Germany: general information about country, happiness index 2024

World Happiness Report for Germany 2024

  • Overall Happiness Rank Germany: 24
  • Happiness Score Germany:6.719

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 Germany. DE.

    Germany is a federal parliamentary republic with a strong economy and a rich cultural heritage.

  • Germany is known for its efficiency and innovation, especially in the fields of engineering and technology.
  • The country is famous for its beer, sausages, and bread, which are a significant part of its culinary culture.
  • Germany is a major exporter of automobiles, machinery, and chemicals, contributing significantly to the global economy.
  • Germany – Comprehensive Overview

    Early History and Ancient Civilizations

    The territory of modern-day Germany has been inhabited since the Paleolithic era, with evidence of human settlement dating back over 600,000 years. The region was home to various ancient Germanic tribes, including the Teutons, Saxons, and Franks. The Celts, a distinct cultural group, also had a significant presence in the area during the Iron Age.

    Kingdoms and Empires

    In the 9th century, the Carolingian Empire, ruled by Charlemagne, emerged as a dominant force in the region. After its dissolution, the Holy Roman Empire arose, lasting from 962 to 1806. This vast empire, centered in modern-day Germany, played a pivotal role in shaping European history and culture.

    Colonial Period

    Germany had a relatively late start in colonialism compared to other European powers. Its colonial empire was established in the late 19th century, primarily in Africa and the Pacific. However, Germany’s colonial possessions were short-lived, as they were lost after World War I.

    Independence and Modern Era

    Germany emerged as a unified nation-state in 1871 after the Franco-Prussian War. The country experienced rapid industrialization and became a major economic and military power. However, its involvement in World Wars I and II led to devastating consequences. After World War II, Germany was divided into East and West Germany, with the former being part of the Eastern Bloc and the latter aligned with Western powers. The country was reunified in 1990 after the fall of the Berlin Wall and the collapse of the Soviet Union.

    Current Political Situation

    Germany is a federal parliamentary republic with a chancellor as the head of government. The current chancellor is Olaf Scholz, who took office in 2021 after winning the federal election. Germany is a founding member of the European Union and plays a significant role in its decision-making processes.

    International Relations

    Germany maintains strong diplomatic and economic ties with other European nations and the United States. It is also a member of various international organizations, including the United Nations, NATO, and the G7. Germany has been actively involved in addressing global challenges such as climate change and promoting international cooperation.

    Human Development and Economy

    Germany has a highly developed and industrialized economy, with a strong focus on manufacturing, engineering, and technology. Major industries include automotive, chemical, electrical, and machinery production. The country has a high standard of living and ranks among the top nations in various human development indicators, such as education, healthcare, and quality of life.

    Cultural Highlights

    Germany has a rich cultural heritage, with contributions in literature, music, art, and philosophy. Notable figures include Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Ludwig van Beethoven, and Albert Einstein. The country is also renowned for its architecture, including medieval castles and cathedrals, as well as its cuisine, which varies across regions. Christianity, particularly Protestantism and Catholicism, is the predominant religion.

    Challenges and Opportunities

    Some of the key challenges facing Germany include addressing demographic changes, integrating immigrants and refugees, transitioning to renewable energy sources, and maintaining economic competitiveness in a globalized world. At the same time, Germany’s strong economy, skilled workforce, and commitment to innovation present numerous opportunities for continued growth and development.

    Travel Tips for Germany

    Best Time to Visit: The peak tourist season in Germany is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is warm and sunny. However, spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) can also be excellent times to visit, with fewer crowds and mild temperatures.

    Cultural Etiquette: Germans value punctuality, order, and respect for personal space. It’s important to be on time for appointments and follow local customs, such as greeting people formally and avoiding excessive noise in public spaces.

Main facts

Location

Germany is located in Central Europe, bordering the North Sea and the Baltic Sea. It is situated between the Netherlands and Poland, south of Denmark. The country shares borders with nine other nations: France, Luxembourg, Belgium, the Netherlands, Denmark, Poland, the Czech Republic, Austria, and Switzerland.

Map References

Germany is located in Western Europe.

Area – Comparative

The total area of Germany is approximately 357,022 sq km, making it slightly smaller than the state of Montana in the United States.

Land Boundaries and Border Countries

Germany has a total of 3,621 km of land boundaries, shared with the following countries:

Coastline (if applicable)

Germany has a total coastline of 2,389 km, which includes the coastlines along the North Sea and the Baltic Sea.

Maritime Claims

Germany claims the following maritime zones:

  • Territorial sea: 12 nautical miles
  • Exclusive economic zone: 200 nautical miles
  • Continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation

Climate

Germany has a temperate and marine climate, with cool, cloudy, and wet conditions across much of the country. The climate is influenced by the country’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the Baltic Sea. Regional variations exist, with the northwest having a maritime climate, while the southeast experiences a more continental climate with drier conditions.

Terrain

Germany has a diverse landscape, featuring lowlands in the north, uplands in the center, and the Bavarian Alps in the south. The country is also home to several major river valleys, such as the Rhine, Elbe, and Danube.

Elevation Extremes

The highest point in Germany is the Zugspitze mountain at 2,962 meters (9,718 feet), located in the Bavarian Alps near the Austrian border. The lowest point is Wilstermarsch at -3.54 meters (-11.6 feet) below sea level, situated near the North Sea coast.

Natural Resources

The major natural resources found in Germany include:

  • Coal
  • Lignite
  • Natural gas
  • Iron ore
  • Copper
  • Nickel
  • Uranium
  • Potash
  • Salt
  • Construction materials
  • Timber
  • Arable land

Major Bodies of Water

The major bodies of water in Germany include:

Natural Hazards

The main natural hazards affecting Germany include:

  • Flooding along the Rhine, Elbe, and Danube rivers
  • Windstorms and torrential rainfall
  • Occasional earthquakes in the southwestern part of the country

Geography – Notes

Germany is a highly industrialized and densely populated country, with a well-developed infrastructure and a strong emphasis on environmental protection. The country is a member of the European Union and plays a significant role in the region’s economy and politics.

  • Forest Area (% of land area): 32.70%. This is the percentage of a country’s total land area that is covered by natural or planted forests.
  • Co2 Emissions: 727,973. 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( %). 47.70%. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
  • Geographic Coordinates:  51.16569110.451526.
  • Capital: The capital of Germany is  Berlin
  • Major Cities:
  • Population: 83,132,799
  • Area(Km2): 357022
  • Population Density( P/Km²):240. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
  • Calling Code:49
  • Official Language(s):Germany is primarily spoken in German with a percentage of 95%.
  • Currency: EUR

Main Economic Indicators

Germany has the largest economy in Europe and the fourth-largest in the world by nominal GDP. It is a highly developed social market economy with a skilled labor force, a large capital stock, a low level of corruption, and a high level of innovation. The service sector accounts for the largest portion of the economy, followed by industry and agriculture. Germany faces challenges from an aging population, rising energy costs, and the need to reform its welfare system. Its economic policies aim to promote fiscal sustainability, increase competitiveness, and drive innovation.

Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)

2022: 7.9% (Source: Federal Statistical Office of Germany)
2021: 3.2% (Source: Federal Statistical Office of Germany)

Credit Ratings

Fitch: AAA (Stable)
Moody’s: Aaa (Stable)
Standard & Poor’s: AAA (Stable)

GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin

Agriculture: 0.6%
Industry: 30.3%
Services: 69.1%

Key Agricultural and Industrial Products

Agricultural Products: Milk, pork, wheat, sugar beets, potatoes, barley, rapeseed.
Industrial Products: Motor vehicles, machinery, chemical products, electrical equipment, pharmaceuticals, electronics, metals, and transport equipment.

Labor Force

Total Labor Force: 44.93 million (2022 est.)
Comparative Ranking: 15th in the world

Current Account Balance

2022: $254.49 billion (surplus)
2021: $271.51 billion (surplus)
Comparative Ranking: 2nd in the world (2022 est.)

Exports and Imports

Exports: $1.94 trillion (2022 est.)
Key Export Partners: United States, France, Netherlands, China, United Kingdom
Main Exports: Motor vehicles, machinery, chemical products, electrical equipment, pharmaceuticals, electronics, metals, and transport equipment.
Imports: $1.66 trillion (2022 est.)
Key Import Partners: Netherlands, China, France, United States, Italy
Main Imports: Machinery, data processing equipment, vehicles, chemicals, oil and gas, metals, electric and electronic products, pharmaceuticals, and plastics.

Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold

Foreign Exchange Reserves: $234.4 billion (as of December 2022)
Gold Reserves: 3,360.8 metric tons (as of February 2023)

  • GDP (Current US$):$3,845,630,030,824. 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): 11.50%. 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): 48.80%. 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. $1.39. 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. $9.99. 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 (%): 3.04%. 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

Noun: German
Adjective: German

Ethnic Groups

• German (87.2%)
• Other (12.8%)

Religions

• Christianity (56.8%)
    – Protestantism (24.9%)
    – Catholicism (24.9%)
• Islam (5.5%)
• Other/None (37.7%)

Age Structure

• 0-14 years: 12.7%
• 15-64 years: 64.7%
• 65 years and over: 22.6%

Dependency Ratios

• Total dependency ratio: 57.1%
• Youth dependency ratio: 19.6%
• Elderly dependency ratio: 37.5%

Median Age

• Total: 47.8 years
• Male: 46.4 years
• Female: 49.3 years

Lifestyle Indicators

• Obesity rate: 22.3% (2016)
• Alcohol consumption: 11.4 liters per capita (2019)
• Tobacco use: 24.8% of adults (2020)

  • Life Expectancy at Birth: 80.9. 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): 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:9.5. 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:12. 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: 1.56. 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): 93.3%. 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: 64,324,835. 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):12.50%. 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 German military, known as the Bundeswehr, consists of the following branches:

  • Army (Heer): Ground forces responsible for land-based operations.
  • Air Force (Luftwaffe): Handles air operations and air defense.
  • Navy (Marine): Oversees naval operations and coastal defense.
  • Joint Support Service: Provides logistical and medical support to the armed forces.
  • Joint Medical Service: Responsible for medical care and support.

Germany’s internal security is maintained by the Federal Police (Bundespolizei), which handles border protection, aviation security, and other domestic law enforcement tasks.

Military Expenditures

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

  • 2022: 1.5%
  • 2021: 1.5%
  • 2020: 1.4%
  • 2019: 1.3%
  • 2018: 1.2%

Germany ranks among the top 10 countries globally in terms of military expenditures.

Personnel Strengths

The total active-duty military personnel in Germany is approximately 184,000 as of 2022, with the following breakdown:

  • Army: 62,766
  • Air Force: 27,993
  • Navy: 16,206
  • Joint Support Service: 49,444
  • Joint Medical Service: 21,593

Additionally, Germany has a Federal Police force of around 40,000 personnel.

Military Equipment Inventories and Acquisitions

Germany’s military equipment inventory includes:

  • Land Systems: Leopard 2 main battle tanks, Boxer armored vehicles, Puma infantry fighting vehicles, and various artillery systems.
  • Air Assets: Eurofighter Typhoon multi-role fighters, Tornado multirole combat aircraft, A400M transport aircraft, and various helicopters.
  • Naval Assets: Frigates, submarines, minesweepers, and auxiliary ships.

Germany is currently pursuing several major acquisition programs, including the replacement of its aging Tornado aircraft with a mix of Eurofighter Typhoons and F-35 stealth fighters, as well as the procurement of new heavy-lift helicopters and naval vessels.

Military Service Age and Obligation

Military service in Germany is voluntary. The legal age range for enlistment is 17-63 years old. There is no mandatory military service requirement, as conscription was abolished in 2011.

Military Deployments

Germany currently has several overseas military deployments, including:

  • Afghanistan: Around 1,300 personnel as part of the NATO Resolute Support Mission.
  • Mali: Approximately 1,100 troops contributing to the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission (MINUSMA).
  • Lithuania: Around 600 soldiers as part of NATO’s Enhanced Forward Presence mission.

Germany also contributes personnel to various other international peacekeeping and security missions worldwide.

Strategic Military Notes

Germany’s defense strategy focuses on collective defense within the framework of NATO and the European Union. The country’s military plays a crucial role in international security and peacekeeping operations, often contributing significant resources and personnel to multinational missions.

Germany actively participates in various military alliances and partnerships, including NATO, the European Union’s Common Security and Defense Policy (CSDP), and the United Nations. The country is committed to maintaining a robust and capable military force to address potential threats and uphold its international obligations.

  • Armed Forces Size: 180000. 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 4.25
  • Population: Labor Force Participation (%): 60.80%. 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.

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