Country Profile: Saint Martin
Saint Martin, located in the Caribbean, is a unique island divided between French and Dutch governance. The French portion, designated as an overseas collectivity, encompasses an area of 50 square kilometers and has a population of approximately 33,000. The economy heavily relies on tourism, which faced challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic and Hurricane Irma in 2017. Governance is characterized by a parliamentary democracy, embedded within the broader framework of the French Republic.
Geography
Saint Martin is situated in the Leeward Islands, east of the US Virgin Islands, and features a tropical climate with temperature averages between 27-29 degrees Celsius. The island's geographical makeup includes a total land area of 50 sq km and a coastline that stretches 58.9 km.
- 16 km: Length of land border shared with Sint Maarten.
- 424 m: Highest point on the island, known as Pic du Paradis.
- 0%: Proportion of agricultural land as of 2022.
People and Society
The population of Saint Martin is estimated at 32,996 in 2024, with a diverse ethnic composition including Creole, Black, and East Indian communities. The primary languages spoken are French, Dutch, and English, reflecting its colonial history. The median age is 34.2 years, and the life expectancy is around 81 years.
- 24.7%: Percentage of the population aged 0-14 years.
- 13.9 births: Birth rate per 1,000 population in 2024.
- 100%: Access to improved drinking water for the total population.
Economy
Saint Martin's economy is characterized as a high-income territory, predominantly reliant on tourism, which has faced downturns due to the effects of Hurricane Irma and the COVID-19 pandemic. As of 2021, the GDP was estimated at $649.206 million, with a notable export market for commodities like gold and rum.
- 4.9%: Real GDP growth rate in 2021.
- -12.5%: Real GDP growth rate in 2020, indicating severe economic challenges.
- 76%: Share of imports from the United States.
Government
Saint Martin is an overseas collectivity of France, governed under a parliamentary democracy. The capital city, Marigot, is the administrative hub. The political structure includes a Territorial Council and an executive council led by the elected president of the council.
- 18 years: Minimum voting age for universal suffrage.
- 23: Total number of seats in the Territorial Council.
- 3 April 2022: Date of the most recent election.
Military and Security
Saint Martin does not maintain regular military forces, with defense responsibilities falling under French jurisdiction. The local security is managed by the police force of Sint Maarten.
Energy
Saint Martin has achieved full electrification for its population, ensuring that 100% have access to electricity as of 2022.
Environment
The island faces several environmental challenges, including waste management issues and the over-exploitation of marine resources. The climate is sensitive to hurricanes, particularly during the July to November season.
- 15,500 tons: Annual municipal solid waste generated (2024 est.).
- 24.8%: Percentage of land classified as forest as of 2022.
Transportation
Saint Martin is served by one airport that is expected to operate by 2025, facilitating travel and tourism on the island.
Communications
The telecommunications infrastructure includes a mobile cellular subscription rate of 196 subscriptions per 100 inhabitants as of 2012, indicating a high level of connectivity among residents.
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 32,996 (2024 est.) | |
| Area | 50 sq km | |
| GDP (official exchange rate) | $649.206 million (2021 est.) | |
| Birth Rate | 13.9 births/1,000 population (2024 est.) | |
| Life Expectancy | 81 years (2024 est.) | |
| Unemployment | Data not provided | |
| Electricity Access | 100% (2022 est.) | |
| Infant Mortality Rate | 6.5 deaths/1,000 live births (2024 est.) | |
| Total Fertility Rate | 1.8 children/woman (2024 est.) | |
| Municipal Solid Waste | 15,500 tons (2024 est.) |
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