World Happiness Report for Colombia 2024
- Overall Happiness Rank Colombia: 78
- Happiness Score Colombia:5.695
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 Colombia. CO.
- Known for its diversity and vibrant culture
- Has the second highest level of biodiversity in the world
- World’s leading producer of emeralds and a major exporter of coffee
Colombia – A Comprehensive Overview
Early History:
Colombia’s history can be traced back to the ancient civilizations that flourished in the region, such as the Muisca, Quimbaya, and Tairona cultures. These indigenous groups developed advanced societies with intricate political systems, agricultural practices, and artistic traditions.
Kingdoms and Empires:
The territory of modern-day Colombia was once home to powerful indigenous kingdoms, including the Muisca Confederation and the Tairona kingdom. However, these societies were largely disrupted by the Spanish conquest in the 16th century.
Colonial Period:
Colombia was colonized by the Spanish Empire in the early 16th century, with the first permanent settlement established in Santa Marta in 1525. The Spanish colonial rule lasted for nearly three centuries, leaving a lasting impact on the country’s culture, religion, and language.
Independence and Modern Era:
Colombia achieved independence from Spain in 1819, after a long struggle led by Simón Bolívar. The country faced various political and social upheavals throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, including civil wars, conflicts with neighboring nations, and the infamous drug cartel era.
Current Political Situation:
Colombia is a unitary, constitutional republic with a democratically elected president and a bicameral legislature. The current president is Gustavo Petro, who took office in 2022 as the country’s first left-wing president. Colombia faces ongoing challenges related to poverty, inequality, and the remnants of armed conflicts.
International Relations:
Colombia maintains close ties with the United States and other Western nations, while also strengthening relations with regional partners in Latin America. The country is a member of various international organizations, including the United Nations, the Organization of American States, and the Pacific Alliance.
Human Development and Economy:
Colombia has a relatively diversified economy, with significant sectors including agriculture, mining, manufacturing, and services. The country has made strides in reducing poverty and improving human development indicators, but income inequality and regional disparities remain challenges.
Cultural Highlights:
Colombia is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, influenced by its indigenous, African, and Spanish roots. The country is home to vibrant musical genres like cumbia and vallenato, as well as literary giants like Gabriel García Márquez. Colombia also boasts stunning natural landscapes, ranging from the Amazon rainforest to the Caribbean coastline.
Challenges and Opportunities:
Colombia faces ongoing challenges related to rural poverty, inequality, environmental conservation, and the lingering effects of armed conflicts. However, the country also presents opportunities in areas such as sustainable tourism, renewable energy, and innovation in sectors like technology and agriculture.
Main facts
1. Location
Colombia is located in the northwestern corner of South America, bordered by the Caribbean Sea to the north, Venezuela and Brazil to the east, Peru and Ecuador to the south, and the Pacific Ocean to the west. It is situated along the Ring of Fire, a major area in the Pacific Ocean prone to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
2. Map References
Colombia is situated in the northern part of the South American continent.
3. Area – Comparative
Area: 1,141,748 sq km (440,831 sq miles), slightly less than twice the size of Texas.
4. Land Boundaries and Border Countries
Land boundaries: 6,672 km
Border countries: Brazil 1,644 km, Ecuador 708 km, Panama 225 km, Peru 1,494 km, Venezuela 2,050 km
5. Coastline
Coastline: 3,208 km
Colombia’s coastline stretches along the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, featuring beautiful beaches, coastal cities, and important ports.
6. Maritime Claims
Territorial sea: 12 nautical miles
Exclusive economic zone: 200 nautical miles
Continental shelf: 200 meters depth or to the depth of exploitation
7. Climate
Colombia has a diverse climate due to its varied topography. The tropical lowlands have a hot and humid climate, while the higher elevations experience cooler temperatures. The country generally has two seasons: a dry season and a rainy season, with regional variations.
8. Terrain
Colombia’s terrain is characterized by flat coastal areas, central highlands, and the Andes Mountains. The Andes Mountains dominate the western part of the country, with the Cordillera Occidental, Cordillera Central, and Cordillera Oriental ranges. The eastern region consists of the Llanos plains and the Amazon Basin lowlands.
9. Elevation Extremes
Highest point: Pico Cristóbal Colón (Qhuindicocha) 5,775 m
Lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
10. Natural Resources
Colombia’s major natural resources include petroleum, natural gas, coal, iron ore, nickel, gold, copper, emeralds, and hydropower potential.
11. Major Bodies of Water
The major bodies of water in Colombia include the Caribbean Sea, the Pacific Ocean, the Amazon River (shared with Brazil and Peru), the Orinoco River (shared with Venezuela), the Magdalena River, and Lake Tota.
12. Natural Hazards
Colombia is prone to natural hazards such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, flooding, landslides, and occasional droughts.
13. Geography – Notes
Colombia’s strategic location and varied geography have played a significant role in its history and development. The country’s diverse ecosystems, from tropical rainforests to coastal regions and high-altitude plateaus, contribute to its rich biodiversity. However, illegal crop cultivation and environmental degradation pose ongoing challenges.
- Forest Area (% of land area): 52.70%. This is the percentage of a country’s total land area that is covered by natural or planted forests.
- Co2 Emissions: 97,814. 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( %). 40.30%. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
- Geographic Coordinates: 4.570868-74.297333.
- Capital: The capital of Colombia is Bogota
- Major Cities:
- Bogotá – Population: 7,412,566
- Medellín – Population: 2,508,452
- Cali – Population: 2,227,642
- Barranquilla – Population: 1,291,067
- Cartagena – Population: 971,592
- Population: 50,339,443
- Area(Km2): 1138910
- Population Density( P/Km²):46. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
- Calling Code:57
- Official Language(s):Colombia is Spanish (100%).
- Currency: COP
Main Economic Indicators
Colombia’s economy, the fourth largest in Latin America, has diversified in recent decades due to economic reforms and promotion of exports. The services sector now accounts for around 60% of GDP, while industry contributes around 30% and agriculture 7%. Key challenges include addressing poverty, income inequality, and infrastructure deficiencies. The government has pursued free trade agreements and moderate fiscal discipline in recent years.
Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)
4.32% (2021 est.)
3.67% (2020 est.)
Source: CIA World Factbook
Credit Ratings
Fitch: BB+ (Stable)
Moody’s: Baa2 (Negative)
Standard & Poor’s: BB+ (Negative)
GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin
Agriculture: 7.1%
Industry: 30.3%
Services: 62.6%
Source: CIA World Factbook (2017 est.)
Key Agricultural and Industrial Products
Agricultural Products: Coffee, cut flowers, bananas, rice, tobacco, corn, sugarcane, cattle, orchids
Industrial Products: Textiles, food processing, oil, clothing and footwear, beverages, chemicals, metals, cement, gold, coal, emeralds
Labor Force
Total Labor Force: 25.04 million (2020 est.)
Ranking: 25th in the world
Current Account Balance
-$13.84 billion (2021 est.)
-$8.72 billion (2020 est.)
Ranking: 159th in the world (2021 est.)
Exports and Imports
Exports: $41.6 billion (2021 est.)
Key Partners: US 27%, Panama 7%, China 5%
Main Commodities: Crude petroleum, coal, coffee, gold, flowers
Imports: $58.28 billion (2021 est.)
Key Partners: China 28%, US 25%, Mexico 7%
Main Commodities: Industrial machinery, crude oil, vehicles, electronics, plastics
Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold
$59.03 billion (31 December 2021 est.)
- GDP (Current US$):$323,802,808,108. 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): 14.40%. 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): 71.20%. 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. $0.68. 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. $1.23. 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 (%): 9.71%. 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
Noun: Colombian(s)
Adjective: Colombian
2. Ethnic Groups
- Mestizo (mixed Amerindian-European) – 49%
- White – 37%
- Afro-Colombian (including Mulatto, Raizal, and Palenquero) – 10.4%
- Amerindian – 3.4%
- Others (Roma, Asian, and others) – 0.2%
3. Religions
- Roman Catholic – 79%
- Protestant – 14%
- Other – 3%
- None – 4%
4. Age Structure
- 0-14 years: 22.71%
- 15-64 years: 67.91%
- 65 years and over: 9.38%
5. Dependency Ratios
Total dependency ratio: 47.5
Youth dependency ratio: 33.4
Elderly dependency ratio: 14.1
6. Median Age
Total median age: 31.6 years
Male median age: 30.3 years
Female median age: 32.9 years
7. Lifestyle Indicators
- Obesity rate: 22.3% of the adult population
- Alcohol consumption: 6.6 liters of pure alcohol per capita per year
- Tobacco use: 12.1% of adults aged 15 and over smoke tobacco
- Life expectancy at birth: 77.6 years (male: 74.3 years, female: 81.1 years)
- Life Expectancy at Birth: 77.1. 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): 94.74%. 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:14.88. 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:8. 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: 1.81. 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): 76.4%. 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: 40,827,302. 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):18.30%. 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
Colombia’s armed forces consist of the Army, Navy (including the Marine Corps and Coast Guard), and Air Force. Special units within the military include the National Army Counter Insurgent Brigade, the elite Special Anti-Drug Brigade, and the Urban Counter-Terrorist Special Force Group. The National Police is responsible for internal security, including countering drug trafficking and related organized crime.
Military Expenditures
Colombia’s military spending as a percentage of GDP for the last five years is as follows:
- 2017: 3.2%
- 2018: 3.3%
- 2019: 3.4%
- 2020: 3.3%
- 2021: 3.5%
Colombia’s military spending ranks among the top 20 globally.
Personnel Strengths
Colombia has approximately 486,000 active-duty military personnel with the following service branch breakdown:
- Army: 285,000
- Navy: 67,000 (including 24,000 Marines and 14,000 Coast Guard)
- Air Force: 60,000
The National Police has an additional 180,000 personnel.
Military Equipment Inventories and Acquisitions
Colombia’s military hardware includes domestically produced equipment like the EE-9 Cascavel armored reconnaissance vehicle and imported systems such as Cessna A-37B light attack aircraft and Bell UH-1N helicopters. Notable ongoing acquisitions include the purchase of 24 Textron AT-6B Wolverine turboprop light attack aircraft from the United States.
Military Service Age and Obligation
Military service is voluntary for both men and women aged 18-24. Colombia has no conscription policy, though there are special enlistment programs for professional soldiers and officers.
Military Deployments
Colombia has approximately 3,000 troops deployed overseas, primarily in United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH) and other UN peacekeeping operations. It also contributes personnel to the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO) in Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula.
Strategic Military Notes
Colombia’s defense strategy focuses on counter-insurgency operations against guerrilla groups like FARC and ELN, as well as counter-narcotics efforts. The military plays a key role in regional security through partnerships with the United States and neighboring countries. Colombia is an active participant in the Inter-American Treaty of Reciprocal Assistance and other regional defense agreements.
- Armed Forces Size: 293000. 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 2.18
- Population: Labor Force Participation (%): 68.80%. 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.