Country Profile: World

The World is a vast and intricate entity, characterized by its rich geography, diverse populations, complex economies, and varied governance systems. Approximately 70.9% of the Earth's surface is water, while the remaining 29.1% comprises land, supporting an estimated global population of over 8 billion people. Economically, the world has a projected real GDP of $173.163 trillion for 2024, with significant contributions across agriculture, industry, and services, reflecting both development and challenges such as environmental degradation. Governance varies widely, with 197 recognized countries and numerous differing political systems, influencing global cooperation and conflict.

Geography

The Earth's surface showcases dramatic contrasts, with around 70.9% covered by water and the remaining land divided into continents and islands. Major oceans such as the Pacific and Atlantic are crucial in shaping global climate and ecosystems. The land area is approximately 510.072 million sq km, comparing about 16 times the size of the US. Diverse terrains include deserts, mountains, and forests, contributing to unique biomes essential for sustaining life.

70.9% of the Earth's surface is water.
510.072 million sq km of total land area.
The Pacific Ocean is the largest water body, at 155.6 million sq km.
356,000 km of coastline exists worldwide.
More than 1,500 potentially active volcanoes are distributed globally.

People and Society

The world's population is approximately 8.057 billion people, with a significant youth demographic making up 24.5% of the population under 15 years old. Diverse languages and religions flourish, shaping cultural identities. The urbanization rate is around 57.5%, indicative of migration towards cities for opportunities. There are varied dependency ratios, with a total dependency ratio of 53.4.

Population as of 2024: 8.057 billion.
Total fertility rate: 2.42 children per woman (2020).
31% of the population identifies as Christian; 25% as Muslim.
Urbanization rate is projected at 57.5% (2023).
13.6% youth unemployment rate (ages 15-24) for 2024.

Economy

The global economy is complex, with a projected real GDP of $173.163 trillion in 2024, showing a growth rate of 2.9%. The composition of the economy includes 4% agriculture, 26% industry, and 66.2% services, indicating a strong service sector. Inflation rates, trade balances, and labor market dynamics vary significantly across regions, reflecting diverse economic contexts.

GDP (PPP) for 2024: $173.163 trillion.
Real GDP per capita: $21,300 (2024).
66.2% of GDP is derived from the services sector.
4.9% unemployment rate projected for 2024.
Exports are estimated at $32.379 trillion (2024).

Government

Governance globally is diverse, encompassing 197 countries with various administrative structures. The legal systems generally draw on civil law, common law, and religious law. Many nations participate in international organizations, with the United Nations being a crucial forum for global governance. The structure of governments varies widely, from democratic to authoritarian regimes, influencing policy and human rights.

Total number of countries: 197.
Countries with multiple time zones: 21.
1,223 UNESCO World Heritage Sites recognized globally.
Many nations have a bicameral legislative system, totaling 230 political entities.

Military and Security

Military expenditures globally account for 2.4% of GDP as of 2024, reflecting the security dynamics of various nations. Approximately 20 million active-duty military personnel exist worldwide, with some countries leading in military strength. Global security challenges include peacekeeping missions, arms trade, and terrorism.

Military expenditures are estimated at 2.4% of GDP (2024).
Approximately 20 million active military personnel globally.
68,000 personnel deployed on UN peacekeeping missions (2024).

Energy

Energy consumption and production are critical global concerns, with more than 91.4% of the population having access to electricity. Fossil fuels remain the dominant energy source, though there is a growing push towards renewable energy. The global electricity consumption is projected at 27.047 trillion kWh for 2023.

Global electricity consumption: 27.047 trillion kWh (2023).
60.1% of electricity generated from fossil fuels (2023).
9,144,200,000 mobile cellular subscriptions (2024).

Environment

Environmental issues are pressing, with challenges including pollution, biodiversity loss, and climate change affecting many areas globally. Urban areas face significant pressures from overpopulation, leading to challenges in waste management and resource depletion.

Approximately 30.6% of the world's area is forested.
Major environmental concerns include air and water pollution, deforestation, and loss of biodiversity.
The planet is home to more than 7,168 living languages, showcasing cultural diversity in environmental contexts.

Transportation

Transportation infrastructure is extensive, with thousands of airports and railways facilitating global movement and trade. The merchant marine fleet includes 103,577 vessels, crucial for international trade.

Total number of airports: 47,242 (2025).
Total railways: 1,148,186 km (2013).
21,741 heliports documented (2025).

Communications

Global connectivity is facilitated through telecommunications and internet access, with about 68% of the population being internet users. The growth of mobile and broadband subscriptions reflects the advancement of technology and communication.

Total mobile cellular subscriptions: 9,144,200,000 (2024).
Approximately 68% of the population uses the internet (2024).

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	8,057,236,243	2024 estimate
Total area (land and water)	510.072 million sq km	Total land area
Real GDP (PPP)	$173.163 trillion	2024 estimate
Unemployment rate	4.9%	2024 estimate
Total energy consumption	73.108 million Btu/person	2023 estimate
Urban population	57.5%	Total population (2023)
Electricity access	91.4%	Total population (2022)
Total renewable water resources	54 trillion cubic meters	2011 estimate
Life expectancy at birth	70.5 years	2020 estimate
Birth rate	17 births/1,000 population	2024 estimate