World Happiness Report for State of Palestine 2024
- Overall Happiness Rank State of Palestine: 103
- Happiness Score State of Palestine:4.879
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 State of Palestine. PS.
State of Palestine is
- It has a semi-presidential political structure
- It has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its historical sites
- It faces ongoing economic challenges and relies heavily on international aid
State of Palestine – A Comprehensive Overview
Early History: The land of Palestine has been inhabited since ancient times, with settlements dating back to the Paleolithic period. It was the birthplace of several ancient civilizations, including the Canaanites, Philistines, and Israelites. The region has been a crossroads for major trade routes and has witnessed the rise and fall of various empires and kingdoms.
Kingdoms and Empires: The territory was ruled by the Israelites, who established the united Kingdom of Israel and Judah around the 11th century BCE. The region later came under the control of the Assyrian, Babylonian, Persian, Greek, and Roman empires. In the 7th century CE, the area was conquered by Arab Muslim forces, and it remained under Islamic rule for centuries.
Colonial Period: In the late 19th century, the Ottoman Empire began losing control over the region, leading to increased European influence. After World War I, the League of Nations granted Britain a mandate over Palestine, setting the stage for the future conflict between Arab and Jewish nationalist movements.
Independence and Modern Era: After World War II, the United Nations proposed the partition of Palestine into separate Arab and Jewish states. This led to the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948 and the subsequent Arab-Israeli conflict. The West Bank and Gaza Strip came under Jordanian and Egyptian control, respectively, until they were occupied by Israel in the 1967 Six-Day War. Since then, the Palestinian territories have been at the center of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with various peace efforts and negotiations aimed at resolving the issue.
Current Political Situation: The Palestinian National Authority (PNA) was established in 1994 as a result of the Oslo Accords, providing limited self-governance in parts of the West Bank and Gaza Strip. However, the conflict with Israel and internal divisions between Fatah and Hamas have complicated the path to a sovereign Palestinian state. Mahmoud Abbas is the current President of the PNA, while Hamas governs the Gaza Strip.
International Relations: The Palestinian cause has garnered widespread international support, with many countries recognizing the PNA as the legitimate representative of the Palestinian people. However, the conflict with Israel and internal divisions have strained relations with some countries. The PNA continues to seek international recognition and support for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.
Human Development and Economy: The Palestinian territories face significant economic challenges due to the ongoing conflict, restricted movement, and limited access to resources. The economy relies heavily on international aid and remittances, with major sectors including agriculture, services, and small-scale industries. Human development indicators, such as education and healthcare, have been impacted by the conflict and occupation.
Cultural Highlights: Palestinian culture is deeply rooted in the Arab and Islamic traditions, with influences from various civilizations that have ruled the region. Arabic is the official language, and Islam is the predominant religion, although there are Christian and other minority communities. Palestinian art, literature, music, and cuisine have made significant contributions to the broader Arab and Middle Eastern culture.
Challenges and Opportunities: The primary challenge for the Palestinian people remains the ongoing conflict with Israel and the lack of a sovereign state. Resolving the conflict, achieving self-determination, and addressing issues such as refugees, borders, and the status of Jerusalem are crucial for a lasting peace and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. Economic development, improving living conditions, and addressing internal divisions are also key priorities.
Travel Tips for State of Palestine
• Best Times to Visit: Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) offer milder weather and fewer crowds.
• Cultural Etiquette: Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Respect local customs and avoid public displays of affection.
• Safety Precautions: Check travel advisories and avoid areas of conflict or tension. Be cautious and vigilant, especially in crowded areas.
• Must-See Landmarks: Visit the Old City of Jerusalem, the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, and the ancient city of Jericho.
• Culinary Experiences: Try traditional Palestinian dishes like falafel, hummus, and knafeh.
Living in State of Palestine
• Cost of Living: The cost of living in the Palestinian territories varies, but it is generally lower than in neighboring countries.
• Housing: Options range from apartments in urban areas to houses in rural areas. Finding suitable housing can be challenging due to limited availability.
• Healthcare: The healthcare system faces challenges due to limited resources and the ongoing conflict. Private healthcare facilities are available but expensive.
• Education: The education system is divided between the West Bank and Gaza Strip, with public and private schools available. Higher education institutions are present, but resources are limited.
• Cultural Norms: Respect local customs, dress modestly, and be mindful of religious and cultural sensitivities.
• Legal Requirements: Entry and residency requirements vary depending on the area and nationality. Consult with the relevant authorities.
Doing Business in State of Palestine
• Business Culture: Personal relationships and trust are highly valued in business dealings. Face-to-face meetings and networking are important.
• Economic Climate: The Palestinian economy faces significant challenges due to the ongoing conflict, restricted movement, and limited access to resources.
• Key Industries: Agriculture, services, small-scale industries, construction, and information technology.
• Legal Frameworks: The legal framework for businesses varies between the West Bank and Gaza Strip. Consult with local experts and authorities.
• Negotiation Strategies: Be patient, build trust, and respect local customs. Avoid confrontational approaches and maintain a flexible mindset.
• Building Relationships: Developing personal connections and maintaining good relationships are crucial for successful business ventures.
Studying in State of Palestine
• Educational System: The Palestinian education system is divided between the West Bank and Gaza Strip, with public and private institutions available.
• Top Universities: Birzeit University, An-Najah National University, and the Islamic University of Gaza are among the leading universities.
• Student Life: Student life can be challenging due to the ongoing conflict and restrictions on movement. Campus activities and events are available.
• Visa Requirements: International students may require a student visa, depending on their nationality and the duration of their studies.
• Opportunities for International Students: Limited opportunities exist, with some universities offering programs for international students. However, resources and opportunities may be limited due to the ongoing conflict.
Main facts
1. Location
The State of Palestine is located in the Middle East, situated at the crossroads of the Mediterranean Sea and the Arabian Desert. It is bordered by Israel to the north, west, and south, and by Jordan to the east. The Gaza Strip, a narrow coastal strip along the Mediterranean Sea, and the West Bank, an inland region bordering Israel and Jordan, make up the two geographically separated territories that constitute the State of Palestine.
2. Map References
The State of Palestine is located in the Middle East region, specifically in the Levant area.
3. Area – Comparative
The total area of the State of Palestine is approximately 6,020 sq km, which is slightly smaller than the U.S. state of Delaware.
4. Land Boundaries and Border Countries
The State of Palestine has land boundaries with the following countries:
5. Coastline
The Gaza Strip has a coastline of 40 km along the Mediterranean Sea.
6. Maritime Claims
Due to its unique territorial situation, the State of Palestine has no official maritime claims.
7. Climate
The climate of the State of Palestine is predominantly Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. The coastal areas experience a more temperate climate, while the inland regions are generally drier and experience greater temperature extremes.
8. Terrain
The terrain of the State of Palestine is predominantly hilly and mountainous, with the West Bank dominated by the Judean Hills and the Gaza Strip featuring a coastal plain. The Jordan River Valley and the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth, are also notable features.
9. Elevation Extremes
The highest point in the State of Palestine is Tall Asur (Jebel Asur) at 1,022 m above sea level, located in the West Bank. The lowest point is the Dead Sea, at approximately 430 m below sea level.
10. Natural Resources
The State of Palestine has limited natural resources, primarily including:
- Arable land
- Natural gas
- Quarries (stone, lime, and construction materials)
11. Major Bodies of Water
The most significant bodies of water in the State of Palestine are:
- The Mediterranean Sea (coastal area)
- The Dead Sea (shared with Israel and Jordan)
- The Jordan River (shared with Israel, Jordan, and Syria)
12. Natural Hazards
The State of Palestine is prone to the following natural hazards:
- Droughts
- Earthquakes
13. Geography – Notes
The geography of the State of Palestine is heavily influenced by its complex political situation and ongoing territorial disputes with Israel. The lack of sovereignty over its full claimed territory, including the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, presents significant challenges in terms of resource management, environmental protection, and territorial control.
- Forest Area (% of land area): . This is the percentage of a country’s total land area that is covered by natural or planted forests.
- Co2 Emissions: . 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( %). na. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
- Geographic Coordinates: 31.95216235.233154.
- Capital: The capital of State of Palestine is East Jerusalem
- Major Cities:
City Population Gaza City 590,481 Hebron 215,452 Nablus 206,826 Ramallah 57,132 Bethlehem 25,266 - Population: 5,484,179
- Area(Km2): 6025
- Population Density( P/Km²):847. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
- Calling Code:
- Official Language(s):Arabic, with over 90% of the population speaking it as their primary language.
- Currency:
Main Economic Indicators
The State of Palestine has a small, struggling economy that has been severely impacted by ongoing political instability and Israeli occupation. With limited natural resources and restricted access to land, water, and mobility, the Palestinian economy heavily relies on foreign aid and remittances from the Palestinian diaspora. Economic growth has been hindered by high unemployment, declining foreign aid, and trade restrictions imposed by Israel. Notable economic policies include efforts to attract foreign investment, promote private sector development, and reduce reliance on external assistance.
Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)
2021: 1.2% (World Bank estimate)
2020: -0.7% (World Bank estimate)
Credit Ratings
The State of Palestine does not have sovereign credit ratings from major international agencies.
GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin
Agriculture: 3.3%
Industry: 24.1%
Services: 72.6% (2021 estimates, World Bank)
Key Agricultural and Industrial Products
Agricultural Products: Olives, vegetables, fruit, greenhouse crops, sheep, goats
Industrial Products: Textiles, furniture, food processing, stone quarrying
Labor Force
Total Labor Force: 1.383 million (2021 estimate, World Bank)
Comparative Ranking: Not available
Current Account Balance
2021: -$1.776 billion (World Bank estimate)
2020: -$1.346 billion (World Bank estimate)
Comparative Ranking: Not available
Exports and Imports
Exports: $2.032 billion (2021 estimate, World Bank)
Key Partners: Israel, Jordan, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, United States
Main Commodities: Stone, plastics, fruits and vegetables, textiles
Imports: $7.296 billion (2021 estimate, World Bank)
Key Partners: Israel, Turkey, China, Germany, Jordan
Main Commodities: Food, consumer goods, machinery, transportation equipment, fuels
Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold
Foreign Exchange Reserves: $1.035 billion (2021 estimate, World Bank)
Gold Reserves: Not available
- GDP (Current US$):. 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): . 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. . 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
National Identity
Noun: Palestinian(s)
Adjective: Palestinian
Ethnic Groups
Arab 83.7%, Jewish Settlement Population 17.2%, others 0.1% (2018 est.)
Religions
Muslim 97.9% (predominantly Sunni), Jewish 1.9%, Christian 0.2% (2017 est.)
Age Structure
0-14 years: 36.75% (male 1,043,935/female 992,908)
15-64 years: 59.57% (male 1,685,736/female 1,608,895)
65 years and over: 3.68% (male 91,105/female 111,841) (2020 est.)
Dependency Ratios
Total dependency ratio: 66.7
Youth dependency ratio: 61.7
Elderly dependency ratio: 5
(2020 est.)
Median Age
Total: 20.8 years
Male: 20.6 years
Female: 21 years (2020 est.)
Lifestyle Indicators
Obesity rate: 26.8% (2016)
Alcohol consumption: Data not available
Smoking rate: 37.8% (2016)
- Life Expectancy at Birth: . 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): 96.3%. 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:. 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:4. 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: na. 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): 62.5%. 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: . 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
Palestine has no formal military forces. However, it maintains several security services:
- Palestinian National Security Forces – A paramilitary force responsible for internal security in the West Bank.
- Palestinian Preventive Security Service – An intelligence and security agency operating in the West Bank.
- Palestinian Civil Police – The civilian police force responsible for law enforcement in the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
Military Expenditures
As Palestine is not a sovereign state, it does not have an independent military budget. Security expenditures are funded through international aid and the Palestinian Authority’s budget.
Personnel Strengths
The Palestinian National Security Forces are estimated to have around 30,000 personnel, while the Palestinian Civil Police has approximately 8,000 officers.
Military Equipment Inventories and Acquisitions
Palestine does not have a formal military and does not produce or acquire major military hardware. The security forces are primarily equipped with small arms and light weapons.
Military Service Age and Obligation
There is no mandatory military service in Palestine. The security forces are staffed through voluntary enlistment.
Military Deployments
Palestine does not have any overseas military deployments. The Palestinian security forces operate within the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
Strategic Military Notes
Palestine does not have a formal military strategy or defense policy due to its ongoing conflict with Israel and lack of statehood. The Palestinian security forces primarily focus on maintaining internal security and cooperating with Israeli authorities on security matters in the West Bank.
Note
This profile is based on the current situation in Palestine, which is a non-sovereign entity with limited security capabilities. The status and structure of Palestinian security forces may change depending on future political developments and potential statehood.
- 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 2.2
- 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.