Antigua and Barbuda: general information about country, happiness index 2024

World Happiness Report for Antigua and Barbuda 2024

  • Overall Happiness Rank Antigua and Barbuda: na
  • Happiness Score Antigua and Barbuda:na

Happiness is a subjective concept that has long been debated by philosophers, psychologists, and economists alike. However, in recent years, there has been a growing interest in quantifying happiness and using it as a measure of a nation’s overall well-being. This is where the concept of the Happiness Index comes into play.

What is the Happiness Index?

The Happiness Index is a measure that attempts to quantify the overall happiness and life satisfaction of a country’s population. It is based on the idea that traditional economic indicators, such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), do not fully capture the overall well-being of a society. The Happiness Index takes into account various factors that contribute to an individual’s sense of happiness and life satisfaction, including social support, freedom to make life choices, healthy life expectancy, and perceptions of corruption.

How is the Happiness Index Calculated?

The Happiness Index is calculated through a combination of subjective and objective data. The primary source of data is the Gallup World Poll, which is a survey conducted in over 160 countries. The survey asks respondents to rate their overall life satisfaction on a scale of 0 to 10, with 0 being the worst possible life and 10 being the best possible life.

In addition to the life satisfaction score, the Happiness Index also takes into account the following factors:

  1. GDP per capita: This is a measure of a country’s economic output and standard of living.
  2. Social support: This factor measures the extent to which individuals have supportive relationships and love in their lives.
  3. Healthy life expectancy: This is a measure of the number of years an individual is expected to live in good health.
  4. Freedom to make life choices: This factor measures the extent to which individuals are able to make decisions about their lives without external constraints.
  5. Generosity: This factor measures the extent to which individuals engage in charitable activities and donate to others.
  6. Perceptions of corruption: This factor measures the extent to which individuals perceive their society to be free from corruption.

These factors are weighted and combined to produce an overall Happiness Index score for each country.

What Does the Happiness Index Affect?

The Happiness Index has significant implications for policymaking and societal well-being. Countries with higher Happiness Index scores are generally considered to have better overall quality of life and well-being for their citizens. This can have positive impacts on various aspects of society, including:

  1. Economic productivity: Happier individuals tend to be more productive and engaged in their work, which can contribute to a country’s economic growth.
  2. Public health: Higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction are associated with better physical and mental health outcomes, which can reduce healthcare costs and improve overall well-being.
  3. Social cohesion: Societies with higher levels of happiness tend to have stronger social bonds and lower levels of conflict and crime.
  4. Environmental sustainability: Happier individuals may be more likely to engage in environmentally-friendly behaviors and support policies that promote sustainability.

By focusing on the factors that contribute to happiness and well-being, policymakers can develop strategies to improve the overall quality of life for their citizens. The Happiness Index provides a valuable tool for measuring progress and identifying areas where improvements can be made.

Short information

  • Abbreviation of Antigua and Barbuda. AG.

    Antigua and Barbuda is a twin-island country located in the Caribbean Sea.

  • It is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system of government.
  • The country is known for its vibrant carnival celebration and lively music scene.
  • Tourism and financial services are key drivers of the economy in Antigua and Barbuda.
  • Antigua and Barbuda Comprehensive Overview

    History

    The earliest inhabitants of Antigua and Barbuda were the Siboney people, who migrated from Central America around 3100 BC. The islands were later colonized by the Arawak people from South America. In 1493, Christopher Columbus became the first European to visit the islands, which he named after the Virgin of La Antigua in Seville Cathedral.

    The islands were colonized by Britain in 1632, becoming part of the British Leeward Islands. Antigua and Barbuda served as a valuable base for the British Navy, and Antigua was nicknamed the “Gateway to the Caribbean.” The islands were used as a hub for the slave trade, with Africans brought to work on sugar plantations.

    Antigua and Barbuda achieved independence from Britain in 1981, becoming a constitutional monarchy within the Commonwealth of Nations.

    Current Political Situation

    Antigua and Barbuda is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy. The monarchy is represented by the King or Queen of the United Kingdom, currently King Charles III. The prime minister is the head of government and leader of the majority party in the House of Representatives.

    In the 2022 general election, the Labour Party led by Prime Minister Gaston Browne won a third consecutive term in office.

    International Relations

    Antigua and Barbuda is a member of the United Nations, the Commonwealth of Nations, the Organization of American States, and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). The country maintains close ties with Britain and other Commonwealth nations, as well as neighboring Caribbean countries.

    Economy and Development

    Tourism and financial services are the main drivers of Antigua and Barbuda’s economy. The country has a high income economy with a GDP per capita of around $26,000 (2021). The government aims to diversify the economy and attract more foreign investment.

    The Human Development Index ranks Antigua and Barbuda as having a “very high” level of human development, with notable achievements in education and healthcare.

    Cultural Highlights

    Antigua and Barbuda’s culture is a blend of West African, British, and Caribbean influences. English is the official language, but many also speak Antiguan Creole. Cricket is the national sport, and music genres like soca, calypso, and reggae are popular.

    The islands are known for their beautiful beaches, historic sites like the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nelson’s Dockyard, and annual events like the Antigua Sailing Week and Antigua Carnival.

    Challenges and Opportunities

    Key challenges facing Antigua and Barbuda include economic diversification, environmental concerns like coastal erosion, and the impacts of climate change and natural disasters. Opportunities exist in developing sustainable tourism, renewable energy, and attracting investment in emerging industries.

Main facts

1. Location

Antigua and Barbuda is a sovereign island nation located in the West Indies in the Caribbean Sea. It is situated in the eastern Caribbean, where the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea meet, and lies between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean. The country is composed of two major islands, Antigua and Barbuda, and several smaller uninhabited islands.

2. Map References

Antigua and Barbuda is located in the Caribbean region of the North American continent.

3. Area – Comparative

With a total land area of 442.6 square kilometers (170.9 square miles), Antigua and Barbuda is about 2.5 times the size of Washington, D.C.

4. Land Boundaries and Border Countries

Antigua and Barbuda has no land boundaries with any other countries, as it is an island nation.

5. Coastline

Antigua and Barbuda has a coastline of 153 kilometers (95 miles), with numerous beaches, coves, and natural harbors.

6. Maritime Claims

Antigua and Barbuda has the following maritime claims:

  • Territorial sea: 12 nautical miles
  • Contiguous zone: 24 nautical miles
  • Exclusive economic zone: 200 nautical miles
  • Continental shelf: 200 nautical miles or to the edge of the continental margin

7. Climate

Antigua and Barbuda has a tropical maritime climate, characterized by relatively warm temperatures throughout the year, with moderate variation between the coolest and warmest months. The islands experience a rainy season from September to November and a dry season from January to April.

8. Terrain

Antigua and Barbuda are predominantly low-lying islands, with some gently rolling hills and flat coastal areas. The highest point on Antigua is Boggy Peak, at 402 meters (1,319 feet) above sea level, while the highest point on Barbuda is a hill located in the center of the island, reaching 38 meters (125 feet) above sea level.

9. Elevation Extremes

The highest point in Antigua and Barbuda is Boggy Peak on Antigua, with an elevation of 402 meters (1,319 feet) above sea level. The lowest point is the Caribbean Sea, at 0 meters (0 feet).

10. Natural Resources

Antigua and Barbuda has limited natural resources, primarily NEGL (negligible) and renewable resources such as fish, arable land, and sun.

11. Major Bodies of Water

The major bodies of water in Antigua and Barbuda include the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. There are no major lakes or rivers on the islands.

12. Natural Hazards

The primary natural hazards affecting Antigua and Barbuda are hurricanes and tropical storms (July to October), as well as periodic droughts.

13. Geography – Notes

Antigua and Barbuda are susceptible to environmental challenges such as water scarcity, deforestation, and coastal erosion due to their island geography and limited natural resources. The country’s tourism industry is heavily dependent on the preservation of its coastal areas and natural environment.

  • Forest Area (% of land area): 22.30%. This is the percentage of a country’s total land area that is covered by natural or planted forests.
  • Co2 Emissions: 557. CO2 emissions refer to the release of carbon dioxide gas into the atmosphere, primarily from the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) for energy production, transportation, and industrial processes.
  • Agricultural Land( %). 20.50%. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
  • Geographic Coordinates:  17.060816-61.796428.
  • Capital: The capital of Antigua and Barbuda is  St. John’s, Saint John
  • Major Cities:
    • St. John’s – Population: 22,634
    • All Saints – Population: 3,412
    • Liberta – Population: 2,285
    • Bolands – Population: 1,657
  • Population: 97,118
  • Area(Km2): 443
  • Population Density( P/Km²):223. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
  • Calling Code:1
  • Official Language(s):English is spoken in Antigua and Barbuda, with 85% of the population speaking it.
  • Currency: XCD

Main Economic Indicators

Antigua and Barbuda is a small twin-island nation with a service-based economy focused on tourism, financial services, and construction. The country’s GDP is approximately $1.5 billion, and its economy faces challenges such as high public debt, vulnerability to natural disasters, and a lack of economic diversification. Significant economic policies include efforts to promote tourism, attract foreign investment, and manage public finances.

Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)

2020: 2.4% (Source: Eastern Caribbean Central Bank)
2019: 1% (Source: Eastern Caribbean Central Bank)

Credit Ratings

Fitch: Not Rated
Moody’s: Not Rated
Standard & Poor’s: Not Rated

GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin

Agriculture: 1.8%
Industry: 20.3%
Services: 77.9%

Key Agricultural and Industrial Products

Agricultural Products: Cotton, fruits, vegetables, bananas, coconuts, cucumbers, mangoes, sugarcane
Industrial Products: Tourism, construction, light manufacturing (clothing, alcohol, household appliances)

Labor Force

Total Labor Force: 38,300 (2017 estimate)
Comparative Ranking: Not Available

Current Account Balance

2020: -$107 million (Source: Eastern Caribbean Central Bank)
2019: -$58 million (Source: Eastern Caribbean Central Bank)
Comparative Ranking: Not Available

Exports and Imports

Exports: $44.2 million (2019 estimate)
Key Partners: United States, Antigua and Barbuda, United Kingdom
Main Commodities: Alcoholic beverages, oils, chemicals
Imports: $560.7 million (2019 estimate)
Key Partners: United States, Antigua and Barbuda, United Kingdom
Main Commodities: Machinery and transport equipment, manufactured goods, food, live animals, chemicals

Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold

Foreign Exchange Reserves: $342.9 million (2020 estimate)
Gold Reserves: Not Available

  • GDP (Current US$):$1,727,759,259. It represents a country’s gross domestic product measured in current US dollars. Higher values indicate a larger economy and economic output.
  • Tax Revenue (% of GDP): 16.50%. It refers to the amount of tax revenue collected by the government, expressed as a percentage of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). Higher values indicate a higher tax burden relative to the size of the economy.
  • Total Tax Rate (% of commercial profits): 43.00%. This is the sum of all taxes payable by businesses, expressed as a percentage of their commercial profits. Higher values indicate a higher tax burden on businesses.
  • Gasoline Price. $0.99. It refers to the cost of one liter or gallon of gasoline/petrol. Higher values indicate more expensive gasoline prices for consumers and businesses.
  • Minimum wage. $3.04. It refers to the lowest legally mandated hourly wage that employers must pay their workers. Higher values indicate a higher minimum level of pay for low-wage workers.
  • Unemployment Rate (%): . It represents the percentage of the labor force that is unemployed and actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate more joblessness in the economy.

Social Indicators

National Identity

Nationality noun: Antiguan(s), Barbudan(s)

Nationality adjective: Antiguan, Barbudan

Ethnic Groups

Black: 91%

Mixed: 4.4%

White: 1.7%

Other: 2.9%

Religions

Protestant: 68.3%

Catholic: 8.2%

Other Christian: 12.3%

Other: 7.1%

None: 5.9%

Age Structure

0-14 years: 21.61%

15-64 years: 68.78%

65 years and over: 9.61%

Dependency Ratios

Total dependency ratio: 45.3

Youth dependency ratio: 31.4

Elderly dependency ratio: 14

Median Age

Median age: 34.1 years

Median age (male): 33.7 years

Median age (female): 34.4 years

Lifestyle Indicators

Obesity rate: 26.2%

Alcohol consumption per capita: 7.8 liters

Tobacco use: 5.4%

  • Life Expectancy at Birth: 76.9. Life Expectancy at Birth refers to the estimated average number of years a newborn is expected to live based on current mortality rates. Higher values indicate better health outcomes and living conditions in a country or region.
  • Literacy Rate (% of adults): 97%. It refers to the percentage of the population aged 15 and above who can read and write with understanding of a short simple statement about their everyday life. Higher literacy rates indicate better educational attainment within a population.
  • Birth Rate:15.33. Birth Rate is the total number of live births per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher birth rates indicate a larger share of the population being born each year.
  • Death Rate:6. Death Rate is the number of deaths per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher death rates indicate more people dying annually within a population.
  • Fertility Rate: 1.99. Fertility Rate is the average number of children a woman would have over her reproductive years based on current birth rates. Higher fertility rates indicate larger family sizes and population growth.
  • Internet Users (% of population): 83.2%. Internet Users (% of population) refers to the percentage of the total population in a country or region that has access to and uses the internet. Higher values indicate greater internet penetration and connectivity among the population.
  • Urban Population: 23,8. Urban Population refers to the percentage or number of people living in urban areas or cities within a country or region. Higher urban population values indicate greater urbanization and concentration of people in cities compared to rural areas.
  • Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure):24.30%. Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure) represents the portion of total health care costs that individuals pay directly out of their own pockets, rather than being covered by insurance or government programs. Higher values indicate greater personal financial burden for health care expenses.

Infrastructure and Services

Military and Security Forces

The Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF) is the country’s military service, responsible for national defense and internal security operations. It consists of the following branches:

  • Antigua and Barbuda Regiment (Ground Forces)
  • Antigua and Barbuda Coast Guard

The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda, a civilian police force, is responsible for maintaining internal security and law enforcement.

Military Expenditures

Antigua and Barbuda’s military expenditure as a percentage of GDP for the last five years:

  • 2017: 0.8%
  • 2018: 0.7%
  • 2019: 0.7%
  • 2020: 0.7%
  • 2021: 0.7%

Antigua and Barbuda’s military spending ranks among the lowest globally.

Personnel Strengths

The total active-duty military personnel is approximately 285, with the following breakdown:

  • Antigua and Barbuda Regiment: 230
  • Antigua and Barbuda Coast Guard: 55

The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has an additional 500 personnel.

Military Equipment Inventories and Acquisitions

Antigua and Barbuda’s military equipment inventory is modest, consisting primarily of light infantry weapons and a few patrol craft for the Coast Guard. The country relies heavily on imports for its military hardware.

No significant future military acquisitions or development programs are currently reported.

Military Service Age and Obligation

Antigua and Barbuda has no mandatory military service. The voluntary enlistment age is 18-23 years for both men and women.

Military Deployments

Antigua and Barbuda has no significant overseas military deployments. However, it contributes a small contingent of personnel to the Regional Security System (RSS), a regional security organization for the Eastern Caribbean.

Strategic Military Notes

As a small island nation, Antigua and Barbuda’s defense strategy focuses primarily on territorial integrity, maritime security, and disaster response. The country’s military plays a supporting role in regional security initiatives through its participation in the RSS.

Antigua and Barbuda is not a member of any major military alliances but maintains close security cooperation with neighboring Caribbean nations and the United Kingdom.

  • Armed Forces Size: 180. Armed Forces Size refers to the total number of active personnel serving in a country’s military forces, including the army, navy, air force, and other branches. Higher values indicate a larger military presence and personnel.
  • Physicians per Thousand: Number of doctors per 1,000 people is 2.76
  • Population: Labor Force Participation (%): . This is the percentage of the total population aged 15 and older that is economically active, meaning they are either employed or actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate a greater proportion of the working-age population engaged in the labor force.

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