United Kingdom: general information about country, happiness index 2024

World Happiness Report for United Kingdom 2024

  • Overall Happiness Rank United Kingdom: 20
  • Happiness Score United Kingdom:6.749

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 United Kingdom. GB.

    United Kingdom is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, including iconic landmarks such as Big Ben and the Tower of London. The UK has a strong economy, with a significant impact on global finance and trade.

  • The UK is made up of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
  • London, the capital city, is one of the most diverse and influential cities in the world.
  • The UK has a long history of innovation and has made significant contributions to science, literature, and the arts.
  • United Kingdom – A Comprehensive Overview

    Brief History

    Early History: The British Isles were inhabited by Celtic tribes before the Roman conquest in 43 AD. The Romans ruled for nearly four centuries, leaving behind cities, roads, and cultural influences.

    Kingdoms and Empires: After the Romans departed, the Anglo-Saxons established kingdoms that eventually unified under the rule of Egbert of Wessex in 827. The Norman conquest in 1066 led to the establishment of the Plantagenet dynasty. The Tudor and Stuart dynasties followed, with the latter culminating in the Glorious Revolution of 1688.

    Colonial Period: Beginning in the 16th century, Britain established overseas colonies and became a major colonial power. The British Empire reached its peak in the 19th and early 20th centuries, covering territories across the globe.

    Independence and Modern Era: The 20th century saw the gradual decolonization of the British Empire, with most territories gaining independence. Britain emerged victorious from World War II but faced economic challenges, leading to the establishment of the welfare state. In the latter half of the century, the country experienced social and cultural changes, including the rise of the counterculture movement and immigration from former colonies.

    Current Political Situation: The United Kingdom is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy. The current monarch is King Charles III, while the head of government is the Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, who leads the Conservative Party. The UK left the European Union in 2020 following a referendum in 2016.

    International Relations: The UK maintains close ties with the United States and is a member of various international organizations, including the United Nations, NATO, and the Commonwealth of Nations. It has a permanent seat on the UN Security Council.

    Human Development and Economy: The UK has a highly developed economy and ranks highly on the Human Development Index. Major industries include services, manufacturing, and finance. London is a global financial center.

    Cultural Highlights: The UK has a rich cultural heritage, with contributions in literature, music, art, and theater. It is home to various ethnicities and languages, including English, Welsh, Scots Gaelic, and Irish. Prominent religions include Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and Sikhism.

    The UK faces challenges such as economic inequality, climate change, and the ongoing impacts of Brexit. Opportunities lie in strengthening international trade relationships, embracing technological advancements, and addressing social issues like housing and healthcare.

    Travel Tips for United Kingdom

    – Best times to visit: Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) for mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer (June-August) is peak tourist season.

    – Cultural etiquette: Queuing is expected, avoid excessive loudness in public, and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

    – Safety precautions: Exercise caution in crowded areas, secure valuables, and remain vigilant for pickpockets, especially in major cities.

    – Must-see landmarks: Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, the Tower of London, Stonehenge, Edinburgh Castle, and the Roman Baths.

    – Culinary experiences: Traditional fish and chips, afternoon tea, Scottish haggis, and local ales and whiskeys.

    Living in United Kingdom

    – Cost of living: Generally high, especially in London and other major cities. Housing and transportation are significant expenses.

    – Housing: Options include renting, buying, or shared housing. Prices vary greatly based on location.

    – Healthcare: The National Health Service (NHS) provides universal healthcare, but private healthcare is also available.

    – Education: Excellent public and private school systems. Top universities include Oxford, Cambridge, and London institutions.

    – Lifestyle: Diverse culture, rich history, and vibrant cities offer a high quality of life. Work-life balance is valued.

    – Cultural norms: Punctuality, queuing, and respect for personal space are important. Tipping is expected in restaurants and for certain services.

    Doing Business in United Kingdom

    – Business culture: Formal and professional, with an emphasis on punctuality and hierarchy. Building relationships is crucial.

    – Economic climate: The UK has a strong service-based economy, with industries like finance, technology, and creative sectors thriving.

    – Key industries: Financial services, technology, manufacturing, energy, pharmaceuticals, and creative industries.

    – Legal frameworks: The UK has a well-established legal system based on common law. Regulations vary for different industries.

    – Strategies: Respect hierarchy and protocol, be punctual, and dress professionally. Build relationships gradually and be prepared for lengthy negotiations.

    Studying in United Kingdom

    – Educational system: The UK has a renowned higher education system, with prestigious universities and colleges.

    – Top universities: Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, University College London, and the University of Edinburgh.

    – Student life: Vibrant and diverse, with opportunities for extracurricular activities, sports, and socializing.

    – Visa requirements: International students typically require a Tier 4 (General) student visa for degree-level courses.

    – Opportunities: Access to world-class education, research facilities, and multicultural experiences. Many universities offer internships and career support.

Main facts

1. Location

The United Kingdom is an island nation located off the northwestern coast of continental Europe. It comprises the islands of Great Britain, the northeastern part of the island of Ireland, and numerous smaller islands. The country is situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea, northwest of France.

2. Map References

The United Kingdom is located in Western Europe.

3. Area – Comparative

The total area of the United Kingdom is slightly smaller than the state of Oregon in the United States.

4. Land Boundaries and Border Countries

The United Kingdom shares a 360-km land border with the Republic of Ireland.

5. Coastline

The United Kingdom has a total coastline of 17,820 km, with numerous bays, inlets, and islands along its coastline.

6. Maritime Claims

The United Kingdom claims the following maritime zones:
– Territorial sea: 12 nautical miles
– Contiguous zone: 24 nautical miles
– Exclusive economic zone: 200 nautical miles
– Continental shelf: 200 nautical miles or the Continental Margin

7. Climate

The United Kingdom has a temperate maritime climate, with cool summers and mild winters. The climate is generally moderated by the North Atlantic Drift, resulting in warmer temperatures than other regions at similar latitudes.

8. Terrain

The United Kingdom’s terrain is predominantly low hills and plains, with uplands in the north and mountains in Scotland and Wales. The highest point is Ben Nevis in Scotland, at 1,345 meters.

9. Elevation Extremes

The lowest point is Fenland at -4 meters below sea level, while the highest point is Ben Nevis at 1,345 meters.

10. Natural Resources

The United Kingdom’s major natural resources include coal, petroleum, natural gas, iron ore, lead, zinc, gold, tin, limestone, salt, clay, chalk, gypsum, potash, silica sand, slate, and arable land.

11. Major Bodies of Water

The major bodies of water in the United Kingdom include the North Sea, the Irish Sea, the English Channel, and the Atlantic Ocean. Major rivers include the Thames, Severn, Trent, Wye, Tyne, and Clyde.

12. Natural Hazards

The United Kingdom is prone to winter winds and storms, as well as occasional flooding, especially in low-lying areas.

13. Geography – Notes

The United Kingdom’s location and maritime influences have played a significant role in its history and economic development. The country’s island geography has also shaped its culture and defense strategies over the centuries.

  • Forest Area (% of land area): 13.10%. This is the percentage of a country’s total land area that is covered by natural or planted forests.
  • Co2 Emissions: 379,025. 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( %). 71.70%. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
  • Geographic Coordinates:  55.378051-3.435973.
  • Capital: The capital of United Kingdom is  London
  • Major Cities:
    • London – Population: 8,982,000
    • Birmingham – Population: 1,153,717
    • Manchester – Population: 547,627
    • Glasgow – Population: 626,410
    • Liverpool – Population: 494,814
  • Population: 66,834,405
  • Area(Km2): 243610
  • Population Density( P/Km²):281. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
  • Calling Code:44
  • Official Language(s):United Kingdom is English (95%).
  • Currency: GBP

Main Economic Indicators

The United Kingdom (UK) has a highly developed market economy, the sixth-largest national economy in the world by nominal GDP and the ninth-largest by purchasing power parity. It is a diverse economy with strengths in a range of sectors, including services, manufacturing, construction, and energy. The UK faces challenges related to productivity growth, regional economic disparities, and the economic impacts of leaving the European Union (Brexit). Notable economic policies include fiscal consolidation measures and efforts to promote innovation and competitiveness.

Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)

2021: 2.6% (Source: Office for National Statistics)
2020: 0.9% (Source: Office for National Statistics)

Credit Ratings

Fitch: AA- (Stable)
Moody’s: Aa3 (Stable)
Standard & Poor’s: AA (Negative)

GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin

Agriculture: 0.6%
Industry: 19.2%
Services: 80.2%

Key Agricultural and Industrial Products

Agricultural Products: cereals, oilseed, potatoes, vegetables, cattle, sheep, poultry, fish
Industrial Products: machine tools, electric power equipment, automation equipment, railroad equipment, shipbuilding, aircraft, motor vehicles and parts, electronics and communications equipment, metals, chemicals, coal, petrochemicals, paper and paper products, food processing, textiles, clothing, and other consumer goods

Labor Force

Total labor force: 33.89 million (2022 est.)
Comparative ranking: 20th globally

Current Account Balance

Current account balance: -$83.29 billion (2021 est.)
Comparative ranking: 195th globally

Exports and Imports

Exports: $472.1 billion (2021 est.)
Key partners: EU, United States, China, Switzerland, United Arab Emirates
Main exports: manufactured goods, fuels, chemicals, food, beverages, tobacco

Imports: $696.4 billion (2021 est.)
Key partners: EU, China, United States, Norway, Switzerland
Main imports: manufactured goods, machinery, fuels, foodstuffs

Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold

Foreign exchange reserves: $187.6 billion (31 December 2021 est.)
Gold reserves: 310.3 tonnes (February 2022 est.)

  • GDP (Current US$):$2,827,113,184,696. 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): 25.50%. 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): 30.60%. 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. $1.46. 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. $10.13. 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 (%): 3.85%. 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: British, Britons

Adjective: British

2. Ethnic Groups

– White (87.2%): English/Welsh/Scottish/Northern Irish/British (80.5%), Other White (6.7%)

– Asian/Asian British (7.5%): Indian (2.5%), Pakistani (2%), Bangladeshi (0.8%), Other Asian (2.2%)

– Black/African/Caribbean/Black British (3.3%)

– Mixed/Multiple Ethnic Groups (2%)

3. Religions

– Christianity (59.5%): Anglican (17%), Catholic (8.1%), Presbyterian and Church of Scotland (1.5%), Methodist (1.9%), Other Christian (31%)

– Islam (4.8%)

– Hinduism (1.5%)

– Other Religions (0.4%)

– No Religion (25.1%)

– Not Stated (8.7%)

4. Age Structure

– 0-14 years: 17.6%

– 15-64 years: 62.9%

– 65 years and over: 19.5%

5. Dependency Ratios

Total Dependency Ratio: 59.4%

Youth Dependency Ratio: 27.1%

Elderly Dependency Ratio: 32.3%

6. Median Age

Total Median Age: 40.6 years

Male Median Age: 39.4 years

Female Median Age: 41.7 years

7. Lifestyle Indicators

Obesity Rate: 27.8% of adults

Alcohol Consumption: 11.4 liters of pure alcohol per capita annually

Tobacco Use: 14.7% of adults are current smokers

Life Expectancy at Birth: 81.1 years (79.0 years for males, 83.1 years for females)

  • Life Expectancy at Birth: 81.3. 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:11. 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: 1.68. 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): 96.6%. 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: 55,908,316. 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):14.80%. 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 UK’s military consists of the British Army, Royal Navy, and Royal Air Force. Special units include the Royal Marines and the elite Special Air Service (SAS), Special Boat Service (SBS), and Special Reconnaissance Regiment (SRR). The Ministry of Defence Police and Civil Nuclear Constabulary provide internal security support.

Military Expenditures

Military spending as a percentage of GDP for the last five years:

  • 2018: 2.1%
  • 2019: 2.2%
  • 2020: 2.3%
  • 2021: 2.4%
  • 2022: 2.3%

The UK is currently ranked 5th globally in military spending.

Personnel Strengths

Total active-duty military personnel: 192,660

  • British Army: 79,380
  • Royal Navy: 29,090
  • Royal Air Force: 32,200

Other security services include 36,000 in the Ministry of Defence Police and Civil Nuclear Constabulary.

Military Equipment Inventories and Acquisitions

The UK operates a wide range of domestically produced and imported military equipment, including Challenger 2 main battle tanks, Typhoon and F-35 fighter jets, Astute-class nuclear-powered submarines, and Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers. Significant future acquisitions include the Boxer armored vehicle and continued development of the Dreadnought-class nuclear submarine.

Military Service Age and Obligation

Military service is voluntary, with enlistment ages between 16-36 years old. The UK has a long-standing policy of not conscripting citizens for military service.

Military Deployments

Current major overseas deployments include:

  • Estonia: 1,700 troops as part of NATO’s Enhanced Forward Presence
  • Afghanistan: 750 troops involved in training and counterterrorism operations
  • United Nations Peacekeeping: Over 600 personnel deployed globally

Strategic Military Notes

The UK’s defense strategy focuses on maintaining a expeditionary force capable of global deployment and joint operations with allies. It prioritizes countering threats from state actors, terrorism, and cybersecurity. The military plays a key role in NATO and UN peacekeeping missions. Major alliances include NATO, the Five Power Defence Arrangements, and special military partnerships with the United States and France.

  • Armed Forces Size: 184860. 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 2.81
  • Population: Labor Force Participation (%): 62.80%. 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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