Cuba: general information about country, happiness index 2024

World Happiness Report for Cuba 2024

  • Overall Happiness Rank Cuba: na
  • Happiness Score Cuba: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 Cuba. CU.

    Cuba is a country with a socialist political structure, known for its influential music and dance culture, and has a significant agricultural economy.

  • Despite its small size, Cuba has one of the highest literacy rates in the world, at 99.8%.
  • Cuba is the largest Caribbean island, and its capital city, Havana, is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Cuba is also known for its famous cigars, which are a major part of its economy and culture.
  • Cuba – A Comprehensive Overview

    Early History:

    Cuba’s earliest known inhabitants were the Siboney people, an Amerindian tribe of hunter-gatherers who settled the island around 4,000 BC. They were later followed by the Taíno people, an Arawak-speaking group, who became the dominant indigenous culture on the island by the time of European contact.

    Colonial Period:

    Christopher Columbus landed in Cuba in 1492, claiming the island for Spain. The Spanish established settlements and began colonizing the island, decimating the indigenous Taíno population through disease, enslavement, and warfare. Cuba remained a Spanish colony for nearly four centuries, becoming a major hub for the transatlantic slave trade and sugar production.

    Independence and Modern Era:

    In the late 19th century, Cuba’s struggle for independence from Spain intensified, culminating in the Spanish-American War of 1898. After the war, Cuba gained nominal independence, but remained under the significant influence of the United States. The country experienced political instability and economic turmoil until the 1959 Cuban Revolution, led by Fidel Castro, overthrew the U.S.-backed dictatorship of Fulgencio Batista and established a communist state.

    Current Political Situation:

    Cuba is a one-party socialist republic governed by the Communist Party of Cuba. Raúl Castro, brother of Fidel Castro, served as the President of the Council of State and the Council of Ministers from 2008 to 2018. Miguel Díaz-Canel succeeded him as the President in 2018, while maintaining the socialist system.

    International Relations:

    Cuba’s foreign relations have been shaped by its ideological alignment with the Soviet Union during the Cold War and its tense relationship with the United States. The U.S. imposed a trade embargo on Cuba in 1962, which remains in effect. Cuba has strengthened ties with other socialist and anti-imperialist nations, including Venezuela and China.

    Human Development and Economy:

    Despite economic challenges due to the U.S. embargo and the collapse of the Soviet Union, Cuba has made significant strides in human development. The country boasts high literacy rates, universal healthcare, and low levels of income inequality. However, the economy remains heavily controlled by the state, and economic reforms have been slow.

    Cultural Highlights:

    Cuban culture is a vibrant mix of Spanish, African, and indigenous influences. It is renowned for its music, including genres like son, rumba, and salsa. The country has also produced notable artists, writers, and filmmakers. Cuban cuisine is a fusion of Spanish, African, and Caribbean flavors, with staples like rice, beans, and plantains.

    Challenges and Opportunities:

    Cuba faces challenges in transitioning to a more open economy while maintaining its socialist principles. Improving relations with the United States and attracting foreign investment are key opportunities. Additionally, Cuba must address issues such as political freedoms, human rights, and the exodus of skilled professionals.

    Travel Tips for Cuba

    Best Times to Visit: December to May is the dry season, offering mild temperatures and minimal rainfall. Avoid hurricane season from June to November.

    Cultural Etiquette: Cubans are warm and friendly, but visitors should dress modestly and avoid public displays of affection. Tipping is not expected but appreciated.

    Safety Precautions: Cuba is generally safe for tourists, but exercise caution with valuables and avoid isolated areas, especially at night.

    Must-See Landmarks: Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases Spanish colonial architecture. Other highlights include the Plaza de la Revolución, Varadero Beach, and the Viñales Valley.

Main facts

1. Location

Cuba is an island country located in the Caribbean Sea, situated between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east of Mexico, south of the United States, and west of the Bahamas.

2. Map References

Cuba is part of the Caribbean region.

3. Area – Comparative

The area of Cuba is slightly smaller than the state of Pennsylvania.

4. Land Boundaries and Border Countries

Cuba has no land boundaries with any other country.

5. Coastline

Cuba has a coastline of 3,735 km (2,320 mi), featuring numerous bays and sandy beaches.

6. Maritime Claims

Cuba claims a territorial sea of 12 nautical miles, an exclusive economic zone of 200 nautical miles, and a contiguous zone of 24 nautical miles.

7. Climate

Cuba has a subtropical climate, with a tropical climate in the eastern regions. The island experiences hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters.

8. Terrain

The terrain of Cuba is mostly flat to rolling plains, with hills and mountains in the southeast. The island features a narrow, fertile coastal plain, the Sierra Maestra mountain range in the southeast, and the Pico Turquino, which is Cuba’s highest point.

9. Elevation Extremes

The lowest point in Cuba is the Caribbean Sea at 0 m, while the highest point is Pico Turquino at 1,974 m (6,476 ft).

10. Natural Resources

Cuba’s natural resources include cobalt, nickel, iron ore, copper, manganese, salt, timber, and hydropower.

11. Major Bodies of Water

Cuba’s major bodies of water include the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Golfo de Guacanayabo.

12. Natural Hazards

Cuba is prone to hurricanes, which can cause severe damage and flooding, especially in low-lying areas.

13. Geography – Notes

Cuba is the largest island in the Caribbean and is known for its diverse ecosystems, including tropical forests, mangrove swamps, and coral reefs. The island’s unique geography and climate have contributed to its rich biodiversity and natural beauty.

  • Forest Area (% of land area): 31.30%. This is the percentage of a country’s total land area that is covered by natural or planted forests.
  • Co2 Emissions: 28,284. 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( %). 59.90%. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
  • Geographic Coordinates:  21.521757-77.781167.
  • Capital: The capital of Cuba is  Havana
  • Major Cities:
    • Havana – Population: 2.1 million
    • Santiago de Cuba – Population: 430,000
    • Camagüey – Population: 305,000
    • Holguin – Population: 279,000
    • Santa Clara – Population: 210,220
  • Population: 11,333,483
  • Area(Km2): 11086
  • Population Density( P/Km²):106. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
  • Calling Code:53
  • Official Language(s):Cuba is Spanish – 100%.
  • Currency: CUP

Main Economic Indicators

Cuba has a centralized, global trade-dependent economy dominated by state-controlled enterprises and relying heavily on services, particularly health and education-related travel. Economic policies have focused on expanding tourism, foreign direct investment, and foreign trade. Key economic challenges include relatively low worker productivity, an aging labor force, significant structural and infrastructural deficiencies, and a reliance on remittances from workers abroad.

Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)

2021: 70.5% (source: Oficina Nacional de Estadísticas e Información de Cuba)
2020: 23.6% (source: Oficina Nacional de Estadísticas e Información de Cuba)

Credit Ratings

Fitch: Not rated
Moody’s: Caa2 (updated February 2022)
Standard & Poor’s: Not rated

GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin

Agriculture: 3.5%
Industry: 22.8%
Services: 73.7% (2020 estimates)

Key Agricultural and Industrial Products

Agricultural: Sugar, tobacco, citrus, coffee, rice, potatoes, livestock
Industrial: Petroleum, nickel, steel, cement, agricultural machinery, sugar

Labor Force

Total labor force: 4.89 million (2020 estimate)
Comparative ranking: Not available

Current Account Balance

2021: -$1.05 billion (estimate)
2020: -$789.3 million
Comparative ranking: Not available

Exports and Imports

Exports: $2.75 billion (2021 estimate)
Key partners: Spain, Netherlands, China, Canada, Italy
Main commodities: Sugar, nickel, tobacco, fish, medical products, citrus, coffee
Imports: $8.55 billion (2021 estimate)
Key partners: Spain, China, Russia, Mexico, Italy
Main commodities: Petroleum, food, machinery, chemicals

Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold

Foreign exchange reserves: $7.49 billion (December 2021 estimate)
Gold reserves: 1.61 million ounces (February 2022 estimate)

  • GDP (Current US$):$100,023,000,000. 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): . 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): . 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. $1.40. 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. $0.05. 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 (%): 1.64%. 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: Cuban(s)

Adjective: Cuban

2. Ethnic Groups

– White 64.1%

– Mixed (Mulatto or Mestizo) 26.6%

– Black 9.3%

3. Religions

– Christian 59.2% (Catholic 58.6%, Protestant 0.5%, Other 0.1%)

– Unaffiliated 23%

– Folk Religionist 17.1%

– Other 0.7%

4. Age Structure

– 0-14 years: 16.2%

– 15-64 years: 68.8%

– 65 years and over: 15%

5. Dependency Ratios

Total dependency ratio: 45.3

Youth dependency ratio: 22.5

Elderly dependency ratio: 22.8

6. Median Age

Total: 42.2 years

Male: 40.9 years

Female: 43.5 years

7. Lifestyle Indicators

Obesity Rate: 28.5% of the adult population

Alcohol Consumption: 5.8 liters of pure alcohol per capita per year

Tobacco Use: 35.8% of adults

Life Expectancy: 78.9 years (76.2 years for males, 81.7 years for females)

  • Life Expectancy at Birth: 78.7. 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): 99.8%. 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:10.17. 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:15. 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): 50.1%. 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: 8,739,135. 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):. 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

Cuba’s armed forces are composed of the Revolutionary Armed Forces (FAR), including the Terrestrial Troops (Army), Revolutionary Navy, and Revolutionary Air and Defense Force. The FAR also includes specialized units like the Youth Labor Army and the Border Guard Troops (Tropas Guardafronteras).

Internal security is overseen by the National Revolutionary Police (PNR), while the Ministry of Interior (MININT) manages intelligence and counterintelligence operations through its special units.

Military Expenditures

Cuba’s military spending as a percentage of GDP for the last five years:

  • 2022: 4.1%
  • 2021: 3.9%
  • 2020: 4.2%
  • 2019: 4.5%
  • 2018: 4.7%

Cuba’s military spending ranks 47th globally as of 2022.

Personnel Strengths

Cuba has 49,000 active-duty military personnel, with the following breakdown by branch:

  • Terrestrial Troops (Army): 39,000
  • Revolutionary Navy: 3,000
  • Revolutionary Air and Defense Force: 7,000

The National Revolutionary Police and Youth Labor Army have additional personnel dedicated to internal security and defense.

Military Equipment Inventories and Acquisitions

Cuba’s military equipment includes:

  • Tanks and armored vehicles, primarily Soviet/Russian-made
  • Fighter aircraft, including MiG-29s and aging MiG-23s
  • Naval vessels, such as patrol boats and auxiliary ships

Due to economic constraints, Cuba has limited ability to acquire new military hardware or undertake significant modernization programs.

Military Service Age and Obligation

Military service in Cuba is voluntary, with recruitment starting at age 17. There is no mandatory conscription, but all Cuban men are required to register with the military at age 16.

Military Deployments

Cuba has a small military deployment abroad as part of the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH), with around 300 personnel.

Strategic Military Notes

Cuba’s defense strategy focuses on deterring external threats and maintaining internal stability. The country’s military plays a role in international security through its participation in UN peacekeeping missions and bilateral agreements with allied nations.

Cuba has historically maintained close military ties with Russia and other communist countries, though its capabilities and influence have diminished since the end of the Cold War.

  • Armed Forces Size: 49000. 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 8.42
  • 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.

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