Country Profile: Saint Barthelemy
Saint Barthelemy, a French overseas collectivity located in the Caribbean Sea, boasts a unique history that includes periods of both French and Swedish control. With a population of approximately 7,086 as of 2024, the island's economy is primarily driven by tourism and luxury commerce, with a heavy reliance on imports for food and other necessities. Governed as a parliamentary democracy, Saint Barthelemy enjoys local autonomy while remaining a part of France and the European Union.
Geography
Saint Barthelemy is situated between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east of the US Virgin Islands. The island covers a total area of 25 square kilometers and features a hilly terrain framed by shallow-water reefs and beautiful beaches. Its tropical climate ensures minimal temperature variation, with distinct dry and humid seasons.
- Area: 25 sq km
- Elevation: Highest point at 286 m (Morne du Vitet)
- Land Use: 0% agricultural land, 8.5% forest (2022 est.)
- Marine Reserve: 1,200 hectares dedicated to protecting coral reefs and marine species
People and Society
Saint Barthelemy has an estimated population of 7,086 in 2024, with a median age of 47.4 years. The majority of residents are of French, Portuguese, Caribbean, and Afro-Caribbean descent, and both French and English are widely spoken. The population is distributed mostly around the capital, Gustavia, with a significant elderly demographic.
- Population Growth Rate: -0.11% (2024 est.)
- Life Expectancy: 81 years (2024 est.)
- Birth Rate: 9.3 births/1,000 population (2024 est.)
- Total Fertility Rate: 1.64 children born/woman (2024 est.)
Economy
The economy of Saint Barthelemy is characterized as a high-income territory with a focus on luxury commerce and tourism. It is heavily import-dependent for goods such as food, water, and energy. The local economy benefits from a diverse labor force, including workers from Brazil and Portugal.
- Exports: Primarily refined copper and jewelry, with Spain as the leading partner (57% of exports in 2023).
- Imports: Key imports include precious metal watches and jewelry from Switzerland (50% of imports in 2023).
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
Government
Saint Barthelemy operates under a parliamentary democracy as a French overseas collectivity, with Gustavia serving as its capital. Governance is characterized by a Territorial Council and adherence to French civil law. The executive branch is headed by the President of the Territorial Council, currently Xavier LEDEE.
- Government Type: Parliamentary democracy (Territorial Council)
- Legislature: Unicameral Territorial Council with 19 seats
- Suffrage: Universal at 18 years
- Last Election: March 27, 2022
Military and Security
Defense responsibilities for Saint Barthelemy lie with France, ensuring the island's security through the broader national military framework. There is no local military force stationed on the island.
Energy
The island has achieved complete electrification, providing electricity to the entire population. The energy needs are primarily met through imports.
- Electricity Access: 100% (2021)
Environment
Saint Barthelemy faces environmental challenges such as land-based pollution, urbanization, and overfishing. The island's limited freshwater resources further complicate its environmental sustainability.
- Key Environmental Issues: Urbanization and overfishing
- Forest Area: 8.5% of land (2022 est.)
Transportation
Saint Barthelemy has one airport, serving as a vital link for tourists and residents.
- Airports: 1 (2025 est.)
Communications
The island features a relatively modern communications infrastructure, including several local TV and radio channels. Internet access is widely available, with a significant portion of the population connected.
- Internet Users: 71.3% of the population (2022 est.)
- Broadcast Media: 2 local TV broadcasters and 5 FM radio channels (2021)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 7,086 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 25 sq km | |
| Life Expectancy | 81 years | 2024 estimate |
| Birth Rate | 9.3 births/1,000 | 2024 estimate |
| Total Fertility Rate | 1.64 children/woman | 2024 estimate |
| Electricity Access | 100% | 2021 |
| Population Growth Rate | -0.11% | 2024 estimate |
| Unemployment Rate | N/A | Not available |
| Median Age | 47.4 years | 2024 estimate |
| Land Use (Forest) | 8.5% | 2022 estimate |
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