Liechtenstein: general information about country, happiness index 2024

World Happiness Report for Liechtenstein 2024

  • Overall Happiness Rank Liechtenstein: na
  • Happiness Score Liechtenstein: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 Liechtenstein. LI.

    Liechtenstein is a small, landlocked country in Europe, known for its political stability and strong economy.

  • It is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system.
  • Despite its small size, Liechtenstein has a thriving arts and cultural scene, with a number of museums and art galleries.
  • It has one of the highest per capita incomes in the world, largely due to its low corporate tax rates and strong financial sector.
  • Liechtenstein – A Comprehensive Overview

    Brief History

    Early History: The territory of modern-day Liechtenstein has been inhabited since prehistoric times. In the 1st century BC, the area was part of the Roman province of Raetia. The Alemanni, a Germanic tribe, settled in the region in the 3rd century AD.

    Kingdoms and Empires: Liechtenstein was part of the Holy Roman Empire until its dissolution in 1806. The Principality of Liechtenstein was established in 1719 when the Prince of Liechtenstein purchased the lordship of Schellenberg and the county of Vaduz.

    Colonial Period: Liechtenstein was never a colonial power and was not colonized itself.

    Independence and Modern Era: Liechtenstein has been a sovereign state since its formation in 1719. It remained neutral during both World Wars. In the modern era, Liechtenstein has transformed from an agricultural economy to a highly industrialized, free-market economy.

    Current Political Situation: Liechtenstein is a constitutional hereditary monarchy on a democratic and parliamentary basis. The Prince is the head of state, and the prime minister is the head of government. Recent elections have seen the continuation of a coalition government led by the Progressive Citizens’ Party.

    International Relations: Liechtenstein maintains close ties with Switzerland and is a member of the European Economic Area (EEA). It has a strong relationship with the European Union and is involved in various international organizations.

    Human Development and Economy: Liechtenstein has a highly industrialized, free-market economy with a strong financial services sector. It has a high standard of living and a highly educated population.

    Cultural Highlights: Liechtenstein has a unique blend of German and Swiss cultural influences. It is predominantly Roman Catholic, and German is the official language. The country is known for its medieval castles and Alpine landscapes.

    Liechtenstein faces challenges in maintaining its economic competitiveness and preserving its traditional culture in an increasingly globalized world. Opportunities lie in further diversifying its economy and leveraging its strategic location in Europe.

    Travel Tips for Liechtenstein

    • Best times to visit: Spring and fall for mild weather and fewer crowds.
    • Cultural etiquette: Respect local customs, dress conservatively, and be punctual.
    • Safety: Liechtenstein is generally safe, but take normal precautions in crowded areas.
    • Must-see landmarks: Vaduz Castle, Gutenberg Castle, Liechtenstein National Museum.
    • Culinary experiences: Try traditional dishes like Käsknöpfle (cheese dumplings) and Ribel (corn fritters).

    Living in Liechtenstein

    • Cost of living: High, but salaries are also high.
    • Housing: Limited availability, expensive prices.
    • Healthcare: Excellent public healthcare system.
    • Education: High-quality public and private schools, with options for international education.
    • Lifestyle: Safe, clean environment with a strong work-life balance.
    • Cultural norms: Respect privacy, punctuality, and multilingualism.
    • Legal requirements: Residents need a permit and must register with local authorities.

    Doing Business in Liechtenstein

    • Business culture: Formal, punctual, and hierarchical.
    • Economic climate: Stable, with a focus on financial services, high-tech manufacturing, and tourism.
    • Key industries: Banking, finance, precision instruments, ceramics, and pharmaceuticals.
    • Legal framework: Pro-business, with low corporate taxes and a well-regulated financial sector.
    • Strategies: Build relationships through networking, respect hierarchies, and be patient in negotiations.

Main facts

Location

Liechtenstein is a small landlocked country located in the heart of the Alpine region in western Europe. It is bordered by Switzerland to the west and south and Austria to the east and north, situated between the Rhine River and the Swiss Alps.

Map References

Liechtenstein is located in Western Europe, within the Central European region.

Area – Comparative

With an area of 160 square kilometers (62 square miles), Liechtenstein is slightly smaller than the District of Columbia.

Land Boundaries and Border Countries

Liechtenstein has a total land border of 76 kilometers (47 miles), with Switzerland (41 km) and Austria (35 km).

Coastline

Liechtenstein is a landlocked country and has no coastline.

Maritime Claims

As a landlocked country, Liechtenstein has no maritime claims.

Climate

Liechtenstein has a continental climate, with cold, cloudy winters and cool to moderately warm, sunny summers. The mountain ranges in the country create varying microclimates.

Terrain

Liechtenstein is mountainous, with the Rhine Valley forming the western border. The country lies entirely within the Alps, and the terrain is predominantly mountainous and hilly.

Elevation Extremes

The highest point in Liechtenstein is Grauspitz at 2,599 meters (8,527 feet), while the lowest point is the Rhine River at 430 meters (1,411 feet).

Natural Resources

Liechtenstein has limited natural resources, with the main resources being earth construction materials and groundwater.

Major Bodies of Water

The Rhine River forms the western border of Liechtenstein, separating it from Switzerland. The country has no major lakes.

Natural Hazards

Liechtenstein is subject to avalanches, as its mountainous terrain poses risks during the winter months.

Geography – Notes

Despite its small size, Liechtenstein has a diverse geography, including mountains, valleys, and the Rhine River. The country’s alpine landscape and proximity to larger European nations significantly influence its economy and culture.

  • Forest Area (% of land area): 43.10%. This is the percentage of a country’s total land area that is covered by natural or planted forests.
  • Co2 Emissions: 51. 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( %). 32.20%. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
  • Geographic Coordinates:  47.14103929.520935.
  • Capital: The capital of Liechtenstein is  Vaduz
  • Major Cities:
    • Vaduz – Population: 5,450
  • Population: 38,019
  • Area(Km2): 160
  • Population Density( P/Km²):238. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
  • Calling Code:423
  • Official Language(s):Liechtenstein is German (100%).
  • Currency: CHF

Main Economic Indicators

Liechtenstein has a wealthy, highly industrialized free-enterprise economy that benefits from its membership in the European Economic Area. The country has low business taxes and prosperous financial services and manufacturing sectors. Liechtenstein has one of the highest GDP per capita rates in the world. Key economic challenges include narrow economic base, heavy reliance on exports, and lack of natural resources.

Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)

2022: 2.8% (Source: Principality of Liechtenstein)
2021: 0.7% (Source: Principality of Liechtenstein)

Credit Ratings

Fitch: AAA (2022)
Moody’s: Aa2 (2022)
Standard & Poor’s: AA+ (2022)

GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin

Agriculture: 0.6% of GDP
Industry: 35.5% of GDP
Services: 63.9% of GDP

Key Agricultural and Industrial Products

Agricultural Products: Wheat, barley, eggs, cattle, dairy products
Industrial Products: Electronics, metal manufacturing, dental products, ceramics, pharmaceuticals, food products, precision instruments

Labor Force

Total Labor Force: 39,200 (2022 est.)
Comparative Ranking: 208th in the world

Current Account Balance

2022: $1.16 billion (estimate)
2021: $871 million
Comparative Ranking: 25th in the world

Exports and Imports

Exports: $4.5 billion (2022 est.)
Key Partners: Germany, Switzerland, United States, Austria
Main Exports: Machinery, dental products, stamps, watches, precious metal products
Imports: $3.1 billion (2022 est.)
Key Partners: Switzerland, Germany, Italy, Austria
Main Imports: Machinery, metal goods, textiles, foodstuffs, motor vehicles

Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold

Foreign Exchange Reserves: $6.2 billion (2022 est.)
Gold Reserves: 101,000 ounces (2022 est.)

  • GDP (Current US$):$6,552,858,739. 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): 21.60%. 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. $1.74. 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. . 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 (%): . 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: Liechtensteiners
Adjective: Liechtenstein

2. Ethnic Groups

• Liechtenstein citizens: 66.5%
• Other nationalities: 33.5%

3. Religions

• Roman Catholic: 75.9%
• Protestant: 6.5%
• Muslim: 5.4%
• Other/None: 12.2%

4. Age Structure

• 0-14 years: 14.8%
• 15-64 years: 68.1%
• 65 years and over: 17.1%

5. Dependency Ratios

• Total dependency ratio: 46.7
• Youth dependency ratio: 20.1
• Elderly dependency ratio: 26.6

6. Median Age

• Total: 43 years
• Male: 42.5 years
• Female: 43.5 years

7. Lifestyle Indicators

• Obesity rate: 23.8% (2016)
• Alcohol consumption (liters of pure alcohol per capita): 11.6 (2016)
• Tobacco use: 17.2% of adults (2016)

  • Life Expectancy at Birth: 83. 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): 100%. 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:9.9. 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: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: 1.44. 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): 95.3%. 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: 5,464. 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

Liechtenstein does not have a standing army. Its security is primarily maintained through an alliance with Switzerland, with a small contingent of Landespolizei (National Police) serving as the country’s de facto military force.

Military Expenditures

Liechtenstein’s military spending is negligible, accounting for less than 0.1% of its GDP in the last five years. It has no formal military budget and relies on Switzerland for defense.

Personnel Strengths

Liechtenstein has no active-duty military personnel. The Landespolizei employs around 120 officers responsible for maintaining internal security.

Military Equipment Inventories and Acquisitions

As a demilitarized country, Liechtenstein possesses no significant military hardware or weapon systems. The Landespolizei is equipped with standard law enforcement equipment.

Military Service Age and Obligation

Liechtenstein has no compulsory military service or enlistment programs.

Military Deployments

Liechtenstein has no overseas military deployments or involvement in peacekeeping missions.

Strategic Military Notes

Liechtenstein’s defense strategy is based on its alliance with Switzerland, which provides security guarantees and military protection. The country’s neutrality and lack of a standing military reflect its pacifist stance and reliance on diplomacy.

  • Armed Forces Size: . 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 na
  • Population: Labor Force Participation (%): . 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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