World Happiness Report for Belgium 2024
- Overall Happiness Rank Belgium: 16
- Happiness Score Belgium:6.894
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:
- GDP per capita: This is a measure of a country’s economic output and standard of living.
- Social support: This factor measures the extent to which individuals have supportive relationships and love in their lives.
- Healthy life expectancy: This is a measure of the number of years an individual is expected to live in good health.
- Freedom to make life choices: This factor measures the extent to which individuals are able to make decisions about their lives without external constraints.
- Generosity: This factor measures the extent to which individuals engage in charitable activities and donate to others.
- 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:
- Economic productivity: Happier individuals tend to be more productive and engaged in their work, which can contribute to a country’s economic growth.
- 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.
- Social cohesion: Societies with higher levels of happiness tend to have stronger social bonds and lower levels of conflict and crime.
- 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 Belgium. BE.
Belgium is a country known for its political structure as a federal constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system with notable cultural aspects like its diverse languages (Dutch, French, German) and rich artistic heritage and economic significance as a member of the European Union and a key player in international trade.
Belgium – A Comprehensive Overview
History
Early History: The territory of modern-day Belgium was inhabited by Celtic tribes before being conquered by the Romans in the 1st century BC. The region was part of the Roman province of Gallia Belgica and witnessed the rise of important urban centers like Tongeren and Tournai.
Kingdoms and Empires: After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the area was successively ruled by the Franks, the Carolingian Empire, and the Duchy of Lower Lotharingia. In the 15th century, the Burgundian Netherlands emerged as a powerful duchy, which later passed to the Habsburgs.
Colonial Period: In the 16th century, the territory came under Spanish rule as part of the Spanish Netherlands. The Dutch Revolt led to the separation of the northern provinces (Dutch Republic) from the southern provinces (Spanish Netherlands), which later became the Austrian Netherlands and then the United Kingdom of the Netherlands.
Independence and Modern Era: Belgium gained independence from the Netherlands in 1830 and became a constitutional, popular monarchy. The country experienced rapid industrialization and played a significant role in the Congo Free State and the Berlin Conference that formalized the Scramble for Africa. Belgium was occupied by German forces during both World Wars.
Current Political Situation: Belgium is a federal constitutional, popular monarchy with a parliamentary system. The current monarch is King Philippe, and the prime minister is Alexander De Croo. The country has a complex federal structure with three regions and three language communities.
International Relations: Belgium is a founding member of the European Union, NATO, and the United Nations. It has strong economic and political ties with its neighboring countries and plays an active role in international organizations.
Human Development and Economy: Belgium has a highly developed, service-based economy and ranks among the top countries in terms of human development. Key industries include engineering, transportation equipment, chemicals, and food processing.
Cultural Highlights: Belgium is known for its rich cultural heritage, including medieval cities like Bruges and Ghent, Renaissance architecture, and fine arts. The country has three official languages (Dutch, French, and German) and a diverse culinary tradition, including renowned beers, chocolates, and waffles.
Challenges and Opportunities: Belgium faces challenges related to its complex federal structure, linguistic tensions, and concerns over an aging population and sustainable economic growth. However, the country’s strategic location, skilled workforce, and strong international ties present opportunities for continued prosperity.
Travel Tips for Belgium
• Best times to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer is peak tourist season, while winters can be chilly but offer festive Christmas markets.
• Cultural etiquette: Belgians value punctuality, privacy, and modesty. Greet with a firm handshake and avoid public displays of affection.
• Safety precautions: Belgium is generally safe, but be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas and monitor travel advisories.
• Must-see landmarks: Grand Place in Brussels, Bruges’ historic city center, Ghent’s medieval architecture, Antwerp’s Cathedral of Our Lady, and the World War I battlefields.
• Culinary experiences: Sample Belgian waffles, chocolates, fries, and the diverse range of locally brewed beers.
Living in Belgium
• Cost of living: Belgium has a relatively high cost of living, especially in major cities like Brussels, but offers a good quality of life.
• Housing: Rent and property prices can be expensive, especially in urban areas. Consider suburbs or smaller towns for more affordable options.
• Healthcare: Belgium has a universal healthcare system with high-quality services, but many residents opt for private insurance for additional coverage.
• Education: The education system is divided into Dutch, French, and German-speaking communities. International schools and universities are available.
• Lifestyle: Belgians value work-life balance, with generous paid leave and a focus on leisure activities like cycling and exploring the country’s historic cities and natural landscapes.
Doing Business in Belgium
• Business culture: Belgians prefer a formal and hierarchical approach to business. Building personal relationships and trust is essential.
• Economic climate: Belgium has a stable and open economy with a strategic location at the heart of Europe, making it an attractive destination for international businesses.
• Key industries: Major industries include engineering, transportation equipment, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and food processing.
• Legal frameworks: Belgium has a well-established legal system with clear regulations for starting and operating businesses.
• Negotiation strategies: Be prepared for lengthy negotiations and decision-making processes. Maintain patience and avoid aggressive tactics.
Studying in Belgium
• Educational system: Belgium has a diverse higher education system with universities and colleges offering programs in Dutch, French, and English.
• Top universities: Renowned institutions include KU Leuven, Ghent University, Université Libre de Bruxelles, and Université Catholique de Louvain.
• Student life: Belgian cities offer a vibrant student culture with affordable housing, transportation, and entertainment options.
• Visa requirements: EU/EEA students can study without a visa, while international students need to obtain a student visa and meet specific requirements.
• Opportunities for international students: Belgium offers a range of degree programs taught in English, as well as internship and exchange opportunities.
Main facts
1. Location
Belgium is a country located in Western Europe, bordered by the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, France, and the North Sea. It is situated at a crucial crossroads of Europe, between the Germanic and Latin cultures.
2. Map References
Belgium is located in the region of Western Europe.
3. Area – Comparative
With an area of approximately 30,528 square kilometers (11,787 square miles), Belgium is slightly larger than the U.S. state of Maryland.
4. Land Boundaries and Border Countries
Belgium has a total land boundary length of 1,297 kilometers (806 miles), shared with the following countries:
- France: 556 kilometers (345 miles)
- Germany: 135 kilometers (84 miles)
- Luxembourg: 130 kilometers (81 miles)
- Netherlands: 478 kilometers (297 miles)
5. Coastline (if applicable)
Belgium has a coastline of 66.5 kilometers (41.3 miles) along the North Sea.
6. Maritime Claims
Belgium claims the following maritime zones:
- Territorial sea: 12 nautical miles
- Contiguous zone: 24 nautical miles
- Exclusive economic zone: boundaries with neighboring countries
- Continental shelf: 200 meters depth or to the depth of exploitation
7. Climate
Belgium has a temperate maritime climate influenced by the North Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. The climate is generally mild, with cool summers and moderate winters.
8. Terrain
Belgium has a diverse terrain, consisting of flat coastal plains in the northwest, central rolling hills, and the Ardennes Forest in the southeast, which is part of the Hercynian Plateau.
9. Elevation Extremes
The highest point in Belgium is Signal de Botrange, at an elevation of 694 meters (2,277 feet), located in the Hautes Fagnes region of the Ardennes. The lowest point is the North Sea, at 0 meters (0 feet).
10. Natural Resources
Belgium has limited natural resources, including construction materials, silica sand, carbonates, and arable land.
11. Major Bodies of Water
The major rivers in Belgium are the Meuse/Maas and the Scheldt/Escaut, both of which are shared with neighboring countries. Other significant water bodies include the Semois River, Ardennes Plateau lakes, and several canals.
12. Natural Hazards
Belgium is subject to flooding and occasional strong winds from storms originating in the North Sea.
13. Geography – Notes
Belgium is one of the most densely populated and urbanized countries in Europe, with a high concentration of economic activity and infrastructure. Despite its small size, it has a diverse landscape, ranging from coastal plains to forested hills and plateaus.
- Forest Area (% of land area): 22.60%. This is the percentage of a country’s total land area that is covered by natural or planted forests.
- Co2 Emissions: 96,889. 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( %). 44.60%. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
- Geographic Coordinates: 50.5038874.469936.
- Capital: The capital of Belgium is City of Brussels
- Major Cities:
- Brussels – Population: 1,208,542
- Antwerp – Population: 520,504
- Ghent – Population: 262,219
- Charleroi – Population: 202,267
- Liège – Population: 197,355
- Population: 11,484,055
- Area(Km2): 30528
- Population Density( P/Km²):383. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
- Calling Code:32
- Official Language(s):Belgium is Dutch (60%), French (40%)
- Currency: EUR
Main Economic Indicators
Belgium has a modern, private-enterprise economy with a diversified industrial base. The service sector accounts for a significant portion of the economy, while the country also maintains an important but diminishing role for manufacturing. Key economic challenges include an aging population, labor shortages, and adapting to globalization. Notable economic policies focus on promoting competitiveness and employment.
Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)
2022: 9.6% (Source: Statbel)
2021: 3.2% (Source: Statbel)
Credit Ratings
Fitch: AA-
Moody’s: Aa3
Standard & Poor’s: AA
GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin
Agriculture: 0.7%
Industry: 20.4%
Services: 78.9%
Key Agricultural and Industrial Products
Agricultural Products: Sugar beets, fresh vegetables, fruits, grain, tobacco, beef, veal, pork, milk products
Industrial Products: Engineering and metal products, motor vehicle assembly, transportation equipment, scientific instruments, processed food and beverages, chemicals, base metals, textiles, glass, petroleum
Labor Force
Total Labor Force: 5.437 million (2022 est.)
Comparative Ranking: 79th in the world
Current Account Balance
2022: $11.2 billion (surplus)
2021: $16.7 billion (surplus)
Comparative Ranking: 20th in the world
Exports and Imports
Exports: $468.9 billion (2022 est.)
Key Partners: Germany, France, Netherlands, UK, United States
Main Commodities: Chemicals, machinery and equipment, finished diamonds, metals and metal products, motor vehicle parts
Imports: $538.4 billion (2022 est.)
Key Partners: Netherlands, Germany, France, UK, United States
Main Commodities: Raw materials, machinery and equipment, chemicals, raw diamonds, pharmaceuticals, foodstuffs, transportation equipment, oil products
Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold
Foreign Exchange Reserves: $34.7 billion (December 2022)
Gold Reserves: 227.4 tonnes (December 2022)
- GDP (Current US$):$529,606,710,418. 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): 24.00%. 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): 55.40%. 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. $1.43. 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. $10.31. 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 (%): 5.59%. 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
Noun: Belgian(s)
Adjective: Belgian
Ethnic Groups
- Flemish 58%
- Walloon 31.9%
- Other European 10.1%
Religions
- Roman Catholic 57%
- Protestant and Other Christian 2.5%
- Muslim 5.9%
- Jewish 0.4%
- Non-religious 26.3%
- Other 7.9%
Age Structure
- 0-14 years: 16.6%
- 15-64 years: 64.4%
- 65 years and over: 19%
Dependency Ratios
Total dependency ratio: 57.7
Youth dependency ratio: 25.7
Elderly dependency ratio: 32
Median Age
Total: 41.8 years
Male: 40.4 years
Female: 43.2 years
Lifestyle Indicators
- Obesity rate: 22.1% of the adult population
- Alcohol consumption: 10.8 liters of pure alcohol per capita per year
- Tobacco use: 22% of adults are daily smokers
- Life expectancy: 81.5 years (78.9 years for males, 84.2 years for females)
- Life Expectancy at Birth: 81.6. 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%. 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:10.3. 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:10. 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: 1.62. 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): 86.3%. 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: 11,259,082. 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
Military and Security Forces
Belgium’s military consists of the following branches:
- Belgian Land Component: The army with various brigade-level formations, specialized units like special forces, and combat support elements.
- Belgian Air Component: The air force with fighter aircraft, transport planes, helicopters, and associated support units.
- Belgian Naval Component: The navy with frigates, minehunters, and auxiliary vessels.
- Belgian Medical Component: Provides medical support and services.
The national police force (Police Fédérale/Federale Politie) is responsible for maintaining public order and internal security.
Military Expenditures
Belgium’s military spending as a percentage of GDP for the last five years:
- 2022: 1.28%
- 2021: 1.22%
- 2020: 1.22%
- 2019: 1.14%
- 2018: 1.14%
Belgium ranked 25th globally in military spending in 2022.
Personnel Strengths
Belgium has approximately 25,000 active-duty military personnel:
- Land Component: 11,500
- Air Component: 6,000
- Naval Component: 2,500
- Medical Component: 1,000
- Other Services: 4,000
The national police force has around 40,000 personnel.
Military Equipment Inventories and Acquisitions
Belgium’s military equipment includes:
- Main Battle Tanks: Leopard 1 (being replaced by Leopard 2)
- Armored Vehicles: MRAV, Dingo, Pandur
- Artillery: M109 howitzers, MLRS rocket launchers
- Combat Aircraft: F-16 Fighting Falcon (being replaced by F-35 Lightning II)
- Naval Vessels: M-class frigates, Tripartite-class minehunters
Significant future acquisitions include the procurement of 34 F-35 fighter jets and the planned replacement of armored vehicles and naval vessels.
Military Service Age and Obligation
Belgium has an all-volunteer military force. The age range for voluntary military service is 18-40 years. There is no compulsory military service requirement.
Military Deployments
Belgium currently has military personnel deployed in various locations, including:
- NATO Enhanced Forward Presence in Estonia and Lithuania
- United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA)
- European Union Training Mission in the Central African Republic (EUTM-RCA)
Strategic Military Notes
Belgium’s defense strategy focuses on collective security through NATO and the European Union. The country aims to contribute to international peacekeeping missions and address emerging security challenges like terrorism and cyber threats.
Belgium is a founding member of NATO and is committed to maintaining strong defense capabilities as part of the alliance. It also participates in various EU military cooperation initiatives and partnerships.
- Armed Forces Size: 26300. 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 03.07
- Population: Labor Force Participation (%): 53.60%. 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.