World Happiness Report for Syria 2024
- Overall Happiness Rank Syria: na
- Happiness Score Syria: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:
- 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 Syria. SY.
Syria is a country in the Middle East with a political structure that is currently a one-party dominant state. Notable cultural aspects include its rich history, diverse ethnic groups, and the influence of Arabic and Mediterranean cultures. The country also has economic significance due to its strategic location and natural resources.
- Syria is home to some of the world’s oldest cities, with Damascus being continuously inhabited for over 11,000 years.
- The country has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, including ancient ruins, historic mosques, and traditional music and dance forms.
- Syria has faced ongoing conflict and civil war, leading to significant refugee displacement and humanitarian crises.
Syria – Overview
Early History
Syria has been inhabited since the Paleolithic era, and its strategic location at the crossroads of the ancient world made it a prime target for various civilizations and empires. The region was home to some of the earliest settled communities, such as Ebla and Mari, which emerged around 3000 BCE. Later, the Phoenicians established thriving coastal cities like Tyre and Sidon, known for their maritime trade and seafaring prowess.
Kingdoms and Empires
Over the centuries, Syria has been ruled by a succession of powerful kingdoms and empires, including the Arameans, Persians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Arabs. Notably, the region was part of the vast Islamic caliphates, including the Umayyad and Abbasid empires, which left a lasting cultural and architectural legacy.
Colonial Period
After the collapse of the Ottoman Empire in World War I, Syria came under French colonial rule as part of the French Mandate for Syria and Lebanon. The French administration faced significant resistance from Syrian nationalists, culminating in the Great Syrian Revolt of 1925-1927.
Independence and Modern Era
Syria gained independence in 1946 but experienced political instability and coups until the Ba’ath Party seized power in 1963. Hafez al-Assad took control in 1970 and ruled with an iron fist until his death in 2000, when his son Bashar al-Assad succeeded him. The country has been embroiled in a devastating civil war since 2011, with various internal and external forces vying for control.
Current Political Situation
Syria is a semi-presidential republic led by President Bashar al-Assad and the Ba’ath Party. The ongoing civil war has displaced millions of Syrians and caused immense destruction, with the government and various rebel groups engaged in a complex conflict that has drawn in regional and international powers.
International Relations
Syria has faced international isolation due to its involvement in the civil war and allegations of human rights abuses. The country maintains close ties with Russia and Iran, who have provided military support to the Assad regime. Its relations with neighboring countries, particularly Turkey and Israel, have been strained due to territorial disputes and conflicts.
Human Development and Economy
The Syrian economy has been crippled by the civil war, with a significant decline in GDP and widespread poverty. Agriculture and oil were once major industries, but the conflict has disrupted these sectors. The country has struggled with low human development indicators, including high rates of poverty, unemployment, and limited access to healthcare and education.
Cultural Highlights
Syria has a rich cultural heritage, influenced by its ancient history and diverse ethnic and religious communities. Arabic is the official language, and the majority of Syrians are Sunni Muslims, with significant Christian and other minority populations. Syria is known for its ancient cities like Damascus and Aleppo, as well as its Umayyad mosques and Roman ruins.
Challenges and Opportunities
The primary challenge facing Syria is the resolution of the ongoing civil war, which has caused immense human suffering and devastation. Restoring stability, rebuilding infrastructure, and addressing the humanitarian crisis are crucial priorities. However, the country’s strategic location and potential for economic recovery, if peace is achieved, present opportunities for growth and development.
Travel Tips for Syria
Best Times to Visit: Due to the ongoing civil conflict, Syria is currently an extremely dangerous destination for tourists. Any travel to the country should be avoided until the situation stabilizes and safety can be guaranteed.
Cultural Etiquette: In more peaceful times, visitors should respect local customs, such as modest dress and avoiding public displays of affection. It’s advisable to learn basic Arabic phrases and be mindful of religious practices during Ramadan.
Safety Precautions: Exercise extreme caution and closely monitor travel advisories. Avoid demonstrations, crowded areas, and regions with active conflict. Seek professional guidance and ensure proper documentation and insurance.
Must-See Landmarks: When conditions allow, Syria boasts incredible historical sites like the ancient city of Damascus, the Krak des Chevaliers crusader castle, and the Roman ruins of Palmyra.
Culinary Experiences: Syrian cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and diverse influences. Traditional dishes like falafel, shawarma, and baklava are delicious treats to sample.
Living in Syria
Cost of Living: Before the civil war, the cost of living in Syria was relatively low. However, the conflict has caused significant economic disruption and inflation, making it challenging to estimate current living costs accurately.
Housing: Housing options range from apartments in urban areas to traditional courtyard houses in older cities. However, many residential areas have been damaged or destroyed during the conflict.
Healthcare: Syria had a decent public healthcare system before the war, but the infrastructure has been severely compromised, and access to medical care is limited in many areas.
Education: Education was once a priority, with free public schooling and various universities. However, the conflict has disrupted the education system, leading to school closures and displacement of students and staff.
Cultural Norms: Syrian society is deeply rooted in Arab and Islamic traditions, with a strong emphasis on family, hospitality, and respect for elders. Understanding and respecting local customs is essential for new residents.
Legal Requirements: Foreigners planning to live in Syria would need to obtain the appropriate visas and residency permits, which may be challenging in the current situation. It’s crucial to follow legal procedures and seek professional advice.
Doing Business in Syria
Business Culture: Syrian business culture values personal relationships and face-to-face interactions. Building trust and networking are essential for successful business dealings.
Economic Climate: Before the civil war, Syria had a centrally-planned economy that was gradually opening to market reforms. However, the conflict has devastated the economy, with widespread destruction of infrastructure and disruptions to trade and investment.
Key Industries: Prior to the war, major industries included agriculture, oil, textiles, and tourism. Rebuilding these sectors will be crucial for economic recovery once stability returns.
Legal Frameworks: Syria has laws and regulations governing business operations, but the implementation and enforcement of these laws have been severely impacted by the conflict.
Negotiation Strategies: In Syrian business culture, negotiations tend to be indirect and may involve extended discussions before reaching agreements. Building personal connections and demonstrating patience are essential.
Building Local Relationships: Networking and cultivating relationships with local partners, government officials, and business associations can be beneficial for navigating the complexities of the Syrian business environment.
Studying in Syria
Educational System: Syria had a well-established education system before the conflict, with free public schooling and universities offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
Top Universities: Renowned institutions include the University of Damascus, Aleppo University, and the Arab International University, among others. However, many universities have been impacted by the war.
Student Life: Campus life in Syria was once vibrant, with student organizations, cultural events, and active social scenes. However, the conflict has disrupted these activities, and student safety remains a major concern.
Visa Requirements: International students would typically need to obtain a student visa and meet specific admission requirements. However, the current situation may have impacted visa processes and availability of programs.
Opportunities for International Students: Before the war, Syria offered opportunities for international students to study Arabic, history, and culture. The country also attracted medical students due to its well-regarded medical education programs.
It’s important to note that the ongoing civil conflict has severely disrupted the education system in Syria, and any plans to study in the country should be carefully evaluated based on the latest security situation and availability of programs.
Main facts
1. Location
Syria is located in the Middle East, at the eastern end of the Mediterranean Sea. It borders Turkey to the north, Iraq to the east and southeast, Jordan to the south, Israel and Lebanon to the southwest.
2. Map References
Syria is situated in Western Asia, forming part of the Levant region.
3. Area – Comparative
With an area of 185,180 sq km, Syria is slightly larger than the U.S. state of North Dakota.
4. Land Boundaries and Border Countries
Syria has a total land boundary length of 2,253 km, shared with the following countries:
5. Coastline
Syria has a coastline of 193 km along the Mediterranean Sea.
6. Maritime Claims
Syria claims the following maritime zones:
- Territorial sea: 12 nautical miles
- Contiguous zone: 24 nautical miles
- Exclusive economic zone: 200 nautical miles
7. Climate
Syria has a predominantly Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters along the coast. The interior regions experience a continental climate with greater temperature extremes.
8. Terrain
Syria’s terrain is primarily semi-arid and desert plateau, with a few mountain ranges and valleys. Notable features include the Jabal al-Nusayriyah mountain range along the Mediterranean coast, the Euphrates River valley in the east, and the Jabal al-Arab desert in the southeast.
9. Elevation Extremes
The highest point in Syria is Mount Hermon at 2,814 meters, located in the Anti-Lebanon Mountains near the border with Lebanon. The lowest point is the Mediterranean Sea at 0 meters.
10. Natural Resources
Syria’s major natural resources include:
- Petroleum
- Phosphates
- Chromium and manganese ores
- Natural gas
- Rock salt
11. Major Bodies of Water
The most significant water bodies in Syria are:
- Euphrates River (shared with Turkey, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia)
- Orontes River (shared with Lebanon and Turkey)
- Lake Assad (formed by the Euphrates River)
- Mediterranean Sea
12. Natural Hazards
Some of the major natural hazards affecting Syria include:
- Dust storms
- Sandstorms
- Earthquakes (along the Dead Sea Fault)
- Droughts
- Periodic flooding
13. Geography – Notes
Syria’s strategic location at the crossroads of the Mediterranean Sea, Asia, and Africa has been a significant factor in its history and conflicts. The country’s diverse terrain and climatic conditions have supported various agricultural and economic activities, while its limited water resources have posed challenges.
- Forest Area (% of land area): 2.70%. This is the percentage of a country’s total land area that is covered by natural or planted forests.
- Co2 Emissions: 28,83. 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( %). 75.80%. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
- Geographic Coordinates: 34.80207538.996815.
- Capital: The capital of Syria is Damascus
- Major Cities:
- Damascus: Population 2,079,000
- Aleppo: Population 1,602,264
- Homs: Population 775,404
- Latakia: Population 383,786
- Population: 17,070,135
- Area(Km2): 185180
- Population Density( P/Km²):95. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
- Calling Code:963
- Official Language(s):Syria is Arabic 90.3% and Kurdish 8.1% spoken.
- Currency: SYP
Main Economic Indicators
Syria’s economy has been severely impacted by years of ongoing conflict, resulting in significant damage to infrastructure, disruptions to trade and production, and a drastic decline in economic activity. The economy is heavily dependent on the services sector, particularly government services, while industry and agriculture have been hampered by violence and displacement. Key economic challenges include widespread poverty, high unemployment, and a lack of investment and reconstruction efforts.
Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)
2021: N/A (Source: IMF)
2020: N/A (Source: IMF)
Note: Reliable data on inflation rates is currently unavailable due to the ongoing conflict and economic disruptions in Syria.
Credit Ratings
Fitch: N/A
Moody’s: N/A
Standard & Poor’s: N/A
GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin
Agriculture: N/A
Industry: N/A
Services: N/A
Note: Accurate data on the composition of GDP by sector is currently unavailable due to the ongoing conflict and economic disruptions in Syria.
Key Agricultural and Industrial Products
Agricultural Products: Wheat, barley, cotton, lentils, chickpeas, olives, sugar beets
Industrial Products: Petroleum, textiles, food processing, beverages, tobacco, phosphate rock mining, cement, oil seeds, crushing
Labor Force
Total Labor Force: N/A
Note: Reliable data on the total labor force is currently unavailable due to the ongoing conflict and economic disruptions in Syria.
Current Account Balance
2021: N/A (Source: IMF)
2020: N/A (Source: IMF)
Note: Accurate data on the current account balance is currently unavailable due to the ongoing conflict and economic disruptions in Syria.
Exports and Imports
Exports (2020): N/A
Imports (2020): N/A
Note: Reliable data on exports and imports is currently unavailable due to the ongoing conflict and economic disruptions in Syria.
Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold
Foreign Exchange Reserves (2021): N/A (Source: IMF)
Gold Reserves (2021): N/A (Source: IMF)
Note: Accurate data on foreign exchange and gold reserves is currently unavailable due to the ongoing conflict and economic disruptions in Syria.
- GDP (Current US$):$40,405,006,007. 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): 14.20%. 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): 42.70%. 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. $0.83. 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. $1.02. 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 (%): 8.37%. 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 – Syrian(s), adjective – Syrian
2. Ethnic Groups
- Arab 90.3%
- Kurds, Armenians, and other 9.7%
3. Religions
- Muslim 87% (Sunni 74%, Alawi, Ismaili, and Shia 13%)
- Christian 10% (Arab Orthodox 8.7%, Arab Catholic 1.3%)
- Druze 3%
4. Age Structure
- 0-14 years: 33.86%
- 15-64 years: 62.19%
- 65 years and over: 3.95%
5. Dependency Ratios
Total dependency ratio: 60.4
Youth dependency ratio: 54.4
Elderly dependency ratio: 6
6. Median Age
Total: 24.1 years
Male: 23.6 years
Female: 24.6 years
7. Lifestyle Indicators
- Obesity rate: 27.8% of the population
- Alcohol consumption: 0.6 liters of pure alcohol per capita per year
- Tobacco use: 26.5% of adults smoke tobacco
- Life Expectancy at Birth: 71.8. 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): 86.4%. 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:23.69. 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:5. 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: 2.81. 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): 29.3%. 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: 9,358,019. 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):53.70%. 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
Syria’s military and security forces consist of the Syrian Arab Army, Syrian Arab Air Force, Syrian Arab Navy, and Air Defense Force. The Army is the largest branch, with elite units like the Republican Guard and 4th Armored Division. The National Defense Force, a pro-government militia, supports the military in operations. The General Intelligence Directorate and other intelligence agencies play a significant role in internal security.
Military Expenditures
Syria’s military spending as a percentage of GDP for the last five years:
- 2018: 3.4%
- 2017: 3.9%
- 2016: 5.0%
- 2015: 5.9%
- 2014: 5.4%
Syria ranks moderately high globally in terms of military spending as a percentage of GDP.
Personnel Strengths
Syria has approximately 142,000 active-duty military personnel, with the following breakdown:
- Army: 105,000
- Air Force: 27,000
- Navy: 7,000
- Air Defense Force: 3,000
The National Defense Force and other security services have an estimated strength of around 100,000 personnel.
Military Equipment Inventories and Acquisitions
Syria’s military hardware includes Soviet and Russian-made equipment like T-72 and T-62 main battle tanks, BMP-1 infantry fighting vehicles, and MiG-29 and Su-24 fighter jets. The country also operates domestically produced weapons and equipment. Significant acquisitions in recent years include Iranian and Russian air defense systems.
Military Service Age and Obligation
Mandatory military service: All Syrian men aged 18-42 are subject to compulsory military service for 18-24 months.
Voluntary service: Individuals can volunteer for service in the Syrian Arab Army or other security forces.
Military Deployments
Syria has deployed forces in support of Russian military operations in the country. It also maintains a small military presence in Lebanon and has previously sent troops to support allied forces in neighboring countries.
Strategic Military Notes
Syria’s defense strategy focuses on deterring external threats, particularly from Israel, and maintaining internal security. The military plays a central role in supporting the government and is heavily involved in the ongoing civil conflict. Syria has close military ties with Russia and Iran, which provide significant military assistance and cooperation.
- Armed Forces Size: 170000. 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 1.22
- Population: Labor Force Participation (%): 44.10%. 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.