World Happiness Report for Liberia 2024
- Overall Happiness Rank Liberia: 121
- Happiness Score Liberia:4.269
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 Liberia. LR.
- The first African country to gain independence
- The only country in Africa to have been founded by the United States
- Known for its unique blend of traditional African and American culture
Liberia – A Comprehensive Overview
Early History:
Liberia’s history can be traced back to the indigenous ethnic groups that inhabited the region, including the Kru, Bassa, Grebo, and Kpelle. These groups developed rich cultural traditions and established settlements along the coastal areas of West Africa.
Colonial Period:
In the early 19th century, the American Colonization Society, a private organization, established the settlement of Liberia as a destination for free Black Americans and formerly enslaved people from the United States. Liberia became known as the first African republic to gain independence, declared in 1847.
Independence and Modern Era:
Following independence, Liberia experienced periods of stability and upheaval. In the 1980s, the country descended into civil war, which lasted for over a decade and resulted in significant loss of life and displacement. After a period of transitional government, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf became Africa’s first elected female head of state in 2005, ushering in a new era of democratic governance.
Current Political Situation:
Liberia is a unitary constitutional republic with a multi-party system. George Weah was elected president in 2017, marking the country’s first democratic transition in over 70 years. However, Liberia continues to face challenges with corruption, economic instability, and the lingering effects of the civil war.
International Relations:
Liberia maintains close ties with the United States and is a member of various international organizations, including the United Nations, the African Union, and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The country has also received significant support from the international community in its post-conflict reconstruction efforts.
Human Development and Economy:
Liberia is a developing country with a largely agrarian economy. Major industries include rubber, iron ore, and palm oil production. Despite its natural resources, poverty and inequality remain prevalent, with a significant portion of the population lacking access to basic services and infrastructure.
Cultural Highlights:
Liberia is a culturally diverse nation with a rich heritage influenced by its indigenous ethnic groups and American settlers. English is the official language, but various indigenous languages are also spoken. Traditional arts, music, and cuisine play a significant role in Liberian culture.
Challenges and Opportunities:
Liberia faces significant challenges, including poverty, infrastructure deficiencies, corruption, and the lingering effects of the civil war. However, the country also possesses opportunities for growth through its natural resources, increased investments in education and healthcare, and continued efforts towards reconciliation and sustainable development.
Travel Tips for Liberia:
Best times to visit: The dry season, from November to April, is generally the most comfortable time to visit Liberia, with cooler temperatures and less rainfall.
Cultural etiquette: Respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Greet elders with respect and ask for permission before taking photographs.
Safety precautions: Exercise caution when traveling, especially in remote areas or after dark. Avoid displays of wealth, and follow the advice of local authorities and tour guides.
Must-see landmarks: Visit the Liberian National Museum in Monrovia to learn about the country’s history and culture. Explore the beautiful beaches along the coast, such as Robertsport and Buchanan.
Culinary experiences: Try traditional Liberian dishes like palm butter and rice, and cassava leaf stew. Liberian cuisine is heavily influenced by indigenous and American influences.
Living in Liberia:
Cost of living: The cost of living in Liberia is generally lower than in many Western countries, but higher than in some neighboring African nations. Housing, food, and transportation costs can vary significantly between urban and rural areas.
Main facts
Location
Liberia is a country located in West Africa, bordered by Sierra Leone to the northwest, Guinea to the north, Côte d’Ivoire to the east, and the Atlantic Ocean to the south and southwest.
Map References
Liberia is situated in the western region of the African continent.
Area – Comparative
Liberia has an area of approximately 111,369 sq km, making it slightly larger than the U.S. state of Tennessee.
Land Boundaries and Border Countries
Liberia shares a total land boundary of 1,585 km with the following countries:
- Guinea: 590 km
- Côte d’Ivoire: 778 km
- Sierra Leone: 217 km
Coastline
Liberia has a coastline of 579 km along the Atlantic Ocean.
Maritime Claims
Liberia claims the following maritime zones:
- Territorial sea: 200 nautical miles
- Exclusive economic zone: 200 nautical miles
- Continental shelf: 200 nautical miles or to the edge of the continental margin
Climate
Liberia has a tropical climate with hot and humid conditions throughout the year. The climate is characterized by two distinct seasons: a dry season from November to April, and a wet season from May to October.
Terrain
Liberia’s terrain consists of mostly flat to rolling coastal plains, with some rolling hills and low mountains in the interior. The country also features a plateau region in the northwestern region.
Elevation Extremes
The lowest point in Liberia is the Atlantic Ocean at 0 m, while the highest point is Mount Wuteve, reaching an elevation of 1,380 m.
Natural Resources
Liberia’s major natural resources include iron ore, timber, diamonds, gold, and hydropower.
Major Bodies of Water
Liberia’s major bodies of water include the Mano, Lofa, and Cestos rivers, as well as the coastal waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
Natural Hazards
The main natural hazards in Liberia are dust and sandstorms, particularly in the northern regions.
Geography – Notes
Liberia is a coastal country with a rich biodiversity, including tropical rainforests and various protected areas. However, deforestation and environmental degradation have been significant challenges in recent years.
- 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: 1,386. 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( %). 28.00%. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
- Geographic Coordinates: 6.428055-9.429499.
- Capital: The capital of Liberia is Monrovia
- Major Cities:
- Monrovia – population: 1,010,970
- Gbarnga – population: 56,143
- Kakata – population: 33,945
- Bensonville – population: 33,188
- Population: 4,937,374
- Area(Km2): 111369
- Population Density( P/Km²):53. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
- Calling Code:231
- Official Language(s):Liberia is English with 20% as the primary language spoken.
- Currency:
Main Economic Indicators
Liberia has a free market economy driven primarily by the service sector, followed by agriculture and mining. With a GDP of around $3.2 billion, it is one of the poorest countries in the world. Key economic challenges include insufficient infrastructure, high unemployment, and a heavy dependence on foreign aid and investment. The government is focused on promoting economic diversification and attracting foreign direct investment.
Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)
2021: 8% (World Bank)
2020: 17% (World Bank)
Credit Ratings
Moody’s: Caa1 (Stable)
Standard & Poor’s: B- (Stable)
GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin
Agriculture: 36.8%
Industry: 12.9%
Services: 50.3%
Key Agricultural and Industrial Products
Agricultural: Rubber, coffee, cocoa, rice, cassava, palm oil, sugarcane, bananas, sheep, pigs, timber
Industrial: Mining (iron ore, gold, diamonds), rubber processing, food and beverage products, wood processing, construction materials
Labor Force
Total Labor Force: 1.6 million (2017 est.)
Comparative Ranking: 129th
Current Account Balance
2021: -$498 million
2020: -$324 million
Comparative Ranking: 160th (2021 est.)
Exports and Imports
Exports: $327 million (2021 est.)
Key Partners: Switzerland, Germany, United Arab Emirates, Poland, Spain
Main Commodities: Rubber, gold, diamonds, iron ore, wood
Imports: $1.16 billion (2021 est.)
Key Partners: Singapore, China, Japan, South Korea, United Arab Emirates
Main Commodities: Foodstuffs, machinery, transport equipment, fuels, chemicals
Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold
Foreign Exchange Reserves: $402 million (2021 est.)
Gold Reserves: 286,000 ounces (2021 est.)
- GDP (Current US$):$3,070,518,100. 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): 12.90%. 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): 46.20%. 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. $0.80. 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. $0.17. 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 (%): 2.81%. 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: Liberian(s)
Adjective: Liberian
2. Ethnic Groups
– Kpelle 20.3%
– Bassa 13.4%
– Grebo 10%
– Gio 8%
– Mano 7.9%
– Kru 6%
– Lorma 5.1%
– Kissi 4.8%
– Gola 4.4%
– Other 20.1%
3. Religions
– Christian 85.6%
– Muslim 12.2%
– Traditional 0.6%
– Other 0.2%
– None 1.4%
4. Age Structure
– 0-14 years: 41.93%
– 15-64 years: 54.79%
– 65 years and over: 3.28%
5. Dependency Ratios
– Total dependency ratio: 82.8
– Youth dependency ratio: 77.2
– Elderly dependency ratio: 5.6
6. Median Age
– Total: 18.8 years
– Male: 18.4 years
– Female: 19.2 years
7. Lifestyle Indicators
– Obesity rate: 9.9%
– Alcohol consumption per capita: 4.5 liters/year
– Tobacco use: 8.3% of adults
– Life expectancy at birth: 64.5 years
- Life Expectancy at Birth: 63.7. 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): 47.6%. 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:33.04. 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:9. 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: 4.32. 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): 7.3%. 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: 2,548,426. 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):19.60%. 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
Liberia Military and Security Profile
1. Military and Security Forces
The Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) consist of the Army, Air Force, and Coast Guard. The Army is the largest branch, comprising light infantry, artillery, and special operations units. The Air Force operates transport and reconnaissance aircraft, while the Coast Guard patrols Liberia’s territorial waters. The Liberian National Police (LNP) is responsible for maintaining internal security and law enforcement.
2. Military Expenditures
Liberia’s military spending as a percentage of GDP for the last five years:
- 2022: 0.7%
- 2021: 0.6%
- 2020: 0.5%
- 2019: 0.6%
- 2018: 0.6%
Liberia ranks among the lowest globally in terms of military expenditures as a share of GDP.
3. Personnel Strengths
The total active-duty military personnel in Liberia is approximately 2,000, with the following breakdown:
- Army: 1,600
- Air Force: 200
- Coast Guard: 200
The Liberian National Police has a strength of around 5,000 personnel.
4. Military Equipment Inventories and Acquisitions
Liberia’s military equipment primarily consists of light infantry weapons, armored personnel carriers, and utility vehicles. The Air Force operates a small fleet of transport aircraft and helicopters, while the Coast Guard has several patrol boats. Most military hardware is imported from the United States and other Western nations. Liberia does not have any significant domestic arms production capabilities or major acquisitions planned.
5. Military Service Age and Obligation
Liberian citizens between the ages of 18 and 47 are eligible for voluntary military service. There is no mandatory military conscription in Liberia.
6. Military Deployments
Liberia currently has a small contingent of troops deployed as part of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). Additionally, Liberian personnel participate in UN peacekeeping missions in other parts of Africa on a rotational basis.
7. Strategic Military Notes
Liberia’s defense strategy focuses on maintaining internal security, border protection, and contributing to regional stability through participation in UN peacekeeping operations. The Armed Forces of Liberia play a limited role in international security due to their modest size and capabilities. Liberia is a member of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and has close defense ties with the United States, its former colonizer.
- Armed Forces Size: 2000. 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 0.04
- Population: Labor Force Participation (%): 76.30%. 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.