World Happiness Report for Yemen 2024
- Overall Happiness Rank Yemen: 133
- Happiness Score Yemen:3.561
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 Yemen. YE.
- Yemen is a country located on the southern tip of the Arabian Peninsula
- known for its rich history and cultural heritage, including the ancient city of Sana’a
- facing ongoing political and humanitarian challenges, including a civil war and food insecurity
Yemen – A Comprehensive Overview
Early History: Yemen is home to one of the oldest civilizations in the world, dating back to the third millennium BCE. The ancient kingdoms of Saba, Qataban, and Hadhramaut flourished in the region, known for their advanced irrigation systems and trade networks stretching across the Arabian Peninsula and beyond.
Kingdoms and Empires: Throughout its history, Yemen has been ruled by various dynasties and empires, including the Himyarites, Ethiopians, Persians, and Ottomans. The Rasulid dynasty, which ruled from the 13th to the 15th century, is particularly notable for its architectural and cultural contributions.
Colonial Period: Yemen was never fully colonized, but parts of the country were under British and Ottoman influence in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The Aden Protectorate, established in 1839, served as a crucial port for the British Empire.
Independence and Modern Era: Yemen gained independence from British colonial rule in 1967, following a prolonged struggle. The country went through turbulent times, including a civil war in the 1990s after the unification of North and South Yemen. Political instability, conflicts, and humanitarian crises have plagued Yemen in recent decades.
Current Political Situation: Yemen is currently embroiled in an ongoing civil war that began in 2014, with various factions vying for control and foreign powers intervening. The internationally recognized government, led by President Abdrabbuh Mansur Hadi, has been engaged in a power struggle with the Houthi rebels, who control parts of the country.
International Relations: Yemen’s international relations have been shaped by the ongoing conflict, with Saudi Arabia and Iran playing significant roles in supporting opposing sides. The country has also faced challenges related to terrorism, with groups like Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) operating within its borders.
Human Development and Economy: Yemen is one of the poorest countries in the Arab world, with high rates of poverty, food insecurity, and limited access to basic services. The economy relies heavily on oil exports, remittances, and foreign aid. However, the ongoing conflict has exacerbated humanitarian crises and hindered economic development.
Cultural Highlights: Yemen has a rich cultural heritage, influenced by its ancient history and diverse ethnic groups. The country is known for its unique architectural styles, including the iconic mudbrick tower houses and the Old City of Sana’a, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Yemen has also contributed to literature, poetry, and traditional arts like pottery and weaving.
Challenges and Opportunities: Yemen faces immense challenges, including political instability, economic hardship, humanitarian crises, and environmental issues such as water scarcity. However, the country also has opportunities for development, peace-building, and harnessing its potential in areas like tourism and renewable energy.
Travel Tips for Yemen
Best Times to Visit: Due to the ongoing conflict and unstable security situation, travel to Yemen is generally not recommended for tourists at this time.
Cultural Etiquette: If traveling to Yemen becomes safer, it is essential to respect local customs, such as dressing modestly and following Islamic traditions, especially during Ramadan.
Safety Precautions: Exercise extreme caution and follow the latest travel advisories from your government regarding Yemen. Avoid areas affected by conflict and follow the guidance of local authorities.
Must-see Landmarks: When conditions improve, potential landmarks to visit include the Old City of Sana’a, the Socotra Archipelago (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and the ancient city of Zabid.
Culinary Experiences: Yemeni cuisine features flavors like hot spices, honey, and herbs. Try dishes like saltah (a meat and vegetable stew), malooga (a pancake-like bread), and traditional coffee.
Living in Yemen
Cost of Living: The cost of living in Yemen is relatively low compared to other countries in the region, but it varies significantly depending on the city and living standards.
Housing: Accommodation options range from traditional houses to modern apartments. Rental prices are generally affordable, but housing quality may vary.
Healthcare: Yemen’s healthcare system has been severely impacted by the ongoing conflict, with limited resources and access to medical facilities, especially in rural areas.
Education: The education system in Yemen faces challenges due to the conflict, with many schools closed or operating in difficult conditions. International schools are available in major cities but may have limited capacity.
Lifestyle and Cultural Norms: Yemeni society is deeply rooted in Islamic traditions and values. It is important to respect local customs, dress modestly, and be aware of cultural norms, particularly regarding gender roles and interactions.
Legal Requirements: Foreign residents in Yemen must obtain the appropriate visas and permits, which can be a complex process due to the security situation. It is advisable to seek guidance from local authorities or legal professionals.
Doing Business in Yemen
Business Culture: Business relationships in Yemen are built on personal connections and trust. It is important to establish strong networks and maintain face-to-face interactions.
Economic Climate: Yemen’s economy has been severely impacted by the ongoing conflict, with limited investment opportunities and challenges in sectors like oil, agriculture, and tourism.
Key Industries: Major industries in Yemen include oil and gas, agriculture (coffee, fruits, and vegetables), fishing, and manufacturing (textiles, cement, and food processing).
Legal Frameworks: Yemen’s legal system is based on a combination of Islamic Sharia law, civil law, and customary law. It is advisable to seek legal counsel for navigating business regulations and contracts.
Negotiation and Relationship Building: Building strong personal relationships and establishing trust are crucial for successful negotiations in Yemen. Patience, respect for cultural norms, and understanding local business practices are essential.
Studying in Yemen
Educational System: Yemen has a public education system, but the ongoing conflict has severely disrupted schooling, especially in areas affected by violence.
Top Universities: Notable universities in Yemen include Sana’a University, Aden University, and the University of Science and Technology (Yemen).
Student Life: Student life in Yemen is heavily influenced by Islamic traditions and cultural norms. Student organizations and activities may be limited due to the current security situation.
Visa Requirements: International students require a valid student visa to study in Yemen. The application process can be complex, and requirements may vary depending on the institution and the student’s home country.
Opportunities for International Students: Due to the ongoing conflict and instability, opportunities for international students in Yemen are currently limited. It is advisable to closely monitor the security situation and follow guidance from relevant authorities.
Main facts
Location
Yemen is a country located in the southern part of the Arabian Peninsula, bordering the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Aden. It is situated in Western Asia, with Saudi Arabia to the north, the Red Sea to the west, the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea to the south, and Oman to the east.
Map References
Yemen is located in the Middle East region of Asia.
Area – Comparative
Yemen has an area of approximately 527,968 square kilometers (203,849 square miles), making it slightly larger than the U.S. state of California.
Land Boundaries and Border Countries
Yemen shares land borders with Saudi Arabia (1,458 km), Oman (294 km), and a short border with the UAE (67 km).
Coastline
Yemen has a coastline of approximately 1,906 km (1,184 miles), facing the Arabian Sea, the Gulf of Aden, and the Red Sea.
Maritime Claims
Yemen claims a territorial sea of 12 nautical miles, a contiguous zone of 24 nautical miles, an exclusive economic zone of 200 nautical miles, and a continental shelf of 200 nautical miles or to the edge of the continental margin.
Climate
Yemen has a predominantly hot and dry desert climate, with a coastal plain following the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden that is tempered by monsoon winds. The interior highlands have a milder climate, while the eastern parts of the country are hotter and drier.
Terrain
Yemen’s landscape is dominated by a narrow coastal plain that gives way to flat-topped hills and rugged mountains. The highest point is Jabal an Nabi Shu’ayb at 3,666 meters (12,028 feet). The interior highlands consist of a vast elevated desert plateau dissected by mountains and valleys.
Elevation Extremes
The highest point in Yemen is Jabal an Nabi Shu’ayb at 3,666 meters (12,028 feet), located in the western part of the country. The lowest point is the Arabian Sea at 0 meters.
Natural Resources
Yemen’s major natural resources include petroleum, fish, rock salt, marble, small deposits of coal, gold, lead, nickel, and copper.
Major Bodies of Water
The major bodies of water in Yemen include the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden, and the Arabian Sea. Significant rivers include the Wadi Hadramawt and the Wadi Masilah.
Natural Hazards
Yemen is prone to natural hazards such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, sandstorms, and periodic droughts and floods.
Geography – Notes
Yemen has a strategic location on the Bab el Mandeb, a strait linking the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, which is one of the world’s most active maritime chokepoints. The country’s diverse terrain and arid climate, coupled with limited natural resources, pose significant challenges for development and economic growth.
- Forest Area (% of land area): 1.00%. This is the percentage of a country’s total land area that is covered by natural or planted forests.
- Co2 Emissions: 10,609. 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( %). 44.60%. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
- Geographic Coordinates: 15.55272748.516388.
- Capital: The capital of Yemen is Sanaa
- Major Cities:
- Sana’a – Population: 3,937,441
- Aden – Population: 1,140,782
- Al Hudaydah – Population: 617,871
- Population: 29,161,922
- Area(Km2): 527968
- Population Density( P/Km²):56. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
- Calling Code:967
- Official Language(s):Yemen is Arabic spoken by 99.6% of the population.
- Currency: YER
Main Economic Indicators
Yemen has a small, poorly diversified economy that has been severely disrupted by the ongoing conflict. Oil production has collapsed, pushing the country into a humanitarian crisis. Prior to the conflict, Yemen was a low-income country with inadequate supplies of water and diminishing oil resources. Key economic challenges include restoring sustainable economic growth, stabilizing public finances, addressing infrastructure gaps, and reducing unemployment and poverty.
Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)
2020: 35.6% (Source: CIA World Factbook)
2019: 10.0% (Source: CIA World Factbook)
Credit Ratings
Fitch: N/A (Not Rated)
Moody’s: N/A (Not Rated)
Standard & Poor’s: N/A (Not Rated)
GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin
Agriculture: 20.7%
Industry: 30.5%
Services: 48.8% (2017 estimates, Source: CIA World Factbook)
Key Agricultural and Industrial Products
Agricultural Products: Grain, fruits, vegetables, qat, coffee, cotton, dairy products, poultry, fish
Industrial Products: Crude oil production and petroleum refining, small-scale production of cotton textiles and leather goods, food processing, handicrafts, aluminum products
Labor Force
Total Labor Force: 7.594 million (2020 estimate, Source: CIA World Factbook)
Comparative Ranking: Not Available
Current Account Balance
2020: -$1.38 billion (Source: CIA World Factbook)
2019: -$1.81 billion (Source: CIA World Factbook)
Comparative Ranking: Not Available
Exports and Imports
Exports: $1.26 billion (2020 estimate, Source: CIA World Factbook)
Key Export Partners: China, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Thailand, Malaysia
Main Exports: Crude oil, fish, scrap metals, dried and salted foods, gold
Imports: $4.36 billion (2020 estimate, Source: CIA World Factbook)
Key Import Partners: China, UAE, Saudi Arabia, India, Turkey
Main Imports: Food and live animals, machinery and equipment, chemicals, petroleum products
Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold
Foreign Exchange Reserves: $1.36 billion (2020 estimate, Source: CIA World Factbook)
Gold Reserves: Not Available
- GDP (Current US$):$26,914,402,224. 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): 26.60%. 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. $0.92. 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 (%): 12.91%. 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
Nationality (noun): Yemeni(s)
Nationality (adjective): Yemeni
Ethnic Groups
- Arab 92.6%
- Afro-Arab/Black 6.6%
- Others 0.8%
Religions
- Muslim 99.1%
- Sunni 65%
- Shia 35%
- Other 0.9%
Age Structure
- 0-14 years: 35.7%
- 15-64 years: 61.3%
- 65 years and over: 3%
Dependency Ratios
Total dependency ratio: 61.8
Youth dependency ratio: 56.7
Elderly dependency ratio: 5.1
Median Age
Total median age: 20.5 years
Male median age: 20.1 years
Female median age: 20.9 years
Lifestyle Indicators
- Obesity rate: 17.1% of the adult population
- Alcohol consumption: Low, as alcohol is prohibited in Islam
- Tobacco use: 16.4% of adults smoke tobacco
- Life Expectancy at Birth: 66.1. 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): 70.1%. 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:30.45. 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:7. 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: 3.79. 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): 22.9%. 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: 10,869,523. 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):81.00%. 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
Yemen’s military and security forces consist of the following main branches:
- Army
- Navy
- Air Force
- Republican Guard (elite ground force)
- Special Operations Command (counter-terrorism and special operations)
The Ministry of Interior oversees the national police force, responsible for maintaining internal security and law enforcement.
Military Expenditures
Military spending as a percentage of GDP for the last five years:
- 2018: 4.1%
- 2017: 4.8%
- 2016: 5.2%
- 2015: 4.3%
- 2014: 3.8%
Yemen’s military spending ranks among the highest globally as a percentage of GDP.
Personnel Strengths
Total active-duty military personnel: Approximately 117,000
- Army: 90,000
- Navy: 7,000
- Air Force: 5,000
- Republican Guard: 15,000
Additional security services include the Ministry of Interior’s paramilitary Central Security Forces (estimated 60,000 personnel).
Military Equipment Inventories and Acquisitions
Yemen’s military hardware includes a mix of Soviet-era and modern equipment, primarily imported from Russia, China, and other regional suppliers. Key assets include:
- Main Battle Tanks (T-72, T-62)
- Armored Personnel Carriers (BMP series, BTR series)
- Artillery (Towed and Self-Propelled)
- Combat Aircraft (MiG-29, F-5E/F, Su-22)
- Attack Helicopters (Mi-24/35)
Due to the ongoing conflict and economic constraints, significant future acquisitions are currently limited.
Military Service Age and Obligation
Military service is mandatory for males aged 18-42, with a conscription obligation of 18-24 months.
Military Deployments
Yemen has no significant overseas military deployments currently. However, it contributes a small contingent to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).
Strategic Military Notes
Yemen’s defense strategy is primarily focused on addressing internal threats, including the ongoing conflict with Houthi rebels in the north and the presence of al-Qaeda and ISIS affiliates. However, the country also aims to maintain a deterrent against potential external aggression, particularly from neighboring states.
Yemen is a member of the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) but has no formal military alliances. It has historically maintained close security ties with Saudi Arabia and other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
- Armed Forces Size: 66700. 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 0.31
- Population: Labor Force Participation (%): 38.00%. 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.