Argentina: general information about country, happiness index 2024

World Happiness Report for Argentina 2024

  • Overall Happiness Rank Argentina: 48
  • Happiness Score Argentina:6.188

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 Argentina. AR.

    Argentina is a South American country known for its diverse culture and stunning natural landscapes. The country has a presidential representative democratic republic, with a multi-party system.

  • Argentina is famous for its tango music and dance, as well as its delicious cuisine, including asado (grilled meat) and empanadas.
  • The country has a strong agricultural industry, particularly in the production of soybeans, beef, and dairy products.
  • Argentina is also home to the Andes mountains and the stunning Iguazu Falls, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
  • Argentina – A Comprehensive Overview

    Early History: The region now known as Argentina was originally inhabited by various indigenous tribes, including the Diaguitas, Huarpes, and Tehuelches. The earliest known civilization was the Tiwanaku, which flourished in the northwest between 300 and 1000 AD.

    Kingdoms and Empires: In the late 15th century, the Inca Empire expanded into the northwestern part of modern-day Argentina. However, their control was short-lived as the Spanish conquistadors arrived in the early 16th century.

    Colonial Period: Spanish colonization of the region began in 1516 with the establishment of the first permanent settlement, Buenos Aires. Over the next two centuries, the Spanish consolidated their control, introducing European culture, religion, and institutions.

    Independence and Modern Era: Argentina gained independence from Spain in 1816 after a long struggle led by José de San Martín and Manuel Belgrano. The country experienced periods of political instability, civil wars, and economic turmoil throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries. The Dirty War, a period of state terrorism and violence against dissidents, occurred from 1976 to 1983 under the military junta. Democracy was restored in 1983.

    Current Political Situation: Argentina is a federal presidential constitutional republic. The current president is Alberto Fernández, who took office in 2019. The country has a bicameral legislative system and a multi-party political system.

    International Relations: Argentina maintains diplomatic relations with most countries and is a founding member of several international organizations, including the United Nations, the Organization of American States, and the Southern Common Market (Mercosur).

    Human Development and Economy: Argentina has a highly developed economy, with a strong emphasis on agriculture, manufacturing, and services. Major industries include food processing, automotive, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals. Despite facing economic challenges, Argentina has a relatively high Human Development Index ranking.

    Cultural Highlights: Argentina has a rich cultural heritage that blends indigenous, European, and African influences. The country is renowned for its literature, music (tango), and cuisine (asado). Spanish is the official language, but several indigenous languages are also spoken.

    Conclusion: Argentina faces challenges such as economic instability, income inequality, and corruption. However, its natural resources, talented workforce, and cultural diversity present opportunities for growth and development.

    Travel Tips for Argentina

    • Best times to visit: Spring (September-November) and fall (March-May) offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
    • Cultural etiquette: Greet with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek. Punctuality is not strictly observed.
    • Safety: Exercise caution in major cities, particularly at night. Avoid carrying valuables and use licensed taxis.
    • Must-see landmarks: Buenos Aires (La Recoleta Cemetery, Teatro Colón), Iguazú Falls, Perito Moreno Glacier, Mendoza wine region.
    • Culinary experiences: Asado (barbecue), empanadas, Malbec wine, mate (traditional herbal drink).

    Living in Argentina

    • Cost of living: Relatively affordable, especially outside major cities like Buenos Aires.
    • Housing: Apartment rentals are common in cities, while houses are more prevalent in suburban and rural areas.
    • Healthcare: Argentina has a universal healthcare system, but many opt for private healthcare plans.
    • Education: Free public education is available, but private schools are popular among the middle and upper classes.
    • Lifestyle: Argentinians value family, social gatherings, and leisure activities like football, polo, and wine tasting.
    • Cultural norms: Greetings with a kiss on the cheek, punctuality is flexible, and extended meal times are common.

Main facts

Geographic Profile: Argentina

1. Location

Argentina is a sovereign state located in the southern part of South America. It shares borders with Chile to the west, Bolivia and Paraguay to the north, Brazil and Uruguay to the northeast, and the Atlantic Ocean to the east and south.

2. Map References

Argentina is situated in the Southern Cone region of South America.

3. Area – Comparative

With an area of 2,780,400 sq km, Argentina is slightly less than three-tenths the size of the United States.

4. Land Boundaries and Border Countries

Argentina has land borders totaling 9,376 km, shared with Chile (6,691 km), Bolivia (942 km), Paraguay (2,531 km), Brazil (1,263 km), and Uruguay (985 km).

5. Coastline

Argentina has a coastline of 4,989 km along the Atlantic Ocean, featuring diverse coastal environments such as beaches, cliffs, and estuaries.

6. Maritime Claims

Argentina claims territorial sea of 12 nautical miles, an exclusive economic zone of 200 nautical miles, and a continental shelf of 200 meters or to the edge of the continental margin.

7. Climate

Argentina experiences a diverse range of climates, including subtropical in the north, temperate in the central regions, and subantarctic in the south. The climate is generally dry, with hot summers and cool winters, except in the northeastern region, which has a humid subtropical climate.

8. Terrain

The terrain of Argentina is varied, with rich plains in the central region known as the Pampas, the Andes mountain range along the western border, and Patagonian plateaus in the south. The country also has several major river valleys, including those of the Paraná and Uruguay rivers.

9. Elevation Extremes

Argentina’s highest point is Cerro Aconcagua, at 6,962 meters, located in the Andes mountain range near the border with Chile. The lowest point is Laguna del Carbón, at 105 meters below sea level, situated in the San Julián Great Depression in Santa Cruz Province.

10. Natural Resources

Argentina’s major natural resources include fertile soils, lead, zinc, tin, copper, iron ore, manganese, petroleum, and uranium.

11. Major Bodies of Water

Argentina has several significant bodies of water, including the Río de la Plata (shared with Uruguay), the Paraná River (shared with Paraguay and Brazil), and the Uruguay River (shared with Uruguay and Brazil). Notable lakes include Lago Argentino, Lago Viedma, and Lago Buenos Aires.

12. Natural Hazards

Common natural hazards in Argentina include earthquakes, flooding, severe storms, and droughts.

13. Geography – Notes

Argentina has a rich biodiversity, with various ecosystems ranging from tropical rainforests in the northeast to the arid steppes of Patagonia in the south. The country’s vast size and diverse landscapes contribute to its ecological diversity and economic potential in sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and energy production.

  • Forest Area (% of land area): 9.80%. This is the percentage of a country’s total land area that is covered by natural or planted forests.
  • Co2 Emissions: 201,348. 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( %). 54.30%. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
  • Geographic Coordinates:  -38.416097-63.616672.
  • Capital: The capital of Argentina is  Buenos Aires
  • Major Cities:
    • Buenos Aires – Population: 3,050,728
    • Cordoba – Population: 1,428,214
    • Rosario – Population: 1,173,533
    • Mendoza – Population: 1,086,924
    • Tucuman – Population: 781,023
  • Population: 44,938,712
  • Area(Km2): 2780400
  • Population Density( P/Km²):17. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
  • Calling Code:54
  • Official Language(s):Argentina is Spanish – 98%
  • Currency: ARS

Main Economic Indicators

Argentina has a diversified economy, with services accounting for the largest share of GDP. The country has abundant natural resources, a highly educated workforce, and a dynamic export sector. However, it faces challenges such as high inflation, fiscal imbalances, and economic volatility. Argentina has implemented policies aimed at promoting economic growth, attracting foreign investment, and reducing poverty.

Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)

2022: 94.8% (Source: Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Censos)
2021: 50.9% (Source: Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Censos)

Credit Ratings

Fitch: CCC (Long-term foreign currency)
Moody’s: Ca (Long-term issuer)
Standard & Poor’s: CCC+ (Long-term foreign currency)

GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin

Agriculture: 6.4%
Industry: 26.6%
Services: 67%

Key Agricultural and Industrial Products

Agricultural: Soybeans, wheat, maize, beef, wine, dairy products
Industrial: Food processing, motor vehicles, chemicals, petrochemicals, machinery, steel

Labor Force

Total Labor Force: 20.3 million (2022)
Comparative Ranking: 32nd globally

Current Account Balance

2022: $3.8 billion surplus
2021: $6.2 billion surplus
Comparative Ranking: 34th globally

Exports and Imports

Exports (2022): $88.6 billion
Key Partners: Brazil, China, United States, Chile
Major Exports: Soybeans, vehicles, corn, delivery trucks, crude petroleum
Imports (2022): $73.4 billion
Key Partners: Brazil, China, United States, Germany
Major Imports: Machinery, vehicles, mineral fuels, electrical machinery, plastics

Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold

Foreign Exchange Reserves (March 2023): $37.5 billion
Gold Reserves (March 2023): 61.7 tonnes

  • GDP (Current US$):$449,663,446,954. 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): 10.10%. 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): 106.30%. 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. $1.10. 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. $3.35. 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 (%): 9.79%. 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

1. National Identity

Nationality (noun): Argentine(s) | Nationality (adjective): Argentine

2. Ethnic Groups

  • European (mostly Spanish and Italian descent): 97.2%
  • Mestizo (mixed European and Amerindian ancestry): 0.4%
  • Amerindian: 2.4%

3. Religions

  • Roman Catholic: 76.5%
  • Protestant: 9%
  • Jewish: 0.9%
  • Other: 1.2%
  • No Religion: 11.3%
  • Unspecified: 1.2%

4. Age Structure

  • 0-14 years: 24.7%
  • 15-64 years: 64.9%
  • 65 years and over: 10.4%

5. Dependency Ratios

Total Dependency Ratio: 53.8%

Youth Dependency Ratio: 37.9%

Elderly Dependency Ratio: 15.9%

6. Median Age

Total Median Age: 31.9 years

Male Median Age: 30.5 years

Female Median Age: 33.4 years

7. Lifestyle Indicators

  • Obesity Rate: 28.3% of the population
  • Alcohol Consumption: 9.8 liters of pure alcohol per capita per year
  • Tobacco Use: 22.1% of adults smoke tobacco
  • Life Expectancy at Birth: 76.5. 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): 99.1%. 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:17.02. 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:9. 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: 2.26. 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): 88.4%. 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: 41,339,571. 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):17.60%. 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

  • Armed Forces Size: 72100. 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 3.96
  • Population: Labor Force Participation (%): 61.30%. 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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