Country Profile: Sint Maarten
Sint Maarten is a small Caribbean island that forms the Dutch part of the island of Saint Martin, located in the Leeward Islands. With a tropical marine climate and a total area of just 34 square kilometers, it is characterized by low, hilly terrain and a vibrant tourism-driven economy. The island has a population of approximately 46,215, diverse in ethnicity, with a significant focus on English and Dutch as primary languages. Governed as a parliamentary democracy within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Sint Maarten enjoys autonomy over its internal affairs while the Netherlands handles its defense and foreign relations.
Geography
Sint Maarten is situated in the northern Caribbean, specifically in the Leeward Islands group, bordered to the north by the French overseas collectivity of Saint Martin. The island features a total land area of 34 square kilometers and a coastline of approximately 58.9 kilometers. Its tropical marine climate, moderated by northeast trade winds, brings average rainfall of 150 cm annually and a hurricane season from July to November.
- 34 sq km: Total area of Sint Maarten
- 58.9 km: Total coastline length
- 12 nm: Territorial sea claims
- 200 nm: Exclusive economic zone
- 250 m: Highest point at Mount Flagstaff
People and Society
Sint Maarten has a population of around 46,215, with a fairly balanced gender distribution. The island’s ethnic makeup is diverse, including significant communities from the Dominican Republic, Haiti, and Jamaica. The primary language spoken is English, complemented by Dutch, Spanish, and several Creole dialects. The population is fully urbanized, with Philipsburg as the capital, and exhibits a median age of 41 years.
- 100%: Urban population as of 2023
- 46,215: Estimated population in 2024
- 12.2 births/1,000: Birth rate in 2024
- 6.4 deaths/1,000: Death rate in 2024
- 79.7 years: Life expectancy at birth in 2024
Economy
Sint Maarten's economy is characterized as a high-income, tourism-based market, greatly impacted by hurricanes and the COVID-19 pandemic. The island has become a significant re-export center, particularly to the neighbouring French side of the island. The GDP per capita is projected at $45,800 in 2024, showing consistent growth in recent years, although it faces economic challenges from external factors.
- $1.986 billion: Real GDP (PPP) estimated for 2024
- 3.5%: Estimated real GDP growth rate for 2024
- 89.3%: Services sector composition of GDP
- 3%: Remittances as a share of GDP in 2023
- 1.79: Exchange rate of Netherlands Antillean guilders per US dollar in 2024
Government
Sint Maarten operates as a parliamentary democracy under a constitutional monarchy, with the King of the Netherlands serving as the chief of state. The island has full autonomy in internal affairs since 2010, while the Dutch government oversees defense and foreign affairs. The legislative body is a unicameral Parliament, consisting of 15 directly elected representatives.
- 15: Number of seats in the unicameral Parliament
- 4 years: Term length for Parliament members
- 18 years: Minimum voting age
- King's Day: National holiday observed on April 27
Military and Security
Sint Maarten does not maintain regular military forces; however, it relies on the Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) for internal security. Defense responsibilities rest with the Kingdom of the Netherlands, which provides support through various police forces and coast guard services.
- 0: Regular military forces
- 100%: Population electrification rate as of 2022
Energy
Energy access in Sint Maarten is comprehensive, with 100% of the population having access to electricity as of 2022. This reflects the island's commitment to energy infrastructure and sustainability.
Environment
The island faces environmental challenges, such as a scarcity of potable water and inadequate waste management systems. The tropical climate and urbanization contribute to potential pollution issues, predominantly from construction and runoff.
Transportation
Sint Maarten is served by one airport and has two ports, including an oil terminal at Coles Bay, facilitating maritime trade and tourism. The availability of efficient transport options is essential for both locals and visitors.
- 1: Airport projected for operation in 2025
- 2: Total number of ports as of 2024
Communications
The island has a robust communications network, with a high percentage of internet users and a significant number of mobile phone subscriptions. Effective communication infrastructure is vital for tourism and business operations on the island.
- 89.5%: Percentage of the population using the internet in 2022
- 68,840: Mobile cellular subscriptions recorded in 2012
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 46,215 | Estimated for 2024 |
| Area | 34 sq km | Total land area |
| GDP | $1.986 billion | Real GDP (PPP) estimated for 2024 |
| Electric Access | 100% | Total population with electricity access |
| Birth Rate | 12.2 births/1,000 | Estimated for 2024 |
| Death Rate | 6.4 deaths/1,000 | Estimated for 2024 |
| Life Expectancy | 79.7 years | Estimated for 2024 |
| Real GDP per capita | $45,800 | Estimated for 2024 |
| Urban Population | 100% | Total urban population in 2023 |
| Dependency Ratio | 50.8 | Total dependency ratio for 2024 |
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