Country Profile: Barbados
Barbados is an eastern Caribbean island located in the North Atlantic Ocean, with a population of approximately 304,139 (2024 est.). Once dominated by sugar plantations fueled by enslaved African labor, the Barbadian economy has transitioned through social reforms and independence from the UK in 1966. Tourism and manufacturing now drive the economy, complemented by a parliamentary republic governance structure that was solidified with its transition to a republic in 2021.
Geography
Barbados is the easternmost island in the Caribbean, featuring a total area of 430 square kilometers. The island's terrain is primarily flat, with the highest point being Mount Hillaby at 336 meters. The climate is tropical, characterized by a rainy season from June to October, with a coastline stretching 97 kilometers.
- 430 sq km is the total area of Barbados.
- 336 m is the elevation of Mount Hillaby, the highest point on the island.
- 12 nm is the extent of Barbados' territorial sea.
People and Society
The population of Barbados is approximately 304,139, composed mainly of people of African descent (92.4%). English is the official language, while Bajan, an English-based creole, is commonly spoken. The population is predominantly Protestant, with a significant portion identifying as non-religious.
- 304,139 is the estimated population for 2024.
- 1.01 male(s)/female is the sex ratio at birth.
- 31.4% of the population lives in urban areas as of 2023.
Economy
Barbados boasts a high-income economy, primarily driven by tourism, construction, and financial services. In 2024, the real GDP is estimated to reach $5.634 billion, reflecting a 3.8% growth rate. The economy faces challenges due to high public debt and reliance on imports, with a focus on maintaining economic stability.
- $5.634 billion is the real GDP (PPP) for 2024.
- 75.4% of the GDP comes from the services sector (2023).
- 7.6% is the unemployment rate estimated for 2024.
Government
Barbados is a parliamentary republic with a legal system based on English common law. It became a republic in 2021 and is governed by a bicameral parliament. The capital city is Bridgetown, and the country consists of 11 parishes and one city, highlighting its local administrative structure.
- 18 years is the voting age for universal suffrage.
- The President of Barbados is Jeffrey Davidson Bostic (since 30 November 2025).
- 30 November 1966 marks the date of independence from the UK.
Military and Security
The Barbados Defense Force (BDF) is responsible for the nation's security, with approximately 600 active personnel. Military expenditures accounted for 0.7% of GDP in 2024. The BDF plays a dual role in national security and internal public order, participating in regional security agreements within the Caribbean.
- 0.7% of GDP is allocated to military expenditures in 2024.
- The BDF was formed in 1979.
Energy
Barbados has achieved 100% electrification, with a significant portion of its energy generated from fossil fuels. In 2023, the electricity consumption was reported at 1.025 billion kWh, with solar accounting for a growing share of the energy mix.
- 91.9% of installed electricity capacity comes from fossil fuels (2023).
- 68.293 million Btu/person is the total energy consumption per capita in 2023.
Environment
Environmental issues in Barbados include coastal pollution and soil erosion, with a commitment to various international environmental agreements. The island's climate is tropical, and its natural resources are managed with attention to sustainability.
- 23.3% of land is used for agricultural purposes (2023).
- 1.348 million metric tonnes of CO2 emissions were recorded in 2023.
Transportation
Transportation in Barbados includes one international airport and a developed merchant marine comprising 272 vessels. The key port is located in Bridgetown, facilitating trade and commerce.
- 1 airport available as of 2025.
- 272 vessels are part of the merchant marine fleet (2023).
Communications
Barbados has a well-developed communication infrastructure, with a high rate of internet usage and multiple telecommunication subscriptions. Approximately 80% of the population uses the internet, reflecting the country's modern digital landscape.
- 323,482 is the total mobile cellular subscriptions (2022).
- 43 subscriptions to fixed lines per 100 inhabitants (2022).
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 304,139 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 430 sq km | Total area |
| GDP (PPP) | $5.634 billion | 2024 estimate |
| Unemployment Rate | 7.6% | 2024 estimate |
| Electricity Access | 100% | Total population electrified |
| Birth Rate | 8.02 births/1,000 | 2025 estimated |
| Life Expectancy | 79 years | 2024 estimate |
| Energy Consumption per Capita | 68.293 million Btu/person | 2023 estimate |
| Literacy Rate | Not specified | General estimate |
| Military Expenditures (% of GDP) | 0.7% | 2024 estimate |
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