San Marino: general information about country, happiness index 2024

World Happiness Report for San Marino 2024

  • Overall Happiness Rank San Marino: na
  • Happiness Score San Marino: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 San Marino. SM.

    San Marino is a small landlocked country surrounded by Italy. It is known for having the oldest surviving sovereign state and constitutional republic in the world. The country has a unique political structure with a democratic government and is known for its picturesque landscapes and medieval architecture.

  • San Marino is one of the smallest countries in the world, with a total land area of only 23.6 square miles.
  • It is also one of the wealthiest countries in the world in terms of GDP per capita.
  • The country has a unique military structure, with the military being primarily ceremonial and consisting of the Crossbow Corps.
  • San Marino – A Comprehensive Overview

    Early History and Ancient Civilizations

    The territory of San Marino has been inhabited since the Neolithic period, with evidence of human settlements dating back to the 6th century BC. The region was later occupied by the Etruscans and subsequently conquered by the Romans in the 4th century BC.

    Medieval Kingdoms and the Birth of San Marino

    After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, San Marino became part of the Byzantine Exarchate of Ravenna. In the 9th century, a Christian stonemason named Marinus founded a small community on Mount Titano, seeking refuge from religious persecution. This community formed the foundation of the Republic of San Marino, one of the oldest constitutional republics in the world.

    Independence and the Modern Era

    San Marino has maintained its independence and sovereignty through centuries of upheaval, navigating through conflicts and alliances with neighboring powers. The country adopted a written constitution in 1600, further solidifying its republican system of governance. Despite its small size, San Marino has remained a resilient and stable nation, preserving its unique identity and traditions.

    Current Political Situation

    San Marino is a parliamentary democratic republic with a multi-party system. The legislative power is vested in the Grand and General Council, while the executive power is exercised by the Congress of State, headed by two Captains Regent elected every six months. The country has maintained a stable political environment, with a strong emphasis on democratic principles and civil liberties.

    International Relations

    San Marino has friendly relations with neighboring Italy and other European nations. It is a member of various international organizations, including the United Nations, the Council of Europe, and the World Tourism Organization. The country has no standing military and relies on its long-standing policy of neutrality and diplomatic relations to maintain peace and stability.

    Human Development and Economy

    San Marino has a highly developed economy, primarily based on tourism, banking, and the manufacturing of ceramics, furniture, and electronics. The country has a high standard of living, with excellent healthcare and education systems. San Marino’s economy is closely tied to its relationship with Italy and the European Union.

    Cultural Highlights

    San Marino boasts a rich cultural heritage, blending medieval architecture with modern amenities. The historic center of San Marino City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features iconic landmarks like the Three Towers and the Basilica of San Marino. The country’s cuisine is heavily influenced by Italian traditions, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and artisanal products.

    Challenges and Opportunities

    While San Marino has maintained its sovereignty and stability, it faces challenges related to its small size and limited resources. Maintaining economic growth, preserving its cultural identity, and adapting to global trends are ongoing priorities for this micronation. However, San Marino’s unique history, traditions, and commitment to democracy continue to provide opportunities for sustainable development and international cooperation.

    Travel Tips for San Marino

    Best Time to Visit: The best months to visit San Marino are from April to October, when the weather is mild and pleasant, allowing visitors to fully explore the historic city and its surroundings.

    Cultural Etiquette: San Marino has a conservative culture, and visitors should dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Respect local customs and traditions, and be mindful of noise levels in public areas.

    Safety Precautions: San Marino is generally a safe destination, but visitors should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night.

    Must-See Landmarks:
    – The Three Towers (Guaita, Cesta, and Montale)
    – Basilica of San Marino
    – Palazzo Pubblico
    – Piazza della Libertà
    – State Museum

    Culinary Experiences: Sample traditional San Marinese dishes such as piadina (flatbread), pasta e fagioli (pasta and bean stew), and the locally produced San Marino wines.

    Living in San Marino

    Cost of Living: San Marino has a relatively high cost of living, comparable to neighboring regions in Italy. Housing, utilities, and transportation can be expensive, but the country offers a high quality of life.

    Housing: Finding suitable housing in San Marino can be challenging due to the country’s small size and limited real estate market. Apartments or houses may be more readily available in surrounding Italian towns.

    Healthcare: San Marino has a well-established public healthcare system, providing universal coverage to residents. Private healthcare facilities are also available.

    Education: The education system in San Marino is highly regarded, with public and private schools offering education from primary to secondary levels. The University of San Marino offers higher education programs.

    Lifestyle: San Marino offers a peaceful and relaxed lifestyle, with a strong emphasis on tradition and community. Outdoor activities, cultural events, and a vibrant social scene contribute to a well-rounded quality of life.

    Legal Requirements: To become a resident of San Marino, individuals must meet specific requirements, such as securing employment or establishing a business in the country. Obtaining a residency permit and complying with local laws and regulations is necessary.

    Doing Business in San Marino

    Business Culture: San Marino’s business culture is heavily influenced by Italian traditions, emphasizing personal relationships, punctuality, and formal attire in professional settings.

    Economic Climate: San Marino has a stable and diversified economy, with key industries including banking, tourism, and manufacturing. The country offers a favorable tax environment and a skilled workforce.

    Key Industries: Banking and finance, tourism, manufacturing (ceramics, furniture, electronics), and agriculture are among the most prominent industries in San Marino.

    Legal Framework: San Marino has a well-established legal framework for businesses, with regulations governing company formation, taxation, and labor laws. Understanding local laws and seeking professional advice is recommended.

    Negotiation and Relationships: Building strong personal relationships and cultivating trust are crucial for successful business negotiations in San Marino. Patience and persistence are valued qualities in the business culture.

    Studying in San Marino

    Educational System: San Marino’s education system is divided into primary, secondary, and higher education levels. The University of San Marino offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

    Top Universities: The University of San Marino is the country’s leading institution for higher education, known for its programs in economics, law, and political science.

    Student Life: San Marino offers a vibrant student life, with opportunities for cultural immersion, outdoor activities, and a strong sense of community. Student organizations and events enrich the overall experience.

    Visa Requirements: International students may require a student visa to study in San Marino, depending on their country of origin and the duration of their studies. Early application for visas is recommended.

    Opportunities for International Students: San Marino welcomes international students and offers programs taught in English, Italian, and other languages. Scholarships and financial aid opportunities may be available for qualified students.

Main facts

Location

San Marino is a landlocked country located in Southern Europe, situated entirely within the Italian peninsula. It is an enclaved microstate surrounded by northern Italy, specifically the Emilia-Romagna and Marche regions. San Marino’s central position in the Apennine Mountains is a notable geographic feature.

Map References

San Marino is located in Southern Europe.

Area – Comparative

San Marino has a total area of approximately 61 square kilometers (24 square miles), making it slightly larger than the District of Columbia in the United States.

Land Boundaries and Border Countries

San Marino has a total land boundary length of 39 kilometers (24 miles), sharing its entire border with Italy.

Coastline

San Marino is a landlocked country and does not have a coastline.

Maritime Claims

As a landlocked country, San Marino has no maritime claims.

Climate

San Marino has a Mediterranean continental climate, characterized by warm, dry summers and cool, humid winters. The climate is influenced by the Apennine Mountains and the proximity to the Adriatic Sea.

Terrain

San Marino’s terrain is predominantly hilly and mountainous, with the highest point being the Monte Titano at 749 meters (2,457 feet) above sea level. The landscape features rugged hills and steep slopes, with a few small valleys and plains.

Elevation Extremes

Highest elevation: Monte Titano, 749 meters (2,457 feet)
Lowest elevation: Torrente Ausa, 55 meters (180 feet)

Natural Resources

San Marino has limited natural resources, primarily building stone.

Major Bodies of Water

The main bodies of water in San Marino are several small streams and the Torrente Ausa, a tributary of the Marecchia River, which flows through the country.

Natural Hazards

San Marino is susceptible to occasional earthquakes due to its location in a seismically active region.

Geography – Notes

San Marino is one of the smallest sovereign states in the world, with its territory entirely surrounded by Italy. Its strategic location on the Monte Titano hill and the surrounding mountainous terrain played an important role in the country’s history and independence.

  • Forest Area (% of land area): 0.00%. 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( %). 16.70%. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
  • Geographic Coordinates:  43.9423612.457777.
  • Capital: The capital of San Marino is  City of San Marino
  • Major Cities:
    • City Name: San Marino
    • Population: 4,044
  • Population: 33,86
  • Area(Km2): 61
  • Population Density( P/Km²):566. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
  • Calling Code:378
  • Official Language(s):Italian is the primary language spoken in San Marino, spoken by 92% of the population.
  • Currency: EUR

Main Economic Indicators

San Marino has a prosperous, service-based economy with no direct taxation, low inflation, an exceptionally low unemployment rate, and a budget surplus. The country’s economic policies emphasize the expansion of export-oriented industries and the development of new high-value-added activities. Key challenges include maintaining labor force growth, diversifying the economic base, and streamlining government bureaucracy.

Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)

1.03% (2022 estimate)
1.29% (2021)
Source: CIA World Factbook

Credit Ratings

Fitch: AA- (Stable)
Moody’s: Aa3 (Stable)
Standard & Poor’s: AA+ (Stable)

GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin

Agriculture: 0.1%
Industry: 37.1%
Services: 62.8%

Key Agricultural and Industrial Products

Agricultural Products: wheat, grapes, corn, olives, cattle, pigs, horses, beef, cheese, hides

Industrial Products: tourism, textiles, electronics, ceramics, cement, wine

Labor Force

Total Labor Force: 20,850 (2014 estimate)
Ranking: N/A

Current Account Balance

$-89.03 million (2017 estimate)
Ranking: N/A

Exports and Imports

Exports: $4.93 billion (2017 estimate)
Key Partners: Italy 82.6%, Greece 2.4% (2017)
Main Commodities: building stone, lime, wood, chestnuts, wheat, wine, textiles, ceramics, pharmaceutical products, furniture, baked goods, hides, ceramics

Imports: $4.97 billion (2017 estimate)
Key Partners: Italy 82.7% (2017)
Main Commodities: wide variety of consumer manufactures, food, energy

Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold

$653.8 million (31 December 2017 estimate)

  • GDP (Current US$):$1,637,931,034. 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): 18.10%. 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): 36.20%. 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. . 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: Sammarinese
Adjective: Sammarinese

2. Ethnic Groups

Sammarinese 97.1%
Italian 1.6%
Others 1.3%

3. Religions

Catholic 97.1%
Other 2.9%

4. Age Structure

0-14 years: 14.68%
15-64 years: 62.91%
65 years and over: 22.41%

5. Dependency Ratios

Total dependency ratio: 57.7
Youth dependency ratio: 22.7
Elderly dependency ratio: 35

6. Median Age

Total: 44.9 years
Male: 43.8 years
Female: 46.1 years

7. Lifestyle Indicators

Adult obesity rate: 26.9%
Alcohol consumption per capita: 8.5 liters
Tobacco use: 21.9%

  • Life Expectancy at Birth: 85.4. 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): 97.2%. 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:6.8. 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: 1.26. 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): 59.6%. 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: 32,969. 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):18.30%. 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

Military: San Marino has a small semi-professional military called the Sammarinese Military Militia. It consists of a single infantry company divided into platoons. The militia is largely ceremonial and has no strategic roles.

Security Forces: San Marino’s internal security is maintained by the Sammarinese Gendarmerie (Corpi Militari di Sammarinesi), which serves as the country’s police force.

Military Expenditures

San Marino’s military expenditures are negligible, accounting for less than 0.1% of its GDP over the last five years. The country has one of the lowest military spending rates globally.

Personnel Strengths

Active-duty Military Personnel: Approximately 50 members in the Sammarinese Military Militia.

Security Services: The Sammarinese Gendarmerie has around 50 personnel.

Military Equipment Inventories and Acquisitions

San Marino’s military inventory is limited to small arms and ceremonial equipment. The country does not produce or acquire significant military hardware.

Military Service Age and Obligation

Military Service: San Marino has no active military conscription or mandatory military service. Membership in the Sammarinese Military Militia is voluntary.

Military Deployments

San Marino has no active military deployments abroad. The country is not involved in any international peacekeeping missions.

Strategic Military Notes

Defense Strategy: As a small, landlocked nation with no standing army, San Marino’s defense strategy is primarily based on maintaining friendly relations with neighboring Italy and avoiding involvement in military conflicts.

International Security Role: San Marino plays a minimal role in international security affairs due to its extremely limited military capabilities. The country is not a member of any major military alliances or partnerships.

  • 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 6.11
  • 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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