World Happiness Report for Malta 2024
- Overall Happiness Rank Malta: 40
- Happiness Score Malta:6.346
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 Malta. MT.
Malta is a small island country in the Mediterranean Sea. It is a parliamentary republic with a unicameral legislature. Malta has a rich cultural heritage with influences from the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, and Knights of St. John. The economy is highly dependent on tourism, financial services, and manufacturing.
- Malta is one of the smallest countries in the world, with a total area of just 316 square kilometers.
- The country is known for its ancient megalithic temples, which are some of the oldest free-standing structures in the world.
- Malta has two official languages: Maltese and English.
Malta – Overview
Early History and Ancient Civilizations
Malta has been inhabited since around 5900 BC, with the arrival of stone age farmers who left behind remarkable megalithic temples, including the Ġgantija Temples and the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum. The Phoenicians and Carthaginians established settlements on the islands, followed by the Romans in 218 BC.
Kingdoms and Empires
After the fall of the Roman Empire, Malta was successively ruled by the Byzantine Empire, the Aghlabids, the Fatimids, the Normans, the Sicilian Kingdom, and the Crown of Aragon. In 1530, the islands were granted to the Sovereign Military Order of St. John of Jerusalem, known as the Knights Hospitaller.
Colonial Period
Malta was controlled by various colonial powers, including the French (1798-1800) and the British (1800-1964). The islands played a crucial role in the British Mediterranean strategy and were heavily fortified during the British period.
Independence and Modern Era
Malta gained independence from Britain in 1964 and became a republic in 1974. It joined the European Union in 2004 and adopted the euro as its currency in 2008. Malta has maintained a stable democratic system since independence.
Current Political Situation
Malta is a parliamentary republic with a president as the head of state and a prime minister as the head of government. The two major political parties are the Nationalist Party and the Labour Party. Recent elections have seen the Labour Party in power.
International Relations
Malta has close relations with the European Union and has been an active member since joining in 2004. It maintains strong ties with neighboring countries in the Mediterranean region and is a member of the United Nations, the Commonwealth of Nations, and other international organizations.
Human Development and Economy
Malta has a high-income economy driven by services, particularly tourism, finance, and gaming. The country has a high Human Development Index and ranks well in areas like education, healthcare, and quality of life.
Cultural Highlights
Malta has a rich cultural heritage influenced by various civilizations, including the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, and Europeans. The Maltese language, a Semitic language heavily influenced by Italian and English, is the national language. The country is known for its unique architecture, including the fortified cities of Valletta and Mdina, as well as its vibrant festivals and traditions.
Challenges and Opportunities
Some of the key challenges facing Malta include managing sustainable tourism, addressing environmental issues like waste management and water scarcity, and promoting economic diversification. Opportunities lie in its strategic location, growing sectors like digital services and renewable energy, and its strong educational system.
Travel Tips for Malta
Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-November) offer pleasant weather and smaller crowds.
Cultural Etiquette: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, greet with a handshake, and respect local customs.
Safety Precautions: Malta is generally safe, but exercise caution against petty crime and be aware of your surroundings.
Must-See Landmarks: Valletta’s St. John’s Co-Cathedral, the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, the Megalithic Temples, and the Blue Grotto.
Culinary Experiences: Try traditional dishes like stuffat tal-fenek (rabbit stew), qassatat (filled pastries), and Maltese bread.
Main facts
1. Location
Malta is a Southern European archipelago situated in the Mediterranean Sea, about 80 km (50 miles) south of Sicily, Italy. It lies between the Mediterranean’s eastern and western basins, forming a strategic maritime location.
2. Map References
Malta is located in Southern Europe, consisting of an archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea.
3. Area – Comparative
Malta has a total land area of 316 sq km (122 sq miles), making it slightly less than twice the size of Washington, D.C.
4. Land Boundaries and Border Countries
Malta is an island nation with no land boundaries.
5. Coastline
Malta has a total coastline of 196.8 km (122 miles), featuring numerous bays, coves, and sandy beaches.
6. Maritime Claims
Malta claims the following maritime zones:
- Territorial sea: 12 nautical miles
- Contiguous zone: 24 nautical miles
- Exclusive fishing zone: 25 nautical miles
- Continental shelf: 200-meter depth or to the depth of exploitation
7. Climate
Malta has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The average temperatures range from around 12°C (54°F) in winter to 30°C (86°F) in summer.
8. Terrain
Malta’s terrain is predominantly low, rocky, flat to dissected plains with a distinct lack of dramatic relief. The highest point is the Ta’ Zuta peak, at 253 meters (830 feet) above sea level.
9. Elevation Extremes
- Lowest point: Mediterranean Sea (0 m)
- Highest point: Ta’ Zuta (253 m)
10. Natural Resources
Malta has limited natural resources, primarily limestone, salt, and arable land.
11. Major Bodies of Water
Malta has no major rivers or lakes. The surrounding Mediterranean Sea is the dominant water body.
12. Natural Hazards
Natural hazards affecting Malta include:
- Occasional earthquakes
- Droughts
13. Geography – Notes
Malta’s strategic location in the Mediterranean has historically contributed to its importance. The country’s small size and high population density have led to environmental challenges, such as limited freshwater resources and waste management issues.
- Forest Area (% of land area): 1.10%. This is the percentage of a country’s total land area that is covered by natural or planted forests.
- Co2 Emissions: 1,342. 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( %). 32.40%. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
- Geographic Coordinates: 35.93749614.375416.
- Capital: The capital of Malta is Valletta
- Major Cities:
- Valletta – Population: 6,444
- Birkirkara – Population: 22,319
- Mosta – Population: 20,241
- Pieta – Population: 4,980
- Qormi – Population: 16,576
- Population: 502,653
- Area(Km2): 316
- Population Density( P/Km²):1387. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
- Calling Code:356
- Official Language(s):Malta is Maltese with 88% and English with 66%.
- Currency: EUR
Main Economic Indicators
Malta has a small, open economy relying heavily on trade, tourism, and manufacturing. The economy is service-based, with services accounting for over 75% of GDP. Key economic challenges include managing labor shortages, sustaining economic growth, and increasing productivity. Notable policies aim to attract foreign investment and diversify the economy.
Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 0.8% (2019), 1.6% (2018 est.)
Source: CIA World Factbook
Credit Ratings
Fitch: A+ (Stable)
Moody’s: A2 (Stable)
Standard & Poor’s: A- (Positive)
GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin
Agriculture: 0.9%
Industry: 14.1%
Services: 85%
Key Agricultural and Industrial Products
Agricultural Products: Potatoes, cauliflower, grapes, wheat, tomatoes, melons, vegetables, pork, milk, poultry
Industrial Products: Tourism services, machinery and mechanical appliances, printed material, semiconductors, pharmaceutical products
Labor Force
Total labor force: 229,600 (2020 est.)
Ranked 165th in the world
Current Account Balance
Current account balance: $1.08 billion (2019 est.)
Ranked 46th in the world
Exports and Imports
Exports: $16.86 billion (2019 est.)
Key partners: Germany, France, Italy, Singapore
Main exports: Machinery and transport equipment, miscellaneous manufactured articles, chemicals
Imports: $19.21 billion (2019 est.)
Key partners: Italy, Germany, United Kingdom, France
Main imports: Machinery and transport equipment, mineral fuels and oils, miscellaneous manufactured articles
Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold: $857.2 million (31 December 2019 est.)
- GDP (Current US$):$14,786,156,563. 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): 26.20%. 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): 44.00%. 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. $1.36. 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. $5.07. 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 (%): 3.47%. 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 – Maltese, adjective – Maltese
2. Ethnic Groups
- Maltese (including persons of mixed Maltese and other nationalities) – 92.1%
- Britons – 3%
- Other nationalities – 4.9%
3. Religions
- Catholic (official) – 91.2%
- Other Christian – 2.9%
- Muslim – 3.3%
- Other/None – 2.6%
4. Age Structure
- 0-14 years – 14.09%
- 15-64 years – 66.07%
- 65 years and over – 19.84%
5. Dependency Ratios
Total dependency ratio: 51.4
Youth dependency ratio: 20.8
Elderly dependency ratio: 30.6
6. Median Age
Total median age: 42.8 years
Male median age: 41.6 years
Female median age: 44.1 years
7. Lifestyle Indicators
- Obesity rate: 28.9% of the adult population
- Alcohol consumption: 8.1 liters of pure alcohol per capita per year
- Tobacco use: 21.3% of adults smoke tobacco
- Life Expectancy at Birth: 82.3. 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): 92.4%. 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:9.2. 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:8. 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: 1.23. 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): 65.5%. 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: 475,902. 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):37.10%. 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 Armed Forces of Malta consist of a maritime squadron and a small territorial force:
- Maritime Squadron: Responsible for maritime security and border control, it operates patrol boats and auxiliary craft.
- Territorial Force: A small ground force focused on internal security, ceremonial duties, and support roles.
The Malta Police Force is responsible for law enforcement and public safety throughout the country.
Military Expenditures
Malta’s military spending as a percentage of GDP for the last 5 years:
- 2022: 0.6%
- 2021: 0.5%
- 2020: 0.6%
- 2019: 0.5%
- 2018: 0.5%
Malta’s military spending ranks among the lowest globally, reflecting its small defense forces.
Personnel Strengths
Malta has approximately 1,950 active military personnel:
- Maritime Squadron: 1,200 personnel
- Territorial Force: 750 personnel
The Malta Police Force has a strength of around 2,100 officers.
Military Equipment Inventories and Acquisitions
Malta’s military equipment is primarily focused on maritime patrol and coastal defense capabilities, including patrol boats, interceptor craft, and small arms.
There are no significant ongoing or future military acquisition programs due to the country’s limited defense requirements.
Military Service Age and Obligation
Military service in Malta is voluntary. The enlistment age range is 18-30 years old for both men and women.
Military Deployments
Malta does not currently have any active overseas military deployments.
The country contributes a small contingent of personnel to United Nations peacekeeping operations as part of its international commitments.
Strategic Military Notes
As a small island nation, Malta’s defense strategy focuses on territorial integrity, maritime security, and border control.
The Armed Forces of Malta play a supportive role in regional security efforts, primarily through maritime patrol and rescue operations in the Mediterranean.
Malta is a member of the European Union and participates in various defense and security initiatives, while remaining a militarily neutral country.
- 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 2.86
- Population: Labor Force Participation (%): 56.50%. 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.