Country Profile: Maldives
The Maldives, located in the Indian Ocean south-southwest of India, consists of a group of 1,190 coral islands arranged into 26 atolls. With a population of approximately 388,858, the nation is characterized by its stunning beaches and rich marine biodiversity. The economy heavily relies on tourism, fishing, and shipping, but faces challenges such as high public debt and the impacts of climate change. Governed as a presidential republic, Maldives has navigated a turbulent political landscape in recent years, transitioning to a democratic system with its latest elections held in September 2023.
Geography
The Maldives is the smallest country in Asia, comprising flat coral atolls and a total area of 298 square kilometers. The climate is tropical, with a distinct dry season from November to March and a wet season from June to August. The nation is particularly vulnerable to natural hazards like tsunamis, due to its low elevation and sensitivity to rising sea levels.
- 1,190 coral islands grouped into 26 atolls
- Total coastline of 644 km
- Highest point at the 8th tee on Villingi Island is just 5 m
- Average elevation of only 2 m above sea level
People and Society
The Maldives has a population of about 388,858 with a median age of 31.9 years. The society is predominantly Muslim, and the official language is Dhivehi. The country has seen improvements in education and healthcare, with a literacy rate of 98.2%. However, it faces challenges such as a negative population growth rate and high youth unemployment.
- 42% of the population is urban
- Life expectancy is 77.4 years (2024 est.)
- Birth rate is 15.1 births/1,000 population (2024 est.)
- 71.9% of women aged 15-49 are currently married
Economy
The Maldives operates as an upper middle-income economy with tourism, fishing, and shipping as the primary sectors. The country has experienced economic challenges, notably during the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused significant deflation and increased poverty rates. The GDP per capita is estimated at $23,400 for 2024.
- 73.8% of GDP from services sector (2024 est.)
- 4.7% unemployment rate (2024 est.)
- 5.413 billion USD in exports (2024 est.)
- $6.975 billion GDP at official exchange rate (2024 est.)
Government
The Maldives functions as a presidential republic with a multi-party system. The current president, Dr. Mohamed Muizz, was elected in September 2023. The legislative assembly, known as the People's Majlis, consists of 93 directly elected members. The constitution was last ratified in 2008, marking a significant transition to democratic governance.
- 21 administrative atolls
- Citizens must be Maldivian by descent to acquire citizenship
- Voting age is 18 years old
- 3.2% representation of women in the legislative assembly
Military and Security
The Maldives National Defense Force is responsible for the nation's military and security. The military has around 3,000-4,000 active personnel, focusing primarily on maritime security. There is no conscription, and the military is equipped with a limited inventory primarily from international donations.
- 18-25 years old for voluntary military service
- Significant cooperation with Indian Armed Forces
- Focus on safeguarding territorial integrity and disaster relief
Energy
The Maldives has achieved 100% electrification for its population, relying heavily on fossil fuels for electricity generation, which constitutes 93.2% of its installed capacity. The country is gradually incorporating renewable energy sources, with solar energy contributing 6.6%.
- Energy consumption per capita is 50.886 million Btu (2023 est.)
- 432,000 kW total installed generating capacity (2023 est.)
- 13,000 bbl/day refined petroleum consumption (2023 est.)
Environment
The Maldives faces significant environmental challenges, including rising sea levels and coral reef bleaching. It is part of multiple international agreements focused on biodiversity and climate change. The country’s natural resources are primarily marine, and sustainable management remains a priority.
- 20.9% of municipal solid waste recycled (2022 est.)
- Total renewable water resources estimated at 30 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
- 12.5% of land covered by forest (2023 est.)
Transportation
Transportation in the Maldives is crucial due to its geographic layout, with 20 airports and a merchant marine fleet of 82 vessels. The primary port is located in Male, serving as a key point for trade and tourism.
- 1 main port with oil terminal
- 745,000 mobile cellular subscriptions (2023 est.)
- 13,000 fixed line telephone subscriptions (2023 est.)
Communications
The communication infrastructure in the Maldives has developed significantly, with 85% of the population being internet users. There are multiple private and public broadcasting services, enhancing access to information and media.
- 98,000 fixed broadband subscriptions (2023 est.)
- Internet country code is .mv
- 2 telephone subscriptions per 100 inhabitants (2023 est.)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 388,858 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 298 sq km | Total area |
| GDP (PPP) | $12.325 billion | 2024 estimate |
| GDP per capita | $23,400 | 2024 estimate |
| Unemployment rate | 4.7% | 2024 estimate |
| Birth rate | 15.1 births/1,000 | 2024 estimate |
| Life expectancy | 77.4 years | 2024 estimate |
| Poverty rate | 5.4% | 2019 estimate |
| Energy consumption | 50.886 million Btu/person | 2023 estimate |
| Total land use for agriculture | 19.8% | 2023 estimate |
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