World Happiness Report for Guatemala 2024
- Overall Happiness Rank Guatemala: 42
- Happiness Score Guatemala:6.287
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 Guatemala. GT.
Guatemala is a country located in Central America.
- It has a mix of Mayan and Spanish cultures.
- The economy is largely based on agriculture, with coffee and bananas being important exports.
- Guatemala City is the capital and largest city in the country.
Guatemala – A Comprehensive Overview
Early History
The ancient Maya civilization emerged in the region now known as Guatemala around 600 BCE, flourishing for over a millennium. They built impressive cities like Tikal and El Mirador, renowned for their pyramids, intricate architecture, and advanced understanding of astronomy and mathematics.
Kingdoms and Empires
The Maya civilization consisted of numerous city-states and kingdoms, each with its own ruling dynasty. The most powerful of these included the kingdoms of Tikal, Calakmul, and Copán, which dominated the region during different periods.
Colonial Period
In the early 16th century, the Spanish conquistadors arrived in Guatemala, led by Pedro de Alvarado. The Maya put up fierce resistance, but the superior weaponry and diseases brought by the Spanish ultimately led to their defeat. Guatemala became part of the Spanish Empire and remained a colony for nearly three centuries.
Independence and Modern Era
Guatemala gained independence from Spain in 1821, initially as part of the Mexican Empire and then as an independent nation in 1823. However, the country has faced numerous challenges, including a 36-year civil war (1960-1996) between the government and leftist rebel groups, which left a devastating legacy of human rights abuses and displacement.
Current Political Situation
Guatemala is a presidential representative democratic republic, with the president serving as both head of state and head of government. Recent elections have been marred by allegations of corruption and irregularities, and the country continues to grapple with issues such as poverty, inequality, and gang violence.
International Relations
Guatemala maintains close ties with its Central American neighbors and the United States. It is a member of various regional organizations, including the Central American Integration System (SICA) and the Organization of American States (OAS). The country also has strong economic and trade relationships with Mexico and the United States.
Human Development and Economy
Guatemala’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, with exports of coffee, sugar, bananas, and textiles playing a significant role. However, the country faces high levels of inequality, poverty, and malnutrition, with a significant portion of the population, particularly indigenous communities, lacking access to basic services and opportunities.
Cultural Highlights
Guatemala boasts a rich cultural heritage, with the Maya influence evident in its architecture, textiles, and traditional practices. The country is also home to diverse indigenous groups, each with their own languages and customs. Notable cultural contributions include the vibrant textiles, colorful markets, and the ancient Maya sites that attract visitors from around the world.
The most pressing challenges facing Guatemala today include: Reducing poverty and inequality, improving access to education and healthcare, combating corruption and strengthening democratic institutions, addressing gang violence and drug trafficking, and protecting the rights and livelihoods of indigenous communities.
Travel Tips for Guatemala
Best Times to Visit: The dry season from November to April offers the most favorable weather for exploring Guatemala’s ancient sites and outdoor activities.
Cultural Etiquette: Respect local customs, dress modestly when visiting sacred sites, and ask for permission before photographing individuals. Learning basic Spanish phrases is highly recommended.
Safety Precautions: Exercise caution in certain areas, avoid carrying valuables in plain sight, and follow local advice on areas to avoid. Use authorized tour guides when exploring remote regions.
Must-See Landmarks: Visit the ancient Maya ruins of Tikal, the colorful colonial town of Antigua Guatemala, and the vibrant markets of Chichicastenango. Lake Atitlán and its surrounding villages offer stunning natural beauty.
Culinary Experiences: Try traditional dishes like pepian (meat stew), tamales, and rellenitos (plantain refried beans). Sample local coffee, cacao-based beverages, and the unique flavors of Guatemalan cuisine.
Main facts
1. Location
Guatemala is located in Central America, bordered by Mexico to the north and west, Belize and the Caribbean Sea to the northeast, Honduras and El Salvador to the southeast, and the Pacific Ocean to the southwest.
2. Map References
Guatemala is part of the Central America region.
3. Area – Comparative
With an area of 108,889 sq km, Guatemala is slightly smaller than the U.S. state of Tennessee.
4. Land Boundaries and Border Countries
Guatemala has a total land boundary length of 1,667 km, shared with the following countries:
- Belize: 266 km
- El Salvador: 203 km
- Honduras: 256 km
- Mexico: 962 km
5. Coastline (if applicable)
Guatemala has a coastline of 400 km along the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of Honduras.
6. Maritime Claims
Guatemala claims the following maritime zones:
- Territorial sea: 12 nautical miles
- Exclusive economic zone: 200 nautical miles
- Continental shelf: 200 nautical miles or to the edge of the continental margin
7. Climate
Guatemala has a tropical climate with hot, humid conditions in the coastal lowlands and cooler temperatures in the highlands. The country experiences a distinct dry season (November to April) and a rainy season (May to October).
8. Terrain
Guatemala’s terrain is predominantly mountainous, with high volcanic peaks and rugged highlands. There are also narrow coastal plains and rolling limestone plateaus in the Petén region.
9. Elevation Extremes
The highest point in Guatemala is Volcán Tajumulco at 4,220 meters (13,845 feet), while the lowest point is the Pacific Ocean at 0 meters.
10. Natural Resources
Guatemala’s major natural resources include petroleum, nickel, rare woods, fish, and hydropower.
11. Major Bodies of Water
The major bodies of water in Guatemala include:
12. Natural Hazards
Guatemala is prone to several natural hazards, including:
- Earthquakes
- Volcanic activity
- Hurricanes (along the Pacific and Caribbean coasts)
- Landslides
13. Geography – Notes
Guatemala is home to the ancient Mayan civilization, and many archaeological sites, such as Tikal, are located in the country’s jungles and highlands. The country also has a diverse range of ecosystems, including tropical rainforests, cloud forests, and mangrove swamps, making it a biodiversity hotspot.
- 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: 16,777. 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( %). 36.00%. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
- Geographic Coordinates: 15.783471-90.230759.
- Capital: The capital of Guatemala is Guatemala City
- Major Cities:
- Guatemala City – Population: 2,502,393
- Mixco – Population: 691,314
- Villa Nueva – Population: 406,830
- Quetzaltenango – Population: 225,004
- San Miguel Petapa – Population: 194,848
- Population: 16,604,026
- Area(Km2): 108889
- Population Density( P/Km²):167. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
- Calling Code:502
- Official Language(s):Guatemala is Spanish, 60%, Mayan languages, 40%.
- Currency: GTQ
Main Economic Indicators
Guatemala has a free market, private sector-driven economy that relies heavily on the export of agricultural products like sugar, bananas, coffee, and vegetables. The economy is relatively diverse, with notable sectors including manufacturing (particularly textiles and apparel), construction, utilities, and tourism. Key economic challenges include income inequality, high poverty rates, and limited education and healthcare access for many citizens. The government has pursued business-friendly economic policies aimed at attracting foreign investment and stimulating economic growth.
Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)
2022: 8.6% (Source: IMF World Economic Outlook)
2021: 4.7% (Source: IMF World Economic Outlook)
Credit Ratings
Fitch: BB- (Stable)
Moody’s: Ba1 (Stable)
Standard & Poor’s: BB- (Stable)
GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin
Agriculture: 10.1%
Industry: 26.1%
Services: 63.8%
Key Agricultural and Industrial Products
Agricultural Products: Sugarcane, bananas, coffee, vegetables, corn, cardamom, rubber
Industrial Products: Textiles and apparel, food processing, construction materials, furniture, chemical products
Labor Force
Total Labor Force: 7.2 million (2022 est.)
Comparative Ranking: 70th largest labor force globally
Current Account Balance
2022: -$2.3 billion (Source: IMF World Economic Outlook)
2021: -$1.8 billion (Source: IMF World Economic Outlook)
Comparative Ranking: 147th largest current account balance globally
Exports and Imports
Total Exports (2022): $15.9 billion
Key Export Partners: United States, El Salvador, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua
Main Exports: Apparel, bananas, coffee, sugar, cardamom, precious metals and stones
Total Imports (2022): $28.2 billion
Key Import Partners: United States, China, Mexico, El Salvador, Costa Rica
Main Imports: Fuels, machinery, vehicles, construction materials, grains, electrical machinery
Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold
Foreign Exchange Reserves (March 2023): $21.9 billion
Gold Reserves (March 2023): 8.6 metric tons
- GDP (Current US$):$76,710,385,880. 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): 10.60%. 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): 35.20%. 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. $0.79. 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. $1.60. 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 (%): 2.46%. 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
Nationality: Guatemalan(s)
Adjective: Guatemalan
2. Ethnic Groups
Major ethnic groups:
- Mestizo (mixed Amerindian-Spanish ancestry) – 56%
- Amerindian (Maya and other indigenous groups) – 41.7%
- Other – 1.8%
- European – 0.5%
3. Religions
Religious affiliations:
- Roman Catholic – 47%
- Protestant – 38%
- Indigenous religions – 10%
- Other – 5%
4. Age Structure
Age distribution:
- 0-14 years: 32.87%
- 15-64 years: 61.92%
- 65 years and over: 5.21%
5. Dependency Ratios
Total dependency ratio: 61.9
Youth dependency ratio: 51.5
Elderly dependency ratio: 10.4
6. Median Age
Median age: 23.4 years
Median age for males: 22.7 years
Median age for females: 24.1 years
7. Lifestyle Indicators
Obesity rate: 26.1% of the adult population
Alcohol consumption: 4.9 liters of pure alcohol per capita per year
Tobacco use: 17.8% of the adult population
- Life Expectancy at Birth: 74.1. 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): 81.5%. 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:24.56. 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:7. 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: 2.87. 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): 66.7%. 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: 8,540,945. 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):55.80%. 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
Guatemala’s military and security forces consist of the following branches:
- Army (Ejercito Nacional Revolucionario) – The largest service branch, responsible for national defense and maintaining internal security.
- Navy (Fuerza de Mar) – Primarily focused on maritime security and coastal defense operations.
- Air Force (Fuerza Aerea Guatemalteca) – Handles air defense and transportation operations.
The National Civil Police (Policía Nacional Civil) maintains public order and internal security. Guatemala also has a Presidential Guard tasked with protecting the president and government officials.
Military Expenditures
Guatemala’s military spending as a percentage of GDP for the last five years:
- 2021: 0.4%
- 2020: 0.4%
- 2019: 0.4%
- 2018: 0.4%
- 2017: 0.4%
Guatemala’s military spending ranks 121st globally as of 2021.
Personnel Strengths
Guatemala’s active-duty military personnel strength is approximately 18,000, with the following breakdown by service branch:
- Army: 15,000
- Navy: 1,000
- Air Force: 2,000
The National Civil Police has a strength of around 35,000 personnel.
Military Equipment Inventories and Acquisitions
Guatemala’s military equipment primarily consists of older, imported hardware from various sources, including the United States, Israel, and Europe. Key inventories include:
- Main Battle Tanks: M18 Hellcat, M4 Sherman
- Armored Vehicles: M113, M8 Greyhound
- Aircraft: Bell 412EP, Cessna A-37B Dragonfly
- Naval Assets: Patrol Craft, Coastal Patrol Boats
Guatemala has no major ongoing or announced future military acquisition programs due to budgetary constraints.
Military Service Age and Obligation
Military service in Guatemala is voluntary for both men and women. The legal age range for voluntary military service is:
- Army and Air Force: 18-30 years old
- Navy: 18-25 years old
There is no mandatory military conscription in Guatemala.
Military Deployments
Guatemala has no significant overseas military deployments. However, it contributes a small contingent of 7 personnel to the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH).
Strategic Military Notes
Guatemala’s defense strategy primarily focuses on maintaining internal security, border control, and combating organized crime and drug trafficking. The military plays a supporting role to civilian law enforcement agencies in these efforts.
Regionally, Guatemala participates in the Conference of Central American Armed Forces (CFAC) and has bilateral military cooperation agreements with several neighboring countries, including Mexico, Honduras, and El Salvador.
- Armed Forces Size: 18100. 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 0.35
- Population: Labor Force Participation (%): 62.30%. 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.