Croatia: general information about country, happiness index 2024

Table of Contents

World Happiness Report for Croatia 2024

  • Overall Happiness Rank Croatia: 63
  • Happiness Score Croatia:5.942

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 Croatia. HR.

    Croatia is a country in Southeast Europe with a parliamentary republic political structure. It has a rich cultural heritage, including traditional folk dancing and music, as well as a diverse cuisine influenced by its Mediterranean, Hungarian, and Turkish neighbors. Croatia’s economy is heavily reliant on tourism, as it is known for its stunning coastline and historic cities.

  • Croatia is home to the Dalmatian Coast, known for its beautiful beaches and clear blue waters.
  • The city of Dubrovnik is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its well-preserved medieval walls.
  • The tie, a staple of men’s fashion, originated in Croatia and is known as the cravat.

    • Croatia – A Comprehensive Overview/h3>

    Early History and Ancient Civilizations

    The territory of modern-day Croatia has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with evidence of human settlements dating back to the Paleolithic era. The region was home to various ancient civilizations, including the Illyrians, who populated the Adriatic coast and hinterlands from the 7th century BC until their eventual subjugation by the Romans in the 1st century BC.

    Kingdoms and Empires

    Throughout its tumultuous history, Croatia has been ruled by several powerful kingdoms and empires. During the Middle Ages, the Croatian Kingdom emerged as a formidable force in the region, reaching its peak under the rule of King Tomislav in the 10th century. In the 11th century, Croatia entered a personal union with Hungary, ushering in a period of Hungarian influence that lasted for nearly a millennium. Later, parts of Croatia came under the control of the Venetian Republic and the Ottoman Empire, further shaping the region’s cultural tapestry.

    Colonial Period and Independence

    Croatia did not experience a direct colonial period, but parts of its territory were influenced by various empires throughout history. In the aftermath of World War I, Croats joined with Serbs, Slovenes, and others to form the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes, later renamed Yugoslavia. After World War II, Croatia became a constituent republic of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. Following the dissolution of Yugoslavia in the early 1990s, Croatia declared its independence, leading to the Croatian War of Independence, which lasted from 1991 to 1995.

    Modern Era and Current Political Situation

    Since gaining independence, Croatia has experienced a period of political transition and economic restructuring. The country adopted a parliamentary democratic system and joined the European Union in 2013. The current government is led by Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, and the President is Zoran Milanović. Croatia has also become a member of NATO, solidifying its position in the Western alliance.

    International Relations

    Croatia maintains friendly relations with its neighbors and is an active member of international organizations like the United Nations and the Council of Europe. The country has worked to strengthen its ties with the European Union and NATO allies while also fostering economic and cultural cooperation with countries in the Balkan region and beyond.

    Human Development and Economy

    Croatia has a high-income economy driven by services, industry, and tourism. Major industries include shipbuilding, food processing, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals. The country has made significant strides in human development, ranking highly on the Human Development Index. However, challenges remain, including addressing regional economic disparities and promoting sustainable development.

    Cultural Highlights

    Croatia boasts a rich cultural heritage, shaped by its unique position at the crossroads of Central Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Balkans. The country is renowned for its stunning Adriatic coastline, historic cities like Dubrovnik and Split, and diverse culinary traditions influenced by various civilizations. Croatia is also home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Old City of Dubrovnik and the Plitvice Lakes National Park.

    Challenges and Opportunities

    As Croatia continues its path toward further integration with the European Union and economic development, it faces challenges such as addressing corruption, improving infrastructure, and attracting foreign investment. Additionally, the country must navigate the complexities of regional dynamics and address lingering socio-economic disparities. However, Croatia’s strategic location, diverse resources, and skilled workforce present opportunities for sustainable growth and enhanced regional cooperation.

Main facts

Location

Croatia is a country located in Southeastern Europe, situated along the Adriatic Sea. It borders Slovenia to the northwest, Hungary to the northeast, Serbia to the east, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro to the southeast, and shares a maritime border with Italy in the Adriatic Sea.

Map References

Croatia is located in Southern Europe, part of the Balkan Peninsula.

Area – Comparative

With an area of approximately 56,594 square kilometers (21,851 square miles), Croatia is slightly smaller than the U.S. state of West Virginia.

Land Boundaries and Border Countries

Croatia has land borders with the following countries:

Coastline (if applicable)

Croatia has a coastline of 5,835 kilometers (3,625 miles) along the Adriatic Sea. The coast is characterized by numerous islands, rocky coves, and picturesque beaches.

Maritime Claims

Croatia claims the following maritime zones:

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

Climate

Croatia has a predominantly continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters in the interior regions. The coastal areas enjoy a Mediterranean climate, with mild, rainy winters and dry, hot summers.

Terrain

Croatia’s terrain is diverse, featuring flat plains along the Hungarian border, low mountains and highlands near the Adriatic coastline, and a karst region with rugged hills and valleys. The country also boasts fertile valleys along the Sava, Drava, and Danube rivers.

Elevation Extremes

The highest point in Croatia is Dinara, a mountain peak in the Dinaric Alps, reaching an elevation of 1,831 meters (6,007 feet). The lowest point is the Adriatic Sea, at sea level.

Natural Resources

Croatia’s major natural resources include:

  • Oil
  • Natural gas
  • Coal
  • Bauxite
  • Limestone
  • Hydropower

Major Bodies of Water

The major bodies of water in Croatia include the Adriatic Sea, the Danube River (shared with several countries), and several lakes, including Lake Vrana and Lake Plitvice.

Natural Hazards

Croatia is susceptible to the following natural hazards:

  • Destructive earthquakes
  • Coastal flooding
  • Landslides

Geography – Notes

Croatia’s geography is characterized by its diverse landscapes, ranging from the rugged Dinaric Alps to the stunning Adriatic coastline, dotted with over a thousand islands. The country’s location along the Adriatic Sea has played a significant role in its history, culture, and economy. Additionally, Croatia’s karst topography, with its limestone formations and underground caverns, contributes to its unique natural environment.

  • Forest Area (% of land area): 34.40%. This is the percentage of a country’s total land area that is covered by natural or planted forests.
  • Co2 Emissions: 17,488. 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( %). 27.60%. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
  • Geographic Coordinates:  45.115.2.
  • Capital: The capital of Croatia is  Zagreb
  • Major Cities:
    • Zagreb – Population: 804,200
    • Split – Population: 178,102
    • Rijeka – Population: 128,384
    • Osijek – Population: 108,048
    • Zadar – Population: 75,082
  • Population: 4,067,500
  • Area(Km2): 56594
  • Population Density( P/Km²):73. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
  • Calling Code:385
  • Official Language(s):Croatia is Croatian (95.6%) spoken.
  • Currency: HRK

Main Economic Indicators

Economic Overview: Croatia has a high income, developed economy with a GDP of around $59 billion. The services sector accounts for the largest share of the economy, followed by industry and agriculture. Key economic challenges include restructuring of state-owned enterprises, reforming inefficient bureaucracy, reducing tax burden, combating corruption, and dealing with aging population and labor shortages. Notable economic policies aim to attract foreign investment and promote exports.

Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)

2021: 2.7% (Source: Croatian Bureau of Statistics)
2022: 10.8% (Source: Croatian Bureau of Statistics)

Credit Ratings

Fitch: BBB- (Stable)
Moody’s: Ba1 (Stable)
Standard & Poor’s: BBB- (Positive)

GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin

Agriculture: 2.7%
Industry: 23.6%
Services: 73.7%

Key Agricultural and Industrial Products

Agricultural Products: wheat, corn, barley, sugar beets, sunflower seeds, soybeans, wine, fruits, vegetables, beef, pork, poultry
Industrial Products: chemicals and plastics, machine tools, refined petroleum, electronics, steel, aluminum, paper, wood products, construction materials, textiles, shipbuilding, food processing

Labor Force

Total Labor Force: 1.7 million (2022 est.)
Labor Force Ranking: 123rd globally

Current Account Balance

2021: $1.9 billion (surplus)
2022: $2.7 billion (surplus, est.)
Current Account Balance Ranking: 46th globally

Exports and Imports

Exports: $22.4 billion (2022 est.)
Key Partners: Italy, Germany, Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Austria
Main Commodities: machinery, transport equipment, textiles, chemicals, foodstuffs, fuels
Imports: $37.5 billion (2022 est.)
Key Partners: Germany, Italy, Slovenia, Hungary, Austria
Main Commodities: machinery, transport equipment, chemicals, fuels and lubricants, foodstuffs

Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold

Foreign Exchange Reserves: $28.7 billion (2022 est.)
Gold Reserves: 10.6 tonnes (as of December 2022)

  • GDP (Current US$):$60,415,553,039. 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): 22.00%. 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): 20.50%. 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. $1.26. 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. $2.92. 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 (%): 6.93%. 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: noun – Croatian(s), adjective – Croatian

2. Ethnic Groups

  • Croat 90.4%
  • Serb 4.4%
  • Bosniak 0.7%
  • Italian 0.4%
  • Others (including Slovenes, Montenegrins, Czechs, Roma) 4.1%

3. Religions

  • Catholic 86.3%
  • Orthodox 4.4%
  • Muslim 1.5%
  • Others (including Protestant, atheist, and agnostic) 7.8%

4. Age Structure

  • 0-14 years: 14.24%
  • 15-64 years: 66.33%
  • 65 years and over: 19.43%

5. Dependency Ratios

Total dependency ratio: 50.5

Youth dependency ratio: 21.5

Elderly dependency ratio: 29

6. Median Age

Total median age: 43.9 years

Male median age: 42.2 years

Female median age: 45.6 years

7. Lifestyle Indicators

  • Obesity rate: 24.4% of the adult population
  • Alcohol consumption: 9.6 liters of pure alcohol per capita per year
  • Tobacco use: 35.5% of adults (age 15 and over) are current smokers
  • Life Expectancy at Birth: 78.1. 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): 99.7%. 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. 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:16. 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: 1.47. 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): 69.2%. 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: 2,328,318. 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):15.20%. 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

Croatia – Military and Security Profile

1. Military and Security Forces

Croatia’s military consists of the following branches: Croatian Army, Croatian Navy, Croatian Air Force and Air Defense, and the Homeland Defense Command. There are no foreign legions or elite tactical units. The national police force, known as the Policija, is responsible for maintaining internal security.

2. Military Expenditures

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

2018: 1.6%

2019: 1.7%

2020: 1.9%

2021: 1.9%

2022: 2.0%

Croatia ranks 68th globally in military spending.

3. Personnel Strengths

Croatia has approximately 16,000 active-duty military personnel, with the following breakdown:

– Army: 12,000

– Navy: 2,000

– Air Force and Air Defense: 2,000

The Policija has around 20,000 personnel.

4. Military Equipment Inventories and Acquisitions

Croatia’s military hardware includes:

  • Main Battle Tanks: M-84 (domestically produced)
  • Armored Personnel Carriers: BOV (domestically produced), Patria AMV
  • Infantry Fighting Vehicles: BVP M-80A, M-95 Degman
  • Artillery: 2S1 Gvozdika, M-77 Oganj
  • Fighter Aircraft: MiG-21bis, F-16 (planned acquisition)
  • Helicopters: Mi-8, Bell 206, OH-58D

Croatia is in the process of acquiring used F-16 fighters from Israel and refurbished M-84 tanks from Ukraine.

5. Military Service Age and Obligation

Military service in Croatia is voluntary. The legal age for military service is 18-27 years for male and female recruits. There have been no recent changes to military service policies.

6. Military Deployments

Croatia currently has around 300 troops deployed overseas as part of international peacekeeping missions, including:

  • NATO’s Resolute Support Mission in Afghanistan
  • United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL)
  • European Union Training Mission in Mali

7. Strategic Military Notes

Croatia’s defense strategy focuses on developing a modern, well-equipped, and NATO-interoperable military force. The country is a member of NATO and plays an active role in regional security through partnerships with neighboring countries and participation in peacekeeping operations.

Croatia’s military maintains a strong focus on territorial defense and the protection of national sovereignty and borders. The country’s strategic location in the Balkans and access to the Adriatic Sea are key considerations in its defense posture.

  • Armed Forces Size: 15200. 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 3
  • Population: Labor Force Participation (%): 51.20%. 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.

Leave a Comment