Country Profile: Spain
Spain is a dynamic country located in Southwestern Europe, bordered by the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. It has a diverse geography characterized by large plateaus and mountainous regions, notably the Pyrenees. With a population of approximately 47.3 million, Spain boasts the fourth-largest economy in the eurozone, primarily driven by services and tourism. The country underwent a peaceful transition to democracy following a dictatorship, and while it continues to face high unemployment, especially among youth, it has seen consistent economic growth in recent years.
Geography
Spain is situated in Southwestern Europe and encompasses a variety of landscapes from coastal regions to rugged mountains. Its strategic position along the approaches to the Strait of Gibraltar has historical significance. The country features several geographical distinctions, including the highest point, Pico de Teide, and a rich array of natural resources.
- 505,370 sq km total area
- 4,964 km of coastline
- 38.2% of land covered by forests (2023)
- Home to 17 autonomous communities and two autonomous cities
People and Society
Spain's population of about 47.3 million people is predominantly Spanish, with a growing number of individuals from other countries, particularly Morocco and Romania. It is a multilingual nation with various regional languages along with the official Castilian Spanish. The society is largely Roman Catholic, though there is a significant percentage of atheists and agnostics.
- 83 years life expectancy at birth (2024 est.)
- 99.7% literacy rate (2021)
- 81.6% urban population (2023)
- 0.95 male(s)/female sex ratio (total population, 2024 est.)
Economy
Spain possesses a high-income economy with robust growth driven by public consumption and tourism. The economy is diverse, with significant contributions from the service sector. Despite high unemployment rates, particularly among the youth, the nation has made strides in achieving economic recovery in the post-financial crisis landscape.
- $2.361 trillion GDP (PPP, 2024 est.)
- 11.4% unemployment rate (2024 est.)
- 69.1% of GDP from the services sector (2024 est.)
- 20.2% of the population below the poverty line (2022 est.)
Government
Spain operates as a parliamentary constitutional monarchy with a rich history dating back to its unification in 1492. The government consists of a bicameral legislature and a hereditary monarchy. The political landscape is diverse, with multiple parties representing various regional interests within its autonomous communities.
- King Felipe VI has been in power since June 19, 2014
- Pedro Sánchez is the current Prime Minister since June 2, 2018
- Citizens attain voting rights at 18 years of age
- 50 World Heritage Sites recognized
Military and Security
The Spanish Armed Forces include the Army, Navy, and Air and Space Force, along with a Civil Guard responsible for internal security. Spain participates actively in international peacekeeping missions and has a well-structured military command.
- 120,000 active-duty military personnel (2025)
- 2% of GDP allocated to military expenditures (2025)
- Involved in 17 missions supporting EU, NATO, and UN (2025)
Energy
Spain's energy production is a mix of renewable and non-renewable sources, with a significant emphasis on wind and solar power. The country has achieved full electrification, ensuring electricity access for its entire population.
- 100% electrification across the population (2022 est.)
- 227.187 billion kWh electricity consumption (2023 est.)
- 17.3% of installed capacity from solar energy (2023 est.)
- 130.366 million kW total installed generating capacity (2023 est.)
Environment
Spain faces various environmental challenges, including pollution from raw sewage and agricultural runoff. Its commitment to international environmental agreements reflects an ongoing effort to combat climate change and promote sustainable practices.
- 254.823 million metric tonnes of CO2 emissions (2023 est.)
- 49.6% of land used for agriculture (2023 est.)
- Participates in the Paris Agreement and various pollution-reduction treaties
Transportation
Spain has a robust transportation network that includes extensive railways and a significant number of airports. The maritime industry also plays a critical role, with numerous ports facilitating international trade.
- 365 airports (2025)
- 15,489 km of railways (2020)
- 503 merchant vessels (2023)
Communications
The communication infrastructure in Spain is modern, with high internet penetration and a variety of media options available to the populace. The government encourages advancements in digital connectivity.
- 95% of the population are internet users (2023)
- 61.2 million mobile cellular subscriptions (2023)
- 18.2 million fixed broadband subscriptions (2023)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 47,280,433 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 505,370 sq km | Total area |
| GDP | $2.361 trillion | PPP, 2024 estimate |
| Unemployment rate | 11.4% | 2024 estimate |
| Life expectancy | 83 years | 2024 estimate |
| Literacy rate | 99.7% | 2021 estimate |
| Energy consumption | 101.12 million Btu/person | 2023 estimate |
| Urban population | 81.6% | 2023 estimate |
| Total fertility rate | 1.32 children born/woman | 2025 estimate |
| National debt | 107.3% of GDP | 2023 estimate |
Explore more about this country: