Country Profile: Saint Barthelemy
Saint Barthelemy, an overseas collectivity of France, is a small Caribbean island situated between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, specifically in the Leeward Islands. The island has a population of approximately 7,079 (2025 est.) and enjoys a high-income economy primarily based on tourism and duty-free commerce. Governed as a parliamentary democracy, Saint Barthelemy holds local elections and retains a degree of autonomy while being administratively linked to France. Its rich history includes periods of colonization by the French and Swedish, contributing to a vibrant local culture.
Geography
Saint Barthelemy is located in the Caribbean, east of the US Virgin Islands, characterized by hilly terrains and protected shallow-water reefs that enhance its tourism appeal. The island covers an area of just 25 square kilometers and features a tropical climate with two distinct seasons—dry and humid. A significant portion of its land is designated as a marine nature reserve to protect its coral reefs and endangered marine species.
- 25 sq km: Total area of Saint Barthelemy.
- 286 m: Elevation of the highest point, Morne du Vitet.
- 91.5%: Land use classified as other, indicating minimal agricultural activity.
- 8.5%: Forested area on the island.
People and Society
With a population estimated at 7,079 in 2025, the inhabitants predominantly consist of French, Portuguese, Caribbean, and Afro-Caribbean ethnic groups. The island has a median age of 47.7 years, indicating an aging population. The primary language spoken is French, while English is also commonly used. The population is concentrated around the capital, Gustavia, featuring an array of cultural influences.
- 81 years: Life expectancy at birth for the total population (2024 est.).
- 9.32 births/1,000: Birth rate (2025 est.).
- 100%: Access to improved drinking water and sanitation facilities (2022 est.).
- 6.3 deaths/1,000: Infant mortality rate (2025 est.).
Economy
Saint Barthelemy boasts a high-income economy largely driven by tourism, luxury commerce, and duty-free shopping, while depending heavily on imports for food, water, energy, and manufacturing. The island exports refined copper and jewelry, with its major trading partners including Spain, Switzerland, and France. The local economy is fragile due to environmental factors.
- 57%: Share of exports to Spain (2023).
- 50%: Percentage of imports sourced from Switzerland (2023).
- 0.925: Exchange rate of euros per US dollar in 2023.
Government
As an overseas collectivity of France, Saint Barthelemy operates under a parliamentary democracy, with a Territorial Council responsible for local governance. The capital, Gustavia, is named after King Gustav III of Sweden, reflecting its historical ties. Saint Barthelemy follows the French civil law system and participates in the broader political framework of France, including representation in the French Senate.
- 19: Seats in the unicameral Territorial Council.
- 18 years: Minimum voting age for universal suffrage.
- 2027: Expected date for the next local elections.
Military and Security
The defense of Saint Barthelemy is the responsibility of France, ensuring the island's security under the broader French military framework. This arrangement provides stability and a protective influence over the local population.
Energy
Saint Barthelemy enjoys 100% electrification, demonstrating the infrastructure's reliability and access to electricity for its residents in 2021.
Environment
The island faces several environmental challenges, including land-based pollution, urbanization, limited freshwater resources, and overfishing. A significant portion of the land is not utilized for agriculture, impacting its ecological footprint.
Transportation
Saint Barthelemy has one airport, facilitating transportation to and from the island for tourists and residents alike.
Communications
The island features a variety of local media, including two TV broadcasters and multiple FM radio channels, contributing to an informed populace. Internet access is widespread, with approximately 71.3% of the population being internet users as of 2022.
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 7,079 (2025 est.) | |
| Area | 25 sq km | |
| Life Expectancy | 81 years (2024 est.) | |
| Birth Rate | 9.32 births/1,000 | (2025 est.) |
| Infant Mortality Rate | 6.3 deaths/1,000 | (2025 est.) |
| Unemployment | Not specified | |
| Electricity Access | 100% | (2021) |
| Languages | French, English | |
| Dependency Ratio | 60.1 (2025 est.) |
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