Country explorer: Barbados
EXPERIMENTAL
2024
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Overview
Barbados is a high-income island nation in the Caribbean with a very small population. Its economy has been volatile in recent decades, and is based on tourism, manufacturing, agriculture and financial services.
Barbados boasts stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters for snorkeling and diving.
Economy
Barbados has experienced steady GDP per capita growth with fluctuations in inflation rates and a general trend of decreasing unemployment rates, reflecting both its resilience and the challenges common among small island developing economies.
Demographics
Barbados has experienced modest population growth, seesaw net migration rates, a gradually increasing fertility rate, and a consistently rising life expectancy, indicators that reflect a stable yet slowly evolving demographic profile in line with many high-income countries.
Basic needs
Barbados has consistently ensured universal access to clean cooking fuels and electricity, reflecting its commitment to meeting basic needs and aligning with standards often observed in high-income countries.
Human development
Barbados has seen significant improvements in human development as reflected by steady increases in its Human Development Index, a decline in child mortality rates, and maintaining a near-universal literacy rate, positioning it favorably among high-income countries.
Environment & energy
Barbados has seen a stabilization in its forest area and a noteworthy transition towards renewable sources of electricity, particularly solar energy, amid fluctuating per capita CO2 emissions, paralleling global trends in environmental awareness and energy transition.
Technology & innovation
Barbados has experienced significant digital transformation, evident in its growing internet penetration and mobile subscriptions, showcasing a rapid adaptation to digital technologies and communications which aligns it with trends observed in high-income countries.
Culture & society
Barbados has witnessed modest increases in both foreign-born population and gender equality, juxtaposed with a gradually rising age dependency ratio, reflecting societal progress amidst demographic challenges akin to those faced by many high-income nations.
Governance
Barbados has shown a consistent enhancement in governance, as evidenced by improvements in rule of law, steady perceptions of diminished corruption, and the expansion of political and civil liberties, distinguishing it as a nation committed to upholding democratic values and integrity within a global context where such progress is not universal.