of GDP (2018 est.)
Topic: United States5% of GDP (2014 est.)
Topic: United States Pacific Island Wildlife RefugesNA
Topic: Uruguay4.7% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Uzbekistan5.1% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: Vanuatu2.3% of GDP (2020 est.)
Topic: Venezuela1.3% of GDP (2017 est.)
Topic: Vietnam4.1% of GDP (2019 est.)
Topic: Virgin IslandsNA
Topic: Wake IslandNA
Topic: Wallis and FutunaNA
Topic: West Bank5.3% of GDP (2018 est.)
note: includes Gaza Strip and the West Bank
Topic: YemenNA
Topic: Zambia4.5% of GDP (2019)
Topic: Zimbabwe3.6% of GDP (2018 est.) |